AUSTRALIA’S CHRISTIAN NEWSPAPER VOLUME 72 NUMBER 12

Thursday 10 December 2009 $2.00 Print Post Approved No. 34918100419 Aust Missionary Arrested in Andhra Marysville Church Re-Opens Pradesh, India AN Australian missionary was arrest- – Praise The Lord! ed on false charges of ‘forceful con- version’ by the Andhra Pradesh State Police on 24 November at Utnur in that state. According to the Global Council of Indian Christians the trouble erup- ted when at around 7.30pm, Paul Jemison (40), an Australian mission- ary accompanied by Joy Carol, daughter of local Pastor Premanan- dam (50) had gone to an Industrial Training Institute hostel campus for a movie screening for about 200 stu- dents. As the movie ended at around 8.30 pm, Jemison ‘shared about the love of Christ’ to the students pres- ent. As he was sharing from the Word, a mob of 20 Hindu radicals WITH great joy and thanksgiving to God more than 120 people gathered on Sunday 22 suddenly barged into the event and November to re-open Marysville Christian Fellowship (renamed Marysville Community accused him of indulging in ‘forceful Church). There was a lot to celebrate, as the church was very aware that without outside conversion’ and abused him for his help it would have been extremely difficult for this church to be re-established following the foreign origin. disastrous bushfires last February. It was quite amazing that God brought people from The Hindu radicals then dragged everywhere, many of whom no-one involved had even met before! him to the nearest police station and The El Kanah carpark was offered to house the church, and immediately following, two filed a complaint against him of portables were found. The Mount Evelyn Reformed Church arrived saying they had been ‘forceful conversions to Christianity.’ led to help financially and to offer their services, and were very happy to do all the building It is not known if the police confis- work, including painting, in the re-establishment of the church. Many others came forward cated his Indian visa and other docu- to do the sound, wiring in the air conditioning units, plumbing, etc, and every need that the ments. church had was met by kind, generous people. This generosity of spirit was also extended Missionary Paul Jemison called to the opening day with people giving of their time and talents in making a delicious after- the Australian embassy to check the noon tea and busily serving the guests who were there. possibilities for his quick release. It was so encouraging to see so many people present supporting the re-opening of the ANS has learned that he was de- church, including Nancy and Max Leslie, whose family, together with others, initially started tained in the station until late that the church in 1959. In the early 1980’s Graeme and Julia Cann, with the El Kanah team, night and later released. The source took over the running of the church. Graeme was the guest speaker at the re-opening and said that Hindu radicals and locals of he shared an inspiring message about the purpose of Marysville Community Church, to the town have warned Pastor draw together as one community, to love and support each other. ‘The church has risen Premanandam and his daughter Joy again,’ he said, ‘to serve the people of Marysville and beyond. As always, people will find a Carol not to invite any more foreign place of acceptance, love and a helping hand here.’ missionaries to the town. Contact details for the Church and El Kanah Office are: Jenni and David Littlejohn: – James Varghese, ASSIST 0407 096 352; Vera and Peter Gill: 03 5963 3229; 0414 564 309.

www.nlife.com.au ‘Tell the people the full message of this new life.’ (Acts 5.20b) HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE WITH THE WILSONS Greg Needs Help TO Greg, living in a car is a nightmare. Last they were facing eviction when the police Many men in cri- year Greg counted his blessings every day. arrived to change the locks. sis are too ashamed to ask for help, or they He and his wife Heather lived in a quiet Heather had been hiding all the notices simply don’t know what to do or where to street where their son Lachlan went to the hoping it would go away. The pressure and go. We’re helping Greg get his life back, local primary school. Life was tough but tension built up, harsh words were said and starting with food vouchers and short term they were happy. Heather left. Greg was on his own with housing for him and Lachlan. In the longer Then their world turned upside down. Lachlan, jobless, homeless and living in his term we will help him with a range of things, Greg was laid off at work. Heather started car – a dangerous place for anyone to live, including skills training and counselling. This suffering from depression. Falling behind especially with a little boy. will help Greg and Lachlan start life afresh. with their rent they had no way of catching Greg came to Wesley Mission Mel- Linda McKay, Manager, up. They returned home one day to find that bourne seeking help. Thank God he did. Wesley Homelessness & Support Services Moldova Medical Fund THE Republic of Moldova is a small country ment. The fund’s objective is to help with needed incontinence pads. His family could with a population of 4.5 million and is locat- some of these needs. not afford to buy them for him. The fund ed in Eastern Europe. It is still one of the ‘After assessment, a decision is made was able to supply some. poorest countries in Europe with many living as to what help can be given by the fund. ‘A handicapped man needed a wheel in impoverished conditions. The Medical Sometimes the help is very simple but often chair. The fund was able to supply one for Fund was established by CMI AID in 2000 it can be quite complex. Here are a few him. to provide medical assistance to needy fam- examples: ‘A man who had lost both his legs below ilies and the elderly. They report: ‘During ‘A mother was given help during the time the knee in a gas bottle explosion needed our visits we had noticed that there was no of childbirth to meet hospital expenses, pay to have another operation on his legs where government assistance for medicine, med- for supplies needed to care for her newborn the amputation had taken place. The fund ical treatment or operations. Many poor baby and also to buy other necessities for paid for this operation.’ people in the community we had contact the child. For further information go to: with could not afford to pay for such treat- ‘An elderly man in a village urgently www.cmiaid.org

Empart Reports: SABER In ‘Flying Bible Man’s’ Hands or if all else fails, a hand-wind generator! WE had the privilege last month of celebrat- PHIL is known as the Flying Bible Man. He The SABER need never stop telling the ing 10 wonderful years of ministry! As you flies across the Top End from Broome in the Good News. reflect on all the miracles God has done west, throughout all of the Northern Terri- ‘Since the SABER became available I through our Church Planters so far, we ask tory, the northern communities of South have had the privilege of taking it to remote that you continue to pray for the future of Australia, Far North Queensland and the communities in Western Australia, South the church planting movements in the field Torres Strait to share the Word of God in Australia and the Northern Territory. Pastors so the joy of Christ can be shared amongst remote communities: throughout those areas have been enthusi- unreached people. ‘Bible translation into indigenous lan- astic about the possibilities for ministry that As we approach the hectic Christmas guages is an ongoing need and has made the SABER opens up.’ period, it is also important that we remem- encouraging progress in recent years with Since GRN Australia began, recordings ber to pray for our fellow Christians in areas the publication of new editions of Scripture have been made and distributed in more where persecution and oppression are rife. and Scripture-based materials. That’s fine if than 90 Australian languages. The demand They face challenges on a daily basis, yet you can read, but what if a Bible in your lan- for these recordings seems to be increasing they continue to rejoice and will be celebrat- guage is as legible as one in Greek or rather than diminishing and GRN Australia ing the birth and precious gift of our Lord Hebrew? looks forward to ongoing partnerships with Jesus Christ this Christmas! As it says in ‘I have long been aware of the need to the Bible Society, SIL and other missionar- Romans 12, ‘Be joyful in hope, patient in have the Bible available in audio format. ies and churches to make the Good News affliction, faithful in prayer’. The method of delivery was an issue of Jesus available and accessible to the Your prayers are bringing the love and though. CDs scratch, tapes get affected by indigenous people of Australia. grace of God to people in ways that are dust and previous audio players needed Free At Last! impacting entire communities and trans- complex processing. Enter the SABER – a WEC reports a Senegalese Judge has forming lives for eternity! May you also feel user programmable MP3 player that packs ordered the release of Australian Church the depth of God’s undying love for you as a punch big enough to ‘speak’ to a whole Planter Richard Shawyer. Richard was you come before Him in prayer. church gathering or be placed under a pil- arrested on false charges two years ago. Be encouraged that your prayers are a low to comfort someone in need. He has now been able to rejoin his family in powerful part of sharing the Gospel and ‘It has internal batteries which can be Australia. He missed his family greatly, but establishing God’s Kingdom on Earth. recharged by a 240v adaptor, a solar panel, always believed that God is sovereign. Page Two – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE COMFORT, O COMFORT MY PEOPLE’ Saving Jewish Lives In The Diaspora STORKS in nests high up on lamp posts; patriotic Soviet memorials of Lenin, tanks, planes or soldiers; muddy, pot-holed roads; endless blocks of typically Eastern Euro- pean housing; horse-drawn carts; women in head scarves working in fields; grim, Soviet- style architecture; Ladas, symbol of the Cold War years; Orthodox churches with their 'onion domes' – these are some of the images which remain from a week travelling in Ukraine. Along with images of hardship, deprivation and poverty for millions of peo- ple. I was travelling with Chevra, a humani- Children at soup kitchen tarian aid organisation established more told us: ‘You can't be sick today because it's for the Jewish people into their hearts and than ten years ago in neighbouring Slov- a very bad thing to be sick in Ukraine.’ that motivates them to give.’ akia, with a calling from God to minister to The situation is particularly difficult with Some people ask: ‘Why the Jews?’ They Jewish people living in Former Soviet Union medicine. Gawel says: ‘People are dying say that a lot of Ukrainians have hard lives countries like Ukraine. because of a lack of medicine – it's too ex- too, but, as Gawel says, no-one was affect- Meeting Huge Needs pensive for them. People are not thinking of ed as much as the Jews. ‘You can see the Chevra's director Stanislaw Gawel says it's food or clothing now, but how they can buy tragedy in their faces. They lost parents, all about ‘doing the practical work of the medicine.’ family members in the war...it affected their Lord, feeding the hungry and putting spiritu- ‘She Has Suffered Much...’ whole lives. No-one suffered as much as ality into practice.’ The needs are huge, he We visited Bella in Berdychiv, 150 kms from the Jews,’ he says. says and if people didn't have help with Kiev. Thousands of Jews were murdered Chevra also helps people make aliyah food, they would not survive. Chevra is here during the Holocaust. Bella has heart (Jewish immigration) to Israel, but many are keen to partner with individuals, organisa- disease and her whole pension is spent on elderly or in poor health, or destitute, and tions or churches who want to bless the medicine. In Korostychiv, the location of cannot emigrate. Chevra ministers to the Jewish people and help bring change in more horrendous Holocaust massacres, we needs of those who cannot leave, such as people's lives. visited Basya who's had an unsuccessful Raia. She is 79, bed-ridden, and lives in ‘This is the time to bring hope,’ he says. eye operation. She needs injections and Korosten, not far from the site of the ‘They are desperately poor. Many of them medicine which are almost impossible for Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Half her pen- are elderly and went through ghettos and her to afford. sion is spent on medicine. She wanted to concentration camps, but many are young, The Importance Of The Spiritual make aliyah with her cousins, but got brain some even children. The people we minister The spiritual aspect is vitally important in damage after an operation and went blind. to are very grateful for everything, because Chevra's work. ‘We need to feed people She could not leave and was ‘left behind’. they have nothing,’ he says. The most com- physically, to bring them into good health, If Raia didn’t receive food parcels, she mon need is to feed people, with food pack- but also spiritually, to bring them into eternal wouldn’t survive. ages and at soup kitchens, and also to pro- life,’ says Gawel. ‘It is our responsibility to Chevra takes seriously the words of the vide medicine. Chevra also repairs houses bring the Gospel to them. We in the Gentile Lord: 'I was hungry and you fed Me'. Feed- or provides something practical to help peo- Church need to have a heart for the Jews ing 20 people a month at a soup kitchen ple survive, such as heaters to endure the who gave us our Messiah, our Bible, our costs around $A725. Food packages cost long, harsh winters. salvation.’ $A12 per month each. Jews Suffer Most Soup kitchens are a real witness, and an But Gawel says it's not about money or Ukraine became independent in 1991 and opportunity to share the Good News. numbers, it's about the Holy Spirit. ‘We since then, dramatic social changes have Setting up a kitchen involves finding the must stand before the Lord and do whatev- meant increased suffering for the Jews. right team on the ground – people with a er He tells us to do. It's about people's Many lack the basic necessities of life and heart for the Jews. Often they are part of hearts – it's between them and the Lord. the vast majority live on the verge of pover- the Pentecostal churches; some are Jewish, Show the needs,’ says Gawel, ‘and if the ty. Many can afford only one hot meal every often Messianic Jews. Gawel says that the Lord speaks to someone's heart, they will two or three days and most live on the meals 'don't just happen' and Chevra needs step into the projects.’ basic pension of only $A85 per month. people with big hearts. Behind each meal, For more information, visit Social services are few and far between, he says, is a practical outworking – all be- www.chevra.sk, or email Vicki Francis and health care is minimal. As someone cause someone gave. ‘The Lord puts love ([email protected]) – Vicki Francis NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Three CURRENT COMMENTS – CLIFFORD WILSON Not To Sign Is Not Necessarily A Sign THE Melbourne Herald Sun of 3 November Some Bible believers are suggesting has a heading: ‘Signature will have no cred- that this points to the end times, when it.’ It goes on to say: ‘The days of using sig- financial trading will depend on having ‘the apostle John: ‘Even so, come Lord Jesus.’ natures to pay with credit and debit cards mark of the beast on our bodies.’ However, I was told at 17 years of age that are numbered.’ The basic cause of this is I know that enthusiasts see many signs it was not worth getting your shoes mended given as criminals running counterfeit and like this as pointers to the Lord’s return. I – that’s how close His return is. So I set no card skimming rackets. believe in that return and declare with the dates, but hope for His return at any time. ‘Machine to Read Our Minds’ THAT same edition of the Herald Sun has ‘While the idea of a telepathy machine experiment at the University of California in the above sub heading. A mind reading might sound like something from science Berkeley, said: ‘At the moment when you machine is beginning to become a reality – fiction, the scientists say it could one day be see something and want to describe it, you crude at present, but potentially having far- used to solve crimes. A US team scanned have to use words or draw it and it doesn’t reaching possibilities. the brain activity of two volunteers watching work very well. This technology might allow ‘A mind reading machine that can pro- a video and used the results to recreate the you to recover an eyewitness memory of a duce pictures of what a person is seeing or images they were seeing. The results were crime.’ remembering has been developed by scien- crude, but the technique was able to repro- What amazing progress, and that’s how tists. The device studies patterns of brain- duce the rough shape of a man in a white God created us. He still ‘reads our minds’. wave activity and turns them into a moving shirt and a city skyline.’ Be sure to keep them clean by the Holy computer image. Professor Jack Gallant, who did the Spirit’s power. A Christian Parliamentarian Speaks REV Peter Abetz was first an agricultural some of my colleagues have sought my backgrounds appreciate that focus. I have scientist, then served as a pastor for 25 advice on that issue. been invited to be guest speaker at a num- years. After that he won a virtually unwin- ‘On reflecting on this, Jenny, my wife, ber of Christian events, from local church nable seat in the Lower House of the reassured me that I have established myself men’s breakfasts to Family Voice Australia’s Western Australian Parliament in Septem- as a hardworking, level headed MP, who AGM. ber 2008. He writes briefly about his Chris- openly stands for Christian values. Several ‘These are great opportunities to en- tian stand in Trowel and Sword, journal of media articles – one even in the Weekend courage Christians to engage in the political the Christian Reformed Church, November Australian – picked up on that theme in a process. I remind them that the Gospel is 2009: very positive way. So far I have never been not only about personal salvation, but that it ‘Some of my colleagues have indicated caricatured in the media about my Christian is about claiming every area of life for Jesus that my presence has made a difference. values. My ability to articulate a Christian Christ and His Kingdom. It is not about The Premier made the comment that since perspective has resulted in journalists seek- “imposing” Christian values on society, but it Peter is in Parliament, no-one dares to talk ing me out, and writing positively about my is about showing that the moral values of during the opening prayer anymore! Others stance. the Judeo-Christian ethic are the values have sought me out to talk about ethical ‘My election campaign slogan was: which God has built into His creation, and issues. With a Euthanasia Bill being intro- Putting People First. I still use it on my sta- therefore even the unbeliever benefits from duced in the Upper House by the Greens, tionery and website. Somehow people of all adhering to these values.’

Andre Agassi’s Confession ʻNEW LIFEʼ TOP tennis star of a decade ago, Andre story in its full transparency than I had to KEEPS YOU Agassi, has asked for ‘compassion’ from gain.’ UP TO DATE critics because he took banned drugs in Confession is good for the soul, the old AND INFORMED 1997. saying goes, but it is also true that guilt has His latest book is about to be published consequences. But all of us who are mature SUBSCRIBE TODAY and he said he was ‘uncertain how the rev- adults have been sinners, and probably elations would affect how he was regarded have not got our due punishment at times. CALL ALISON or whether he belonged in the International Thank God for the Christian Gospel 03 9890 3377 Tennis Hall of Fame. which assures us there is wonderful forgive- ‘I don’t know what the ramifications are,’ ness when genuine confession is made to [email protected] Agassi said. God. That’s a step we would recommend to ‘I had way more to lose by telling this a very great sportsman, Andre Agassi. Page Four – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE VOLUME 72 AUSTRALIA’S CHRISTIAN NEWSPAPER NUMBER 12 10 December 2009 ISSN: 1033-7903

FOUNDER: Eric J. Daley (1910-1992)

EDITORIAL TEAM: SERVING THE CHURCH FOR 72 YEARS Rev Dr Bob Thomas Dr Clifford Wilson ‘Build Yourselves Up On Your Most Holy Faith’ Dr Barbara Wilson WE at New Life are very aware that orthodox, evangelical, Bible-believing Christian faith is under con- EMAIL: stant challenge from both outside and even inside the Christian Church. That is why, as well as telling the story of God’s great and saving acts throughout Australia and the world, we regularly present articles [email protected] aimed at confirming and building up the Lord’s people in their faith. Space, of course, is always very lim- [email protected] ited, and so we plan to make available a series of faith-building monographs along with the magazine. PHONE: For many years now Clifford and Barbara Wilson have been involved in presenting much of their writ- 03 9890 3377 ten material over radio stations – especially from the USA. In recent months they have energetically pro- FAX: duced many of these into book form. Because of the cost factor they will be produced in monograph 03 9897 4561 form. Each volume may be ordered from the New Life website (www.nlife.com.au) or directly through the office (see details in the sidebar on this page). POST: Starting in January 2010 we will produce The Jesus Series, with a new monograph available along- PO Box 457 side each issue of New Life for our subscribers, other interested readers and visitors to our website. Mitcham VIC 3132 This is our expected schedule for 2010: REGISTERED OFFICE: Jan 2010 – Jesus, The Babe Of Bethlehem Was God In Flesh. CBM Building, Jesus, The Man From Nazareth, Proved By His Works And Miraculous Signs. 56 Rutland Rd, Feb 2010 – Jesus The Master Teacher. Box Hill VIC 3128 The Methods Of The Master Teacher. WEB-SITE: Mar 2010 – Jesus the Master Counsellor. Luke, The Medical Doctor Familiar With The Methods Of The Master Counsellor. www.nlife.com.au Apr 2010 – Jesus the World's Greatest Preacher His Students Continue To Walk In The Steps Of Their Master. SUBSCRIPTION: May 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – Adam To Moses $50pa ($25 half year) Jesus the Greatest of all Men – Joshua to Solomon. $45pa (student/ Jun 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – The Major Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel). pensioner/ Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – The Minor Prophets (Excepting Jonah). f/t Christian worker) Jul 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – The Assyrian Period (Jonah). $25pa (email version) Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – The Period Of Exile (Daniel And Babylon). Aug 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – Job And The Proverbs. Jesus the Greatest of all Men – the Psalms. Your subscription Sep 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – John The Baptist, Peter, John And James. continues Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – Including Paul The Apostle. until you cancel. Oct 2010 – Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – The False Trials Of Jesus Christ. Jesus The Greatest Of All Men – His Trial, Crucifixion And Resurrection. ACCEPTANCE OF Nov 2010 – Jesus –The Promise Of His Coming Again. ADVERTISING Jesus – The Eternal Hope Of Believers. DOES NOT IMPLY Dec 2010 – Jesus – The Glories Of Our Lord – Essential (Personal, Moral, And Acquired). ENDORSEMENT Jesus – The Glories Of Our Lord – His Resurrection. This series is intended to grow into a valuable and accessible resource of lasting spiritual benefit to Published by New Life Australia. Ltd those who receive it, and we believe that it will be a great blessing. through offering this series to both ABN 15 005 035 138, of 56 Rutland Rd, Box Hill Vic 3129, and printed by the New Life readers and to the wider group of Christian readers. Newsprinters Pty Ltd, Melbourne Rd, We thank you for your continued support of New Life and wish you every blessing for the Christmas Shepparton Vic 3630. (All letters to New Life please). and holiday season. – Bob Thomas, Clifford Wilson, Barbara Wilson NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Five NEW LIFE ADVERTISIING

POSITION VACANT – FULL-TIME: PASTOR/COMMUNITY WORKER – MARYSVILLE COMMUNITY CHURCH If you have a sensitive heart and listening ear, donʼt mind a challenge, and are willing to work alongside people, God may be calling you to this exciting position as we see Him bring restoration to Marysville, Vic. For further details please contact: Jenni and David Littlejohn: 0407 096 352 Vera and Peter Gill: 03 5963 3464; 0414 564 309

Donations Make ‘The Blessedness Of Death A Difference! As Known To Believers’ Call Alison On Last words and thoughts of Christians 03 9890 3377 from the 17th to the 20th Century, showing the blessing of a Christ- To Donate And centred faith as death approaches Help Extend And –by Dallas Clarnette. ʻThis is the kind of book which will do much to Maintain Our encourage believers who are facing death.ʼ Ministry! – Peter Barnes, Australian Presbyterian. ʻDeath is the great unmentionable … Dallas Clarnette has done us a great service … placing this subject … before us.ʼ A Call To Arms From – Bob Thomas, New Life. $9.95 at Koorong & elsewhere; $11.00 post paid from the author CTA (Chq/MO) Rev D Clarnette, 180 Ninth Ave, Rosebud 3939 VICTORIA’S only Christian political party is seeking candidates to contest elections in 2010 (see advert p.9). As the only truly ‘Can The Theory Of Evolution Christian party it consistently asserts Survive The Attack Of Science?’ Biblical values. The long record of its founder, the Rev Fred Nile in the Upper This booklet by David Holden is a free House of NSW, is proof of this. download at: www.defenceofthefaith.org Its support for the family, choice in edu- cation, effective policing policies and oppo- sition to perverse sexual policies and the abortion industry are part of its traditional ‘ Glorious Things – arsenal. More recent issues, such as threats to freedom of religion and speech, A Protestant’ s Guide and national security and Muslim immigra- To L o n d o n’ tion are of great concern. A CDP member of parliament has no What to look for and how to find worries with a party whip and has complete places associated with people freedom to vote according to his conscience and events which shaped informed by the Word of God. Australia Protestant Church History, needs more members in the Senate who compiled by Rev Bob Thomas. can as Christians assert Biblical values Available from: PTC Media, unfettered by a party whip. The CDP in 684 Elgar Rd, Box Hill North Victoria hopes to win at least one senate 3129. Cost: $6.60+$2.20 p&p. seat. It seeks the support of all Christians (Please make cheque payable to PTC Media) and expressions of interest are always wel- come. – Dallas Clarnette Page Six – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE PRAISE THE LORD ... Maryam And Marzieh Released From Iranian Prison! TWO Christian converts from Islam, held in have prayed and worked for our release,’ Iran's notorious Evin prison for more than said Maryam and Marzieh. six months, have been released. Although released, eight months of International Christian Concern has abuse and mistreatment by Iranian security learned that Maryam Rostampour and Mar- forces have undoubtedly taken a toll on zieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad were Maryam and Marzieh's health. Marzieh has released from Evin Prison in Tehran on 18 suffered intense headaches, toothaches, November at 3.30 pm local time. Maryam and Marzieh and spinal pain, while both women have Elam Ministries told ICC that Maryam, sponded. ‘If we come out of prison, we want been denied medical treatment. 27, and Marzieh, 30, were released without to do so with honour.’ Aidan Clay, ICC Regional Manager of bail, but that they have yet to face another ICC says that while detained at Evin the Middle East, said: ‘We celebrate with court hearing. Originally arrested on 5 Prison, which is notorious for its brutal con- Maryam and Marzieh, and with all Chris- March by Iranian security forces, Maryam duct toward women, Maryam and Marzieh tians upon hearing the news of their re- and Marzieh were charged with anti-govern- have been kept in solitary confinement and lease. Yet, we continue to hold Iran ment activities. However, it became clear have endured extended interrogations, all accountable for having unjustly imprisoned that apostasy (conversion from Islam to the while suffering from poor health. and degraded two women who committed Christianity), not anti-state activities, was According to ICC, Iran issued no state- no crime. We condemn Iran's tactics of the reason for the arrest. ment explaining the verdict for Maryam and intimidation and harassment used to terror- Taken before a Revolutionary Court Marzieh's release. However, the decision ize Christians. We call upon Iran to uphold hearing on 9 August, Maryam and Marzieh follows international pressure and prayers religious freedom by allowing all Iranians to were commanded to recant their faith, and from Christians throughout the world. practise the religion of their choice, and be in return, would be granted their freedom. ‘Words are not enough to express our allowed to worship freely without being ‘We will not deny our faith,’ the women re- gratitude to the Lord and to His people who threatened or discriminated against.’

NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Seven ‘GIVE THANKS ...’ ACL Welcomes Rudd Government Support For School Chaplaincy

THE Australian Christian Lobby has wel- with the community as to how best to shape ‘This decision sends a strong signal that comed Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s clear chaplaincy and pastoral care programs for both sides of Australian politics recognise support for the school chaplaincy program the period beyond. the value that chaplains bring to the whole and the Federal Government’s decision to ‘Given the overwhelming success of the school environment,’ Baptist Union of extend funding for the program until the end school chaplaincy program – as borne out Australia National Director Rev Dr Brian of the 2011 school year. by recent research – we are strongly hoping Winslade said. ACL Managing Director Jim Wallace said this will lead to the school chaplaincy pro- ‘The additional funding will directly bene- the Prime Minister’s announcement to the gram being not only funded but also extend- fit students. The program helps to ensure ACL National Conference in Canberra was ed in the future.’ that students receive essential support for warmly welcomed by the many church and Mr Wallace said that the theme of this their behavioural and spiritual wellbeing. It denominational leaders in attendance, as year’s ACL National Conference was is an excellent initiative that deserves our well as grass-roots Christians. Putting Kids First and support for the school full support,’ he said. ‘Mr Rudd spoke of his clear and long- chaplaincy program is one key way of doing The program, introduced by the Howard standing commitment to the school chap- this. ‘This year’s National Conference, Government in 2007, provides funding for laincy program, dating back to its begin- attended by around 250 people, really pastoral care of students in state schools. nings in Queensland. He has a strong focussed on the many challenges con- Funding was due to expire in December appreciation of the valuable role chaplains fronting children in today’s society and the 2010. are playing in helping both school students crucial need to better advantage children in The Rudd Government has now extend- and their families in a wide variety of situa- public policy,’ Mr Wallace said. ‘Our aim is ed the program to December 2011, ensur- tions,’ Mr Wallace said. to see the best interests of the child put at ing that school chaplaincy did not become ‘We congratulate the Government on its the forefront of public discussion – a need an election issue. commitment of $42 million in funding over that cannot be overstated if we are to gen- The decision also provided greater job the 2010 and 2011 school years – repre- uinely care for our future generations.’ security to hundreds of chaplains who gave senting an extra year’s funding over what l Australian Baptists have also welcomed above and beyond the call of duty to serve had previously been allocated. the Prime Minister’s decision to extend Australian school students. A recent survey ‘The Prime Minister indicated that during funding of the school chaplaincy program to found that 83% of school principals were that time the Government plans to consult December 2011. ‘very satisfied’ with the chaplaincy program. End Of The Line For Doulos

MV Doulos, the world’s oldest ocean-going tinue in ministry. This is not what any of us cation of the non-profit organisation’s tech- passenger ship, is to stop sailing. The min- wanted, and has serious consequences for nical personnel that the ship has continued istry of OM’s ship Doulos will come to an everyone on board, those about to join and to meet marine requirements until now. end on 31 December this year. for ports we planned to visit. CEO Peter Nicoll stated: ‘We recognise Doulos is the world’s oldest ocean-going ‘We are committed to operating safe God’s faithfulness through these 32 years of passenger ship, now 95 years old, with the ships and complying with the requirements wonderful service of the “servant” (for which hull built in 1914, just two years after Titan- of our classification society, RINA, as well the Greek word is doulos) as an outstand- ic. In spite of the year-round maintenance as the International Safety Management ing OM ministry through more than 600 port that has taken place, the amount of steel requirements for ships,’ affirms Peter. ‘We visits in over 100 countries. Many lives have replacement and other repairs needed for have been praying that God would use this been transformed, both of visitors and those her to continue sailing are overwhelming. five-year “special survey” to give us a clear who have served on board. The ship is presently in Singapore and has picture of the way forward for Doulos, and ‘We are also deeply grateful to our part- been undergoing the annual period of dry that He has done.’ ners around the world. Please continue to dock and surveys. The well-being of the 280 crew and staff pray with us as we work on present chal- Early indications are that the work would onboard is of paramount importance. Each lenges and seek the Lord’s will for the cost over €10 million and take five months person will receive the guidance and sup- future. to complete. The OM Ships executive lead- port they need to decide what their next ‘With Logos Hope now active and excit- ership team and board believes that it is not steps should be. Some are close to the end ing ministry taking place, we are investigat- appropriate to invest resources of this scale of their period of service, while others joined ing possible options to charter another ship into the ship, since Doulos would have a as recently as September. in the interim and have already begun work- limited ministry future. Keeping the ship compliant with the ing on the Doulos replacement project.’ Chief Executive Officer of OM Ships In- highest marine standards has been a real Contributions can be given through OM ternational, Peter Nicoll, said: ‘The outcome challenge over the years. It is a remarkable Australia and designated ‘Doulos Project’: of this is that Doulos will not be able to con- testimony to the professionalism and dedi- www.om.org.au Page Eight – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE A WAKE-UP CALL POSITIONS! POSITIONS! POSITIONS!

Successful Australian EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST WANTED Christian Nation Association The Christian Democratic Party (Vic) invites enquiries from: Annual Conference • Christians wishing employment with Victoriaʼs only OVER 100 enthusiastic delegates shared in Christian political party. Conditions negotiable. the ACNA Annual National Conference for • Christians wishing to contest a seat all concerned Christians on Saturday 21 in the 2010 elections (State and Federal). November at the Assyrian Sport and Cul- The CDP opposes moral decay, upholds the Christian family and godly tural Club, Fairfield Heights, Sydney, on the sexual policies, seeks to protect the unborn child, supports freedom of theme: ‘Australia’s Future and Global religion, speech, lawful association, Christian and home-schooling Jihad’. parents and all things belonging to a law abiding, free citizenry. The Hon David Clarke MLC gave a chal- Full policy details are available on request. lenging address on Australia’s Future re- Contact the Secretary garding the threats of secularism and Islam. Mr S. Katos, [email protected] Jenny Stokes of Salt Shakers spoke on It is worth noting that: the dangers of the Parliament of World ʻFor Evil To Triumph, It Only Needs Good People To Do Nothingʼ Religions and the Interfaith Movement. She expressed opposition to the Federal Gov- ernment printing publications that promoted the Muslim religion in Australia. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF VICTORIA Pastor Keith Piper shared how to help Muslims to become Christians by pointing PRINCIPAL out the many errors in the teaching of PRESBYTERIAN THEOLOGICAL Mohammed in the Koran. He has been suc- cessful in helping a number of Muslims in COLLEGE Sydney to become Christians. Pastor Daniel Nalliah of Catch the Fire The Presbyterian Church of Victoria is seeking a Principal Ministries spoke on the subject: ‘Is the West for its theological college, being De-Christianised?’ He gave many examples to show the answer is YES! He the Presbyterian Theological College (PTC), stated that the silence of the Church lead- to commence duties in January 2012. ers is allowing this de-Christianisation to The PTC trains candidates for the ministry and for service accelerate in Australia. in Victoria and beyond, Dr Graham McLennan of Orange gave provides ongoing education for those already engaged in an informative lecture on our Christian Heri- tage which is ignored today by our schools ministry, and is a vital part of the life of the wider PCV. and universities. The appointment offers exciting opportunities to the suc- Emmanuel Michael spoke on: ‘Who are cessful candidate to promote the Gospel of our Lord Jesus the Assyrians?’ He became very emotional by training faithful Gospel ministers, encouraging those as an Assyrian Christian from Iraq when he already engaged in Gospel ministry throughout the state, told of the Muslim attacks on Christian fami- lies and churches. and by supporting the work of church planting being The Rev Fred Nile gave the final ad- undertaken by the Presbyterian Church of Victoria. dress affirming the superiority of Jesus Applicants should obtain a position description from the Christ, the Son of God, over Mohammed website www.presbyteriancollege.org who claimed to be a ‘prophet’. ‘Only Jesus Applications close 31 October 2010. Christ can save us from our sins,’ he said. ‘We are redeemed by the blood of Christ, Please submit applications and curriculum vitae to: shed on the cross of Calvary.’ The Convener of the Theological Education Committee: John 14.3 Rev Neil Chambers ʻAnd if I go and prepare 163 Martins Lane a place for you, Viewbank Vic 3084 I will come again …ʼ Email: [email protected] Inserted by Ivan Bell

NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Nine PERSECUTION WATCH ... ‘Remember those in prison ... and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.’ (Hebrews 13.3) Muslim Violence Ongoing in Egypt – Christians Plead For Help SINCE the early morning of 21 ‘but they did not wait for that.’ AINA November, the Upper Egyptian town said Coptic priest Rev Benjamin of Farshoot has been the scene of Noshi was driving his car when the ongoing Muslim mob violence against mob stopped and assaulted him, frac- Coptic Christian residents and has turing his skull. He is currently in hos- extended to a number of neighbour- pital. ing villages. By the evening, AINA reported, According to a story by Mary most Coptic businesses were looted Abdelmas-sih for the Assyrian and burnt. ‘They are destroying the International News Agency, the mob Coptic economy in these areas,’ said ramsacked and burnt Coptic property, Wagih Yacoub of Middle East while Copts hid indoors fearing to go Christian Association. A witness said outside. Reuters Cairo reported a wit- that some Coptic families were thrown ness said: ‘Chaos is overwhelming.’ out of their homes, which were occu- The violence was prompted by pied by Muslims. AINA said although reports of sexual abuse of a girl by Violence in Farshoot security forces were deployed, they 21 year-old Copt Guirgis Baroumi on 18 been abducted. are not taking any action to stop the vio- November. Baroumi is being detained by Witnesses said nearly 3,000 angry Mus- lence. AINA said Kirollos also commented the police pending an ongoing investiga- lims gathered in front of the Farshoot Police that even if the story of the assault on the tions and forensic results. Many Copts Headquarters. They were there, AINA re- Muslim teenager was true, this was an iso- believe that the rape incident is being used ported, planning to kidnap and kill Baroumi lated incident. It did not justify the call for an by Muslims as a pretext to start violence while he was being transported to court. attack on masses of peaceful Christians, against them. The violence is continuing, Bishop Kirollos said it was agreed with who denounced the assault. with reports that seven Coptic women have Yousra's family to await the court decision, – Jeremy Reynalds, ASSIST News Service PLEASE PRAY FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH! Hindus Afraid Of Church Growth In India the church will grow in the face of this type two hours while at school. Jiang had just re- VIOLENCE continues plaguing Christians of persecution. turned from a four-week tour of the United across India. Christians are the targets of Sixteen Colombian Natives Kidnapped States where he spoke out against the un- violence on a weekly basis. Until now, SIXTEEN indigenous Christians were taken just treatment of human rights lawyers in Christians could only guess that they were captive in Colombia recently in an attempt China, said ChinaAid. Pray for Jiang and his being attacked because so many Hindus to force them to denounce their faith. Voice family that their witness will remain strong. were turning to Christ. President of Mission of the Martyrs Canada says the believers Christian Shot On Mogadishu Street India of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Dave were captured during a community meeting ISLAMIC extremists controlling part of the Stravers says now there is hard evidence and leaders hurled insults at them through- Somali capital of Mogadishu executed a from hardline Hindu groups. ‘We [received] out the night. The tribe's governor has young Christian they accused of trying to a power point presentation from a Hindu promised to hunt down all tribal believers convert a 15-year-old Muslim to Christianity. extremist group warning people in the state and force them to recant their faith. Two of Members of the Islamic extremist group al of Karnataka that the Christians are growing the kidnapped infants are seriously ill. Shabaab had taken 23-year-old Mumin so fast that they're worried the state might Please join with others to pray for the imme- Abdikarim Yusuf into custody on 28 October actually become a majority Christian state.’ diate release of these believers. after the 15-year-old boy reported him to the Hindus also believe Andhra Pradesh could Chinese human rights attorney arrested, militants, an area source told Compass become Christian, and radicals are respon- wife beaten Direct News. Yusuf's body was found on 14 ding with violence. Just recently they at- Gao Zhinsheng's former attorney was de- November on an empty residential street in tacked a pastor supported by Mission India. tained on 19 November after requesting to Mogadishu, with sources saying the convert ‘About 11.30 in the morning, in the middle of meet President Obama. China Aid says the from Islam was shot to death, probably the service, a group of approximately 50 officers forced Jiang Tainyong into a police some hours before dawn. Before Yusuf was men ran into the church wielding clubs. car and beat his wife while their daughter executed by two shots to the head, he had They ran up to the pulpit area and just watched. He was then held at the district's reportedly been badly beaten and his fin- began beating the pastor.’ Pray that believ- Public Security Bureau office for over 13 gers broken as the Islamists tried to extract ers will remain strong in their faith and that hours. His daughter was also questioned for incriminating evidence against him. Page Ten – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE GOOD NEWS FROM ABROAD ... 500 Chinese House Church Members Meet Despite Leaders' Detention THREE Chinese house church pastors service, from 10am to were recently summoned by police for inter- 12 noon. rogation for allegedly ‘engaging in illegal On 18 Novem- organization and activities.’ Secret police ber, ChinaAid received filmed the prayer service on 15 November. written documentation ChinaAid reports that at 6am, Sunday, of Wanbang Mission- 22 November (Beijing time), house church ary Church's formal pastors Cui Longguo, Liu Quanqin, and request for Adminis- Huang Yun were summoned to the police trative review on the station in Minhang District, Shanghai. church ban. In their ChinaAid says: ‘The three pastors were request to human detained throughout the morning and into rights attorney Li Bai- the afternoon to prevent them from leading Despite the detention of their leaders, guang, they request review, and if rejected, the worship services at Wanbang Mission- over 500 dedicated church members will file a formal suit against the Minhang ary Church, which has been forced to meet assembled outdoors to hold the two sched- District, Shanghai PSB. outdoors since the eviction from their uled morning worship services. (ChinaAid ChinaAid goes on to say: ‘As Shanghai church home two weeks ago.’ photo). authorities grow more anxious and the According to ChinaAid, the local PSB ‘Church members refused to stop church refuses to cease gathering, mem- had summoned two church deacons, Piao singing and worshipping. This Sunday's bers continue to be detained and interrogat- Longyi and Shi Weidong, and interrogated thwarted attempt to prevent worship was ed. ChinaAid has responded to Wanbang them from 10pm on Saturday, 21 November preceded by last week's video-taped sur- Church's call for prayer, and urges the inter- through 12 noon on Sunday, holding them veillance of the church's meeting in the national community to continue protesting overnight in the police station. park,’ ChinaAid said. ‘The Shanghai PSB's the illegal and unjust actions of the Shang- The ChinaAid report states that local attempt to thwart church meetings has so hai Public Security Office. We pray for the authorities reportedly tried to intimidate far been unsuccessful. On Sunday, 15 Shanghai People's Government to counter- members and prevent them from attending November, Pastor Cui Quan led the nearly mand the ban on the church, and alleviate with threats, but were unsuccessful. 700 church members in an outdoor prayer Wanbang Church's unjust persecution.’

Christian Radio Station Planned Unique Opportunity: For Muslim Area Of West Africa HCJB Global Voice recently signed a final To Purchase Complete partnership agreement with another organi- Puppet Ministry zation in West Africa to start a radio station in the area. HCJB Global Voice expects construction to be completed in the next After over 30 years of ʻups and downsʼ of a Christian puppet ministry, few weeks with plans to be on the air by itʼs time to ʻhang up the glovesʼ. Christmas. This presents a wonderful opportunity for a childrenʼs ministry After ‘Pastor J’ and his team complete to purchase a complete puppet ministry. the building of the radio tower, HCJB Global v There are in excess of 40 professionally made hand puppets. Voice will donate the radio equipment need- v A fully adjustable puppet stage and curtains. ed and will also assist in the installation of v Countless number of resources, including scripts, the equipment. When the radio station is in CD programs and training material. place, the mission plans to help train the v Includes some ʻblack lightʼ puppets and also some staff on the technical and programming life-like rubber latex puppets. aspects of the radio station, giving local v A trailer ʻhousingʼ the theatre is available at a negotiated price. partners the ability to run the facility on their Please contact: Graeme Rouillon on 0434 562 515 or e-mail: own. [email protected] Pastor J, born in West Africa, was raised for a copy of a DVD demonstrating the puppet ministry. and trained in Islam. As an adult, he be- Willing to transport entire theatre right to your door in Eastern Australia. came a science teacher at an Islamic Can assist with some ʻhands-onʼ training. school. During that time, a Christian couple Price to be discussed led him to the Lord. In 1983 he dedicated – prefer to sell as a complete theatre. his life to reaching out to Muslims and has been serving as a missionary and strong spiritual leader ever since. NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Eleven DIGGING AND DELVING ... Christianity – Part Of History Dr Clifford Wilson examines the evidence ...

4. Failing To Cope his statement about the Mississippi River. We read at p. 295 of The Origin of Species: With The Concept Of ‘Good observers have estimated that sedi- ment is deposited by the great Mississippi Eternity River at the rate of only 600 feet in a hun- ‘Wandering Along The Seacoast’ dred thousand years. This estimate may be – Engaged In Unfounded Argument quite erroneous; yet, considering over what AS he continues his hypothesis for evolu- wide spaces very fine sediment is transport- tion, Darwin talks about wandering along ed by the currents of the sea, the process the sea coast, and marking the process of of accumulation in any one area must be degradation. He says ‘there is reason to extremely slow.’ believe that pure water can effect little or Darwin himself says ‘that this estimate nothing in wearing away rock.’ He talks may be quite erroneous’, and it is. More about the vast periods of time that would be recently other measurements dramatically required as the base of a cliff is undermined disagree with the measurements given by and then worn away, atom by atom. Today Darwin. Recent research showed that sedi- his argument is known to be unsound, for ment deposited by the Mississippi River accurate measurements have been taken to would account for only 5,000 years of accu- show the way cliff faces have been denud- mulation. Darwin says that his ‘estimate ed, and there have even been other meas- and not for the vast numbers of millions of may be quite erroneous’. It was! urements to show how dramatic changes years that Darwinian theory required. It is Darwin Could Not Successfully Grapple have taken place at such an easily identifi- simply not true that the learner should be With The Idea Of Eternity able landmark as Niagara Falls. Nearer to ‘most deeply impressed with the slowness Darwin was very impressed with these home there has been the collapse of land- with which the rocky coasts are worn away.’ arguments about the accumulation being forms at ‘The Twelve Apostles’ on the west- That is not according to fact. Darwin’s argu- extremely slow, and of denudation requiring ern coast of Victoria in the last few years. ment is categorically disproved. great periods of time. So he waxed elo- In formation after formation the argu- One example to demonstrate that mod- quent as he declared: ‘The consideration of ments are for only a few thousand years, ern scholars would disagree with Darwin is these facts impresses my mind almost in the same manner as does the vain endeav- our to grapple with the idea of eternity.’ (p. 296) That concept of eternity is usually re- garded as having Biblical significance, but for Darwin it involved rejecting the supernat- ural and the evidence of the Bible per se. The denudation of rocks, etc, does not require the vast amount of time that Darwin is talking about, and it certainly does not impinge on a true understanding of eternity. Eternity? Ah, ‘There’s the rub’, as Shakespeare said in another context about life after death. Darwin indeed could not successfully ‘grapple with the idea of eterni- ty’. Despite his earlier training, ‘the idea of eternity’ was beyond him. Charles Robert Darwin had deliberately rejected the very fact of God Himself. His mind was closed. And his own statements make it clear that he was disturbed, disillusioned, and even tormented by those … Doubts Of A Troubled Mind. Page Twelve – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE WINNING THE CHILDREN TO CHRIST: Lenny The Lying Lemur Launched

LENNY The Lying Lemur, the second book ever since. It is this journey that in the Francy and Friends series by RU4- prompted me to look at developing Kidz, was launched on 22 November in the this series of fun and interactive sto- Menai Anglican Church, Sydney. The ries and kids’ spots talks that help author, Jen Anderson, was assisted by her build godly character in kids and win husband Tim Anderson, who served as MC kids for Christ.’ for the meeting. The guest speaker was Major Anderson reinforced and Major Ron Anderson AFSM, of The Salva- supported the message conveyed in tion Army, Senior Chaplain of the Rural Fire Lenny the Lying Lemur. He encour- Service. Also present was the Hon Danna aged those present to be wary of Vale MP, the Federal Member for the area. telling even ‘white’ lies and the need The lessons in the book are from the to be truthful at all times. The Hon story of Joseph in Genesis. It teaches chil- Danna Vale MP presented the dren that lying leads to trouble and hurts prizes for the winners of the colour- others. Lenny is a bouncy, proud and lying ing-in competitions, carried out in Lemur who tries to impress everyone with conjunction with the book launch. his fibs. Lenny has never known a real For further information, contact: friend until he is washed up on Lighthouse RU4Kidz, PO Box 1037, Menai Beach. Lenny learns that lying leads to trou- Central, NSW 2234. ble and hurts others. He finds out with the Phone: 0432 763 647. help of his new friends Byron and Francy, Fax: 02 9532 1328. that to be truly magnificent you must tell the Email: [email protected] truth! – Ramon A Williams - Worldwide Jenny and ‘Lenny’ Jen Anderson, describes herself as a Photos ‘Christian wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, employee and now author’. During the launch, Jen explained: ‘As a young child and the daughter of an alcohol- ic, I knew what it was like to live with some- one who lied. Alcoholics are known for it! I was afraid of my Dad and after he left when I was only 11 years old, my fear changed to what it was going to be like to grow up with- out a Dad.’ At the age of 13, life changed for her when at Teen Ranch she gave her life to the Lord. ‘Children’s ministry is my passion and I love to talk to children about Jesus, my faith and trust in God. I have been an active member of Menai Anglican Church for the past 10 years. My favourite thing is to spend time with my family, husband Tim and my two girls Courtney (12) and Katelyn (10). Over the past 20 years of working in various kids’ ministries I have had an ever growing awareness of how difficult it can be to find practical and fun Bible-based stories that provide an understandable and practi- cal application of the Bible especially for younger children. ‘After finishing as a Sunday School teacher in July 2007, the development of some material to satisfy this need became my goal and God has been opening doors NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Thirteen FROM ALL QUARTERS ... Aussie Harvest Celebrates Ten Years Of Outback Evangelism AUSSIE Harvest, a non-denominational out- have listened to the speaker we bring with reach ministry to men who live mainly in the us, we have a time of questions,’ Rod said. west of NSW celebrated its 10th annivers- ‘We meet with over 150 men each time we ary last month. fly out west and it’s great to see God using Aussie Harvest holds regular outreach this ministry to bring a spiritual awakening meetings in southern Sydney and outback in mature Australian men that the church are now run independently and are seeing NSW. A group of Christian businessmen, hasn’t reached.’ good results. led by Rod Cuthbertson from Cronulla, is Aussie Harvest has regular meetings in ‘We find that the men enjoy the relaxed supported by like-minded Christian men in Lightning Ridge, Wee Waa, Grawin, Narro- style of the meetings and really appreciate each location in hospitality evangelism. This mine, Bathurst, Tomingley and Cronulla. the calibre of guest speakers we bring with consists of a regular dinner meeting for men The ministry began in the Sutherland us. Speakers have included top line sports- held in a local pub, club or home. Rod and Shire in 1996 and since then Rod has seen men, business people and politicians,’ said his business partner Richard Woodward fly many men claim Christ as Saviour and join Rod, ‘including Rev George Capsis, Nick their own light plane on a four-day outback local churches. Farr-Jones, Rev Garry Coleman, Rev Karl circuit every two months. Late in 1999 Aussie Harvest spread to Faase, Dr John Best, Lynn Arnold, Brigadier ‘We recognise that for the majority of the outback with Rod and Richard sharing Jim Wallace, Leigh Hatcher and former Australian men, stepping into a church is flying duties. The meetings are non-denomi- Detective Sgt Gary Raymond.’ something they’d never do,’ said Rod. ‘We national and all men are welcome. Dinner For more information and to join the pay for the men’s meal and then over drinks meetings were also commenced in Lithgow Aussie Harvest mailing list, go to: and dinner we get to know them. After they and in the Southern Highlands and these www.aussieharvest.com.au Back To Church Sunday 2009: A Warm Welcome To 82,000 People Across UK CHURCH of England churches welcomed nations are included. invitation that any churchgoer can ask their back 53,000 people on Back To Church ‘We know from local research that new friend or neighbour – “Will you come to Sunday 2009, a 71% increase on 2008, as attenders and the churches enjoy the Back church with me on Sunday?” part of a growing initiative that saw more To Church experience of church. Not only ‘What's really encouraging is the way than 80,000 people come back to church has the number of participating churches that Back To Church is becoming a core across the UK on one Sunday in increased between 2008 and 2009 so that part of the Church's DNA. Now a regular September. approximately 20% of Church of England event for many churches, the buzz is catch- Statistical returns from participating churches are now taking part, but the aver- ing across churches of all traditions, and I churches suggest that an average of 19 age number of extra people per church has expect to see even more churches getting people returned to each church after receiv- grown, with participating churches each involved in 2010.’ ing a personal invitation. They were greeted having welcomed an average of 19 extra Parishes in each of the Church of Eng- with an especially welcoming Sunday serv- people compared to 14 last year.’ land’s 44 dioceses were joined by congre- ice on the day, fuelled by resources such as This significant rise in the numbers gations from Churches Together in Scot- red 'welcome' T-shirts and subsidised 'party drawn back to church by the event is re- land, the Church in Wales, Baptist, Meth- packs' of fairly-traded catering products, vealed as organisers gather in London for a odist, United Reformed, Salvation Army and produced in partnership with Traidcraft. special event at St Martin in the Fields Elim Pentecostal churches nationwide, and The Church of England's Head of Church, marking their success and begin- Anglican churches in Australia, Argentina, Research and Statistics, the Rev Lynda ning planning for next year's Back to New Zealand and Canada. Barley, says: ‘If the returns we have re- Church Sunday, 26 September 2010. Research by the Diocese of Lichfield ceived from almost one fifth of the partici- The Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill, Bishop of after Back To Church Sunday in 2007 pating parishes are representative, the Lichfield, commented: ‘Back to Church isn't showed that, six months after the event, scaled up figures would suggest that 53,000 rocket science. It is, however, a way of put- between 12 and 15% of 'returners' had extra people attended Church of England ting a booster behind the welcome we offer become regular members. churches that Sunday, among 82,000 com- people, and turning mission into less of a – Peter Wooding, ing back across the UK once other denomi- specialism. It turns evangelism into a simple ASSIST News Service Have You Recommended New Life To A Friend Recently? Special ‘Back To New Life’ Subscription: $25 for the print edition or $12.50 for the email edition for returning former subscribers!

Page Fourteen – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE FOR THE YOUNG ONES:

NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Fifteen BOOKS WORTH READING

A FOOT IN TWO WORLDS: THE JOY our way ... because as we wrestle with AND STRUGGLE OF THE NORMAL them we grow stronger in the Christian life. CHRISTIAN LIFE, John Chapman, Kings- Contemplating the end result gives us joy in ford, Matthias Media, 2009. the midst of trials’ (p.75). We are to perse- THIS attractive small book is the most re- vere, with our hope set on the living God cent addition to the Guidebooks For Life and the new creation in the world to come. series from Matthias Media. In it John The book’s great strengths are its Bib- Chapman helpfully addresses the ever- lical and theological exposition of the ten- that we have been given ‘a spirit of power, present tension faced by all Christians: liv- sion experienced by Christians, the opposi- of love and of self-discipline’ (2 Timothy ing as a Holy Spirit-filled believer in a fallen tion faced daily from the world, the flesh 1.7)? How do we access this power at work world and body. and the devil, and the disabusing of the in us (Ephesians 3.16,18,20; 2 Timothy He clearly explains ‘the good and the false answers and hopes offered. This is a 1.8)? What does it mean to be ‘led by the bad mingled in me’ (p.22) and in a particu- timely contribution to our contemporary Spirit (Galatians 5.18), praying ‘in the Spirit larly helpful section, the awful nature of the Christian culture, both in terms of its theo- on all occasions’ (Ephesians 6.18)? These devil’s work (pp.22-28). He delineates the logical clarity and its pastoral use. Chapman are all questions which could be more fully opposition of ‘the world, the flesh and the and Matthias deserve much thanks. explored. devil’ (p.43), noting the dangers of focus- The book’s pastoral theology could be The book is clear and readable, convey- sing on one to the neglect of the others. read as a little under-realised and further ing many complex truths simply. It is well He also addresses the deadends offered treatment of the armour of God and the referenced from the Scriptures. It is an ex- by various Christian groups to relieve the means of grace would strengthen it. The cellent resource for new Christians and tension: entire sanctification (an adaptation dynamic relationship of knowing God those Christians who have not been ade- of sinless perfectionism), a second baptism through the gift of His Spirit, the fellowship quately discipled in the nature of the daily of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of physi- of other believers and the comfort we re- Christian walk. It would also be ideal for cal healing and prosperity in this age. ceive from His Word and sacraments all Bible Study groups (straightforward discus- Chapman critiques these forms of over- bring deep joy. An additional chapter or two sion questions are included in an appendix.) realised eschatology which unsettle faith on accessing the power to resist temptation I highly commend it. and assurance, causing doubt and despair, and the peace Christ promised would com- – Adrian Lane, Lecturer in Ministry, especially in new believers. The book con- plement the struggle exposed in the preced- Ridley Melbourne. cludes with a call to obey James’ command ing chapters. Reprinted with permission from Essentials, to ‘count it all joy when various trials come What does Paul mean when he states Journal of EFAC ... AND MAGAZINES WORTH READING TOO TWO magazines arrived on my desk one such as Peter Jensen and Peter Corney as ‘brushed up’ day recently and they both make excellent well as those making their way into a life- the Grand reading: Essentials, The Journal of EFAC time of Christian service. Among the latter, Old Girl of (Aust); and The Banner Of Truth Magazine. is an article headed The Curate’s Egg – Christian Essentials asserts in its subtitle: ‘Proclaim- Mmmmm, Prayer. Not being an Anglican, publishing. ing Christ-Centred Biblical Ministry’, which The Curate’s Egg part of the title was lost Packed is also the mission of Banner Of Truth, on me, but Mmmmm Prayer resonated with full of faith- though unstated. Essentials is distinctly me as one who has lost track of the number building arti- Evangelical Anglican in character while of prayer meetings attended since conver- cles, news Banner is distinctly ‘Non-conformist’. sion in 1959 and the number of times I’ve and notices Nevertheless, Anglicans will find much to lost the thread of my prayer because of a of forthcom- interest them in Banner Of Truth just as well-meaning but oh-so-loud ‘Mmmmm’ ing books and conferences, it’s my most ‘Non-conformists’ will find much to interest from another corner of the circle. eagerly awaited piece of mail each month. them in Essentials, the reason being that The lead article is an edited version of 2010 being the 500th anniversary of the we are all interested in ‘promoting Christ- Peter Jensen’s excellent and hard-hitting birth of John Calvin, Banner has had a field centred Biblical Ministry’. address to the Fellowship Of Confessing day republishing many of his works and Essentials Anglicans UK Launch in Westminster printing articles about him, including the First, to Essentials. Though not spectacular Central Hall, London on 7 July 2009: The excellent series by the late Rev W.J. Grier. in its format and presentation, better things Jerusalem Declaration – Why It Matters – The stand-out article in the latest issue are promised in future editions. The impor- and in fact it matters to all Christians, not is Relevant Preaching, an extract from the tant thing, though, is that the material pub- just Anglicans. book Peter, Eye-Witness Of His Majesty lished is of a high standard, biblically faith- Enquiries to: www.efac.org.au made more digestable by serialisation and ful, very readable and highly practical. Banner Of Truth the use of cross-heads. The articles in this edition are contrib- And now to Banner Of Truth. The new edi- Further details available from: uted by well established Anglican identities tor has not so much ‘swept clean’ as www.banneroftruth.co.uk – Bob Thomas Page Sixteen – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE THINKING THINGS THROUGH JESUS CHRIST, BORN OF A VIRGIN

IT is customary, even compulsory, in many Joseph also was quite well aware of circles these days to lampoon the belief that how babies are conceived, so when he Jesus was born of a virgin. There is nothing learned of Mary’s pregnancy, he resolved to new in this. In the Second Century, the Jew divorce her quietly (Matthew 1.19). To him it Trypho and the pagan Celsus both repudiat- seemed obvious that Mary had been un- ed the Christian claim that Mary conceived faithful. But what seems obvious is not her divine Son while remaining a virgin. always true. Peter Barnes In 1823 Thomas Jefferson wrote: ‘The One of main reasons for the early only do what we can do, except that He cre- day will come when the mystical generation Christians’ belief in the Virgin Birth was the ated the world. This is supposed to be of Jesus, by the Supreme Being as His truth that nothing is impossible with God rational but it is clearly nonsense. If Father, in the womb of a virgin will be clas- (Luke 1.37). Genesis 1.1 is true – that God created the sified with the fable of the generation of Heavens and the Earth – then He is able to Minerva in the brain of Jupiter. But we may do whatever He pleases (Psalm 115.3). hope that the dawn of reason and freedom Jefferson’s god of Deism is just a rational of thought in these United States will do Rationalism col- idol. away with this artificial scaffolding and Jefferson’s second great error was that restore to us the primitive and genuine doc- lapses into irra- he believed that Jesus only came to be a trines of this most venerated Reformer of human reformer to be someone like human errors.’ tionality. It ends Jefferson himself, only before his time. It is a common enough view. Christmas Jesus never claimed simply to be a great has for many become the celebration of up with a god human teacher. He claimed to be the Son of some vague Christmas spirit of giving. For a God whom only the Father knew in an couple of years the televised Carols in the who cannot do absolute sense (Matthew 11.27), the One Domain included John Lennon’s Imagine, who would separate the sheep from the with its lines about ‘Imagine there’s no much, and a man goats in the Last Judgment (Matthew 25.31- heaven;/ It’s easy if you try:/ No hell below 46), and accepted the titles of ‘Lord’ and us;/ Above us only sky.’ The criterion for Jesus who cannot ‘God’ (John 20.28). The One who is greater inclusion amongst the carols must have than the angels and receives their worship been something like: ‘If it moved people and save. (Hebrews 1) is the One who in the ‘little they liked it, it was in.’ Content was irrele- while’ of the Incarnation was made lower vant. It is a problem than the angels (Hebrews 2.9). Far from In actual fact, content is everything. being ‘artificial scaffolding’, the Virgin Birth Thomas Jefferson and his fellow critics of its own making. is exactly what one would expect. The imply that Christians in Biblical times were unique redeemer comes into the world in a gullible and rather inclined to believe any The God of the unique way. story, provided it told of a miracle. They Rationalism collapses into irrationality. supposedly could not tell the difference Bible is the God Jefferson ends up with a god who cannot between a fable and history. do much, and a man Jesus who cannot However, when the angel Gabriel told who can do any- save. It is a problem of his own making. The Zechariah that his ageing wife, Elizabeth, God of the Bible is the God who can do would bear a son who would make ready thing except sin, anything except sin, and the Christ of the for the Lord a prepared people, Zechariah’s Bible is both divine and human in the one first response was to question the promise: and the Christ of person. The Virgin Birth – or virgin concep- ‘How shall I know this? For I am an old tion to be more accurate – reflects both of man, and my wife is advanced in years’ the Bible is both these truths. Here we celebrate the coming (Luke 1.18). of the King from another world – the Lord Mary too was not quick to believe the divine and human from Heaven to be the Saviour of sinners. even greater promises of Gabriel to her. In the wonderful summary of Ambrose of She was told that her Son would be the Son in the one person. Milan: ‘He is seen as man, He is adored as of the Most High, and would be the Davidic Lord; He lies in swaddling clothes, but King who would rule over God’s Kingdom shines amid the stars; the cradle shows His forever. Not surprisingly, she had at least birth, the stars His dominion; it is the flesh one question: ‘How will this be, since I am a Thomas Jefferson made two obvious that is wrapped in clothes, the Godhead virgin?’ (Luke 1.34) errors. First, he believed that God could that receives the ministry of angels.’ NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Seventeen ‘HERE’S WHAT I THINK ...’ Open Letter To Joe Hockey Dear Mr Hockey, ment on himself and all mankind, and THANK you for your message ‘In Defence needs to be saved from that judgment. of God’. God sent His Son into the world to save It is most instructive to know what our all who will believe in Him and in His Word. politicians think of God, and that knowledge Without that very basic framework of under- will be helpful at the ballot box. It is obvious standing, the term Christian is meaningless. They try to present the Gospel of God’s for- from your talk as per Michelle Grattan’s arti- Jesus Christ said He was the Son of God, giveness in Christ so that others may be- cle (The Age 9.11.09) that your personal He died to save sinners from the just pun- lieve and find salvation. faith and credo are much the same as ishment for their sins, and His claims are This is what Jesus taught us to do. He is Kevin Rudd’s – compassion, justice, equali- either true or they are not. He claimed to be the way, the truth and the life. Jesus made ty, dignity, forgiveness, charity and respect the only way to God – the only one who can exclusive claims about Himself, and Chris- for other people. provide forgiveness. Christ is central – there tians believe Him. The Gospel of John is It would seem that your understanding cannot be a ‘christless’ Christianity. very helpful in understating Christ and His of Biblical Christianity has been gleaned If you don’t believe Him, and you don’t mission in this world. from reading Richard Dawkins and Chris- trust in Him, you are not a Christian. It It is unfortunate that you think you can topher Hitchens. They abhor religions (es- couldn’t be simpler. The extension of this is defend God by saying that the Bible is out- pecially Biblical Christianity) because of the that if you believe the Bible is true, then you dated. It is unfortunate that you think that divisions they create. They cannot abide must necessarily believe that all other reli- ‘the Christian faith has declined in the West Christianity because it is ‘judgmental’, and gions, including Humanism, are not true. because of the reliance placed on a literal ‘intolerant’, and doesn’t just advocate ‘nice’ Truth cannot be compromised or it ceases reading of the Testaments by church lead- things like compassion, equality, forgive- to be true. Truth exposes error, but cannot ers’, and that this alienating literalism has ness, charity and respect for people. embrace or incorporate it. Truth is absolute. meant that ‘the true message of Scripture Apart from the fact that Christianity does Of course religions divide. Politics divide has taken a back seat’. promote all of these ‘nice’ things, the Bible too. But you don’t have to kill people in the It is more unfortunate that you publish makes certain claims that must be exam- other party, and generally speaking you your thoughts. This displays a serious lack ined in order for someone to either under- don’t hear of Christians advocating the of understanding of the topic you address stand Christianity or be a Christian. The true mass extermination of everyone outside which should have implications for any pub- message of the Scriptures is that God made their religion. Christians pray for those who lic person, but particularly for someone in the world, man rebelled against God’s persecute them and oppress them, and are your position. Your inadequate grasp of the authority and brought the promised judg- kind to those who wrongfully accuse them. facts are on the public record, and will be referred to often as an example of a leader going beyond his area of expertise and pre- suming to know things he clearly does not. You have done yourself no credit in making these statements. But you have demonstrated to Christians that they do not have a voice in the current political parties, and it is a timely reminder that this situation needs to be remedied. I hope you will read John’s Gospel, and the first ten chapters of Genesis. There you will find human history laid bare – God cre- ates, man rebels, God graciously offers to get man out of the mess he has made for himself but for the most part man rejects God’s gracious offer, persists in ignorance and rebellion and chooses to remain at en- mity with his Creator. Sounds horribly famil- iar – we see it all around today. Best wishes, and be assured that many Christians are praying for your and your col- leagues in Parliament, that you will search the Scriptures and find in them the truth and life eternal. – Jeanette McHardy, Essendon (Vic) Page Eighteen – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE BREAKPOINT ... CHUCK COLSON’S COMMENTS God With Us! And Us With Them?

I CAN’T sing the words of that familiar Ad- When I asked the boy his name, he Each year, Angel Tree brings this mes- vent song O Come, O Come, Emmanuel replied: ‘Emmanuel.’ sage of hope to hundreds of thousands of without remembering a young boy – a child ‘Emmanuel,’ I said, ‘do you know what children of inmates. of a prisoner. your name means?’ I opened my Bible and Church volunteers deliver Christmas Every year, Patty and I deliver Angel read from Matthew: ‘And they shall call Him gifts – and the Gospel message – to chil- Tree Christmas gifts to the children of pris- “Emmanuel” – which means “God with us”.’ dren in the name of the incarcerated parent. oners. And I’ll never forget one year in par- Just then, his mother came to the door. Think what this means – not only to the chil- ticular, when Patty and I drove into a hous- Emmanuel threw his arms around her dren, but to the mums and dads in prison ing project to deliver our gifts. thighs, crying: ‘Mama, Mama, God is with as well. We saw broken windows and grim-faced us!’ In Emmanuel’s clear voice I heard the If you would like to participate in Angel gang members lounging in doorways. After message of Christmas afresh: that God is Tree in Australia this Christmas, go to the parking our car, we found our way to an indeed with us always – and in a special website shown in the box below and make apartment and knocked on the door. A boy, way at Christmas, when He entered history arrangements to be ‘an angel’. about nine years old, cautiously opened it. through Jesus Christ. And you could ask your church to help ‘Merry Christmas!’ I said, holding out the I was particularly reminded that He as well. Maybe they can adopt a group of presents. ‘These are from your Daddy.’ came for the prisoner who turned his back children in an area. The thing is, we must Immediately, the door swung wide open on Him. He came for the mother who can’t not fail. No child should be forgotten this to let us in. The boy’s mother was on her make ends meet. And He came for the child Christmas. way home from work, and as we waited for who cries himself to sleep at night because God showed us that first Christmas that her, we saw that the apartment inside was a he’s never known his daddy. He is with those who have no hope. And we wreck. The furniture was torn, the stuffing God is with us. And He has given us the have the rare privilege of taking that mes- falling out. A scraggly Christmas tree leaned rare chance to be with those who desper- sage to these children. Sign up, please, we up against the wall, bare of any presents. ately need Him. need your help desperately.

Copyright (c) 2009 Prison Fellowship Ministries. Reprinted with permission. ‘Breakpoint With Chuck Colson’ is a radio ministry of Prison Fellowship Ministries. Prison Fellowship Australia National Office, PO Box 579, Eltham Vic 3095; Phone: 03 9431 3877; Fax: 03 9431 3830; email: [email protected] A Push In The Right Direction One. We all need to work for freedom of religion, and especially work to see Islamic apostasy laws abandoned. See my review of Patrick Sookhdeo’s important new book: http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2009/11/23/a-review-of-freedom-to-believe-by-patrick-sookhdeo/ Two. You need to be aware of this crucial new Christian declaration signed by people like James Dobson, Peter Kreeft and Chuck Colson. You can even sign it yourself: http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2009/11/21/the-manhattan-declaration/ Three. There is much that is wrong and unbiblical with the Health and Wealth Gospel. See this piece for some of my concerns: http://www.billmuehlenberg.com/2009/11/23/a-review-of-christianity-in-crisis-21st-century-by-hank-hanegraaff/ t Think Spot: ‘Are the things you are living for worth Christ dying for?’ – Leonard Ravenhill – Bill Muehlenberg, CultureWatch, http://www.billmuehlenberg.com YOUYOU CANCAN ADVERTISEADVERTISE HEREHERE CALL ALISON ON 03 9890 3377 EMAIL:EMAIL: [email protected]@nlife.com.au

NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Nineteen HOLIDAY GUIDE (UK) NEW LIFE ADVERTISING

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Page Twenty Two – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE BOOK REVIEW POSITION VACANT

KIWI ADVENTURES, Bartha Hill, Chris- IT’S NOT JUST COOKING! tian Focus Publications, 2007. BARTHA Hill is a children’s book author and Poatina is a very special village, looking for a very special person. journalist who has also worked as a re- Since 1995 Poatina (aboriginal for ʻshelterʼ) Village, a community for young searcher and organiser for World Vision. and old, has been a safe place for young people needing a fresh start. Her book Kiwi Adventures tells a num- With the grandeur of the Western tiers framing the skyline, Poatina offers ber of stories about the South Island of New an experience of ʻthe way life was meant to beʼ. Zealand, and like much of her writing this When you walk into the Poatina Mountain view Restaurant, book has a Christian application. Living in your steak or trout will be the best you have tasted for a long time, Wanaka in the heart of the mountainous but thatʼs only one part of what is special about our Restaurant. South Island, Bartha has first hand knowl- Your food may have been cooked by someone with years of experience or edge of the surrounding region and her sto- training, or a young person who is finding a new path in life ... ries take the young reader on an interesting and you wonʼt know the difference! We are looking for an experienced cook who loves producing great food tour of the southern coastline from Timaru and also wants to make a real difference in the lives of young people. around to Doubtful Sound. They include The person we are looking for will be responsible for: tales of gold mining days, jet-setting bird t supervising and training/mentoring of trainees life, Richard Pearse’s flights, and pioneer t working with and supervising volunteers mission work. t relating to Reception/Restaurant staff Bartha Hill has written in an easy style, t cooking and preparing of all the food full of fascinating facts, and the book’s t cleaning and hygiene of the kitchen black and white illustrations add to the inter- t working with Chalet Manager, Kitchen Manager, est. Each chapter is self-contained and and other cooks, as required while young readers are learning about this This is a part-time position of 20 hours per week, with possibility of extra part of New Zealand, its people and its wild hours with large group bookings. Award wages. Requires working one whole life, a Christian message is woven into each day on weekends, with remaining hours negotiable. one. Applications to be received by Friday 11 December. Kiwi Adventures is aimed at a reading Send to Poatina Chalet, Gordon St, Poatina, 7302 age of 9-12 years, but the book is also suit- Or fax 03 6397 8370; Email: [email protected] able for reading aloud to younger listeners and could be used for children’s talks in Sunday school and church. – Sue Garner PLEASE NOTE: THIS is the last issue of New I WOULD LIKE A SUBSCRIPTION TO Life for 2009. New Life Christian Newspaper The first issue for 2010 for the price (inc GST) of: Annual Subscription (posted fortnightly, 23 issues): $50 ( ) will be dated 2010-02-04 Concession Sub (f/t Christian workers, students, (deadline Monday 25 Jan- Social Service recipients): $45 ( ) uary) and will be posted out Half-year Sub (posted fortnightly 11 issues): $25 ( ) Half-year Concession sub $22.50 ( ) on Friday 29 January 2010. E-mail subscription (23 issues) $25 ( ) New Life office will close on 11 December and re- I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO MAKE A DONATION TO ASSIST ʻNEW LIFEʼ $ ...... open on Monday 18 January ------Please tick appropriate box(es) 2010. This is a NEW subscription ( ) This is a subscription RENEWAL ( ) We thank all readers, I enclose a cheque/money order for $...... or subscribers and advertisers Please debit my Mastercard/Visacard Please debit my credit card automatically each quarter for $12.50 ( ) for their support and look No. ______forward to serving you in the Expiry date _____/_____ Signature ______New Year. We wish you a Name: ______Address: ______blessed Christmas, New ______Postcode: ______Phone: ( ) ______Year and Holiday Season. Email address:

NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Twenty Three ‘NEW LIFE’ – AUSTRALIA’S CHRISTIAN NEWSPAPER

Page Twenty Four – 10 December 2009 – NEW LIFE NEW LIFE EXTRA – LATE BREAKING NEWS Converts’ Testimonies on ArabTV; Internet Opens Up ARABTV reports that many exciting projects are coming to fruition as the end of 2009 ap;proaches. Conversion Testimonies Fourteen dramatized testimonies of Moroccans coming to faith in Jesus Christ are now being broadcast on two popular Christian satellite stations cov- ering North Africa. Each episode fea- tures dramatized re-enacted scenes to visualize the testimony, with the voice- over of the Moroccan convert narrating it. A local Moroccan telephone number is being promot- drawn to Christ through these testimonies. ed in the program to invite feedback and questions from New Internet Station the viewers in the country. Those who have access to Arab Vision’s new 24/7 Internet Station has just been the internet can also send an e-mail and visit the pro- launched on the net. Initially, it is comprised of a three gram’s specially developed website - www.shehada.org hour block of programming, repeated throughout the ‘We are glad the programs are completed and on air day. Later on, more tailor-made programs will be added now,’ reports the project manager. ‘Many of the young to the schedule to expand the daily service. actors and helpers from the region that contributed to The number of people in the Arab World with access the project were much affected and encouraged by to the Internet has grown exponentially in the last five being asked to be involved in such a project. One actor years; the Gulf region leads in this, but also poorer was himself a Muslim convert and was excited to be countries like Egypt have made good progress. Overall, able to play a part. It was amazing to see how God pro- it is estimated that 24 million in the region have access vided motivated people to help do the work in the four to high speed Internet. different countries we filmed in,’ he concludes. More details are available at the website: Please pray that many Moroccan viewers will be www.arabvision.org SPURGEON: The Object Of The Gospel THE great object of the Gospel of Christ is to create men The process of education and everything else, apart from anew in Christ Jesus. It aims at resurrection, and accomplish- the Holy Spirit, is a dragging for dead men, to lay them out es it. The Gospel did not come into this world merely to decently, side by side, in the order and decency of death, but restrain the passions or educate the principles of men, but to nothing more can man do for man. infuse into them a new life which, as fallen men, they did not The Gospel of Jesus Christ has a far other and higher possess. task: it does not deny the value of the moralist’s efforts, or I saw yesterday what seemed to me a picture of those decry the results of education, but it asks what more can you preachers whose sole end and aim is the moralizing of their do, and the response is: ‘Nothing.’ There it bids the bearers hearers, but who have not learned the need of supernatural of the bier stand away and make room for Jesus, at whose life. Not very far from the shore were a dozen or more boats voice the dead arise. at sea dragging for two dead bodies. They were using their The preacher of the Gospel cannot be satisfied with what lines and grappling irons, and what with hard rowing and is done in drawing men out of the sea of outward sin. He industrious sailing, were doing their best most commendably longs to see the lost life restored, he desires to have to fish up the lost ones from the pitiless sea. I do not know if breathed into them a new and superior life to what they have they were successful, but if so, what further could they do possessed before. with them but decently to commit them to their mother earth? http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Daily-Spurgeon/77394992996 NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Twenty Five NEW LIFE EXTRA – Religious Liberty Prayer Bulletin RUSSIA: Jihad, Terror, Tensions And Opportunities BACK in December 2001, al-Qaeda deputy Ayman al- On 30 November an explosion in Dagestan tore Zawahiri identified Afghanistan and Chechnya as key to apart the railway line between Baku (Azerbaijan) and the the jihadist cause. Regarding Chechnya, he noted that Siberian town of Tyumen (Russia). The on-coming train control of the North Caucasus would give al-Qaeda's fortunately just skidded for 150 metres and nobody was Sunni jihadists a 'mujahid Islamic belt' from the Mediter- hurt. ranean through Turkey and the pan-Turkic regions of the Russian Orthodox priest Rev Daniil Sysoyev (34) – a Black and Caspian Seas into Central Asia, Afghanistan courageous missionary to Muslims and well known pub- and Pakistan, as well as Xingjiang in western China. lic critic of Islam – was assassinated in his church on 19 Terrorism has surged across the North Caucasus this November. year, particularly in Ingushetia, doubtless being ener- Religious tensions are rising. Some 23 million gised by the Taliban – al-Qaeda ascendency in Afghan- Muslims make up 16% of Russia's 144 million popula- istan and Pakistan. tion, although only around one-third of them (7-8 million) In May 2009 Dokka Abu Usman, the self-proclaimed are observant. However, with swelling Muslim immigra- 'Emir of Mujahideen of Caucasus Emir-ate', declared: tion they are projected to be a majority by 2050. When 'This year will be our offensive year.' In August the pro- the USSR broke up in 1991 the Russian Federation's jihadist Kavkaz Centre published a letter from the borders dissolved, opening the region up to infiltration by 'Riyad-us-Saliheen Martyrs Battalion' citing the Islamic fundamentalists and jihadists, including veterans 'Mujahideen of Caucasus Emirate' decision at the start of the Afghan jihad. Before then, Russia's Muslims were of the year to launch an 'economic war' involving 'indus- mostly secular and Russianised. trial sabotage' inside Russia. Though the Islamic jihad is causing pain and reli- Accordingly 'Riyad-us-Saliheen' was claiming respon- gious tension, it is also causing widespread disillusion- sibility for the 17 August 2009 'martyrdom operation in ment amongst Muslims. Nazran' against the Inter-ior Ministry as well as a 'major On 1 November 2005 Interfax reported that whilst subversive action in Russia, disabling the Sayano- some 2,000-5,000 ethnic Russians had converted to Shushenskaya hydro-electric dam' the same day. The Islam, about 2 million Russian Muslims had converted to dam breach which flooded the machine room, killing 75 Christianity. According to the report, the Muslims who RusHydro workers and shutting down Russia's largest convert to Christianity are mostly disillusioned with Islam hydro-electric power station, was an accident due to and attracted to Russia's Orthodox Christian culture. ageing Soviet infrastructure, according to Moscow. According to Roman Silantyev of Russia's Inter- However, the jihadists claimed to have sabotaged the Religious Council, this process is 'accelerated due to dam using an anti-tank mine. extremist activities'. Silantyev notes the Beslan terror Russia has suffered numerous terrorist attacks on attack (September 2004) caused the Muslim population infrastructure this year. In late November, terrorists per- of North Osettia to decrease by at least 30% and to petrated a series of attacks on infrastructure in the North halve in Beslan itself. 'As even Muslim sources confirm,' Caucasus republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, including Silantyev stated, 'after each terrorist action, thousands bombing an electricity substation. A plot to blow up KB's and maybe even dozens of thousands of ethnic Muslims Aushiger Hydropower Plant fortunately was foiled as it adopt baptism.' would have inundated the villages of Aushiger, Urvan and possibly others (Eurasia Daily Monitor 19-11-09). This RLPB was written for the Australian On the night of 27 November terrorists sabotaged Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission the busy railway line between Moscow and St Peters- by Elizabeth Kendal, an international burg, derailing the luxury Nevsky Express, killing at least religious liberty analyst and advocate, 26 and wounding around 100. The main suspect, Pavel and member of the AEA RLC team. Kosolapov, is a former Russian soldier who converted to (Please see p.27 for Prayer Points related to this RLPB.) Islam in the 1990s and joined the mujahideen. NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Twenty Six NEW LIFE EXTRA: Religious Liberty Prayer Bulletin; Please Pray That God Will: v Be a refuge and sanctuary for His people as terror- geous faith and spiritual unity. ism escalates across the North Caucasus and into the v Raise up and send out more workers for His Russian heartland; may multitudes focus their eyes on Russian harvest. (Luke 10.2) Jesus Christ and grow in faith and maturity v Turn the tide in Russia so that as the ethnic Muslim (James 1.2-4). population grows so too will the rate at which Russian v Work mightily by hHs Spirit in the Russian Church Muslims turn to Christ. for widespread reformation and revival, resulting in glow- v May terrorism be an opportunity for witness rather ing holiness ('shining as lights', Philippians 2.15), coura- than a cause of tension. A FELLOWSHIP OF FORGIVEN SINNERS ‘But if we walk in the light as [God] is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.’ (1 John 1.7 NIV) AUTHOR Phillip Yancey tells a story of a man in his Fellowship isn’t going to mean anything if we don’t tell church that can’t help comparing being late for church to the whole truth about ourselves. Real fellowship means being late for his regular Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. stepping into the light of God’s truth where everything is When he’s late for church, he says that he has the dis- revealed, and when we bring ourselves to the light, we tinct feeling from everyone around him that he’s not as discover we are not alone. There’s a roomful of other responsible as he could be, or he would get to church believers all struggling with something too, and that on time. sense of shared need is part of the bond that holds us When he’s late for an AA meeting, however, the together. meeting stops, everyone jumps up to hug him because Yes, we’re people following Christ, but we’re all a they realize he almost didn’t make it, and they are so bunch of forgiven sinners, too, who wouldn’t have a glad his need for them won out over his need for alco- chance at life were it not for what Christ has done for hol. us. So grab someone and let’s walk into the light togeth- What’s the difference? The whole truth. The people er, where the blood of Jesus purifies us from all of our who got to church on time may have gotten that one sins. Isn’t that the group you want to be in? thing right, but they have a bunch of other things wrong – John Fischer in The Purpose Driven Life with them, making them just as needy as the alcoholic. Daily Devotional, quoted in Soundbites. Setbacks For Islamist Expansion Kenyan Christian Group Rejects Islamic Courts In draft constitution will be a further step towards Islamic Constitution rule in Kenya, where Muslims account for 10% of the 39 THE head of the National Christian Council of Kenya million people and Christians almost 80%. has called for the removal of provisions for Islamic Swiss Ban on Minarets – Predictable Reactions courts from a draft constitution for the east African coun- THE Swiss vote in favour of a ban on minarets has been try, saying this contradicts the principle of equality for all met with controversial reactions in the Christian commu- religions. ‘We have said they [Islamic courts] have no nity there. In a referendum on 29 November, a proposed business being in the national constitution,’ the church building ban for further minarets received a 57.5% maj- council General Secretary, the Rev Peter Karanja, told ority. The motion was supported by the conservative journalists on 3 December in Limuru near Nairobi. Swiss People's Party and the Confederate Union, which Karanja said that Christians fear the maintenance of the has a strong evangelical following, and sparked pre- Kadhi courts, as they are known locally, in the latest dictable, alarmist reactions from Moslems and liberals. NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Twenty Seven NEW LIFE EXTRA – Breakpoint II Advent Conspiracy – Can Christmas Still Change the World? IN 2006, pastors Rick McKinley, Chris Seay, and Greg far more meaningful. Holder had a vision to revitalize the celebration of But our giving should not be limited to family and Christmas in their churches. They found two other like- friends. This is the challenge of the Advent Conspiracy: minded pastors, and, together with their congregations, ‘As poor people who have met with the righteous wealth conspired to restore the meaning of Christmas. of God, it is now our turn to model His generosity by As Rick, Chris, and Greg explain in their book Advent sharing our wealth with those in need.’ Conspiracy, they all recognized and detested the ram- So far, many participants in the Advent Conspiracy pant consumerism that turns the remembrance of Jesus’ movement have opted to give the money they raise birth into a cult of materialism. ‘Our story is consumption each year to Living Water International, a Christian min- and consumerism ... We worship less. We spend more. istry dedicated to providing access to clean water to We give less. We struggle more.’ That was their per- people around the world. spective. But whoever we give to, the point is to get beyond To address the problem, they challenged their con- ourselves and love the unloved in the name of Christ. gregations to spend less on themselves that Christmas Rick, Greg, and Chris remind us of the blessings that so that they could spend more on others. As a result, result. As they write: ‘When we show up and love in the this coalition of churches was able to raise around half a name of God, God shows up. That’s part of the mystery million dollars – enough to fund the digging of a high- of partnering with Jesus in the work He is still doing.’ capacity well in Nicaragua, and 13 deep wells in Liberia. During this past year of recession, it may be encour- But these ‘Advent Conspirators’ don’t simply tell us aging to remember that God doesn’t expect us to give what they’ve accomplished. They challenge us to go and what we don’t have. Those who have lost jobs may not do likewise. At RethinkingChristmas.com people who be able to do much more than the poor widow in Luke have joined the Advent Conspiracy share some practical 21. Though she only put in two small copper coins, suggestions on how to spend less money, yet give more Jesus commended her. While others gave out of their love. One mother commented that she planned to make wealth, she gave out of her poverty and from her heart. personalized cookbooks for her kids this Christmas. She So this year, as you remember how, long ago, God’s scanned family recipes written in her handwriting and people longed for the coming of the Messiah, and as that of her mother’s, and placed them in a binder. you look forward to Christ’s coming again, make a That’s a gift her children will treasure for years, and change in how you spend. Perhaps this Christmas can hopefully pass on to their children. While this may not be the advent of a deeper faith for you and your family. have cost much, it involved a wealth of time – something – Prison Fellowship President, Mark Earley Bench People Gather In Droves To Hear God's Word THE Bench people of Ethiopia are gathering in droves to hear the Gospel in audio. Greg Fisher with Faith Comes by Hearing says their outreach touches these people in a special place. ‘When they hear that message, there's something inside their heart that says “this is the message I've been looking for,” and they want to know more about it.’ Hearing God's Word spoken in their heart language transforms the hearts and lives of the Bench people. ‘It also gives honour to their language and to their culture in a way that they didn't know that God was interested in honour- ing them before.’ Because of low literacy rates and other issues, many previously were unable to access the Gospel. ‘The New Testament was a locked-up book to them. Now it is open, and they can freely access the Word of God.’ This outreach program depends on the continued goodwill of village leaders. ‘People can see the evidence of a positive change coming because of the Word of God, and they like it.’ Pray that this goodwill continues. Go online to find out how you can help. Full story: http://www.mnnonline.org/article/13568 NEW LIFE – 10 December 2009 – Page Twenty Eight