Hope and the Local Church

VOLUME 4 NUMBER 3 |JUNE 2010 atalyst

AACC s s embl y o f C on f e s s i n g C on g re g a t i on s w i t h i n t h e U n i t i n g C h urc h i n A u s t ral i a

Resurrection Hope and the local church MICHAEL EARL PAGE 6 PLUS SIX PAGES OF LOCAL CHURCH STORIES Why we said ‘no’ to Brian McLaren’s Destroying the UCA Preamble confusing insight Marriage CHAMPION & CARTER • 9 MARK DEVER • 11 Bill Muehlenberg • 14 Editorial Local heroes

In this edition of ACCatalyst. section of reports which feature ACC Michael Earl from Wesley Mission parishes hard at work. in Sydney examines why we can have Evangelising fruit pickers at hope—resurrection hope—when Merrigum, praise services in North things appear bleak and tough. Queensland, and how one local Without giving too much away, church at St George in Queensland Michael finds hope in changed lives faced the flood all go to show how of people touched by the good news ACCers are local heroes. in his local congregation. Or just normal Christians being That theme is taken up with an about their master’s calling. Cover illustration chromatika/istockphoto.com expanded ACCatalyst local church John Sandeman

ACCatalyst is published by the Assembly of Executive Editor: Max Champion Email for ACCatalyst: Confessing Congregations Inc. Managing Editor: Peter Bentley catalysteditor@confessing congregations.com ABN 73 794 518 715 ARBN 128 001 785. Editor: John Sandeman ACCatalyst is available as a subscription only Incorporated in NSW. INC 9887628. Office:2 Erskineville Rd, Newtown NSW ($35pa) or by becoming an ACC Supporting Liability of members is limited. Opinions 02 9550 5358 Member ($35pa concession or $60pa full) expressed in ACCatalyst do not necessarily Website: confessing congregations.com Printed by Brougham Press, Scoresby Rd, Bays- reflect the official views of the assembly. [email protected] water Vic. ISSN 1835 2073 Rubey the I have discovered the terrible truth life that our spirit needs. Isaiah 55 about my cat. Rubey is two-timing says “Come, all you who are thirsty, me. I never thought she would do it, two timer come to the waters; and you who but there you go. Almost daily she have no money, come, buy and eat! disappears off somewhere. Come, buy wine and milk with- She goes across the road and down out money and without cost. Why the lane but I don’t know where spend money on what is not bread, she goes from there. If she sees me and your labour on what does not watching her, she turns around and satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat comes back. what is good, and your soul will de- So what is she up to? Is she meet- light in the richest of fare….seek the ing with other cats? I doubt it, Lord while He may be found, call because she has never really thought upon him while He is near” much of other cats. It’s tempting at times to walk Is she looking for rats and mice? away from God and think we can It’s possible, but I suspect there is find fulfilment elsewhere. The world something else going on. Rubey is can look so attractive and promises

going off somewhere and scrounging Hilary Sandeman happiness, fulfilment and purpose food. Somebody is feeding her, and in life. But its promises are empty. no doubt she goes there meowing We become like a cat sneaking off hungrily and pretending I don’t look down the road for a feed, only to after her. Cheeky, ungrateful cat. discover we are eating sawdust, or But I have to be honest and say worse, snail bait. God is the one who that I don’t really mind Rubey going gives us tuna, and fresh water and off and making friends. brushes out our tangles. It is Whoever is feeding her is clearly God who forgives our treating her well and Rubey always sin and transforms us comes home again. If someone was The Old Testament describes God and gives us purpose and giving her poison, or trying to harm as a jealous God who becomes angry loves us beyond what we her or trap her I would not be so when his people chase after idols. are able to comprehend. happy and I would do whatever I God knew that idols could not give And regardless of where we have could to stop her from going there. life or anything good to the people wandered or how often, God is will- But if she was determined to sneak who went to them. ing to accept us back! off, she would find a way. God is the only true source of the Robyn ACC News ACC chair visits the Hunter region The ACC Hunter cluster in NSW organised a full programme for the chair during a recent two day visit. On April 18th, Rev. Dr Max Cham- pion preached at the Sunday morning service at Maitland UC which is the only ACC Congregation in the Hunter Presbytery. He was well received and made good contact with the local members. The minister, Rev. Mark Collins, commented that one member said “perceptive teaching on the importance of the resurrection of the body”. On Sunday afternoon, Max met with members of the Hunter ACC cluster at Kotara, and presented the Scriptural case for the necessity of the resurrection of our bodies. On Monday April 19th, Max met with the CEO of the UCA Hunter Presbytery, Rev. Felicity Amery. At lunchtime Max spoke at an ecumenical seminar, including members of Winner of ACC award: Jiyoung Kim. Wesley Institute photo by John Leung the ACC cluster, and several Baptists and a Presbyterian Minister. (Interestingly the Baptists present Pendlebury award win at this local gathering acknowledged they’re benefiting from UCA members who had left over previ- The winner of a new ACC-spon- treasurer. Her willingness to take on ous years). Max presented a good sored award for students at Wesley the treasurer’s role for Reforming challenge to those present, and Institute is music student Jiyoung Alliance, and then to continue with encouraged our common Christian Kim. He has received the inaugural a very difficult joint role with ACC fellowship by confessing Christ in Thelma Pendlebury award of $500. served us extremely well. times when things may even appear Jiyoung is married with two young Thelma’s evangelical witness to hopeless. children. Christ was transparent. Her unself- Thanks are especially due to Hunt- “I was born in a Christian fam- conscious humility in serving her er Cluster convenor, Alton Bowen for ily that has been Christians for 4 Lord was evident in the way in which all his organisational help, to Glen generations”, says Kim. “Even though she discharged her responsibilities and Marian Joyce who provided ac- I have attended Church since I was as treasurer. Thelma was a long- commodation for Max, to Margaret really young, my real Christianity serving member of Bexley Uniting Lewis for catering and to the local started when I was 15. At that time, Church (NSW), and wife of Dr Jim members at Maitland and the ACC I met Jesus personally at the Praise Pendlebury. Cluster for their hospitality. and worship Conference. “It was a gift of God that I could attend Chang Sin High school, which Gordon Moyes Award was built by an Australian mission- ary. At school, I concentrated on do- Jim Pendlebury, Thelma’s husband ogy students. It proved successful. ing evangelisation of non-Christian is involved in raising money for a The most recent recipient is Mr friends during the break. different Wesley Institute award: Andrew Jago, who was highly “I want to be a good music the Gordon Moyes Scholarship recommended by the WI Theology pastor(minister). Thank you so Gift Fund. This fund raises money Department. much. God bless You.” from corporations, churches and “Since its inception, the ‘global Kim’s award is named in memory individuals to finance an annual meltdown’ reduced the income”, of Thelma Pendlebury, whose stead- Theology Scholarship at Wesley says Jim Pendlebury. “If the Spirit fast faith, generosity of spirit, good Institute for Ministry and the moves you to provide a tax deduct- humour, and encouragement greatly Arts. The Trustees’ desire was to ible donation to the Gift Fund it enriched the members and national recognise Gordon Moyes’ contribu- should be sent to GMSF Gift Fund, councils of ACC and its predecessor tion to Wesley Institute and as an PO Box A270, Sydney South, 1234. bodies as an executive member and encouragement to aspiring Theol- It will be gratefully acknowledged.” cisale/istockphoto.com

Public Square by P seudo -M a x imus

Deaths of the and toward the end of life are at risk same-gender relationships. The of arbitrary death. It is scary that the preface states ‘The work of the theol- innocents rights of helpless human beings can ogy panel was difficult, but certainly be disregarded. It is even more fright- congenial, but there was never a hint It’s best not to be too young or too ening that killing the vulnerable must from anyone on the panel that we old. That’s the conclusion to be drawn eventually desensitise our natural would ever come to one mind on this from two recent news items. aversion to the taking of innocent life. contentious subject’. Two examples A study recently published by the from the (87 page) report: Canadian Medical Association report- Diversity and The conservatives found the oppos- ed on a survey about death involving ing arguments ‘confused’ and their life-ending drugs in the Flemish area discipline exegesis ‘mistaken’, notwithstanding of Belgium, a nation where euthana- their ‘quasi-homiletical eloquence’. sia is legal. The study showed that of Among the questions asked of Meth- The liberals concluded that both the 208 deaths 142 were killed with odist ordinands before union is one papers describe faithful patterns of an explicit patient request, and 66 that fails the UCA diversity test. “Will marriage and the church needs both were killed without an explicit patient you be ready, with all faithful dili- for its witness to the truth. They claim request. gence, to drive away all erroneous and that, rather than undermining mar- The study showed that in the ma- strange doctrines contrary to God’s riage, their position upholds, expands jority of cases of euthanasia without Word; and to use both public and pri- and strengthens it. consent, the option of euthanasia was vate admonitions and exhortations, Both groups claimed to be inter- not discussed with the person. Most as well to the sick as to the whole, preting scripture faithfully. How- of these patients were over 80 years as need shall require, and occasion ever, on the issue of the analogy of and were undergoing medical treat- shall be given?” What a pity that the marriage to Christ and the church ment in the hope of being cured of mandate to teach the truth and rebut (Ephesians 5: 31-2), the liberals claim their illness. ‘strange doctrines’ is not found in the ‘both same and opposite-sex mar- The Melbourne Herald Sun of Uniting Church Ordination Service riage may represent the marriage of May 20 quoted abortion statistics or the Code of Ethics and Ministry Christ and the church, because Christ from the 2007 annual report of the Practice! is the spouse of all believers’. This Consultative Council on Obstetric liberal interpretation disregards the and Paediatric Mortality and Morbid- Episcopal Church male/female complementarity of Gen ity. The article reported that “almost 2:24 emphasised throughout by the one late-term abortion is performed and Same-Sex conservatives. in Victoria every day, and 54 babies The authors clearly state they are survived the procedure to die postna- Marriage not offering a compromise position tally.” The paper also reported that of based on the assumption that the two the 345 late-term abortions 160 were A recent study document for the US groups can put their disputes behind done on women with healthy babies Episcopal Church House of Bish- them and move forward in some and who had said they had social or ops addresses the issue of same-sex kind of consensus. Both claim creedal psychological problems. These figures marriage. The ‘conservative group’ faithfulness, yet remain in profound predate the Victorian Government’s (four theologians) adheres to what disagreement. The key issue raised legislation on abortion in 2008. it understands to be the church’s by these papers is whether same-sex We do not know the details about traditional ethical and sacramental relations are an effect of the fall or a people involved in all these cases. But teaching about marriage. The ‘liberal blessing of creation. surely there is something very worry- group’ (four theologians) revisits More at http://www.virtueonline. ing about societies in which vulner- this teaching, calling for the church’s org/portal/modules/news/article. able human beings at the beginning recognition of faithful, monogamous php?storyid=12313 It is to be hoped that the Assembly believers. Their hy- artistic tradition would Working Group on Doctrine does pocrisy is but a small have been fertile ground for not procrastinate in canvassing these part of the problem. reflection on the Church’s issues and producing a doctrine of If the cost of earthly mission. Of course, this was marriage to recommend to the next utopia is that reason not the case. Assembly. is buried, then truth, If participants freedom and justice had been presented Ain’t no human will be based on little with cards show- more than the will to power. ing, say, an icon of bean A faith seeking understand- the Holy Trinity or ing must protest the death of a Rembrandt Malcolm McLaren (no known rela- reason. painting of the tionship to Brian!) died of cancer on Prodigal Son, 8 April. Manager of the notorious On the cards then reflec- 1970s band the Sex Pistols, whose tions would first single wasAnarchy in the UK, he Recently a conference was called have been firmly has been described as punk’s ‘poster in Melbourne to discuss future directed to, boy of chaos,’ a Svengali who courted relationships between Uniting and perhaps controversy to maximise his public Church congregations and Unit- shaped by, image. “I am a product of the ‘60s,” ingCare Agencies. The facilitators the reality of he said. “All I have ever felt is disrup- began by asking conference par- God’s redemp- tive – I don’t know any other way.” ticipants to respond to a series of tive love. This He summed up the key to punk: “Be picture cards. These would set approach, childish. Be irresponsible. Be disre- the direction of discussions. however, prob- spectful. Be everything this society The pictures, which featured ably would have hates.” (The Age, 10 April, p8) If the natural objects like a country lane Strengths cards offended those huge, mainly uncritical, media cover- and machinery, could have been used who believe that age of his death and contribution to at any secular conference. As Chris- the principle of “theological diver- Western culture is indicative, it is tian art has a long history which sity” should exclude such specifically clear that self-indulgent nihilism is no manifests many styles, and as it was Christian representations. barrier to fame and fortune. a Uniting Church event, it is reason- Contributors include Ross Carter and It is all very well to be disruptive. able to presume that the Christian Rosalie Hudson After all, Christ’s coming caused the greatest disruption in history. Yet, he did not demean our humanity; he redeemed it. This distinction is Ian Clarkson the point at which Christians should engage with those being harmed by Guard the treasure tian culture, is the most dominant. such hedonism. That’s why countries like ours are Put simply, we in the West, are the most desired by immigrants Death of reason in danger of destroying the core and refugees. values that have produced the kind And this is our problem. Pluralist ‘Blind Ideology is Dancing on the of unique open, free community, philosophy which is now dominant Grave of Reason’ is the title of an in fact the very society which has in Western societies by claiming article by Melanie Phillips in The given us the unique freedoms to that every belief and life style is Weekend Australian, 15-16 May. She question those root beliefs. of equal value, regards that which claims that “irrational dogma” has And its non-Christian commen- gave it birth and nourished it, to be displaced reason in the quest for tators like Melanie Phillips, a Jew, no longer legitimate. truth, justice and freedom. and even atheists who are warning This Christophobia needs careful The fervour with which minority us, like Germany’s Jurgen Haber- but direct challenge not only for the rights and fashionable causes are now mas, who stated “Christianity and sake of our souls, but also for the privileged is not matched by logic. nothing else is the ultimate founda- sake of sustaining what is best in “Across a broad range of issues, the tion of liberty, conscience, human our western societies. progressive intelligentsia appears to rights and democracy. It doesn’t This means for example ensuring have junked the rules of evidence, impair cross cultural understand- our new national schools history objectivity and rationality in favour ing but in fact makes it possible.” curriculum gives accurate and of fantasy, irrationality and upside- We should not be coy about con- proper place to the influence of down thinking.” fronting these facts, because coun- the Bible in the formation of our “Dissenters from these creeds are tries which enjoy and practise the nation. socially and professionally ostracised,” fairest judicial systems, which have Let us enjoy, celebrate and be because it is assumed without argu- properly functioning, democrati- thankful for the fruits of past ment that their secular ideologies cally controlled police and military, generations of Christian thinkers, ‘offer salvation by a return to right- which have the most settled multi leaders and martyrs, and not just eousness.” cultural societies, and are the best indulge our freedoms, but use them Ironically, these strident ideologues examples of free, peaceful, ordered as weapons and opportunities to often exhibit the same unthinking fa- societies on the planet, are those strengthen the root of what we have naticism, dogmatism and intolerance countries where the teachings of and guard our treasure before it is which they detest among “religious” Christ and the influence of Chris- too late. Resurrection Gospel Hope in Daily Ministry by Michael Earl

number of years ago a minister of to sit in the comfortable chairs and enjoy the warmth a different Wesley church told me and protected environment. It is one of the great things the story of one particular Easter about a place like Wesley Mission that people really Sunday. Perhaps like many other struggling with life still find it a refuge in a variety of Wesley churches, this one had within ways. What this can mean is that at various points in the the worship space a picture of John service long and loud snoring can be heard for periods Wesley, the one most of us are famil- of time, sometimes loud and long enough for the whole iar with; Wesley in his black gown congregation to hear. While it’s wonderful that such folk and clerical collar staring back with a fixed and brooding can find a peaceful place for some rest, in one sense this Aglare at anyone who dared to look at him. Far from being is everything the church is for, I hope this posture is not placed in a respectful, yet inconspicuous position, the a metaphor for the congregational vitality of all UCA picture hung imposingly behind the pulpit. So every time congregations. the minister preached he had John Wesley literally look- Lack of numbers, lack of passion, lack of grace and kind- ing over his shoulder. No pressure. ness among people. Long and dry church council meet- On this Easter Sunday, believing that the focus should ings, petty feuds, bickering and power plays. Moribund be elsewhere, and reasoning that the great man himself sermons, uninspiring worship, biblical illiteracy. Tradi- would surely have deferred, the minister took the picture tionalism, over-bearing nostalgia, reluctance to try new down. So that day there was both an empty tomb and things. More interest in buildings than people, in money an empty wall. He then went on to proclaim the resur- than mission, in personal priorities than pastoral care. It’s rection of Jesus in full voice. What do you think was the a long list. thing he received most comments about following on If, as the UCA Basis Of Union suggests, “The Congrega- from the service? tion is the embodiment in one place of the One Holy Catho- St Paul makes it plain for us in 1 Corinthians 15, “If lic and Apostolic Church, worshipping witnessing and Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and serving as a fellowship of the Spirit in Christ.” (Paragraph so is your faith.” (1 Cor. 15:14). In Athens on Mars Hill it is 15 (a)), then it should be the driving force of all that the Paul’s preaching of the resurrection that is the lightning church purports to be, yet so often we fail in this task. rod which invokes the impassioned responses. “When they Moving to the wider church within the UCA, things heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them don’t seem to get much better. The wider-church process- sneered, but others said, “‘We want to hear you again on es can sometimes be the most frustrating to engage with. this subject.’ At that, Paul left the Council. Some of the peo- And however we look at it, I think there can be no denying ple became followers of Paul and believed.” (Acts 17:32-34). that almost from its inception the UCA has been over- Just imagine the minister in my initial example greeting governed, a fact that has only served to create a sometimes people at the door having left it all in the pulpit on Easter unconquerable gulf between people in the pews and wider Day, wanting those there to take away the joy and hope of -church leaders and processes. In recent times, as we are the risen Christ with them back into their daily life, only all aware, this chicken came home to roost most power- to be confronted with, “When are you going to put the fully and destructively in the debate over sexuality. picture back?” Or perhaps in my own experience at one It’s not difficult to become disheartened and deflated at of my placement churches during training where, hav- the reality of much of this, especially as we consider that ing preached the morning sermon, I was met by a retired the broader context into which we proclaim the resurrec- minister—always a slightly apprehensive moment for the tion of Jesus is becoming better and better at discovering young and impassioned—and was left with this little gem, ways not to listen. I don’t know about you, but there’s just “Thanks for that Michael. It reminded me of some of my about nothing I find more frustrating than when Christian early sermons, gee they were pathetic.” Point taken. references are used for non-Christian means. As you reflect on your own experiences in various min- To briefly give you three: istries whether they be in youth groups, in pastoral care 1) (very relevant to our topic) The Easter football games roles, in administration, or as an ordained minister, no that are advertised on TV using the resurrection motif doubt you have your own catalogue, those times when in “—remember when [insert your team name here] came big ways or small you’ve been left wondering, what am I back from the dead to take a famous victory.” really doing here? 2) In a magazine a few years ago when a cooking article What’s more, any person in Christian leadership is con- used the Lord’s Prayer as a foundation for extolling the stantly confronted by the brokenness and fractured nature righteousness of particular foods – along the lines of give of their own lives. Like St Paul, we too may find ourselves us today our high-in-fibre, multi-grain bread. reflecting,“I do not understand what I do. For what I want 3) In a car magazine I was reading recently a headline to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. For I do not do the extolling the virtues of cubic capacity and horsepower good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do…” (Ro- output of boat engines, “Water into Whine”. mans 7: 15 & 19). Confession is our constant calling. Much of the wider Australian society simply looks past In one of the congregations I work in we have a Christianity now. Churches are seen as relics of a bygone number of homeless people who come in each service era, totally irrelevant to the real needs of people’s lives, Religion

useful for weddings and funerals, but not much more, and year he would interview him on television, which he did, once disused for lack of attendance turned into coffee or stepped forward onto the platform and placed his hand on craft shops. Just this last week I was leading a devotion Francis’ shoulder. It was the very picture of all the Chris- on one of our camps for disadvantaged children and I was tian gospel is about. asking them what they thought a minister does. One little Today he is as frail as ever, and yet now he describes girl shot up her hand and said, “Christens, marries and himself as a powerful man, a man of Jesus’ power. For it is divorces people.” I reverted to the Meatloaf speculation no longer he who lives but Christ who lives in him. (Gal 2: that 2 out of 3 ain’t bad. 20) And God’s power is made perfect in his weakness. (2 Connect this kind of mission field to an already dis- Cor 12: 9) He walks around quite comfortably and happily tracted and internally conflicted church, and it seems the in public on his own. He smiles more. He speaks to people prospects for the hope of the risen Lord to be incorporated more. And he knows a trust in God that holds him firm in and appropriated into lives and communities is slim. a way that previously has seemed impossible.

et, marvellously, amazingly, it happens. here is certainly an objective aspect to God works often in spite of who we the resurrection, it is an event in histo- are, and through his power ministry ry, an event through which God breaks does make a difference. The world does open all history, an event of cosmic change. The new creation that Paul significance that finally and fully puts so boldly declared to be the result of down the powers of sin and death; and Christ’s living in us (2 Cor. 5: 17) is a there is certainly also a subjective side, potent reality not a theological nicety. I where the power that raised Christ know this because I’ve seen it. from the dead flows into hearts and minds and trans- YWe have a man in our evening congregation whom I Tforms people like you and me and Francis. It is when the often take home after the service because he lives liter- objective and the subjective meet in the daily reality of ally only 3 minutes from where I do. His name is Francis. ministry that the church has dynamite in its hands in a Brought up with a nominally Catholic faith, the moorings world which prefers to look in any other direction for its to his spiritual tradition became more and more frayed big bangs – money, status, greed, influence, particular and weakened over time. Estranged from much of his ideologies, sex etc. family and now into his 70s he has been dealing with the It can be very easy in a church like the UCA to become effects of Parkinson’s disease for some years. The disease distracted by the frustrations that sometimes feel as has hunched him over so badly that his whole body stands though they engulf our existence; to become deflated and almost at a complete right angle from the waist. Walking to feel like the cause is lost and hopeless. But I think that is a serious challenge and is accomplished with a walker when we look closely enough we can see that glimpses of frame which acts as both a rest and a guide for him. hope do emerge. There are good men and women of the Quite apart from the physical issues, his posture and gospel working away at every level of the church to bring obvious bodily contortion have meant that his self esteem about a better world. The three Presbytery Ministers I and confidence have been taken down to levels which have most to do with are good examples of people within seriously affected his outlook on life and relationships. the system who haven’t lost their theological and mission- Through one of our chaplains, who has been with him and al teeth. Each in their own way, with their own gifts and sat with him and talked to him for many, many hours, at personalities, wants to see the church live up to its calling a point where he felt comfortable, he agreed to come to to be the witness for hope in the world it is meant to be. church. I’m not sure how many times Charles Wesley’s great Last year in May, after attending with the chaplain over hymn, Christ the Lord is Risen Today would have been a number of weeks and months, and at his own request sung on Easter Day in churches around Australia, I’m we held a service in which he came forward, knelt at the guessing quite a few. I had it twice! But it still speaks of all prayer desk and affirmed his faith in Jesus Christ. Al- we are as Christian people. Christ the Lord is risen today, though I had sat with him and gone through the questions Alleluia. I think Charles would surely have agreed with the the Superintendent of Wesley Mission would ask and minister taking down the picture of his brother John on although I had reassured him over and over that he was Easter Day. I’m sure he would have said, there is only one loved and cherished by all who would be there, he was point of focus today and it begins with the words, “I know still concerned that he would not know what to say. He that my redeemer lives.” was concerned he would shake so uncontrollably that he So it is for us. We are a resurrection people who exist in simply wouldn’t be able to get any words out at all. As he the ongoing power of the presence of Christ in the Holy knelt and responded, his voice started to waver. It became Spirit, to the Glory of God the Father. This is who we are, more and more broken and faint. this is what we proclaim, this is how we hope, this is what As this continued, another man, a regular member of makes us new. the congregation, a man whom our Superintendent had Rev Michael Earl ministers to the Wesley Chapel in the made a deal with that if he could stay sober for a whole City Congregation in Sydney. His talk has been edited. Confessing Movement

Presbyterian split Anglican Communion About 100 churches have left the Presbyterian Church (USA) for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, in- crisis is now over creasing the smaller group by about half. The departures have occurred The African and Asian majority of op, according to Peter Jensen. He since 2006. the Anglican Communion met in suggests that the crisis is long over Evangelical churches in PCUSA Singapore as the “Global South” in in the Anglican Communion and a formed a group called The New April and decided that they would new stability has arrived with many Wineskins Initiative in 2003 which become more independent of the Global South provinces having given grew rapidly. But in 2006 New liberal parts of the Communion. up on the US and Canadian church- Wineskins formed a team to develop The election of a second gay bishop es and regarding themselves out of resources that might help churches Mary Glasspool by the diocese of Los communion with them. leave the PCUSA. Angeles in March had made it clear “If I am correct, that we now Informal conversations between that a moratorium on further gay belong to the post-crisis phase, we the EPC and the New Wineskins bishops in the USA was over. need to know what such a moment group took place about this time. The moratorium had been request- requires. Action in this phase is no Faced with the prospect of a large ed by the Communion’s “Windsor less demanding. One thing is for number of churches applying to join Report” in 2004 following the elec- sure: those who wait and do noth- it, in 2007 the EPC formed a special tion of Bishop Gene Robinson. ing will be playing into the hands “transitory presbytery” for the trans- The Global South called for their of ideologues who have had such ferring churches to join to join. a triumph in the west. It was possibly provocative for the This is especially so for EPC to call it the New Wineskins the orthodox in those Transitional Presbytery. churches in the west An official PCUSA report describes which have yet to come it this way: “The creation of an eccle- into their moment of sial body within the EPC whose very truth.” purpose and name seemed to aim at Jensen’s analysis absorbing PC(USA) New Wineskins has been accepted by congregations and pastors created a the influential blogger chilling in the relationship between Mark Harris (who is a the two denominations.” member of the Episco- Churches leaving the PCUSA for Mark Harris’ map pal Church’s Executive EPC could own “Primates Council”, a “General Council. After quoting from Jensen’s a. negotiate with the presbytery, assembly” every three years and for piece Harris concludes “The Angli- b. negotiate with the presbytery, but the emerging world provinces to be can Communion is broken. The cri- also use civil legal process, or financially independent of the west. sis has not been averted ... The fail- c. just walk away The 20 Global South provinces ure to communicate across cultural, The PCUSA report suggest that “In account for at least 40 million of the social and theological boundaries some cases, departing congregations 60 million members of the Anglican is too great for the moment. ... The relying on a legal strategy alone or communion. Anglican Communion as we know it in concert with an ecclesiastical one, The confessing groups from the is no longer.” http://anglicanfuture. lost additional money or property, The Episcopal Church (TEC) in the blogspot.com/2010/04/new-angli- and would have been much better off United States includes the “Com- can-maps-anglican-communion. without civil action. munion Partners” (similar to ACC) html “Situations that involved a higher and the Anglican Church of North Harris goes so far as to draw a degree of trust and communication America (a union of groups that map of the Confessing Anglican usually resulted in a negotiated set- have left TEC). The Global South World. It contains areas where the tlement with which all parties could declared itself “partners in the churches are confessing churches live and still feel respect for one Gospel” with ACNA and assured (dark); Mission areas with strong another. Some of these situations Communion Partners of their “lov- confessing groups (medium gray); even seemed to result in what was ing prayers and support”. and hostile territory where new con- perceived by many as a “grace-filled” Australia was represented by fessing churches are needed (middle process.” Archbishop Peter Jensen and Robert shade of gray). The PCUSA investigation also Tong from Sydney and Archbishop From the ACC point of view it is noted “There was no evidence that Jeffrey Driver from Adelaide. possible to imagine similar maps the EPC took the initiative in enter- The Global South Meeting was for Presbyterian, Methodist and Lu- ing PC(USA) congregations to speak not a response to a crisis brought on theran confessing worlds. But what against the PC(USA), for the EPC, or by the election of a second gay Bish- shade of grey is Australia? about affiliation with the EPC.” UCA Preamble Why we said ‘No’ Max Champion and Ross Carter put the case against the new UCA preamble to their presbytery Port Phillip East

• The Covenanting Statement at the 1994 Assembly is a church. It would make the Uniting church similar to necessary and sufficient basis for a strong continuing the British Israelites, the Mormons and the “German- relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous Christians” of the 1930’s, all of whom wanted to find members of the UCA. for their respective nations special connections to God It is grounded in our unity in Christ which was through secret historic links or extra-biblical revelations celebrated in a service of Holy Communion. or creation-based expressions of God’s will in and for the The opening paragraph, which was omitted in the national ethos and destiny.’ reading of the Covenanting Statement at the Twelfth As- As the new preamble assumes that indigenous spir- sembly in 2009, reads: ituality is a new source of revelation, more theological ‘We meet in the presence of God who through the life, work is necessary before it death and resurrection of Jesus Christ has reconciled us It is implied is approved. to God and to one another in the power of the Holy Spir- b. The anthropological it. Our unity “transcends cultural, economic, national that in Australia use of ‘First’ and ‘Second’ and racial boundaries”, (Basis of Union, paragraph peoples in the preamble 2). In this sharing of bread and wine we recall God’s indigenous does not conform to the gracious covenant with us and the whole creation, and people take the language of the Gospel. anticipate the joyful celebration of the fulfilment of God’s ‘Are we not one people in rule of love and justice among us. In the meantime, as place of the Christ who worship the people who share in this covenant, we are called to carry triune God?’ The church out faithfully Christ’s command to love one another and Hebrews confesses that ‘in Christ,’ to order our life in the church in truth and justice. We there is neither Jew nor who are not aboriginal members of the Seventh Assem- Greek … (Gal 3:28), neither Barbarian nor Scythian … bly, representing all members of the Church, make this (Col 3:11). covenanting statement.’ c. There is serious confusion and a distinct lack of clarity about two significant historic relationships: Before a new Preamble is approved significant changes Christianity and Israel and Christianity and indigenous must be made. people. Thus, crucial questions are unresolved: Otherwise, it will not contribute to the unity which it • It is implied that, in Australia, indigenous people take seeks to express and realise in the Church. the place of the Hebrews as the suffering people who prepare the way of Christ. This is an extraordinary state 1. Statements about Christ, the Trinity and the Spirit of affairs for a church which rightly protests the deni- must be made clearer. gration of Jewish people. As it stands, the significance of Christ is more or less If this is not the intention, the preamble must explain reduced to the ideas of ‘grace and love.’ If God has re- how its language about ‘First’ and ‘Second’ peoples vealed Himself in the indigenous culture then it is hard relates to the church’s understanding of the Jews (as the to see what role Christ has, except to confirm what is ‘first people’ of the covenant) called by God to be a ‘light already known. to the nations’ (the ‘second people’ of the covenant) in Moreover, the relations between the persons of the Christ. trinity are ignored and the richness of Christology, as It should be made plain that, in the unity of the two- affirmed and explicated at length in the ecumenical fold biblical covenant, Western Christians and indig- creeds, is lacking. These failings seriously distort the enous Christians both belong to ‘the second peoples.’ Church’s affirmation of the creative and reconciling love As such, they are both judged and redeemed in Christ of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit for all peoples. – a point lost in the rush to attribute special spiritual Therefore paragraph 3.3 of the new preamble must be insight to indigenous people and to blame colonising re-written. Christians alone for not practising what they preach. Therefore, the preamble must clarify the theological 2. The Language of ‘First Peoples’ and ‘Second Peoples’ relationship between its language of ‘First’ and ‘Second’ must be rethought. peoples to describe the historic settlement of Australia a. As Michael Owen, former Principal of the Theologi- in the context of the church’s confession of God’s pur- cal College in WA says, poses in the twofold covenant with humankind through ‘The proposed new preamble wants to make the “First the Jews and Jesus Christ. People” into a new Israel, through whom God deals • The relationship between indigenous law-and-custom in a unique way to constitute an especially Australian Continued next page Gen X It’s all grace Peter Chapman rewrites a catchcry of the young

mong the Gen X & The context of the original discussion Y hipsters of today, was around the role of the sacraments, it is common to which at their core, are a celebration hear people say: of God’s grace to us. “It’s all grace” was “It’s all good!” It’s Chris Udy’s response to the issue at a sort of catch-all hand, and I have adopted this phi- that has taken the losophy when it comes to dealing with place of “No wor- some less-than-gracious people outside ries” or “She’ll be right.” Indeed, I’ve the church (and some within it). Aused “It’s all good” myself on many an New Orleans 2007 dingler1109 In everyday terms, it basically means occasion to communicate to someone I try to err on the side of grace when that everything is under control, or that things are look- interacting with the Aussie public - much of which is ing up. However, I have found another similar catch- quite ignorant about this key plank of the Christian cry to be even more useful as a follower of Jesus: “It’s all theology. Unfortunately, many assume I might condemn grace!” “It’s all grace” has proven to be even more useful them for failing to live up to a Godly standard in some than “It’s all good”. “It’s all grace” communicates to those aspect of their lives. It means that when a couple come around me the simple yet powerful message of Jesus to me asking me to marry them and it becomes apparent that drives, directs and sustains me. they are already living together (which almost all of them Grace is God’s undeserved love and forgiveness to- are), I don’t make a big song and dance about it. It means wards us, and it’s at the heart of the Christian faith. It that when a couple come to me wanting their child is what sets ‘the way’ apart from all other faiths of the baptised but fail to grasp even the most basic of Chris- world. It’s radically subversive, and it breaks down all tian concepts, I don’t belittle them for their ignorance. It sorts of barriers. means that when a grieving family call on me to conduct Whilst at college being ‘formed’ for ministry, without a funeral I don’t point out the hypocrisy of their request doubt some of the most beneficial times were those given their lack of involvement in the church. spent with real-life practitioners who were already out Even when relating to those people who are already fol- on the coal-face. We would discuss potential (or real) lowers of Jesus (and are therefore expected to be working pastoral issues that might pop up when we were eventu- towards being perfect as their heavenly Father is perfect), ally out in the messy world of congregational ministry. the “It’s all grace” principle will still come in handy on a “It’s all grace” is one of the ‘take home’ messages that regular basis. has stuck with me from those interactions. It has come On many occasions, things will certainly not be all in handy in all manner of ministry situations that I have good. But with Jesus, “It’s all grace”, and for my own sake, found myself in. I’m glad that’s the case.

Why we said no From page 9 to the truth and unity that it seeks to achieve. Without and Judeo-Christian law needs deeper elaboration. a clear and concise articulation of the triune faith of the Resolution of the following issues is vital if the preamble Church, centred on Jesus Christ as the one who fulfils is to achieve its aims: the relation between grace and Israel’s covenant to be ‘a light to the nations,’ the pream- righteousness, gospel and law, justification and justice, ble will cause distress to many indigenous and non-indig- cultural laws and the law of Christ. In its present form enous members of the UCA and be a source of contention ‘law’ is used imprecisely to convey, perhaps unwittingly, within the councils of the church and with our ecumeni- the false impression that distinct forms of law are more cal partners. or less the same. Max Champion and Ross Carter 23 April 2010 3. There has been undue haste in presenting, referring and determining this vital matter. In late 2008 and early 2009 some Synods and Pres- byteries had the opportunity to comment on a proposal Canberra capers which was very different from the one that was finalised National Chair of ACC, Rev Dr Max Champion has only one week before the Assembly. A decision to replace, accepted an invitation issued to 200 Church leaders rather than to amend the original preamble, is of such to take part in 2010 Make it Count at Old Parliament major significance that it requires more careful consid- House in Canberra. The event will be addressed by the eration by all the Councils of the church over a longer PM Mr Rudd and the Leader of the Opposition Mr Ab- period of time. bott on matters of importance to Christian communi- 4. Conclusion: ties. As at the last Federal election, it will be webcast to In its present form the preamble will not contribute about 100,000 people throughout Australia. 10 Review Emergent insight and confusion A Review of Brian McLaren’s A New Kind of Christian by Mark Dever. McLaren has emerged as a major figurehead in the emergent church movement—but is he a friend to evangelicalism?

A New Kind of Christian: A Tale of Two Friends on a important to work with young people. But this book was Spiritual Journey, Brian D Maclaren, Jossey-Bass. not written about any of these topics. Nor was it written Mark Dever is senior pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist to simply bring the reader to engage empathetically with Church in Washington DC. He heads the influential blog the characters. It was written to change the mind of the Nine Marks - www.9marks.org reader.

et me come clean at the outset of this Certainly all Christians must recognize the impor- review. I picked up this book with tance—even necessity—of change. Apart from em- some wariness, assuming that I would bracing change, we Christians have no salvation. The be a critical friend of its perspective. churches of the reformation have at their core an under- After finishing the book and reflect- standing of the need for always being reformed according on it, I would call myself more of ing to the Word of God. a friendly critic, finding it less helpful This isn’t to say, of course, that all changes are good. than I would have hoped, and more Until fairly recently (let’s say, until the Enlightenment) dangerous than I would have thought. in the West, change was taken as almost equivalent to LThis book is an account of a journey out of that kind decay. Though this is hard for us to believe in our day of reactionary conservatism that acts as if it is already in of progress and assumption of advancement, “novelty” possession of all answers to all questions—as if was for a long time a pejora- omniscience were one of God’s communicable attributes. tive term. The great histori- The way McLaren has chosen to write his suggestive The way the cal changes that were in the critique is in the form of a fictional dialogue between two adjectives foreground of our Protestant characters—Dan Poole, a tired and middle-aged pastor, parents’ thinking were the fall of weary of external trials and internal questions, and Neil “premod- Adam from the garden, and the Edward Oliver, a high school teacher (and former pas- apostasy of the Church from the tor) and Pastor Dan’s own Sherpa guide into the inviting ern” and gospel. wilds of postmodernity. This second character is called— “medieval” With such changes in mind, acronymically—“NEO” throughout. This well prepares the Protestant reformation was the reader for the subtlety which marks the book. are thrown a conservative revolution. Its Certainly truth can come in the garb of fiction. This attempt was not a realization of is no new insight of our narrative-loving age. From the around a new vision but the recovery of brief parables of Jesus to Erasmus’ In Praise of Folly, and throughout a lost one. In that sense, there Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress, works of fiction have long is something in the genes of been understood to be appropriate vehicles for bring- this Protestantism that is conserva- ing uncomfortable facts to light. Behind the masks of tive—wanting to keep—even characters, we may entertain and empathize, criticize book are recover—the good. Even the and consider ideas which, had they appeared straightfor- distorting New Testament itself was a set wardly, we would quickly dismiss or wrongly defend. But of revolutionary writings only in art not only reveals; it also conceals. the most conservative way. The New Testament docu- Throughout the book, there are many flashes of wis- ments, from the earliest epistle to the latest gospel, were dom that reveal the author’s pastoral experience. The written not to augment, but to confirm and assure the pastorate is difficult. Lack of success does lead to a will- faithful continuance of the message of the gospel to the ingness to change. Those who have a “believe the worst” rising generations. suspicion are distracting and debilitating. It is hugely McLaren mentions how Martin Luther felt (p xii), 11 presenting Luther’s need to break through to a new its author desires—a reducing of everything to either paradigm as akin to the situation Christians today face. modern (and therefore to be dismissed) or otherwise Yet while Martin Luther certainly did grieve over what (pre- or post-) and therefore to be carefully considered. he saw happening with Tetzel and indulgences, he was The book abounds with dichotomies between the bad fundamentally motivated by a positive certainty as a old and the good new (e.g., pp 29-31). Dispensation- result of his biblical studies—that our justification is by alism, Calvinism, charismaticism, and mainstream God’s grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. It evangelicalism are all dismissed, it seems, fundamentally was this positive assertion that was at the heart of the simply because of their age (pp xiv-xv). Protestant paradigm shift, nothing less. 3. He divides what should be joined and joins what should be divided. Dichotomies that pit goods against wish another character had been introduced each other don’t solve the problem, rather they’re part who was a thoughtful, confessing evangelical. of it, (e.g., p 130). Why not care about being saved from He or she could have asked such questions as Hell and sin, about getting into Heaven and being good, “What things may we be certain of without about having our sins forgiven and being good neigh- being smug?” “Is categorizing ever good? Can bours? categories ever bring accurate clarity, and On the other hand, McLaren sometimes seems to even free us?” delight in reconciling opposites, showing that there Well, since I’m writing this review, perhaps opposition is only apparent, only due to our modern I can serve the role of this third character. Let me ask perspective. But, to regard evangelicalism, or Protestant- Ifour basic questions. ism as merely one “tribe” or one “wing of the church” Is McLaren seeing a real problem? Yes. (e.g., p xvii) is to dismiss the truths rediscovered at the Has McLaren rightly described the problem? In some Reformation at a stroke (though I assume that McLaren significant places he has, though one does have to put up would in no way wish to do that). with a good bit of hectoring in order to read the descrip- But again, on page 41, Neo suggests that the distinc- tions. So, for example, on page 23, proponents of the tion between liberal and evangelical is about to become idea that God does not know the future “suggest new “inconsequential.” I can hardly think of a more conse- interpretations” while proponents of the idea that God quential distinction, if we’re to have any ground to be does are “traditionalists” who “cry ‘heresy’”. authentically self-critical, than to have a reliable word Here are four examples of some of the problems which from our Creator. McLaren has rightly noted: 4. The book’s presentation of other religions is inac- 1. The evident lack of transformation in the lives of curate. Presenting Christianity as having similar prob- many evangelicals (e.g., p xiv). lems to Islam when it comes to conversion by the sword 2. The meanness of fundamentalists (e.g., p 9). and violence (as he does on pp 62-63) sounds better 3. The shallowness of much that passes for evangelism, the less you know about it. A Christian understanding whether through coercion or intimidation (p 62). The of human nature leaves conversion forever beyond the mass-marketing of conversions and the ubiquity of the work of what any coercion—physical or otherwise—can unbiblical phrase “accepting Christ as your personal sav- accomplish; whereas in Islam, physical force can quite iour” (p 105). The distorted counting of conversions appropriately (in a theological sense) be used to bring (pp 108-109). someone’s will sufficiently into submission. 4. The privatization and wrong individualism which Has McLaren rightly pointed the way forward? I am have come to characterize vast tracts of American evan- less certain still. gelicalism. McLaren’s concerns about systemic injustices 1. On the good side, McLaren calls us to self-examina- are healthy, and are appropriate concerns for Christians tion, and though he is mistaken in seeming to assume to have (pp 100-101). So, too, are his concerns about the that criticizing “your own modern viewpoint” is some- importance of generosity in an age of affluence (p 112). thing new, the call to self-criticism is both biblical and In all of these areas, among others, McLaren raises difficult (p 35; cf. II Cor. 13:5). good (though not novel) concerns. 2. The call for nuance in understanding the Bible But has McLaren rightly traced the causes of said is welcome, but should have been better practised by problems? Here I am less certain. Much of McLaren’s McLaren himself. The objections that Neo makes on analysis is composed of stereotype. It is simplistic. Let page 49 to the evangelicals’ selectively literal reading me give a few specific examples. of the Bible finds no answer in the book. Yet even an 1. To regard fundamentalism as the problem, when elementary reading of Christian theology shows that McLaren can easily attach the label to either conserva- since the New Testament period Christians have always tive or liberal (as Neo does on p 9), shows a more shal- understood that God has worked variously in different low understanding than the reality we face requires. The times, and that salvation history has a time for the na- problem with the terrorist hijackers of September 11, was tion Israel, a time for the Babylonian Exile, a time for the not that they were simply fundamentalists, but that the Messiah’s coming and crucifixion, the Spirit’s out-pour- fundamental ideas they held to so certainly were them- ing, and Christ’s return. All of these are unique events, selves tragically wrong. and all of them are significant for how we understand 2. History is distorted. Postmodernists often write of “difficult” passages. “tyrannizing metanarratives” that is, sweeping explana- 3. The Bible itself must be understood to be the judge tions of history and reality that twist facts in order to of any of our traditions, our reasoning, or our interpreta- justify their own coherence. But surely the way the ad- tions of all spiritual experiences. Any lessening of this jectives “premodern” and “medieval” are thrown around will simply lead us away from God. Though Neo prefers throughout this book (eg., on pp 42-43) are themselves the image of a spider web over a building with a founda- distorting. (an ironic problem for a teaching that sug- tion to explain how the faith is anchored, the image of gests that “At its worst, this book posits a new, simplistic the building with the one foundation is the biblical im- dualism which will result in the exact opposite of what age (cf. Eph. 2:20). 12 At its worst, this book posits a new, simplistic dualism which will result in the exact opposite of what its author desires

theexileinny Brian McLaren May 1, 2010

4. McLaren suggests that what Jesus was really about invisible to so many, and yet at the same time completely was a holistic reconciliation of God with the whole cre- ignoring the remedy God has given us. Of course Neo ated order. But if that assertion serves to de-centre the is right that seminaries don’t make pastors; under God, cross and the preaching of the gospel, then we would be churches do. This is the lifelong community of learning immeasurably impoverished by following it. that pastors—and all Christians—are to belong to. Why 5. McLaren’s concern for a wrong focusing on the the persistent absence throughout this book of any sub- objective by evangelicals has perhaps led him into the stantial positive understanding of the local church? Will opposite error. So hell is considered fundamentally in this offering help the average evangelical pastor who has terms of the experience of the condemned (91). Such a known the church far too much as audience, and too lit- re-focusing is presumed to be more bearable by us. But tle as congregation? is there to be no consideration for God, or for why He might choose to punish some eternally, or for what He n conclusion, in the name of postmodernism, has revealed about this in His Word? Biblical language McLaren has ironically undertaken the most about Hell, it is suggested, is evocative, not “technical,” Enlightenment of tasks—the Kantian sepa- (p 95). But why pit the two against each other? And why rating of the noumenal (the essence) from is theology only presented as “how people have sought” the phenomenal (the apparent). One could God, rather than as about God’s revelation of Himself hardly imagine a more Empirical, dare we say (p 161)? modern, undertaking. In his introduction, 6. McLaren’s book—strangely—seems to ignore—or McLaren charitably assumes of his readers at least underestimate— the constructive role of the “basic sincerity, goodwill, intelligence, and desire to be- local congregation. So Neo tells Dan that those things Icome a better person and help create a better world,” that had made him “more identified and isolated as a (p xvii). This reviewer at least intends to share all of member of a religious sub-culture” had not served him those laudable characteristics with the author. One ap- well in the long run (pp 116-117). Yet swimming with preciates McLaren’s good intentions, his own decades of dolphins and going to soccer games with non-Christian pastoring and his care for countless people. In this book, friends, as good as those activities may be at showing McLaren has again attempted to serve the church by God’s reconciling work, fall far short of the picture the raising important questions. local, gathered congregation is to present. Could the McLaren also says that he hopes for every reader that privatization that McLaren rightly cautions us about “you will feel you have made real progress when you turn really find its answer not so much in community service the last page,” (p xviii). Sadly, I have to say that read- and understanding systemic evil, but primarily and most ing this book has not helped me make real progress. I deeply and transformingly by covenanting before God had already encountered the useful ideas in this book with a certain set of believers to love and serve? elsewhere. Many others are simplistic, or just plain false. In the last chapter of the book, Neo gives a new idea I trust that both the author and the reviewer can sleep for what we need perhaps even more than seminaries— well at night knowing that the church of Christ can “a lifelong learning community, perhaps like the Catho- survive both bad books and bad reviews. Perhaps in this lic orders, that one joins—for life,” (pp 162-163). Again, case, it will have to survive both. I was stunned here at the mixture of insight and confu- This review was previously published in Books and sion, of beginning to see an important problem which is Culture. BrianMcLaren toured Australia in early 2010 13 CultureWatch Destroying Marriage Bill Muehlenberg on a not so secret agenda

he oxymoronic attempt to legalise same-sex mar- cuity into unions of commitment and fidelity. Suddenly riage is a recipe for disaster. But don’t take my we learn, almost as an afterthought, that the institution Tword for it. Indeed, don’t listen to anyone on this of marriage may have to change to accommodate the issue but the homosexual militants themselves. They special needs of homosexuals.” are the ones who are proudly proclaiming how they will Same-sex marriage proponent Richard Mohr openly destroy marriage if they get their way. affirms the importance of “flexibility” in same-sex -un The truth is, for all the talk about same-sex marriage, ions. He is unashamed in saying this: “Monogamy is not few homosexuals actually have in mind the same thing an essential component of love and marriage.” Lesbian that heterosexuals have in mind. Most seek to radically activist Paula Ettelbrick put it this way: expand and alter the common understanding of mar- “Being queer is more than setting up house, sleep- riage. Long-term monogamous fidelity is seldom part of ing with a person of the same gender, and seeking state this new understanding. approval for doing so. . . . Simply reading through the homosexual press this Being queer Being queer means push- becomes clear. Many seem to want to have their cake ing the parameters of sex, and eat it too. Article titles such as “How to Stay Married means pushing sexuality, and family, and and Still Be a Slut” are not all that uncommon. Many in the process, transform- homosexuals happily admit that traditional heterosexual the parameters ing the very fabric of soci- marriage constraints are not exactly their cup of tea. of sex, sexuality, ety. . . . As a lesbian, I am One homosexual writer for example, Andrew Sulli- fundamentally different van, writes that if homosexual marriage contracts come and family from non-lesbian women. into force, they would have to be “different”: that is, . . . In arguing for the right they would have to allow for “extra-marital outlets” and to legal marriage, lesbians and gay men would be forced other major changes. Of course that undermines the very to claim that we are just like heterosexual couples, have essence of marriage, which is the covenant of life-long the same goals and purposes, and vow to structure our sexual faithfulness. lives similarly. . . . We must keep our eyes on the goals of It is worth quoting Sullivan further here. He speaks providing true alternatives to marriage and of radically about the “foibles of a simple heterosexual model” for reordering society’s views of reality.” homosexual relationships. And then he makes this telling I can produce many pages of such quotes. What is of admission: real interest here is that even some of the mainstream “I believe strongly that marriage should be made media are beginning to catch on. Indeed, in no less of a available to everyone, in a politics of strict public neu- leftist stalwart as the New York Times appeared this very trality. But within this model, there is plenty of scope telling article about the fundamentally different nature for cultural difference. There is something baleful about of homosexual relationships. the attempt of some gay conservatives to educate ho- The NYT piece mentions a “study to be released next mosexuals and lesbians into an uncritical acceptance of month is offering a rare glimpse inside gay relation- a stifling model of heterosexual normality. The truth is, ships and reveals that monogamy is not a central feature homosexuals are not entirely normal; and to flatten their for many”. The article continues, “New research at San varied and complicated lives into a single, moralistic Francisco State University reveals just how common model is to miss what is essential and exhilarating about open relationships are among gay men and lesbians in their otherness.” the Bay Area. The Gay Couples Study has followed 556 Elizabeth Kristol offers some trenchant commentary male couples for three years – about 50 percent of those on this: “Stifling? Moralistic? These are strange epithets surveyed have sex outside their relationships, with the to come upon in the final pages of a book whose goal is knowledge and approval of their partners. to convince readers that homosexuals want to marry and “That consent is key. ‘With straight people, it’s called deserve to marry; that homosexual love is as dignified as affairs or cheating,’ said Colleen Hoff, the study’s prin- heterosexual love; that it is inhumane not to allow the cipal investigator, ‘but with gay people it does not have dignity of this love to find fruition in marriage; that mar- such negative connotations.’ The study also found open riage is so venerable an institution that it is single-hand- gay couples just as happy in their relationships as pairs edly capable of leading men out of lives of empty promis- in sexually exclusive unions.” An article in Christianity Today commenting on the NYT piece says: “Other same-sex marriage advocates A focus on marriage say a legal change would transform the institution. ACC Annual Conference on ‘Marriage and the Family New York University professor Judith Stacey, testifying in the 21st century,’ 2-4 September at Camden, Sydney. before Congress against the Defense of Marriage Act, Details soon. Continued page 19 14 Local Church Merrigum harvests fruit They came for the fruitpicking season but found a saviour, writes Suzanna Gorman

The Goulburn Valley is known as the “food bowl” and is the largest stone fruit and tomato-growing region in Australia. Each year the Goulburn Valley becomes home to a variety of people from all walks of life and from all corners of the globe. They come looking for work and adven- ture. Typically the work attracts seasonal workers such as university kids and overseas visitors on limited Outdoor worship at Merrigum work visas. From early in January these visitors come to Merrigum and take up residence in the Merrigum Caravan Park with the hope of picking up work at the orchards and local toma- to farms. The people are from many nations, cultures and age groups and arrive en masse. This year the Kyabram and District Parish, of which Merrigum is a part, were believing in God for a ministry to these people. From this seed, we began to advertise in the town and become a physical presence in the Caravan Park, to invite these people to the Merrigum Uniting Church on Sunday Nights for free BBQ tea, worship, a brief message and a Music crossed cultural barriers. yummy supper. Our first night exceeded our expec- tralia. Some of the town folk joined these people and over the weeks we tations with 60 people turning up for in too and the seed of the word were able to develop relationships sausages and salad. The next Sunday of God was sown into many lives. and friendships that will have a last- night we saw 70 people turn up. The common language fortunately ing impact on our lives and theirs. Our average attendance was 65 but was English, but many had limited The family of God had grown, even if one night saw over 90 people come comprehension. We had to stretch only for this short season and many along. This was beyond our dreams, ourselves to find appropriate ways to experienced God’s love and blessings. God had truly blessed our obedience communicate that would be effective The blessings weren’t only for the and brought many hungry people and help them to understand. visitors, as we all received as much as to worship with us, hungry for food By listening to the leading of the we gave and God blessed us mightily and for the word of God. God was Holy Spirit, the message shared each too! Getting out of our comfort zone certainly doing something big. Over week was a word in season for many. and ministering the word of God to the 12 weeks of the Harvest Mission A number of pickers gave their the world was confronting, challeng- we were able to feed, nurture and hearts to Jesus and some recommit- ing and exhilarating. worship with hundreds of people. ted their lives but many we found, al- What will God call us into next? The visitors were from Korea, Tai- ready had faith which was increased All I know for sure is that God is wan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, India, as they become part of a global fam- good and He is worthy of all the Tonga, Fiji, England, France, Esto- ily of God. The love of the family of praise. The mission field truly is on nia, New Zealand and of course Aus- God made an immense difference to our own doorstep. 15 Local Church Flooding St George

George Uniting Church had a prayer experienced record levels, and all Michael Brumpton service for rain. The text for the day combined just upstream from St on when Queensland’s was James 4:10, and it was a service George to create the largest flood of humbling ourselves before the ever recorded for this area, with a St George was flooded Lord, and asking Him in faith, to flow of just over 300 000Ml / day bring the rain. flowing down the usually tranquil with water, prayer and Prior to the service, the Elders’ Balonne River. weather site was predicting quite a In preparation, approximately faith. low chance of rain. By the evening half the town moved house in a day. t was looking like it was going following the prayer service, they Those in the lowest areas moved to be a bleak Christmas. By the began to increasingly forecast a good furniture to higher locations. Most I22nd December, St George had chance of significant rainfall. households lifted fridges and furni- only received 255mm for the entire On the 23rd December it began. ture up onto tyres or bricks. Every year. The last of the irrigation water By New Year, 183mm had fallen, and one of the plastic folding tables be- had been used, or would be used by it just didn’t stop. Since the 23rd longing to the Uniting Church were the end of December. Some crops December, St George has received scattered amongst different houses, had already missed a watering, and 566mm, which is pretty much our to elevate items out of flood reach. were beginning to have severe mois- average annual rainfall. Along with most of the town, the ture stress. Cattle feed was in short In the first week of March alone, people who are the St George Unit- supply, and hay was being brought in St George received an extraordinary ing Church worked tirelessly to help to feed stock. The river had dropped 250mm. Roma, Mitchell, Amby, others get their belongings out of so much that water skiing was like and Muckadilla all received similar flood reach. They took in the home- playing a game of “dodge the stump” amounts, or even more. The Ma- less to stay. They fed the hungry, and … But that was all about to change. ranoa River, Bungil Creek, Amby they offered support to the needy. On the 20th December, the St Creek and the Muckadilla Creek all It was marvellous to see how the 16 whole town (not just the church) home on the western side of the riv- wet, but there was one tiny patch of were involved in this way. It was er, it was built to what they believed dry land in the middle of the wa- a time when I could truly see how to be 1m higher than “the big one” ters. God is good. The home of this when God had created humanity, He (1990 flood height). As the waters family remained dry when the levels could look at all His creation, and approached, levels were taken, and indicate it should have been wet. say “It is very good”. it was then believed it was only 0.8m We praise God for His deliverance. However, it wasn’t all very good above the record. We praise God for His provision. – Creation has fallen. Some 25 With a predicted height of 13m, it The Easter story can be really sad houses went under water. Water- was expected that water would lap if we remain in Good Friday. Good storage dam banks were breached. the slab. Furniture was lifted, fridg- Friday is made bearable because we Crops were damaged. Stock were es and other appliances were moved look forward to Easter Sunday. lost. Some who suffered no loss, to safety. As we left their home, In a town whose lifeblood is water allegedly through fraud, gained cash we gathered together and prayed. and subsoil moisture, the flood has hand outs from the Government’s “We worship a God who parted the been a bit like Good Friday, because emergency aid. There has been good waters of the Red Sea, and held back we suffer now, but we look forward and there has been evil. the waters of the Jordan. Lord, we to the coming season, and all of This little congregation is ready to pray that you will part the waters of God’s provision. God is good. Thank help where needed. We’ve helped to this river, to keep this home dry.” you for your prayers and concern. prepare for the flood, we’ve helped to That night the predicted peak was God Bless set homes back in order, but now it’s elevated to 14m, and figures of 14.5 Michael Brumpton a matter of keeping our eyes open to metres were also put forward. At Minister, St George Uniting Church see where help is needed next. these levels, humanly speaking, their I would like to share with you a home could not escape inundation. (An edited version of this story story of God’s provision for one of Well, the waters reached 13.5m, appeared in Journey, the UCA our families. When they built their and the house should have been Queensland magazine) 17 Local Church Call and response

Mt Louisa House of Praise, an ACC Congregation in Townsville took their community outreach a further step with their first ‘Easter Call’ in 2010. The North Queensland Easter convention came from a dream to Iona’s new church hall see the Uniting Church in North Queensland strong and vibrant. The key text is Ezekiel 37. We believe God wants to raise up an army of Not just another hall passionate, effective Christians. Nearly 190 people registered for ACC Congregation Iona West and a contemporary Evening Serv- the inaugural three day event, which (Mackay, Queensland) reports on ice. Once a month we have trialled witnessed Uniting Church speak- how they are re-thinking the use of an extra Family Service. ers, Revd Dr David Pitman (former their property. With some developments through Queensland Moderator), and Pastor Earlier this year the church spent the year we are praying and talk- Rodney Minniecon (Zilmere UC, time developing their goals and ing about changing to having two and with wide experience in Aborigi- objectives. Included in the goals is to services in the morning - with the nal ministries), present messages of upgrade the interior of our Church possibility of our Evening people hope and renewal. - to give it a face lift. A long-awaited meeting instead at the later morning Every age group was catered for: new hall has been opened and we Service. · child minding at Carcoola Child hope to run Alpha and Alpha Mar- We have lost most of our Band Care Centre (attached to the church) riage courses, as well as set up a new members through University and · school age children with Jane pre-school group. The old Den at the work commitments elsewhere over Mackie from Children’s Prayer Net- back of the church is being converted the past two years. We are starting work introducing new ideas on how into a Men’s Shed, with a grant from to see a few young families attending to teach children to have a relation- the Mackay Regional Council to help and need a regular Service to nurture ship with the living God, how to pray set up the Shed which was a great their growth. Please pray for wisdom (even healing), how to share Jesus boost to our plans. and unity in our decision-making with friends. The enthusiasm of the Currently we have two Sunday and planning. kids for this ministry was amazing Services - a traditional early morning Revd Euan McDonald · teenagers with Fiona & Ivan from YWAM - at least one made a commitment to follow Jesus. · adults were also able to partici- pate in various electives - Spiritual Making the news in SA leadership, various teachings on prayer, Connecting with the Holy The Leader-Messenger, a local area “I was part owner of a multi-million Spirit, children’s work, how to grow newspaper in Adelaide profiled dollar business, so it was a big leap your church, worship leading David Hoffman, an ACC member to leave that to go to full-time study · A fabulous Hungi for dinner on and the new pastor for ACC member supported by my wife,” he said. “But the Sunday night was a highlight congregation Golden Grove Uniting that’s what we together felt God was Organiser and Local Pastor Anne Church in May. pointing us to. I was overcome by a Harley said, “the fruit of the weekend In “History calls ... Pastor David sense of compassion for people who will be seen as people go home to live Hoffman at the Golden Grove Unit- didn’t know Jesus” … and “excited by out the renewed sense of God’s call ing Church” they highlighted that the energy in the congregation and in their lives.” his move to ministry was “as much a looking forward to ministering with Pastor Anne Harley leap of financial as religious faith.” … them,” he says. 18 ACC DIARY Why the Gospel is What happens next: l June 18 - NSW ACC Committee 10 am: Haberfield l June 26 - SA ACC AGM – 3 pm: Central at Kyabram Tea Tree Gully Uniting Church (‘Dig Here’ seminar before) Former Kyabramites Col and Lesley l July 6 - SA ACC Committee 1 pm: Shenfield were the guest leaders at Glenunga UC a weekend of events at ACC mem- l July 24 - ACC Victoria Regional ber Parish Kyabram District (14-16 Seminar: Living Faith Church May). (Greensborough) Col, now Rev Col Shenfield can- l July 26 – ACC National Council didated for the ministry through Teleconference Queensland Synod and is now minis- l August 3 - SA ACC Committee 1 ter at ACC member congregation pm - Glenunga UC Paradise Point. Gospel Central meeting at Kyabram. l August 20 - NSW ACC Committee It was a time of encouragement, 10 am: Haberfield and much praise and worship. Peter were warmly looked after by hosts l September 2–4 ACC Annual Con- Bentley was also able to share on the (respectively) the local minister Revd ference and AGM: Camden Uniting Saturday afternoon with ACC mem- Alan and Wendy Lockwood, and Church bers from Kyabram Parish, as well as ACC local members Rev Stewart and l October 5 - SA ACC Committee several members from other congre- Rayleen McDonald. 1 pm: Glenunga UC gations from the North East Victoria (See the Merrigum story on page l October 16 – NSW ACC State area. Both Peter and the Shenfields 15 of this edition of ACCatalyst). Meeting: Liverpool UC

Destroying Marriage from page 14 vorce laws were 10 percent less likely Movies from page 20 said changing the law to allow same- to put the spouse through college or 3.5 million copies in print in twenty sex partners to marry would help graduate school and 6 percent less languages. The film touches on the ‘supplant the destructive sanctity of likely to have a child together. dangers of fantasy about other rela- the family’ and help it assume ‘var- “Marriage rates fell and cohabi- tionships when one’s own marriage ied, creative, and adaptive contours,’ tation rates increased as men and is in difficulty, the scourge of internet including ‘small group marriages.’ women lost confidence in the institu- pornography - the secret adultery that The CT article concludes with tion. Some 20 percent of children are is consuming many marriages, but these thoughts: “Whether or not now born to cohabiting couples, the focuses on the oldest problem - living marriage law should change, the fact majority of whom will see their par- only for your own needs, rather than is that changing it to include same- ents split up by the time they reach the needs of your spouse. sex partnerships would teach people adolescence. Legal changes have All these link to the Fire theme, a that marriage is fundamentally consequences. But no matter how firestorm of issues can beset marriag- about the emotional union of adults marriage laws may change, we can, es - how can your marriage survive in and not primarily about the bod- paradoxically, find more freedom in a society that often says ‘just move on’. ily union of man and wife (let alone chastity – which calls for abstinence This is a pretty hard-hitting film in the children who result from such a when unmarried and sexual fidelity parts, and one that is best for cou- union). The norms of permanence, when married – than in any form of ple groups, rather than the general monogamy, and fidelity would make open marriage.” church community. less sense under such a change. The attempt by homosexual activ- Fireproof attracted more than 4 “Consider changes in divorce laws. ists to radically alter the fundamen- million movie goers in its commercial The spread of no-fault divorce in tal nature of marriage will mean release, and was the No. 1 independ- the 1970s didn’t just make it easier nothing less than its destruction. Of ent film in the USA in2 008, a fact for men and women to get out of course, as has been demonstrated mainly reflecting the sizeable Chris- troubled marriages. It also changed above, that will be very good news tian market, but also the growing people’s ideas about the permanence indeed for the militant social en- interest in family films. of the institution and the responsi- gineers. But it will be bad news for There is an Australian connection bility parents have to their children. society, for couples, and especially with the films – David Nixon, Direc- It had other unintended consequenc- for children. tor of the new filmLetters to God es as well. Studies showed that after is originally from Sydney, and was divorce laws were changed, spouses billmuehlenberg.com/2010/05/12/ producer for Facing the Giants and tended to invest less in their mar- destroying-marriage/ Fireproof. riages. http://www.sherwoodpictures.com/ nytimes.com/2010/01/29/us/29sfmetro.html Economists found that spouses in christianitytoday.com/ct/2010/may/11.52. Peter Bentley states that had passed no-fault di- html?sms_ss=facebook&start=1 ACC Executive Consultant 19 Film

Alex Kendrick plays Jay Austin, a used car salesman in Albany, able to take anyone for a ride, including rip- ping off his local pastor, and yet he is still frustrated by his life, and his family. The name of the film comes from a part that Jay needs to have to restore a triumph sports car. It is also a running theme, that unless you have a relationship with God, you are missing what is essential to life. The biblical parallel to this story is also clear and well used in parts —Zacchaeus (Luke 19) and I leave Fireproof Sherwood Pictures this part for you to ponder. Facing the Giants (2006, PG) “... With God, all things are possible.” Movies as ministry Grant Taylor is a coach of the Shi- loh Eagles, and husband to Brooke. hen you mention Chris- television, music recording, and has He has coached his high school tian movies, people in the a wide variety of groups and activi- team to dismal results for six years, Wchurch often have one of ties, including sporting and recrea- and the writing is on the wall. They three reactions: tional facilities. struggle personally as well, as they • they effuse enthusiastically; Sherwood Pictures have now have been trying to start a family • they pretend to throw up; produced three films; with a fourth and wonder why God has not blessed • they stare at you blankly. filmCourageous , due for release in them with children. Taylor begins to Certainly in the USA, Christian 2011. Each of the films has a received adopt some bible teaching and en- Cinema, like Christian Music, has a growing audience, but the latest to couragement in his coaching, and his been a niche market, reflecting the be released, Fireproof, has received life and the lives of the young people fact they have a population size to extensive coverage in church cir- around him change. make commercially viable produc- cles, and has even been shown on This film is more for sports enthu- tions. Christian films have often been Showtime Drama (Foxtel). It would siasts, especially American football, criticised for their low budgets, poor be fascinating to watch ordinary and there are parts that are a little acting, and inadequate theology, es- Australians watching this film. I can obscure for an Australian audience, pecially from liberal Christians who see a documentary coming up! but themes about relationships and probably think a Michael Moore film There is a consistent message in the struggle with faith will resonate. is beyond criticism. their films that arises from their There are times when I wondered The last decade has witnessed an commitment to make encourag- about some aspects of the theology expansion of Christian film, and the ing and life-affirming films. These presented, but the theological over- production quality has also increased films will naturally err on the side of view is oriented to having faith in with many now using professional good winning over evil or despair, God, rather than faith in God so you actors who have been in secular and critics may say they are unreal- can win games. There have been over work. The success of the family istic and do not address continuing 7000 Facing the Giant local movie drama 7th Heaven (1996 - 2007) problems, but all of us know situa- events in the USA, highlighting the demonstrated there could even be a tions where people’s lives have been significant role of sport and the in- commercially successful Christian dramatically changed by coming to creasing move to tap into this within family drama with a dog named their own understanding of God’s the church scene in the USA. Happy. grace and love, and growing to love Fireproof (2008, PG) “Never leave When Alex Kendrick began minis- God and their neighbour. your partner behind” try as the Associate Pastor of Media They are films essentially about Kirk Cameron, a professional actor at Sherwood Baptist Church, in relationships—with God, our neigh- who played Mike in the 1980s family Albany, Georgia, he saw potential in bour, and especially our family, and sitcom Growing Pains is Caleb Holt, a movie-based ministry and with his are aimed especially at men, en- a fire-fighter and husband in a dying brother Stephen founded Sherwood couraging a re-examination of their marriage. He would never leave his Pictures as a ministry of Sherwood relationships, particularly if they are partner behind in a fire, but person- Baptist Church. They began produc- married. There is a ‘church-culture’ ally he fails to even see how unloving ing stories for film, and involving dimension to the lives of the main he has become. As his life comes to a local members in the production, as characters, and the films want peo- point of decision, his father chal- well as acting, including the senior ple to consider whether they also just lenges him to undertake a 40 day pastor. part of the church culture or are do love dare. The book The Love Dare is Sherwood has a long history of they have faith themselves? a companion to the movie, and has involvement in contemporary tech- Flywheel (2003) – “In every man’s been a secular success with over nology and ministry, including cable life there’s a turning point” continued page 19 20