CONSTITUENTS’ NEWS AND INFORMATION ISSN 13272279
Volume 27 No 12 December 2019 AD $4.00 (incl. GST) Editor-in-Chief Rev. Fred Nile M.L.C. E.D., LTh The Celebration of Christmas: the Virgin Birth of our Saviour (Matthew 1:18-24) It is true By Rev Dr Ross Clifford, Principal, In my first student year at Bible College, some 25 years Morling Bible and Theological College ago, I was sent to a local church as a student observer. It There are a number of explanations people proffer for not was to be part of my practical learning experience for believing in the Virgin Birth. All of them can be answered. When the Vivid light show Christian ministry. I was having dinner one day with the The first is that there is not sufficient Biblical evidence for the was last on, I picked up two most prominent lay leader in the church. He said to me, doctrine. This is simply not true. Both Matthew and Luke of my grandchildren from “When do you think Jesus became God?” I thought he record the Virgin Birth in their opening chapter. Both are in church and we drove home might be trying to trick me. I immediately said, “I believe agreement that the Holy Spirit will be the responsible agent via the harbour. The lights Jesus didn’t become God, Jesus has always been God”. for the conception, that the child will be God’s gift, and that were flashing on the Opera “Oh yes”, he replied, “I know all that – but when do you angels bring the good news. They go on to bring their own House, CBD buildings and believe he really became God? I think he became divine perspectives – Matthew tells us of the Magi and Herod’s evil the bridge. As they were at his baptism”. I was mortified. This leader of the church plan, whilst Luke reports on the shepherds. As a former lawyer looking out the window my didn’t understand the Christmas message. Jesus wasn’t a this is what one would expect of reliable reporting: agreement grandchildren cried out “Papa good man who became special in God’s eyes. Every other in the essential facts, whilst still bringing one’s own emphasis stop, look at the lights!” For religion has such a guru. Christianity proclaims that in on other issues. Here we have the ring of truth! Also John me Vivid had become ho- Jesus, God was with us. That’s the joy, the wonder! chapter one, whilst not mentioning the Virgin Birth certainly Rev. Dr Ross Clifford (AM) hum. For their young eyes And that is why the Virgin Birth is so important. This supports this emphasis in declaring Christ to be the eternal it was marvellous and a wonder! It got me thinking was no ordinary conception as Mary “was found to be with Word. The same is true for the rest of the New Testament. And sometimes we can be so familiar with the Christian child through the Holy Spirit”. It’s God’s irrefutable sign. As don’t forget the Old Testament prophecy. Isaiah 7:14 proclaims message, we lose the joy and wonder. God so loved us Matthew records: “All this took place to fulfil what the Lord the same truth. Let’s strongly call all Christian leaders to hold that 2000 years ago he sent his son into the world for us. had said through the prophet: The virgin will be with child firmly to the Word of God on this issue. Born in a humble stable with angels, a star, shepherds, and will give birth to a son and they will call him Immanuel – wisemen- Wow! which means, ‘God with us’.” Continued on page 4
Christmas is the occasion to celebrate the Virgin Birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the World
by archBishop In the 4th century it became impossible the Resurrection at the upper room with the Apostles. Haigazoun Najarian in the Holy Land to celebrate the birth in Why did the world need a Saviour and to save us from what? Bethlehem and on the same day to celebrate After the “Fall” which was man’s disobedience and rebellion Early Christians celebrated the Epiphany, the baptism of our Lord by the against God, mankind was punished but not abandoned Baptism of Jesus which heralded His Jordan River. Today the majority celebrate altogether by his Creator. Many holy men, patriarchs, kings and missionary activities. Through the edict this feast on December 25th, originally a prophets were directed to bring humanity back to God’s fold, of Milan in 318 Christianity became pagan feast celebrated in Rome, however though they had some success but humanity as a whole failed. one of the accepted religions within the the Armenian Apostolic Church continues As a last resort God Himself came down in the person of our Roman empire. By this time the actual to celebrate it on January 6th. Lord Jesus Christ to take away our sins through his blood on date of Jesus’ birth was not clear though Jesus’ life from His birth until His the Cross, as the ultimate symbol of his love towards humanity; certain facts try to clarify this issue that it death and Resurrection was seen by to show the way to perfection by loving one another leading us occurred during the reign of Herod king the early Christians as the fulfilment to eternal life and harmony with our Heavenly Father. of Judea, Caesar Augustus, Quirinius of the Law and the Prophets of the Old It is our task as Christians to preach and live the Gospel, to Governor of Syria, when the census Archbishop Haigazoun Najarian Testament. Thus, “Behold, a virgin be the salt in this world. occurred, the star etc. The important thing shall conceive and bear a son, and his May the angels’ trumpets heralding the birth of the Prince of for Christians at that time was “The Word became flesh and name shall be called Emmanuel, which means God is Peace be heard in the four corners of the world and humanity as dwelt among us” (John 1:14). His story was not a myth, a with us.” (Is. 7:14). The vehicle, the vessel chosen must brothers and sisters of the same Lord live in love and harmony fiction of a certain person but a factual reality, “That Which not only physically be immaculate but mentally obedient and recreate the paradise lost on this world. was from the beginning, (The Son of God) which we have and spiritually devout and firm in her faith. Saint Mary Christ is born and revealed, blessed is the revelation of heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have fulfilled all these conditions as we see from her conception, Christ. looked upon and touched with our hands…” (First Letter birth of Jesus, through the childhood of Jesus, the temple Archbishop Haigazoun Najarian, of John 1: 1). experience, the wedding of Cana to the Crucifixion and after Primate
ACNA Annual Conference Delegates (front row) ACNA Chaplain Rev Fred Nile and Hon John Anderson Hon John Anderson Stan Colefax and Mrs Silvana Nile) 16/11/19
1 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD 1. MELBOURNE HOLY CITY MARCH 2. ACNA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 4. AUSTRALIAN CONSTITUTIONAL WITNESS FOR JESUS CHRIST 24/11/19 This Annual Conference of the Australian Christian MONARCHY (ACM) ANNUAL Silvana and I were honoured to receive the invitation Nation Association was held on Saturday 16th CONFERENCE 6/11/19 from the Melbourne Holy City March Committee to November 2019 at the Parramatta Novotel. I was pleased to be the Host for this important be their special Speakers on Sunday 24th November We were pleased to have as the Keynote Speaker National Conference in the Theatrette of the NSW 2019. the Hon John Anderson, former Cabinet Minister Parliament House. Silvana and I led the Melbourne Holy City March from 1996 to 2005 with Prime Minister John Professor David Flint convened and chaired the through the streets of Melbourne. We also gave the Howard. National ACM Conference with a panel of leading Gospel Message at the special Christian Witness Other leading Speakers included Rev Dr Peter speakers. outside the Victorian Parliament House and the Barnes, Federal Moderator of the Presbyterian Church 5. ANNUAL CHRISTIAN DEMOCRATIC Melbourne City Square. of Australia. Dr Rachel Carling, CEO of Right to Life PARTY CONFRENCE 11-12 OCTOBER I thank the Pastors and Members of the Melbourne NSW, Bill Muehlenberg of the Culturewatch Ministry 2019 Multi-cultural Church who organise the Melbourne and Reverend Hon Fred Nile Federal President of the Holy City March. Christian Democratic Party and NSW MP for over 38 This successful Conference was well supported and They hold their first Holy City March last year when years. adopted policies for the future. Silvana and I were again their special Guest Speakers. 3. PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON 6. 85TH BIRTHDAY They were challenged to organise the Melbourne AWARDED “JERUSALEM PRIZE” ON I thank everyone for their prayer, congratulations Holy City March when they read the reports of the 21/11/19 and well wishes for my six 85th Birthday Celebration annual Sydney Holy Marches for over fourteen years, for my family, MP’s, Church Leaders etc. which were based on the Korean Holy City Marches; Prime Minister Scott Morrison received the esteemed May the Lord richly bless you and your family as where I was their special Guest Speaker for over five Jerusalem Prize for his support and Australia’s support we celebrate the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. years in Korea. for the State of Israel. Rev Fred Nile
Melbourne Holy City Marchers kneeling Marchers witnessing in the Melbourne City Youthful Marchers for Christ Marchers in Roman uniform in Prayers of Repentance for Melbourne Square outside Public Library
Fred and Silvana in white hats leading Fred and Silvana addressing Marchers at Marchers Parade along City streets Fred and Silvana addressing Pre-March Melbourne Holy City March the City Square Prayer Meeting
Blowing the Shofars on Melbourne’s city streets Gathering for Prayer at the beginning of the Holy City Pre-March Prayer meeting on Friday 22nd November 2019 March in City Park at International Multi-cultural Church, Melbourne
ACNA Annual Conference Delegates (front row) ACNA Chaplain Stan Colefax Rev Fred Nile and ACNA Chairman Gamil John Anderson being thanked by Rev Fred and Mrs Silvana Nile) 16/11/19 Helmy Nile, Gamil Helmy and Craig Hall Dr Rachel Carling Guest Speaker
2 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Letters to the editorialEditor YOUR SAY Re: THANKYOU for keeping prayer in our Re: Prayers in Parliament - must stay of opening with this prayer is valued by all I pray that the hearts and minds of those who Parliament! Dear F Nile, manner of non-Christian faiths. pushed this Bill [Abortion Law Reform Act 2019] Dear F Nile, We need to continue to humble ourselves Sincerely, forward will have been deeply impacted and one I believe the NSW Parliament should before God our Creator, the only one who Michael Andjelkovic day they will think “what have we done?” continue to begin its day with the Lord’s can bestow rights on humans, and to whom Hoxton Park, NSW 2171 Thank you for your faithful service to the Prayer. we must give due honour. If we disown him, people of NSW. Please keep prayers in our Parliament! It he will disown us. Who are the Greens or Dear Rev. Nile, Sincerely. is the foundation of our nation and started in anyone else to have such a profound impact Shalom, Susan Margaret Crook prayer and needs to continue in prayer! We on our country, its heritage and honourable So glad that I can hear your sharing last MacMaster’s Beach NSW are a nation founded on Christianity and we traditions? Clearly they have nothing better to night at Bethany International Church. We are a Christian nation. Political correctness contribute, and must be wholly ignored. will pray for you and your wife. I am Pastor Dear Fred, has gone to far - we are a Christian nation and Sincerely, Daniel Wong, now seeing in the Overseas We have a society where abortion on we want prayer in our government and our Andrew Calder Chinese Christian Mission. Pastoring in two demand is available in most states. Euthanasia schools! Ermington, NSW 2115 new planting churches, one is in Mildura is being debated and successfully introduced Retaining prayers in Parliament is an (called Mildura Chinese Christian Fellowship state by state. The drums of the culture of acknowledgement that Christian values Re: Oppose Greens’ attack on prayer Church) another is in Wyndham Christian death are beating loud. (regardless of any individual’s personal Dear F Nile, Church in the western suburb of Melbourne. With our youth suicide rates the highest in faith) have forged this country and continue I urge you to continue opening proceedings In Christ. the world and expected to increase by 40% in to serve as a moral compass for decision- with the Lord’s Prayer. Pastor Daniel a decade, the above crusaders of little hope making. The custom is a reminder that our moral seem to have all bases covered and what they Removing this daily reminder removes that base, laws and customs do not have a Dear Rev Nile, are calling “Utopia” is in sight. guide. multi-faith foundation but are anchored in Thank you for all you do for the nation of We know that mothers contemplating Removing prayers from Parliament is Christianity. Australia. abortion are doing so because in the main they an attempt to undermine the foundations of The prayer also helps remind everyone I belong to a ladies Bible Study group of have been given no choice, but an ultimatum. Australia’s cultural heritage. about our accountability beyond the political 10 to 12 people all aged in their 70s and 80s. Is there a link here with divorce? With the The Greens’ proposed alternative to arena. We can’t do much to help at election time in breaking of the band of love and trust where the Lord’s Prayer will do little to remind The majority of people continues to self- a practical way – but our prayers continue for the partner is insistent on terminating their politicians that they serve a purpose far larger identify with Christianity and the custom the party and you and your family. offspring does the woman say “no more”. than themselves – and that they are there to Yours in His service, I want out of here. I think there is. I believe serve the “true welfare of the people of our Leters to the Editor: Daphne Alderton there is a link between abortion and divorce. state and Australia”. Family World News welcomes all Unanderra NSW Where would we be without you. Many Please continue to respect and acknowledge feedback from our readers! years ago I heard you speak about the our cultural heritage by retaining the Lord’s Dear Fred, “permissive society” and how such a society Prayer in the Parliament. Please write to us at: I write to thank you for the years of work is so very expensive. Today it is ever more Sincerely, [email protected] fighting for the rights of the unborn in NSW. permissive. Kelly winning The Editor reserves the right to edit leters for clarity. Without your faithful work NSW would have May God bless you. Riverview, NSW 2066 Please indicate in your email if you do not want your been in a much worse position much sooner Barry James Slater leter published in the next issue. than this week. Mugee NSW
SAD FAREWELL HON TONY ABBOTT GALA TRIBUTE DINNER By Rev Fred Nile I was pleased to be invited to open this Dinner with a Prayer of On Saturday 30th November 2019 Sher Vanstone’s family and friends farewelled Thanksgiving to Almighty God as Tony her at St Christophorus German Catholic Church in Croydon. has been a close friend for many years. Sher was a very committed Christian, who loved her Saviour Jesus Christ. Other participants included as MC Alan Sher gave faithful in her voluntary service to ACNA and to CDP over many years. Jones of 2GB, and Prime Minister Scott We give thanks to Almighty God for Sher’s faith and service for Christ! Morrison. Over 1,000 guests attended this historic Tribute Dinner to Honour Tony Abbott in the 25 years of service within Parliament. Hon Tony Abbott addressing his Tribute Dinner
Hon John Howard at Tony Abbott’s Hon Peter Dutton at Tony Abbott’s Tribute Dinner Tribute Dinner
Remembrance Day Ceremony at Martin CDP Candidates Meeting Rockdale Prime Minister Scott Morrison supporting Hon Tony Abbott’s Gala Tribute Dinner Place ‘Laying of Wreaths’ 11/11/19 Tony Abbott’s Tribute Dinner with over 1,000 guests
3 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD WHY IS IT 2019? By Rev Dr Peter Barnes does not want to acknowledge this but it cannot evade it. our Lord are those upon whom ‘the end of the ages has It bears an unwitting testimony every day that we live in come’ (1 Cor.10:11). Jesus told us that the world a world where Christ is the centre of history. The incarnation is indeed, in the words of would hate Him ‘without Up until recent times, we were used to dividing Christopher Dawson, ‘the centre of history’. BCE a cause’ (John 15:25). So history into BC (Before Christ) and AD. (Anno and CE hang in mid-air; they signify nothing except often in the name of reason, Domini, in the year of our Lord). Such a delineation the desire to escape the claims of Christ. BC and people would manage to be goes back to a Roman abbot, Dionysius Exiguus, AD testify, willingly or unwillingly, wittingly or utterly unreasonable. He about the year AD 525, and was adopted in the Middle unwittingly, to the fact that the Word has become flesh also said that if people did Ages. Working it all out was no mean feat, and there and dwelt among us (John 1:14). Because the Son of not praise Him as the King may be inaccuracies. The one that is often cited is that God walked this earth, this life can have meaning, here in God’s kingdom, the very Herod the Great was supposed to have died in 4 BC, and now, and for all eternity. Salvation has come, and stones would cry out in but in Matthew 2 he was doing his evil best to kill the this world will never be the same. The eternal Son of adoration (Luke 19:38-40). Christ child. This may mean that the actual year as this God has placed His footprints on the dust of this fallen An unwitting testimony to is written is about 2023, not 2019. We may be older grubby earth. these two statements can be Dr Peter Barnes than we think! To many in the world today, this claim is regarded as found in the fact that this Whatever the case, the main point remains that Jesus fanciful, ludicrous, dangerous, or even boring. The first year is often identified as 2019 in the Common Era (CE). Christ came into the world as God’s eternal Son who is three objections show some indication of having at least Prior to the Common Era, naturally enough, we have His final word to His people (see Heb.1:1-4). The apostle half-understood what is being said. As for the fourth, Before the Common Era (BCE). Paul says that ‘in the fullness of time had come, God sent as Dorothy Sayers put it: ‘If this is dull, then what, in The designations BCE and CE are, in themselves, forth His Son’ (Gal.4:4). There was nothing haphazard Heaven’s name, is worthy to be called exciting?’ 2019 quite ridiculous. What is the great event that signified or ad hoc about this. God was unfolding His eternal plan may reflect some human errors, but it points to God’s the beginning of the Common Era? It was, of course, the of salvation which would lead finally to the praise of His perfect timing in sending His Son into the world. Even birth of the Messiah, Jesus the Lord. The secular West glorious grace (Eph.1:3-14). We who live in the year of the date praises Him!
The Celebration of Christmas: the Virgin Birth of our Saviour
override the facts. Most Australians believe into just another holy, remembrance day. To prayers is no high ranked angel, but actually the Continued from page 1 in a supernatural God. The Bible proclaims hold to this Lord God himself. This is why we should be a supernatural God. These people are simply Truth is to bring this extraordinary message confident as we journey through the trials and A second issue is offered by religious skeptics allowing their own personal biases to rule. of hope – Jesus is Immanuel. This means the joys of life – it is the risen Christ, the second and Christian liberals. That is the Virgin Birth model life of Jesus we follow is the perfect life person of the Trinity who walks with us. The We will stand together requires a belief in the supernatural and such of God with us. This means the one who died on truth is the essential good news of Christmas. thoughts are unsophisticated and inappropriate My plea this Christmas is that all of us, and the cross for our sins could truly bear the sins of May the CDP family have a very special in today’s world. This is really fundamentalism all of our churches proclaim unapologetically the world as it was God’s son who was crucified. and blessed Christmas, and let’s ensure we at its worst! They refuse to look at the Biblical that 2000 years ago the Lord Jesus was born of This means the one who rose again and reigns don’t lose the heart of its message in all the evidence and allow their narrow world view to a virgin. To lose this truth is to turn Christmas on high acting as our advocate and hearing our trappings: Immanuel – God is with us!
Dr Rachel Carling Rev Fred Nile and ACNA Gamil Helmy Rev Stan Colefax
Community Languages Schools Reception, Chairman Languages Schools Reception Speaker Jihad Dib MP CDP Meeting Wagga NSW parliament House 12/11/19
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4 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Fred Nile at 85 BY John Sandeman – Eternity The most active state branch is South NEws| October 30th, 2019 Australia, which holds youth camps.
Having just turned 85, Fred Nile is “He really is a called the “Father” of the NSW Parliament. marketplace guy who I But he’s probably the “Father” of all Australia’s parliaments. think would have been He has had a record run. Christian stifled in the church.” Democrat Nile first entered parliament in 1981, and ignoring a short break when he Nile continued evangelistic work ran for the Senate, that makes 38 years. becoming in turn: (This is relatively modest compared to the • Assistant Director of the Billy Graham record-holder Billy Hughes who served Crusade in Sydney the house of representatives for 51 years • Director of the Congregational Board of – but then Fred Nile has stuck with one Evangelism in New South Wales. party … “the little digger” Hughes served • Director of the Methodist Mission to the six.) People of New South Wales and, • Director of Outreach and Evangelism, “My retirement plans are Sydney City Wesley Central Methodist in God’s hands. When he Mission, before heading up the Festival of Light and entering Parliament. says, ‘Go Fred’, then Fred Greg Bondar, who has worked as will go.” a Liberal party staffer as well as the Christian Democrats, has a high opinion After tributes for his 85th started to of Fred Nile, the politician. appear, Fred Nile told the press gallery: Festival of Light was gaining momentum as a minister in the Congregational “During my years at CDP, I have been “I will speak on Fred Nile’s legacy. The and Rev Fred Nile, a Congregational church (most of which became part of fortunate to have Fred act as a mentor, media think I am going to retire tomorrow minister working with Sydney’s Wesley the Uniting Church), Nile was National counsellor, and Christian brother in Christ. because of this legacy report, but I have Central, was asked to be the honorary Director of the Australian Christian At the risk of offending other political no plans to retire at the moment. state director,” Greg Bondar, the NSW Endeavour Movement (CE). CE was a leaders I have worked with over the years, “My retirement plans are in God’s State Director of FamilyVoice Australia nationwide young people’s movement, such as former PM John Howard and hands. When he says, ‘Go Fred’, then writes. which mentored young people to take an former Transport Minister Hon John Sharp, Fred will go.” “He eventually ended up leading the active part in their local church. It had an I have come to the view that the Rev Hon The late night sittings of the recent Festival of Light in NSW from 1974 evangelistic edge, encouraging young Fred Nile is one of the most astute political Abortion Reform Bill in the NSW to 2007. I also read with interest that teenagers to make decisions for Christ. strategists I have ever worked with in legislative Council were torturous and in his autobiography, (Fred Nile: An In its heyday it involved thousands of Continued on page 6 wearing for progressive and conservative Autobiography, published September young people but is much smaller today. alike. Nile was there until midnight, 2001), he stated he had been praying for and looked as though he could have God to raise up someone like Malcolm CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW kept going. It was noticeable that all the Muggeridge or Mary Whitehouse [of Combined with ACNA Combined with ACNA members of the House, from the Greens, the Festival of Light in Britain] to lead Labor, the Coalition and the Shooters the battle against moral pollution and Monday 16 December 2019 treated Nile with respect, and perhaps a corruption in Australia. Interestingly in 1.00 - 4.00 pm Monday 16 December 2019 degree of affection for the Father of the 1984 it was Malcolm Muggeridge who 1.00 - 4.00 pm House. If for nothing else, just for being became a Christian and said publicly the THE JUBILEE ROOM there and sticking it out. great admiration he had for Fred Nile.” THE JUBILEE ROOM Fred Nile is one of those people who Nile’s Christian ministry started NSW Parliament House was the answer to his own prayer. well before his rise to prominence as Macquarie Street Sydney NSW Parliament House “I recall back in July 1973 when the a morals campaigner. After training Macquarie Street Sydney
Twins Birthday Party Elijah and Lily Sharon’s Birthday Party Kiama CHRISTMAS, CHANUKAH AND THE ANTICHRIST CHRISTMAS, CHANUKAH AND (a video presentaton) THE ANTICHRIST ______(a video presentaton) ______Everyone welcome Please bring a friend/s Everyone welcome Please bring a friend/s Our gif to you is free entry BUT we must receive your RSVP by 12 December to ensure Our gif to you is free entry BUT adequate catering for afernoon tea we must receive your RSVP by 12 December to ensure adequate catering for afernoon tea Contact Judy via ACNA Forum NSW Parliament House Prayer Mobilisation at Rydalmere [email protected] or 0410 403 616 Contact Judy via [email protected] or 0410 403 616 5 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Fred Nile at 85 Continued on page 5 the Jewish Synagogue into the pagan the concerns of his culture. The people was right, but he followed his conscious world. What Paul does in these verses is a of Athens were looking for spiritual and the Aboriginal people have never politics. He knows the art of the political model of marketplace ministry. A person direction and meaning and Paul addressed forgotten that because of Fred’s stand, the deal, the timing of electoral announcements who approaches ministry this way, God that. Fred has also been an evangelist. bill was passed. and the preselection of candidates. can use. But also, he understood the community “Fifthly, God could use Fred because “Always with a sense of humour, I was concerned about moral and social he shares Jesus. In Parliament he ensures recall Fred correcting me when I first “His call is to serve the issues. For example, the tobacco industry: that at appropriate times, the message of wrote a speech for him wherein, I titled kingdom of God outside whilst government and major political the gospel is shared. This is particularly the speech as being delivered by “Hon parties wouldn’t take them on, he did! It seen at Christmas and at Easter. He Rev Fred Nile MLC” Leader of the the walls of the church.” is not an exaggeration to say we live in stands beside members of Parliament, Christian Democratic Party. In his caring – Ross Clifford a smoke-free environment because Fred whatever their persuasion, in their time yet brotherly rebuke, he corrected me by Nile understood the concerns of parents of need, and prays for them, supports saying that ‘Rev’ comes before ‘Hon’ as “Firstly, we see that when Paul went and people of good will about tobacco. them and shares Jesus. Such a person nothing comes before God. That lesson into the marketplace he was distressed Fred has also stood up against the coal God uses. continues to live with me today.” (verse 16). He was distressed by the seam gas industry. He has done all he can “Lastly, God could use Fred Nile ungodly lifestyles and worship. Fred to meet the desires of the people of NSW because, like the Apostle Paul, he knew “Fred Nile is one of the Nile is distressed! When Fred stood in to have a flourishing life in a healthy there would be abuse, rejection and ill will, most astute political opposition to the gay Mardi Gras, it was community. but he remained firm to the call. If necessary not for lack of love for those involved, he would give his life to that call.” strategists I have ever but he was distressed for where this “We live in a smoke-free Nile is a very good politician. He worked with in politics.” lifestyle would lead. When he served the environment because can count. An example of this was his – Greg Bondar Billy Graham crusade, he was distressed correct prediction that not running a for those outside of Christ. As he stands Fred Nile understood the CDP candidate in each lower house seat Ross Clifford, the CDP Party President against the recent abortion legislation, concerns of parents and would cost his running mate Paul Green and Principal of (the Baptist) Morling again he is distressed for human life and people of good will about his seat in the Legislative Council (half College, gives Eternity a shrewd insight human dignity. God has been able to the house is elected at each election.) into Nile: “He really is a marketplace guy use Fred because he is distressed for our tobacco.” The CDP had managed to get a who I think would have been stifled in the community and the choices that are being – Ross Clifford candidate elected at each election since church.” made. 1981, standing candidates in most seats. Clifford enlarges on that in a tribute “Secondly, God could use Fred because “Fourthly, God could use Fred Nile But this year the money was diverted for the CDP newspaper: “A little while he was prepared to ‘go’. Paul didn’t stay because he took a stand. The Apostle Paul to marketing and a limited number of ago I did an interview on Fred and why I in the safety of the synagogue/church; just didn’t enter the marketplace to build candidates stood. support him. I indicated that in my mind he went into the Greek marketplace and relationships, important as that may be, he Party insiders told Eternity that Green that Fred is a “marketplace” minister. That debated in the Areopagus. In today’s stood for the things of God. He expressed – who lost narrowly – would have been means his call is to serve the kingdom of world, it would be similar to Paul going his concerns about where society was returned if Nile’s advice had been taken. God outside the walls of the church. Not to Oxford Street and then going into the going and even spoke of repentance and Nile knows how to do deals and get only to serve individually but to raise up NSW Parliament. Fred, of course, grew judgment. Just one illustration of Fred support. This means he also generates an “army” to serve with him. When one a team of people who had the same heart taking a stand is Aboriginal land rights. opposition to some of the stances he takes. looks at Acts 17:16-32, we read of the and were prepared to go for the sake of Over 30 years ago, he supported the That normally gives a politician a use- Apostle Paul in the marketplace. This is the gospel. initial bill for Aboriginal land rights. The by date. Nile’s use-by date has not been one of the first occasions where the early “Thirdly, God could use Fred because, opposition party pointed out this would reached. That is a simple, but sufficient leaders of the church have gone beyond like the Apostle Paul, he understood cost him half his votes. He knew that tribute to the man.
Rev (Capt.) Fred Nile and friends art Craig Kelly and Rev (Capt.) Fred Nile ED RNSWR Regimental Dinner, Randwick Sharon’s Birthday Party Kiama Twins Birthday Party Elijah and Lily at Ingleburn Army Camp Services Barracks
6 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD CULTURE WATCH Christmas: Leaving Home and Coming Back Again
By Bill Muehlenberg has written, there is much to contemplate in his 1992 volume, Obviously the ones featured in these stories are those Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming. He who survived and lived to tell about their horrific ordeal. The Christmas story – along with the Easter story – is directly speaks of this joy and homecoming: Not everyone makes it of course. And the climax of each the heart of human history: the Son of God left the comforts Celebration belongs to God’s Kingdom. God not story is the ultimate rescue along with being reunited with of heaven to come to a sinful and polluted earth to dwell only offers forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing, but loved ones. amongst us, live a perfect life, die a cruel death, and then wants to lift up these gifts as a source of joy for all who Most of these folks speak of their ordeal as a life-changer, rise again, all for our sake. witness them. In all three of the parables which Jesus and how they now never look at life so carelessly anymore. Sin and selfishness have separated mankind from tells to explain why he eats with sinners, God rejoices Every day and every relationship becomes so much more God, so the perfect God became the perfect man so that and invites others to rejoice with him. “Rejoice with me,” precious after such an incredible life and death struggle. reconciliation might be achieved for those who turn back the shepherd says, “I have found my sheep that was lost.” They were lost, but now they are found. to God in faith and repentance. That is the gospel message, “Rejoice with me,” the woman says, “I have found the Another illustration will resonate with at least some and that is why we celebrate days like Christmas and Easter. drachma I lost.” “Rejoice with me,” the father says, “this folks – although perhaps leave a few others cold. I refer The idea of leaving and returning is a big part of this son of mine was lost and is found.” All these voices are to a new film which is doing extremely well at the box story. As mentioned, the second person of the Trinity had office. For those who love the Star Wars films – and our to leave everything and be born into a corrupt, sinful and whole family always has – going to see the latest version wretched world, only to be reunited with the Godhead after (episode 7) is a long-awaited and much looked-forward the resurrection. to event. Of course the doctrine of the Trinity is mysterious, and in So the family went this afternoon and it did not one sense there never was a separation of the members of the disappoint. At the very least, it was several hours of brainless Trinity. They are always one. Yet in another sense Jesus did entertainment to take my mind off the weightier issues of pray about not being forsaken by the Father while hanging life, plus it was a good chance to do a family activity. And of on the cross. Such spiritual truths are too marvellous and course for any gung-ho Star Wars fan, the thought of seeing mysterious for us to fully comprehend. some of the old original heroes from films now nearly 40 So to speak of Jesus leaving and returning may not be the years old was a real highlight. best language to use, but hopefully you get my point. And So even a hardened, crusty old culture warrior like the Bible is full of such stories. The story of the Prodigal myself got a bit of a glimmer in the eye and a tingle in the Son (Luke 15:11-32) is one such classic tale of leaving and heart to see some of these original characters resurrected for returning. An ungrateful and rebellious son leaves home what might be their final role in this long-standing series. in a huff, lives a debauched life, completely wastes his While the films have much to offer for trueStar Wars buffs, inheritance, and is eventually left with the whole pigsty to seeing Luke and Han and Leia again (and of course C-3PO himself. and R2-D2) was a treat for many. He comes to his senses and heads home, hoping his And it reminded me right away of some very real father will somehow forgive him and let him back in. As we spiritual truths. To see someone you have not seen for a long read in verses 18-19, “I will arise and go to my father, and time can be such a powerful and moving experience. This I will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and is especially the case with a family member, loved one or before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. close friend. Treat me as one of your hired servants’.” And right away I thought of some friends who had gone But the Father blows him away with love, forgiveness on to be with the Lord – some just recently. The heart aches a and acceptance. As he says to his other son who complains bit each time you remember these folks, but then joy creeps about all this: “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for in because you realise that one day we will be reunited with this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is the voices of God. God does not want to keep his joy to them. We will once again see each other, hug each other, and found” (v. 32). himself. He wants everyone to share in it. God’s joy is enjoy each other’s company. the joy of his angels and his saints; it is the joy of all who That is what the combined Christmas and Easter story Homecoming and joy belong to the Kingdom. has made possible. Without these two stories none of this That is indeed a story of leaving and returning. It is also Certainly homecoming after a long absence is an would happen. Indeed, we would then be of all men most a story of homecoming and great joy. And that is always occasion of great joy. Let me finish this piece by offering two miserable as Paul put it (1 Corinthians 15:19). But because the case when one sinner returns to Father God. In the two illustrations of this to help make this even more vivid. Some Jesus came, died and rose again, there is hope for all of us. other lost and found parables of Luke 15 (the Lost Sheep, of you may have noticed several television programs which Those who recognise their great debt and need as sinners vv. 1-7, and the Lost Coin, vv. 8-10), we twice hear Jesus feature people in near-impossible situations miraculously and are willing to turn from sin and self and follow Christ speak about the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. escaping death. get pardon, forgiveness, reconciliation and life eternal with That is the highlight of the two great stories and holidays With titles like ‘I Should Not be Alive’ each episode is our Saviour, along with others who have done the same. we celebrate. That is why Christ came, died, and rose quite amazing, and usually involves one of several scenarios: That day when we are all reunited will indeed be a day of again: to save sinners, which in turn brings great joy and someone abandoned at sea, stranded in a desert, lost in a great joy. great glory to God. Thus the Prodigal Son story very nicely jungle, or stuck on a mountain. These are incredible tales That is a homecoming no one wants to miss. And that is encapsulates so many great truths of the gospel message. of survival, and the harrowing experiences some people go why we celebrate Christmas – and Easter. It is indeed the While one may not agree with everything Henri Nouwen through is quite remarkable. greatest story ever told.
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Sunday 1 Sinai...And He came from the midst of ten The Birth of Let us continually praise the Lord for His thousand holy ones...” (Deuteronomy 33:2). inerrant Word, in which we put our complete Jesus Christ Saturday 21 trust. Over these next five days let us give “Therefore the Lord himself shall give you Praise the Lord for His Word which teaches thanks for five glorious truths found in the a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, us that God has created multitudes of angels Scriptures concerning the Virgin Birth of Jesus and bear a son, and shall call his name for His purposes. He has also created us for Christ. Jesus Had A Heavenly Origin. The wonderful purposes and knows us by name. most important reason to hold the belief in the Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place He commands His angels to guard us in all our Virgin Birth concerns Jesus’ identity as God the ways (Psalm 91:11).When Daniel was given a in this way. When his mother Mary had Son, the Second Person of the Trinity. If Joseph vision of God’s heavenly throne, he proclaimed were His true father, then Jesus would be only been betrothed to Joseph, before they came that he saw: “thousands upon thousands... a human being. He would not be the Son of together she was found to be with child from attending to Him” (Daniel 7:10). God as Scripture clearly states. He would have the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, Sunday 22 had His beginning in time rather than eternally being a just man and unwilling to put her existing. As the Bible states, “In the beginning to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. With the legions of angels let us worship the was the word, and the word was with God, and But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Lamb of God as we remember and give thanks the word was God” (John 1:1). Thus the Virgin for His birth this month. When Peter tried to “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from Birth is crucial to Jesus being the Son of God. defend Jesus at His arrest, Jesus told him He the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from Monday 2 needed no defence because His Father could their sins.” All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: Behold, the virgin shall supply Him “with more than twelve legions of Jesus Had A Sinless Nature. A second reason conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”(which means, God with us). When angels” (Matthew 26:53). why the Virgin Birth is important concerns the Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her Monday 23 sinless character of Christ. If Jesus had a human not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus” (Matthew 1:18-25). father, then He would have inherited a sinful Let us praise God for His promise that one day nature as the rest of us have. The Bible says. there shall be a new Heaven and a new Earth “Therefore, just as through one man sin entered These are the things that make Christmas a beautiful season for me: and He will come down to live with us. What the world, and death through sin, thus death e The Star of Christmas—Jesus Christ Himself, my Saviour, my Lord. a promise!! The writer of the New Testament spread to all, because all sinned” (Romans e The Sign of Christmas—The virgin birth of Jesus Christ, which proves His deity and guaranteed that book of Hebrews referred to the heavenly 5:12). To the contrary the Scripture states that He could live sinlessly and be an adequate substitute on the cross for our sin. Jerusalem as a place where there are “myriads Jesus never sinned. Peter wrote, “Who [Jesus] e The Spirit of Christmas—The spirit of giving. of angels.” (Hebrews 12:22). committed no sin, nor was guile found in his Tuesday 24 mouth” (1 Peter 2:22). Give thanks today for What you give to someone this Christmas season could bring him or her great joy and happiness. But it would Jesus’ sinless nature. Pray for these truths to be pale by comparison with the great gift God has given to us. He has given to us the precious, unspeakable gift The Gospel of Luke tells of this glorious event preached in the church this Christmas. of His Son, Jesus Christ. John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that in the Christmas story. “Now there were in whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (Chuck Sligh 2016). the same country shepherds living out in the Tuesday 3 fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Praise the Lord today that Jesus Was The Perfect our activities and traditions so we can focus that they would be able to rest and find the And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before Sacrifice. A third reason why the Virgin Birth our celebration on the birth of the Saviour and personal support they need. them... And suddenly there was with the angel is crucial to the Christian faith concerns our be a living witness to God’s glorious gift to us. Friday 13 a multitude of the heavenly host praising God salvation. Without the sinlessness of Christ there Thank Him for being the Prince of Peace and and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and would be no salvation. Christ came, according to ask that His supernatural peace would reign Pray for those in emergency services, both on on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke the Apostle Paul, to save those who were under in our hearts, rather than allowing the frenetic the ground and in support capacities. Thank 2:8-14). Let us praise God with the angels this the law (Galatians 4:4,5). This echoes Jesus’ own pace of worldly celebrations to take over. Let us God for them praying that they might find rest night. statement: “For the Son of Man has come to seek thank the Lord for His simple but life-changing and recover, especially for those who have been Wednesday 25 and save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). God message of love for us. away from home and family. required a sacrifice that was without blemish Saturday 14 Whilst we know that the Saviour was not born on Saturday 7 the 25 December, let us thank God that He was (Exodus 12:5). If Jesus were a sinner in any sense Pray for continued safety for all affected by of the word, then He could not provide salvation Let us thank the Lord anew for coming to earth indeed born and that through Him we have been to redeem us. Let us dwell today on the extent to fires. Pray for God’s people that they would be redeemed. “But when the fullness of the time for us. However, because He came into the world able to show His love in difficult circumstances, by supernatural means and lived a sinless life, He which He was willing to go in order to save us came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, let us cry out in thankfulness. Let us recognise love their neighbours and speak the name of born under the Law, so that He might redeem could be that sacrifice for our sins without spot Jesus to those grieve, fear and suffer. and without blemish (2 Corinthians 5:21). John again that without Him we would still be lost those who were under the Law, that we might testified. “And you know that he was manifested and in sin. But because of everything God has Sunday 15 receive the adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5). done for us, today we are free; our lives are to take away our sins, and in him there is no sin” Let us continue to pray for drought-breaking Thursday 26 (1 John 3:5). If Jesus were the son of Joseph, then blessed; Jesus is our Lord; Heaven is our home; rain. Pray for all those whose lives are under the As we continue to enjoy the Christmas break His sinless character would only be a myth. and Satan has no right to control us. shadow of drought including farmers and their with friends and family let us enjoy rest and joy Wednesday 4 Sunday 8 families. in the Saviour in Whom we can find His peace Praise the Lord for the Word of God which In a world where worry, not peace, prevails, let Monday 16 amid activity. “Now the God of hope fill you shows The Uniqueness Of Christ. What the us stir up that good news again. This Christmas, Let us pray for today’s final Christian Worldview with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may virgin birth does is show the uniqueness of make it real in our hearts. Never have we needed for 2019. Praise God for the opportunity to abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Jesus Christ. No one else has ever come into the Lord’s joy and peace more than now. ‘Thank meet in the NSW Parliament House which is a Ghost” (Romans 15:13). You Father for the gift of Jesus, our Immanuel, the world the same way as Jesus. The unique powerful witness to those who watch Christians Friday 27 and miraculous nature of Jesus carried on the Word made flesh. Forgive us for sometimes gather to celebrate the Saviour. Pray for those who attended Carol events or through His entire life. His birth was a miracle, forgetting that Your love never changes, never Tuesday 17 Christmas Day Services to continue to be His public ministry consisted of miracles, fades, and that You never abandon the purpose inspired and hungry for more teaching about Jesus miraculously lived a sinless life, He for which You came: to save us from our sinful Pray for Beach Mission teams who seek to Jesus, the child who was born to die in order miraculously came back from the dead, and condition, and to give us life eternal, the joy of share the Gospel with holiday makers on the that we might live. left this world in a miraculous way. From His relationship with a holy God. Your birth and coastlines of Australia. “Behold now is the entrance into this world until His departure, Your death sealed Your promise to us forever. acceptable time, behold now is “the day of Saturday 28 Hallelujah’. Amen. the life of Jesus Christ was a miracle. Praise Salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2). Pray today for good rest and refreshing over the Lord today for the miracle of our salvation Monday 9 Wednesday 18 these Christmas and New Year holidays for and eternal life accessed only through the Son Pray for next Monday’s Christian Worldview Pray for Rev Nile and his staff to be refreshed those who labour for the Gospel in so many of God. where those present will be reminded of the truth over the Christmas/New Year break. Pray in ways. Thursday 5 about the seasons of ‘Chanukah, Christmas support for them as they continue to fight for Sunday 29 and the Anti-Christ’. Praise the Lord for His Praise the Lord that The Bible Says So! The life for the unborn and the elderly in the debates In these last days of 2019, let us pray for the truths and His sovereign power as the Father fifth reason to believe in the Virgin Birth is in NSW. Pray for Rev Nile as he advocates for church in Australia. Let us pray for a return to prepares the way for Messiah’s return to earth. because the Bible says so. If Jesus were not life saying, ‘No civilisation, culture or people our first love and that we, and our churches, actually born of a virgin then the Bible is Tuesday 10 can survive if its moral framework is not would become passionate for the faithful wrong. If it is wrong concerning the Virgin focused on life—its preservation, maintenance preaching of the Scriptures as revealed to us Let us continue in prayer for drought and fire- and promotion as a gift of almighty God’. Birth, then it is possible that it may be in breaking rain, for those who grieve loved ones through the Holy Spirit (Revelation 3:14-20). error about other matters. Once the door who perished because of fire and those who grieve Thursday 19 opens to the possibility of error in Scripture Monday 30 property loss. Pray that they would not grieve Let us remember those who struggle over the eventual and logical result is that the Pray again today for the Church in Australia, alone and that they would know God’s comfort. Christmas for various reasons. Pray for entire foundation of the Christian faith will praying for revival in the church and a return to opportunities to reach our to our community with crumble. The doctrine of the Virgin Birth Wednesday 11 the Scriptures as the inspired Word of God. Pray the love of Jesus Christ for the whole world. and the credibility of Christianity go hand- Pray for those injured in the bushfires, that they that a non watered-down, sin-friendly Gospel in-hand. Pray for clergy who question and would be healed physically and emotionally, Friday 20 would disappear. (Revelation 2:7) do not teach the Virgin Birth, that God would that those caring for them would have the skill As we watch and wait for the return of the Tuesday 31 reveal His truth to them. (with thanks to Don and wisdom to support them as they recover. Messiah let us, with the angels, worship Him Stewart for these prayer points). Pray for our nation as we end this year watching Thursday 12 who currently sits on the Throne. Let us worship and waiting for the Lord’s return. Pray that Friday 6 with the countless angels who live with God, Australia will stand with God’s word and stand Pray for continued wisdom for those bearing remembering that one day we shall also live Let us pray that our families and friends do not with Israel, praying for the peace of Jerusalem the burden of fire-fighting command over the with Him eternally. Describing an encounter miss Jesus this Christmas. Help us to simplify (Psalm 122:6). summer. Let us thank God for them and pray with God, Moses said, “The LORD came from
8 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Truth For The Family By Peter Rahme On Celebrating Christmas
The Bible says: “One man esteemeth one day above of Jesus Christ of the Bible and the purpose for his coming to ALL ,which comes around in another; another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be earth to seek and save that which was lost. December every year, when in shopping centers, on street fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth one day, And those of us who are passionate about Gospel outreaches corners , in nursing homes, or in the homes of unsaved friends regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not that day, easily recognise that there is a real God-given value in the and families, WE ARE WELCOMED WITH OPEN ARMS to to the Lord doth he not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Christmas season for the church of Jesus Christ, particularly sing , give tracts , preach and lead people to Christ. Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the in nations around the world where the Gospel is not usually One way we do that every year at our church – Inner West Lord he eateth not and giveth God thanks.” (Romans 14: 5-6). welcomed. Baptist Church, is through our CAREling outreach. (It’s not I love the Christmas season. I always have. It’s one of The gift of Christmas presents us with at least two incredible a spelling mistake) In fact, this year, 2019, marks 43 years those unique and BIG God-given opportunities to share the opportunities year after year: since I started the CAREling ministry. I called it CAREling not love of Christ and the light of His Gospel with a dark and a 1. To TEACH the church about the LIFE of Christ and 2. To carOling, because it was initially a caring and singing ministry needy world. The Christmas season can also be a problematic REACH the community with the LOVE of Christ to the nursing homes in Sydney and beyond. Every Christmas subject for some, and Christmas day of December 25th can be season I take CAREling teams to visit and encourage as many 1.TEACH the church about the LIFE of Christ a controversial issue for others. nursing homes as possible, by singing Christmas carols and For some the fact that Christmas day celebration only Now I know we don’t need to wait (nor should we) for the sharing the Gospel. We also did/ do the same in shopping received its official recognition in the mid-fifth century and Christmas season to teach about the LIFE of Christ. However, centers and friends’ homes. observed as a holiday well after the biblical era, disqualifies when December comes around there is a growing sense of In closing, may we then look beyond all the tinsel and glitter it from being a real Christian celebration and therefore there’s anticipation and a certain level of excitement about the Biblical of the festive season, and encourage others to do the same, really no need to celebrate it at all. events surrounding the birth of Christ. It’s also great to review not by debating among ourselves whether or not to celebrate For others, they point to the glaring and obvious errors of and reflect on the first coming of the Saviour and renew and Christmas, nor by denying others, especially the children, the the unscriptural date, Santa Claus, the debts of spending, the refresh our commitment to serve Him. So, whether in a Sunday joy of Christmas, but rather by delivering the good news of the evil of drinking, the lack of self-control, the anxiety and all the school class, the worship service, the preaching of the word, birth of Christ intact with both grace and truth . stress etc… etc...,and therefore conclude that it is wrong for a the weekly home group or on social media, the Christmas With the love of Christ believer to celebrate Christmas. season gives us that natural platform to teach in-depth studies Peter Rahme Now I definitely share their concern how some naïve people, on scriptural truths such as: The incarnation and the deity of Pastor- Inner West Baptist Church in this festive season, could easily: Christ; The virgin birth; etc… • Fail to see Christ for the Christmas tree, and / or etc… Rahme Resources REVIEW •Focus on the burdens of the gifts rather than the blessings of 2. REACH the the Giver, and / or Journey to Bethlehem community with the •Follow Santa Claus rather than the Saviour Christ. Devotionals for the Christmas Season However, according to the Scriptures, celebrating LOVE of Christ Featuring Dr. Woodrow Kroll, Elizabeth Elliot & Dr. Warren Wiersbe Christmas day, or any other day, and exchanging Christmas We all know that Our gifts does not need to be a controversial matter. It’s rather Lord Jesus was not born Journey to Bethlehem and rediscover the wonder and joy of God’s love gifts to a matter of personal conviction and conscious issue, for the on December 25th, but He the world, God in human form- Jesus. Along the way, you’ll meet men and women Bible clearly teaches us that - “One person regards one day was born sometimes! And, like Eve, Abraham, Rahab, and Zacharias. And you’ll uncover exciting truths from as better as or more important than another, while another as followers of Christ and their own search for the promised Messiah. regards every day the same as any other. Let everyone be disciples of His, we are “We have found the Messiah” John 1:41 fully convinced, assured, and satisfied in his own mind.” commanded to carry out This devotional series will lead you on a journey to Bethlehem in 25 steps. Each (Romans 14:5 AMP) the great commission and step will help you reflect on some aspect of the Christmas story, and the series will So instead of wasting time debating WHETHER or not we communicate the good news challenge you to consider your response to the Baby in the manger. can celebrate Christmas, (and it’s clear from the Scriptures that of the gospel, at every single Following each devotional, a Scripture verse for the day, a prayer topic for the we can if we choose to do so), we do much better to invest opportunity He provides us day and a step for the day are suggested. time discussing HOW to celebrate Christmas in a way that is with. So, LET’S NOT MISS “Journey to Bethlehem”, published by Back To The Bible, comes in a soft cover, glorifying and honouring to the Lord. Let’s take advantage of OUT ON THE BIGGEST contains 53 pages and costs $10 (posted anywhere in Australia). It can be ordered the fact that the Christmas season opens the door wide for us OPEN DOOR OF GOSPEL from FWN - PO BOX 5296 Chullora NSW 2190. (Please make your cheque payable to talk to our unsaved family and friends about the real person OPPORTUNITY OF THEM to Peter Rahme)
Hon David Elliott addressing Life Education Reception, NSW Parliament Speaker Hon Jonathan O’Dea at Life House Education Charity Reception Hon John Anderson Bill Muehlenberg
Hon Damien Tudehope Pro-Life, Anti- Hon Tanya Davies MP Pro-Life Rally Archbishop Haigazoun Najarian, Pro-Life Abortion Rally, Martin Place, Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher Martin Place, Sydney Rally Martin Place 9 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN !
At 11 a.m. on Monday 11.11.2019 the 101st anniversary is to lead the people of God in the church out onto the ARMIES MARCH ON SYDNEY of the Armistice was remembered to the call of trumpet street, Christians of every type and stance, to perform for and shofar by two armies on the Sydney Harbour HARBOUR BRIDGE 11/11/2019 ‘The Kingdom of God’, in new and inviting ways, and in Bridge. This follows a similar event which took place A CALL TO MOBILIZE & UNIFY new contexts and backgrounds, to be ‘Out of the Box’ in on ‘Remembrance Day’ only 2 years earlier (11.11.2017) the Holy spirit. (audience loud applause) where it was reported that unexpected armed forces We come to join the festal shout, to also bridge the gap came upon the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There were two between non-christians and christians, Jews and christian contingents, the first, described as, ‘Anglo-Australians’ gentiles, to bring people nearer to people under God, to with shield and sword came from the north end of the the glory of God the Father. (Acts 17:30) So, like birds bridge, while the second ‘Chinese Australians’ including set free from fowlers snares, people everywhere can be Mongolians and South East Asians came from the south. released, encouraged and inspired in all honesty and At 11am both contingents met midspan and united, revelation into the ‘Way the Truth and the life’. (John faced west and with the sound of a shofar observed a 14:6) minute silence. They gathered under the name of the ‘Abide with us and let thy light shine, Lord, on every Lord Jesus, dressed in white to represent the ‘Bride of heart, dispel the darkness of our night and joy to all Christ’ (Warrior Brides) and paid their respects to those impart.’ (Jesu, rex admirabilis, paraphrased by Bernard who died or suffered for Australia’s cause in all wars and of Clairvaux 1091-1153) This new release will be no armed conflicts; offered repentance on behalf of all those normal flush, but be part of a great movement over who had gone before them; stood firm for traditional Australia, surrounding regions and beyond, in the words marriage; and prayer walked across the Bridge. of Clairvaux, penetrating the spiritual darkness of this Once again, members of the Western and Asian world; and all the changing scenes of life, so as to shed Churches marched on to the Sydney Harbour Bridge God’s light to chase the horrors of the night, despite the to blow the shofar and offer a minute silence, after darkness of sin abounding, or even when it seems the which, Cara Harris (accompanied by her daughter Lydia words..’ (Nikolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf 1700-60) godless triumph to confound all virtue. dressed in blue angel costume in honour of Israel Folau) It was, ‘by faith the elders obtained a good testimony.’ Come join the festal shout to, ‘Ponder anew what the delivered a speech to the marchers and bystanders (on (Heb. 11:2) So, here we stand, we gather under no Almighty can do.’ (Joachim Neander 1650-80) while loud speaker) prepared by Mark Moody-Basedow other name, but Yeshua (Ye-shu-a) Jesus and fear not, waiting for an ‘Holy Spirit Release’ and so ‘Ye servants translated from English to Mandarin by Zenet Zhang, in ‘for whatever is born of God overcomes the world;’ (1 of God, your Master proclaim, And publish abroad His measured intervals to the audience, followed by speeches, John 5:4) God wants His children to be creative, free, wonderful Name.’ (Charles Wesley 1707-88) celebrations and prayers. positioned to move, ready and able to be obedient to His Those obedient to the call and moving in His consent There was an historical atmosphere to the occasion Call, directing us to step out, and here we are, as a band will blaze with a passion so masterful and bright that its during the prophetic declarations and proclamations with of Christians, for the sake of a watching world. To be the warmth and light will become as a great fire over the good audience participation and excitement as the speech light on the hill, to rise up, shine; and to God be all the nation; and beyond, for it is written,.. “He shall see the was slowly released: glory. (audience cheering and clapping) fruit of the travail of His soul and be satisfied.” (Isaiah “We blow a trumpet this Armistice to remember the We pray O Lord, ‘Grant to us the grace we find in thee, 53:11) cessation of hostilities on the Western Front in the Great that we may dwell in perfect unity.’ (John Calvin 1509- The need to resuscitate the hearts and minds of the War (WWI) and to honour those who have gone before 64) ‘The Family of God’ is to unify, ‘The Family of God’ people to ‘The Truth’ has never been greater. ‘Come, O us, who suffered and paid the ultimate price for God, is to mobilize as one. ‘Born in us to reign forever, Born King, and our whole being sway; shine on us with the King and Country to be free. to set Thy people free, Dear desire of every nation, Joy of light of thy pure day.’ (‘Stonelaw’ John Calvin 1509-64) Freedom ‘calls’ ring the bells of deliverance and every longing heart.’ (Charles Wesley 1744) so as to quicken and revive the dying devotion of the age. freedom (Bell ringing); and blast a trumpet against We celebrate today, as once again we stand, gathered Come! Let us have a call to prayer and action!” false peace (golden trumpet blown), a ‘Clarion Call’ together midspan on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the All Warriors wanting to sign up for the next event or goes out into the public square to bring together ‘The gateway to the city, to bridge the gap, as members of upcoming troop mobilisation please contact the CDP Body of Christ’. Blessed are those who hear, blessed both the Western and Asian Churches, regardless of Prayer Convenor. are those who see. (Mat. 13:6) ‘Cry aloud, spare not, lift denomination, background, race or sex, agreeing to put up your voice like a trumpet.’ (Isaiah 58:1) The Lord is aside our differences and to agree on what we agree on. Mark Moody-Basedow with us, He is our strength, our mouth, and our wisdom. The Lord has been holding back on a new powerful President, We proclaim the spirit of faith in our lives, ‘Ah! give to outpour of His Spirit waiting for the church to come out Christian Democratic Party C.D.P. all thy servants, Lord, with power to speak thy gracious of the pews, onto the streets, to mobilize and unify. It Penrith Branch Make a Barnaby Joyce MP Pro-Life Rally Martin Difference Place for Jesus! Begin a journey of study into the Word of God that will change your life and the lives of those you come in contact with. Contact us TODAY!
Christian Worldview Forum Guest Speakers with Convenor Judy Russell (centre) L to R Dr David Adler, Chris Wainwright, Dan Steege ICEJ Australian Director 02 9603 2077 | [email protected] | www.visioncolleges.net and Timothy Wainwright
10 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Focus On Parliament
December 2019 Citizens’ Legislation Action The 21st of November was the last day that Parliament in New 2009 9. Drugs and Alcohol Treatment Amendment (Rehabilitation of South Wales was in session for the year of 2019. Many of our 4. Education Amendment (Educational Support for Children with Persons with Severe Substance Dependence) Bill 2019 (Notice supporters and friends will be wondering about what has happened Significant Learning Difficulties) Bill 2008 21/8/19) to Zoe’s Law. The bill, which was introduced by Rev Fred Nile of the 5. Modern Slavery Bill 2018 10. Drugs Misuse and Trafficking Amendment (Injecting Centre Christian Democratic Party again in this Parliamentary session, has 6. St. Shenouda Coptic Orthodox Monastery (NSW) Property Trust Repeal) Bill 2019 (Notice 15/10/19) been on the Notice Paper for many months but has not yet gone to a Bill 2014 11. Family Impact Commission Bill 2019 (Notice 21/8/19) formal vote in the Legislative Council. It has however been spoken on 12. Gambling Advertising Prohibition Bill 2019 (Notice 17/9/19) by a government representative and a member of the Greens, both of Bills on the Current Notice Paper 13. Liquor Amendment (Drinking Age) Bill 2019 (Notice 22/10/19) whom opposed the bill. Rev Nile was informed on the 21st, when the 1. Adoption Amendment (Same Sex Couples Repeal) Bill 2019 (Notice 14. Liquor Amendment (Health Warning for Pregnant Women) Bill debates on the bill were planned to continue, that there are a number 20/8/19) 2019 (Notice 21/8/19) of MPs who have expressed an interest in debating this bill but who 2. Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Freedom of Religion) Bill 2019 15. Mining Amendment (Compensation for Cancellation of are unavailable due to absence from the Chamber. Those MPs plan (Notice 6/8/19) Exploration Licenses) Bill 2019 (Notice 4/6/19) to support the proposed legislative reform. Accordingly, it has been 3. Child Protection (Nicole’s Law) Bill 2019 (Notice 17/9/19) 16. Pregnancy Termination (Information About Pain to Child in decided that Zoe’s law will be adjourned today until a future date early 4. Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Utero) Bill 2019 (Notice 20/8/19) in 2020, to allow all interested MPs to put their positions on the record Enforcement Amendment (Banning Restricted X-rated Films) Bill 17. Pregnancy Termination (Mandatory Counselling) Bill 2019 (Notice before the final vote is taken. The next sitting day for the Legislative 2019 (Notice 20/08/19) 20/8/19) Council will be Tuesday 25 February 2020.. 5. Crimes Amendment (Incitement of Promotion of Terrorism and 18. Pregnancy Termination (Mandatory Reporting) Bill 2019 (Notice Violence) Bill 2019 (Notice 15/10/19) 6/8/19) Bills Initiated and Passed by CDP 6. Crimes Amendment (Pre-natal Termination) Bill 2019 (Notice 19. Sex Services Advertising Prohibition Bill 2019 (Notice 21/8/19) 1. Constitution Amendment (Restoration of Oaths of Allegiance) Bill 21/8/19) 20. Summary Offenses Amendment (Full-face Coverings Prohibition) 2012 7. Crimes Amendment (Protection of Foetuses) Bill 2019 (Notice Bill 2019 (Notice 15/10/19) 2. Crimes Amendment (Provocation) Bill 2014 20/6/19) 21. Summary Offences Amendment (Prohibition on Payment for Sex) 3. Crimes Legislation Amendment (Possession of Knives in Public) Bill 8. Crimes Amendment (Zoe’s Law) Bill 2019 (Notice 6/8/19) Bill 2019 (Notice 17/9/19) FRED NILE’S PARLIAMENTARY UPDATE
This section will be updated with Rev Nile’s recent parliamentary Speeches in the Legislative Council: Questions to the Government: activity. Older item will be removed from the end of each list as new (21/11/19) Christmas Felicitations (21/11/19) Industry and Trade - Water Licenses in NSW ones are added to them at the top. Press Releases are listed in descending (20/11/19) In Cmte. Children’s Guardian Bill 2019 date order and copies can be found on
11 FAMILY WORLD NEWS December 2019AD Same-sex unions divide church SPECIAL ISSUE: “the celebration of christmas: the virgin birth of our saviour, our lord jesus christ, the saviour By Jason Gagliardi hold traditional, scriptural views and my church has six services – The Australian September 30, 2019 every Sunday.” of the world (mathiew 1:28-24)” The president of the Uniting Church, Deirdre Palmer, was Uniting Church ministers who oppose same-sex marriage unavailable for comment, but a spokesman for the Uniting Church say they are being “pushed, harassed and bullied” out of the in Australia Assembly and the Synod of Queensland said ministers church by progressives at the helm of Australia’s third-largest and celebrants authorised by the Uniting Church had the freedom to denomination. conduct or to refuse to conduct same-gender marriages. The Reverend Lu Senituli, minister of the Assembly of “They can continue to teach their belief that marriage may only Confessing Congregations of the Uniting Church Sunnybank on be between a man and a woman, and can continue to use a marriage Brisbane’s south side, said a fissure in the church was widening liturgy that reflects that conviction,” the spokesman said. between large conservative congregations such as his mostly “At the same time, we expect all our members to respectfully engage Volume 27 No 12 December 2019 AD $4.00 (incl. GST) Editor-in-Chief Rev. Fred Nile M.L.C. E.D., LTh Tongan church, and inner-city churches and leadership “who with those who may hold different biblical and theological views to want to drive us out to make way for the new church”. their own, and to show respect to LGBTIQ Uniting Church members, Mr Senituli said the issue had come to a head since the “yes” who are full members, exercising a variety of ministries, both ordained vote in the national plebiscite on same-sex marriage. “They are and lay within and through the life of the Uniting Church. using church procedures and withholding of funding and all sorts “All parts of the church are accountable to our governance INSIDE THIS ISSUE of tactics to get us to toe the line,” he said. “I have people sitting and regulations and when matters of concern arise in particular in my congregation taking notes so they can report on me to the congregations, the Uniting Church has systems in place to church and have disciplinary measures enacted against me.” manage those concerns. However, the Uniting Church says ministers have freedom to “The matters raised with The Australian are known to the refuse to conduct same-sex marriages and can continue to teach their Uniting Church and are being addressed through appropriate belief that marriage may only be between a man and a woman. processes, with ongoing consultation and support provided to the Mr Senituli’s church is a member of a breakaway body in congregations. They are entirely unrelated to the minister’s or the the Uniting Church established in 2004 called the Assembly of congregation’s Christian understanding of marriage.” Confessing Congregations, set up for congregations that reject the Mr Senituli’s church adopted its current name last month, progressive line on accepting gay clergy and same-sex marriage. changing its signage from Sunnybank Uniting Church in defiance of “The church now has two faith statements, or integrities on church leadership to make clear its opposition to same-sex marriage marriage,” Mr Senituli said. and as a protest against allegedly being bullied on the issue. “One is that marriage is between a man and a woman, as The national chairman of the Assembly of Confessing according to holy scripture. But the second integrity is the Congregations, Hedley Fihaki, backed Mr Senituli’s claims, covenant of love between two persons, regardless of sex. saying about 150 of the Uniting Church’s 800 congregations “In practice it’s impossible to live our faith under these two were ACC members. integrities as they are contradictory. When a minister makes a He said ACC assemblies that had changed signs and logos statement to a presbytery to say we will not celebrate same-sex to distinguish themselves from progressive congregations had marriage, from that point the presbyteries, the regional body, received letters warning them they would no longer be under the begin to put the pressure on in every way. protection of the church for issues such as insurance. “They start turning off the funding tap if you don’t toe the line. “The Uniting Church doesn’t see the dilemma we are in. The Life becomes extremely difficult. Regional bodies are working push to embrace diversity is an oxymoron, the two statements in collusion with liberals in congregations who find orthodox on marriage — you can’t have these two doctrines co-existing preaching offensive. together, in our opinion,” Dr Fihaki said. “I was removed from the national body on doctrine because “The Bible is very clear on this. Assembly doesn’t get why my views didn’t represent the diversity of the Uniting Church. we can’t exist in this diversity framework. They are forcing us to But I represent a thriving church with hundreds of members who accept it, but we can’t.”
Fred and Silvana in white hats leading Melbourne Holy City March
The Celebration of Christmas is the WHY IS Fred Nile On Celebrating Christmas: occasion to celebrate IT 2019? at 85 Christmas the Virgin Birth of the Virgin Birth of our our Saviour Saviour Jesus Christ, the By By John By Saviour of the World Rev Dr Peter Sandeman Peter Rahme By Rev Dr Ross Barnes Clifford By archBishop Pages 5,6 Page 9 High Court Judge Justice Kirby Governor General David John Hurley, Najarian Page 4 at ACM Annual Forum, NSW AC, DSC, FTSE addressing Prayer Pages 1,4 Parliament House Professor David Flint ACM Chairman Breakfast, Federal Parliament House Page 1