BI-MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE STATE OF NEW SOUTH WALES AND THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

THE ACT CONNECTION: Our ministries in Canberra, Tuggeranong and Gungahlin

NATIONAL REDRESS SCHEME: FROM THE BIBLE: PCNSW/ACT opts in Peter Barnes continues with Elijah

FREEDOM OF RELIGION: PLUS: Book reviews, interviews, Special report from John McClean news from our churches and more

“GLORIFYING AND ENJOYING GOD AS CHRIST-LIKE COMMUNITIES TRANSFORMING OUR NEIGHBOURHOODS, OUR NATION AND OUR WORLD.” MAY - JUNE 2019 EDITORIAL NEWS

Bi-monthly magazine of The Presbyterian Church in the State of New South Wales and PCNSW opts in to National Redress Scheme the Australian Capital Territory. Editorial WITH JEOF FALLS PUBLISHER: THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (New South Wales) Property Trust

EDITOR IN CHIEF: JEOFFREY FALLS [email protected] Welcome to this edition of the As the apostle Paul wrote in Ro- EDITOR/JOURNALIST: KAREN FORMAN Pulse magazine. mans, “So then, each of us will 0437 591 581 give an account of ourselves to [email protected] As you will read on page three, God” (Romans 14:12). Let us our church, like all churches do so graciously and joyously PROOF READER (HON): and other faith-based institu- in the Lord. BETTY THOMPSON tions across Australia, is held accountable by government for the In this edition, apart from our As part of its commitment to respond to the recommen- “Children are now taught and empowered from a young age CIRCULATION: quality and integrity of services pro- regular communications from our dations of the Royal Commission into Institutional Child to come forward. Schools and churches now listen. Schools SUZANNE JENSEN vided to aged people in our care. We are various General Assembly committees Sexual Abuse, the Federal Government has established the and church staff and volunteers are taught what to look out for. (02) 9690 9311 also held accountable for not keeping all and news from our churches and min- National Redress Scheme which commenced on July 1 last Over-familiarity, favouritism, and inappropriate relationships [email protected] children in our care safe from abuse. istries, we are bringing to our readers a year and will run for 10 years. are being identified and reported.” story on the ministry of our Churches in DESIGN: On behalf of the Trustees and our Church the Australian Capital Territory. Conduct Protocol Unit (CPU) Director, Jon Flood, said the BEN DAVIS With reference to the Royal Commission’s Final Information Update as a whole, I can assure all members at- in December 2017, during the Royal Commission’s five-year inquiry: Church was committed to understand and apply the lessons of www.benrdavis.com tending our churches; all staff and stu- [email protected] Some readers may not realise that the the Royal Commission. dents in our schools; all staff and custom- Presbyterian churches and facilities in the • nearly 17,000 people contacted the Commission within its Terms ers in aged care; and parents of all children PRINTING AND DISTRIBUTION: Australian Capital Territory come under of Reference; “In particular, we have implemented strategies aimed at creat- SIGNS PUBLISHING in our care in some way, that we do not the same governance accountability of • nearly 8000 individuals made submissions in private sessions; ing child safe churches, schools and ministry activities involving seek to abrogate this accountability in any the General Assembly as do all churches • over 1300 individuals provided written accounts; and children and ensuring that children are able to express concerns Registered by Australia Post way. We are called to be accountable for and facilities in New South Wales. • the Royal Commission referred over 2500 matters to police. about safety and disclose harm,’’ he said. PP2455550/00020 our past decisions and current actions in Of the 58.1 per cent of survivors who said that the abuse took an Australian society that is becoming When visiting Canberra, we encourage Mr Falls and Mr Flood are members of the NSW Child Safety The Pulse is an internal publication of the place in an institution managed by a religious organisation, 2.8 increasingly sceptical and less trusting of our readers to visit St Andrew’s Pres- Standing Committee for Survivor and Faith Groups, which is a Presbyterian Church of Australia in New per cent said they experienced abuse in a ‘Presbyterian or Re- Churches than in the past. byterian Church in Forrest, or one of NSW State government committee that is developing require- South Wales and the Australian Capital Ter- formed’ religious institution (from 40 separate religious institu- ments and recommendations for implementing Child Safe Stan- ritory. We do not accept paid advertising. its preaching places in Belconnen or Like the Church as a whole, every per- tions using this nomenclature). dards in support of the work of the Office of Children’s Guardian. The Pulse is a forum for sharing ideas and Weston Creek, or New Life Presbyterian son is called to be accountable to oth- encouraging outreach to our local commu- in Gungahlin or Tuggeranong Presbyte- nities, our nation, and the world. ers in some way. Husbands and wives This equates to about 130 survivors across Australia, from 40 If you have been sexually abused in any way or know someone rian Church. are accountable to be faithful to each separate institutions. who has, they encourage you to seek help. Contact Jon Flood on GENERAL MANAGER: other. Children are called to be ac- 02 9690 9333, to have a confidential discussion. David Campbell at St Andrew’s, Russell JEOFFREY FALLS countable in their obedience to parents. This is not to suggest that a greater number of survivors may not Smidt at Gungahlin and Peter Gobbo at Employees are called to be accountable eventually make a claim through the National Redress Scheme Tuggeranong are busy bringing the word STATE MODERATOR: to their employers. Church members as many survivors may not have made a private submission or ROYAL COMMISSION INTO AGED CARE of the Lord to the people of the Austra- KAMAL WEERAKOON are called to help other believers to submitted a written report. QUALITY AND SAFETY lian Capital Territory and growing the be accountable for their behaviours. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety was 168 Chalmers St Church in their own distinctive ways. PCNSW/ACT General Manager, Jeof Falls, confirmed “the Pres- established on October 8 last year and commenced public hear- Surry Hills NSW 2010 Having a relationship with the Lord Je- byterian Church in New South Wales and the Australian Capital PO Box 2196 St Andrew’s Canberra is a more tradi- ings in February. An interim report is due in October 2019 with sus Christ doesn’t insulate the Church Territory was working through the process of opting-in to the a final report due by April 2020. Strawberry Hills NSW 2012 or any of its institutions from being held tional congregation, based out of the National Redress Scheme. Phone: 1300 773 774 architecturally impressive St Andrew's appropriately accountable for their ac- Presbyterian Aged Care (New South Wales) and St Andrew’s Fax: (02) 9310 2148 Church in the city. Gungahlin is focused tions and behaviours. In fact it heightens “Institutions have two years to opt-in to the Scheme, and we are Village (Canberra) have responded to the Royal Commission's Email: [email protected] on growing its premises and ministering www.pcnsw.org.au our obligation even more. hoping that for us in New South Wales and the ACT this will be request for information sent to all aged care providers. to a population that comprises many finalised over the next few months,’’ he said. The views and opinions expressed in The Both corporately and individually, the diplomats and Australian Defence per- The Chief Executive Officer of Presbyterian Aged Care, Paul Presbyterian Pulse do not necessarily rep- Bible contains many passages about sonnel who come and go with their fam- Mr Falls said survivors of historical sexual abuse could also ap- Sadler, has welcomed the Royal Commission as an opportunity resent those of the Presbyterian Church of the importance of accountability in our ilies. Tuggeranong is a growing ministry proach the Church directly for redress and could be assured for older people and families to express their concerns and sug- Australia in the State of NSW (Church) and walk with God, including: and is praying for a permanent home in that they will be dealt with in a sensitive and compassionate way. gestions for improvement. the Church is not responsible for the ac- the south of Canberra. curacy, currency or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information 1. We are accountable for every word “The Church acknowledges and accepts the extraordinary “Serving our aged residents and home care clients is a privilege contained therein. we speak; We would like to thank the three min- amount of trust granted to us by those who attend our schools, for the Church, and a wonderful ministry opportunity to share 2. We are accountable for how we live isters for giving our Editor Karen their churches and ministries, by their families, and by the wider Christ through our Chaplains and Christian staff,’’ he said. COVER: St Andrew's Church Canberra min- our lives; time when she went to visit and ask that community,’’ he said. isters David Campbell and Robert McMullen 3. We are accountable to keep our chil- our readers pray for their ministries. who with their Gungahlin and Tuggeranong Should you or a family member have any concerns about the colleagues are sharing God's Word in the dren safe; and “We cannot change what happened to those abused, but we quality of care or safety provided by any Presbyterian Aged Care ACT. Although a Territory of its own, the ACT 4. We are accountable to help others Grace and peace, can assure them that much has changed to make our schools, home or service, please do not hesitate to contact Olivia Wood, is part of the PCNSW. Full story pages 9-11. grow in their knowledge of Christ. Jeof Falls churches and ministries safer. PAC Director Care & Quality on (02) 9690 9333.

2 The 2Pulse THE PULSE THE PULSE 3 NEWS NEWS Alf awarded for his Charlestown Farewells Moderator visits new service to Lismore the Galvins Scots All Saints Photo and story Doug Eaton Bathurst

Scots All Saints College was pleased to have GANSW/ACT Moderator Rev Kamal Weerakoon visit all three campuses of Scots All Saints College recently.

Mr Weerakoon spoke at the Senior Campus to academic staff Moderator Kamal Weerakoon interacts with the junior school stu- dents at Scots Bathurst. about education as a part of the Reformed tradition. Visiting the Junior/Middle School, Mr Weerakoon said he had He also spoke to students at all weekly chapel services and gave a a good time engaging with the students, and thought they un- message from Colossians 1:15-20 of how we meet God in Jesus, derstood he was encouraging them to see Jesus was a good king, who is supreme over all creation and who came to give up His “because he makes peace between God and us’’. life that we might be welcomed into God’s family. “Chaplain Gittins spent a lot of time telling me what to expect During Chapel and in the playground the students enjoyed hav- from each group of students, and helping me to craft my presen- ing the chance to talk to the Moderator of the PCNSW/ACT and tation so it was appropriate for their age and stage of life. I'm not asked him some insightful questions. a trained teacher, so I really appreciated his help.

The elders on Todd’s last Sunday (from left) Ross Logan, Steve Gillard, The Moderator was impressed with the school. Stephen Taylor, Todd Galvin, Rob Hearn, Dave Wigney. “The students asked good questions. There was a really good one Alf Smith (pictured) has been awarded the Seniors Local Achieve- from one Year Seven boy about the historicity of Jesus. I hope ment Award in Lismore in recognition of longtime service to the “The facilities are great. I was impressed with the classroom he keeps up his curiosity and finds out more about how we can Presbyterian Church and Pastoral Care and support to locals. Charlestown Presbyterian Church farewelled the Galvins in March after nearly 10 years of ministry. equipment and also the large playground and the play equip- really know about the real Jesus. ment,” he said. “It's great to see how much the teachers care for Alf has served the Presbyterian Church for many years. His the children. I can see it in the way they interact with them.” “Mr Jackman (Head of Middle School) took me around the Mid- achievements include: At a lunch in Todd and Karen’s honour a number of small ob- jects were presented to them that represented what their minis- dle School and showed me some of the facilities and introduced He said the children were obviously happy and well cared for. • Being appointed to the committee of Management in 1994; try meant to the Church. me to some of the students during recess. • Inducted as an Elder in 1998; “They were very well behaved, and enthusiastic to talk with me when I joined them in the playground for lunch. They told me “I asked the students how they feel about the merger between • Appointed Acting Session Clerk in 2009; and Objects included a compass (helping us go in the right direc- • Appointed Session Clerk in 2010. about their favourite subjects - some of them said it was maths the two schools. One of them said "it was a little hard at first but tion), coffee and coffee mugs (the times spent counselling and - and then told me about their pet puppies.” now that we've made friends with each other it's getting better". planning), a servant heart, a flip calendar, tips for social media Alf still holds the latter role today. (Todd always struggled in that area!), a music stand (their love As and elder, Alf, in the absence of the minister, has conducted of music), a bag of lollies (in memory of the annual Gingerbread Church Services, Funerals and also assisted with the Lord's Sup- House outreach night) and board games (for the kids). Vale June Angus per at the Church. A collage of photos of people from the Church over the last 10 Well known PCNSW/ACT volunteer Her co-workers Alf visits elderly people in hospital and Aged Care Facilities of- years and a painting of Redhead Beach was also given to them as June May Angus OAM passed away describe her as a fering Pastoral Care and support to the sick and their families. a going away present. on March 19 aged 90 years. woman who was “always full of ideas

for State Council, Alf also received recognition for celebrating 50 years of provid- Charlestown wishes Todd all the best as he begins a new minis- June, late of Lugarno and formerly of ing First Aid and CPR Training to the community. try in prison chaplaincy job at Nowra jail in April. Dorcas, Market and Penshurst, was involved with the Pres- Heritage.’’ byterian Church for many years and was The late June Angus (centre), pictured with her PWA friends, leaves a lasting legacy. involved on many committees. Anne Ball, now head of the Heri- brating 100th anniversary of the crossing She was passionate about her family, local tage Committee, says these included Park of the Blue Mountains in 1813 and a “Mu- riel” wax doll that had to be restored now church, PWA, State Council and committees Patrol, PWA calendar, Associate members about 120 years old. and their members, but most of all her God. register, Market signature cloth, crest stick- ers, wee coin collections, entertainment Women After at market, Scottish dancing, fire engines, “She organised Heritage displays for fed- With her husband, who passed away in the vintage cars, tartan and red /white/blue eral conferences, Muriel’s birthday par- 1990s, she had two children - Dianne and themes, Market soldiers on and musical ty, fashion parades and ‘what ever hap- God's Own Heart Bruce - and was mother in law to Keith afternoons to name a few. pened to hats’ etc.’’ and Michelle, grandmother of Ben, Emi- ly, Rebecca, Matthew, Lauren and Katelyn “June brought many prize winning dolls Anne says June was always a good debat- PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION FEDERAL CONFERENCE KEYNOTE SPEAKER: ANNA MOSS and great grandmother of Lewis and Luke. and toys and did talks about them at lo- er at conferences and meetings. She said: cal churches to raise funds for Market “You speak your mind and views on a 9:45AM FOR 10AM, SEPTEMBER 9 · PCNSW CHURCH OFFICES, LEVEL 1, 168 CHALMERS ST, SURRY HILLS NSW subject even if it is not the same as your She served on the following commit- and PWA. HEAR UPDATES FROM AUSTRALIAN PRESBYTERIAN WORLD MISSION AND PRESBYTERIAN INLAND MISSION. friend’s, then after the debate is over, what- tees: Market (treasurer 1975-77), Dorcas “With Heritage she was a ‘bower bird’ and ever the result you are still good friends”. ALL WOMEN WELCOME (Convener) (1978-80’s), State President people loved to give her items for the col- (1994-97), State treasurer (1980s), Federal lection, for example “Connie Wilson jew- “June stirred me on her passion about treasurer (19080’s) and inaugural Heritage ellery”, Mary Reiby cloak, bed pan with PWA, Market and Heritage. I hope this Convener (1994-2006). instructions for use, jug and tea pot cele- also stirs you.’’

4 THE PULSE THE PULSE 5 ETHICS MODERATOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM GROWING IN IMPORTANCE FROM THE MODERATOR, WITH KAMAL WEERAKOON JOHN MCCLEAN Blessed Are the Peacemakers: A Response to Tim Dixon’s 2019 Richard Johnson Lecture

ohn McClean argues that in a world Increasing numbers of countries Secularists often treat religion as ne of the many fun things Christian faithfulness has always So, we have at least four distinctively of increasing religious complexity, have high or very high levels of if it can be isolated into private I get to do as Moderator required the courage to put Jesus Christian anchor points to dialogue with Christians have a robust basis for government restriction on reli- realms. Christians know that reli- is attend public events to above personal peace and comfort. non-Christians about where we come defending religious freedom for all, gion. Pew Research reports that gion is a communal and public ac- hear community leaders from (creation); what’s wrong with the while secularism doesn’t even un- in 2016, 83 countries (42 per cent) tivity. That is part of why religion discussing the state of But that’s not what Tim meant. He world (sin); how to fix it (Christ); and derstand the issues. matters to people — it helps make J had high or very high levels of Oour society. I’ve just been to hear meant we Christians have an op- where we’re going (final judgment). us who we are, together. overall restrictions on religion Tim Dixon, former advisor to Aus- portunity to be “peacemakers who The secularist narrative has it wrong, JOHN MCCLEAN KAMAL from government or non-govern- tralia’s first woman Prime Minister sow in peace” in hope of a “harvest As Christians, we can speak to people again. Instead of dying out, religion is ment groups. This has increased The secular view often treats re- WEERAKOON more and more important in the 21st Julia Gillard, deliver the 2019 Rich- of righteousness” (James 3:18). We with a disarmingly calm confidence. As from 80 in 2015 and 58 in 2007. ligions as if they are all much the century. same. Christians know that is not the ard Johnson Lecture on ‘Building can model a confident yet calm approach Protestants, we hold to justification by case. There is an immense difference be- Bridges in an Age of Tribalism’. which might appeal to the exhausted faith alone. Jesus Christ has, by his death Religion and religious tension have al- There is also increase of political parties tween knowing the true and living God and resurrection, done everything neces- and nationalist organisations which tar- middle. And we can do so not despite, ways been part of human life. This has through his Son Jesus Christ, and any This annual lecture is one of the many ex- but precisely because of, our distinctive sary to bring us back to God. All we have been heightened by large scale, long dis- get minority religious groups with their other religious expression. We also recog- cellent ministries of the Centre for Public to do is trust him. This gives us assurance rhetoric. Christian faith. tance mass migration; the end of western nise the substantial differences between Christianity – check them out at https:// – rightful confidence, not in ourselves, colonialism; increased international mo- non-Christian religions. It is impossible www.publicchristianity.org/. but in God’s kindness, and the effective- Contemporary secularism is ill-equipped Tim briefly mentioned the Trinity, the bility; the rise of ‘no religion’ in the West; to fit religion into a neat box. Every reli- ness of Christ’s sacrifice for us. and the globalisation of media, including to handle religious complexity. Christi- Christian doctrine of reconciliation, and gious community should be permitted to Tim observed how various social forces of course, social media. anity is far better positioned to both un- express its own traditions. the fact that the glorious new creation is – the internet and social media, nation- Protestant confidence should be unex- derstand religious diversity and support a vision of people from every tribe and alism, identity politics, religious violence, pectedly kind and gentle. One of the rea- The result is that more than ever, people religious freedom. Christians recognise that no-one can co- nation (Rev 7:9). To this I would add the etc - make it feel like society is fracturing at sons society feels so fragmented is that of different religions and no religion live erce genuine religious expression. This is Christian view of human solidarity, and side by side, (physically and digitally) and one of the distinctive views of Christiani- both a local and global level. confidence has become associated with The starting point of all Christian thought the distinctively Protestant doctrine of interact in business, sport and politics. ty. Religion is shared by families and com- arrogance. Protestant confidence is hum- about society is to affirm the value and justification by faith alone. dignity of all people. Martyn Iles, director munities. But that’s not the whole story. But he showed us research which demon- ble. We’re not good; Jesus is good. We’re In Australia, our population is growing of the Australian Christian Lobby, made strates that the loud, aggressive factions not wise; Jesus is wise. We don’t have the The Biblical view of humanity is, to quote through immigration from Asia and the this point in his blog a few days after the Everyone is responsible for their own re- are actually the minority. In the middle answers; Jesus does. Middle East with corresponding increases in Christchurch massacre. sponse to God, and he grants everybody are what he called the “exhausted majori- the movie High School Musical, that Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim communities. the possibility to seek him and know ty” – a large group of people who are sick “we’re all in this together”. Jesus said peacemakers would be “bless- him. The flip side is that a so-called ‘faith’ Shocked by some reactions to the shoot- of all the shouting, and just want a peace- ed” (Matt 5:9). And the content of that In many nations of the East and Middle which is coerced, or merely traditional For all the wonderful variety of humanity, East the gospel is growing remarkably, ing, he argued that the gospel of grace ful life. blessing was to be called “sons of God”. is not genuine. Biblical Christianity sup- we have at least four things in common: and the Christian population is increas- means that we can never think of our- ports religious freedom. ing; and that is reflected in certain parts selves as better or more deserving than This desire for peace can stop people God made us all equal in his image; we’re Children image their parents. Let’s show of Australia as well. anyone else. From that basis, biblical Christians also know that religion can go from following Jesus. He “did not come all equally guilty for turning away from the world God’s peace. Chat with people Christianity offers a far better basis for terribly wrong. Dan Strange argues that to bring peace, but a sword” (Matt 10:34; him; he offers Christ to everyone equally; about the difference Jesus makes. And do Regarding religious conflict, consider just freedom of religion. non-Christian religions are “collective and check out the context of Matt 10:32- and we’ll all stand before Christ for his fi- so with the calm confidence which itself a few recent international news stories: human idolatrous responses” to God, 42, it makes Jesus’ claim even more stark). nal judgment. points to Christ’s peace. • Muslim violence against Christians in Nigeria; Secularists assume that religion is dying influenced by “deceiving demonic forc- • Hindu violence against Muslims and out because humans can happily exist es” (D. Strange, Their Rock is Not Like Christians in India; without a spiritual dimension. Christians Our Rock, Zondervan, 2015, p.42). So, • Pakistani Christian woman Asia Bibi know this isn’t true. People are naturally all religion that is not based on Christ CONTINUED FROM P.6 normative in the world today” (T.S. Shah, Christianity offers a firm basis for free- charged with blasphemy finally released, religious. is a distortion and deception. Religion RELIGIOUS FREEDOM GROWING “Christianity and Freedom” Christianity dom of religion, for all religions. Christian which was followed by protests and can be implicated in terrible anti-human IN IMPORTANCE and Freedom Volume 1, Cambridge Uni- faith, by its nature, means that Christians threats of violence; Even when we reject the existence of any abuse – and Christianity is not immune Yet, under pressure and persecution, versity Press, 2016, p. 1). can’t simply claim our own freedoms, but • conflict between Sunni and Shia Muslims supernatural being, we end up worship- from that. Suppression, and the resulting Christianity has generated many of the have to extend those same freedoms to across the Middle East; ing something or someone. By excluding secrecy, increases the danger of abusive key ideas for modern views of freedom. Christianity is a missionary faith and wel- other religions as well. • the role of ‘evangelicals’ in US politics; spiritual reality, the materialist worldview religion. It is far better to allow religious Timothy Samuel Shah, who was Director comes the opportunity to understand and • shootings in a synagogue in Pittsburgh; engage with the beliefs and practices of In the days after the Christchurch mas- is inherently dissatisfying. expression and to regulate features which for International Research at the Religious • shootings in a mosque in Christchurch; other faiths. When Paul visited the mar- sacre, citizens flooded into Hagley threaten the common good than to drive Freedom Research Project at Georgetown • the arrest of Christian pastors and de- it underground. ket place of Athens, his distress at their Park, across the road from the Al Noor struction of churches in China; It underlies much of the loss of meaning University in the US, writes: “Christians idolatrous religions did not stop him un- mosque. They mourned the deaths, but • accusations of anti-Semitism in the La- and purpose in the Western world. In fact, Christianity has often been a minority, on the receiving end of severe social and derstanding their religions well enough to also showed their support for the Mus- bour party in the UK; the decline in Christian faith in the West persecuted religion. It has also been the political pressure, have made crucial con- use them in his presentation of Christ as lim community and their determination • re-education of Muslim minorities in China; hasn’t led to less interest in spirituality, but persecutor - and sometimes both at the tributions to the introduction and devel- the risen Lord. Missionary Christianity to protect them and their worship. That • the collapse of the religiously diverse Syria to an explosion of different religious and same time! opment of many of the most important does not suppress, but thoughtfully en- should be the Christian instinct. Not to into a series of warring factions; and spiritual options. Trying to ignore or sup- principles and practices of freedom that gages with, non-Christian religions. join the prayers, but to protect the right • growing Muslim identity in Turkey. press this is counter-productive. CONTINUED ON P.7 are influential and widely considered to say them.

6 THE PULSE THE PULSE 7 ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE FEATURE FOCUS ON OUR COMMITTEES: M&M The Pulse continues to report on As- Paul will be engaging with ministry per- menting the recommendations flowing sembly committees, with the focus sonnel around the state and helping the from the consultancy process. this edition on Ministry and Mission. M&M Committee strengthen its range North, south and middle: in this area. LEADERSHIP PROGRAM: ACT churches have Canberra covered with God’s word The Ministry and Mission Committee The M&M Committee is pleased to be exists to advance the formation, staffing Current resources to assist ministry fam- an active partner with Christ College and flourishing of healthy, multiplying ilies include the following: in the operation of the Leadership De- Presbyterian churches. PCNSW stands for Presbyterian Church of NSW, right? Yes, but did you know that PCNSW also governs · We are able to provide velopment Centre. To emphasize the fully-funded individu- importance that M&M places on good Presbyterian churches and facilities in the Australian Capital Territory? KAREN FORMAN spent some To achieve this purpose leadership, the Committee subsidises the the Committee has al or family counselling time “interstate’’ to learn about the ministries of NSW’s ACT brothers and sisters. for our ministry families participation of home missionaries un- a particular focus on on a confidential basis, dertaking the course. church revitalisation, principally through Jeri- church planting and cho Road’s Presbyterian The majestic building that houses St An- Gungahlin and Tuggeranong are two of of this magazine, David prefers the for- the welfare of ministe- CHURCH HEALTH SURVEY: Counselling Service; drew’s Presbyterian Church Canberra five satellites of Canberra, along with mal clerical collar, while Robert favours rial personnel and their This is a survey tool which can be used cannot be missed as you drive into Can- Woden, Weston Creek and Belconnen casual wear. families. · We also have resourc- by churches at any time to gather data berra city, visible even before the land- and the churches have ministries in es to provide for specific from the congregation and then assess marks the Australian Capital Territory is those areas. Together, they provide a wide-rang- CHURCH PLANTING: needs as they arise and the wellbeing of the congregation in or- best known for – Parliament House, Lake ing ministry to the people of Canber- can assist with the reso- der to make realistic plans for its growth Burley Griffin and the National Museum. Unfortunately, the “ACT’’ is sometimes ra, a city located in the northern of the Planting new churches and effective leadership. is one of the most effec- lution of related welfare left off or forgotten about when the ACT 280km south west of Sydney and issues; With a combination of neo-gothic and PCNSW is mentioned, but the min- 660km north east of Melbourne, with a tive strategies we have The survey can be downloaded, printed for reaching unbeliev- modern architecture, the “big church on isters of the three churches aren’t too population of 410,301. It is Australia's · The Committee works and completed manually, or it can be ers with the gospel. Re- the corner’’, which, with the addition of concerned. They are simply too busy to largest inland city and the eighth-larg- with the CPU to assist completed online. The data is then pro- search shows that new the nave was completed on September 22 really notice as the Pulse found when we est city overall, Australia’s capital and when cases of domestic cessed by Church Offices and reported in churches are more like- an easy-to-understand format. 1979, certainly cannot be missed and is went to visit! seat of government and has always had a and family violence arise an important part of the Australian capi- multi-cultural flavor. ly to reach new people. among ministry families; tal city’s skyline. While David, Russell Smidt at Gungah- and The anonymity of participants is protect- We thank God that ed at all times. lin and Peter Gobbo at Tuggeranong Robert joined St Andrew’s in January last year after graduating from Belfast we have recently seen · The Committee also Aside from helping make the city’s concede that they have thought about the new churches at facilitates the well-be- To access the survey go to www. streetscape look good, the church is, ac- whether the ACT should have its own Bible College with a BA Honours in Auburn, Hornsby and ing of ministry families mmpcnsw.org.au where you will find a cording to Minister David Campbell, an Assembly, they have decided that it’s Theology in 2017. Green Square celebrate through the biennial link to the survey on the Presbytery Visi- attractive option for funerals and wed- best they leave things how they are. Even their second birth- Ministers’ Family Camp tations page of the Procedures tab. dings (although weddings have been de- though sometimes it can be challenging. His home church is Hazelbank Presby- days. In the last eighteen months there and the Renewal Retreat Network. Both of creasing in numbers of late, he says, in terian Church in Coleraine, which he have been new Congregations launched these are heavily subsidised by the Com- favour of non-religious ceremonies). “There are some essential differences attended all his life and where he was PEACEMAKING: heavily involved in a number of areas, at Goonellabah (planted out of South- mittee in the hope that they will benefit caused by different governments and Conflict within our Congregations is including working with the young peo- ern Cross), Scots Church (Wynyard), the maximum number of people. But more importantly, St Andrews Can- rules in NSW and the ACT,’’ David says, Thurgoona (planted out of Albury), and heartbreaking and hinders the growth ple and children living in the surround- berra also provides a place of worship for “Mostly to do with SRE. So, when that ing community to establish relationships Rhodes (planted out of Cornerstone). and flourishing of our Churches. These CONSULTANCIES: times of conflict are known to God and 450 or so Christians over two services on comes up at Assembly, it doesn’t re- between them and the Church. Discussions are underway for more Sundays, one on Wednesdays and Indo- ally apply to us. But we are not strong churches to be birthed, both in Sydney When a congregation wants to pursue He sends peacemakers to wisely and lov- nesian services two Sundays a month enough to have our own separate As- He had come on a three-month proba- and in rural NSW. revitalisation and church health, one of ingly seek to reconcile people to each the best things they can do is engage our other and to God. and a meeting place for Bible study sembly. And if we did, I would end up tion in the winter of 2017 then in Janu- Church Consultancy Team. groups, youth ministries, men’s fellow- being Moderator all of the time!’’ ary 2018 took up a two-year contract as CHURCH REVITALISATION: The M&M Committee recognises this ship as well as a library. supervised pastoral assistant. Since then The Committee is renewing its focus on A consultancy can be used to help a church and continues to make available the bib- David Campbell has been the inducted Se- he has pursued home missionary work Church Revitalisation. The Tumut and set its vision and values; to review its health lical peacemaker training that has been a The building is beautiful and command- nior Minister of the Presbyterian Church and is now accredited with Ministry and Wallsend congregations recently presented or direction and determine appropriate re- blessing to so many. ing and plays a major role in Canberra’s of St Andrew’s Canberra since September Mission, which is not linked to his work proposals that resulted in those churches sponses; to face changing circumstances; skyline, but it is not, “the church’’. David 2014, having previously been the Minis- at St Andrew’s. being recognised as revitalisation projects. and to address periods of difficulty. PLEASE PRAY: is adamant that it is the people who come ter of St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in We are hoping to develop a similar suite to St Andrews who make up “the church’’, Newcastle NSW for almost 14 years. In Canberra, he does a lot of work with Please pray that God will raise up labour- of supports and partnerships to assist rec- Unlike the typical corporate consultancy along with those who attend two satellite ers equipped for, and passionate about, youth and David says he is gifted in ognised revitalisation churches. where someone comes in from the out- charges in Belconnen and Weston Creek. He is a native of Northern Ireland, where the challenge of gospel ministry, church youth ministries. side and tells the organisation what to do, he grew up in a farming community in the Church Consultancy Team’s strategy planting, and church revitalisation. WELLBEING OF MINISTRY FAMILIES: Together, they make up one of three pas- County Londonderry. revolves around drawing out responses When David arrived in September 2014, The Ministry and Mission Committee from the congregation and its leaders. Pray too for M&M staff team as they serve toral charges in the ACT, with Gungah- he inherited a church he says was ageing, is concerned with the well-being of our Presbyterian congregations around NSW. lin in the north and Tuggeranong in the Interestingly, David’s assistant minister traditional, and didn’t have much of an ministry personnel and their families. All of our consultancies will engage a south completing the trio. Robert McMullan also hails from North- emphasis on youth work. That’s where Healthy leaders are crucial to the develop- wide group of people from the congre- (Matt Oates – Superintendent; John Ir- ern Ireland (Coleraine in County Lon- Robert, he says, is invaluable. ment of healthy churches. The Committee gation in setting the direction for change vin – Associate Superintendent; Paul They all then come under the Canberra Pres- donderry), so a conversation involving recently welcomed Rev. Paul McKendrick and renewal. By owning the objectives McKendrick – Associate Superinten- bytery, which is a part of the “Presbyterian the pair of them has an interesting lilt! “Robert runs a midweek mid-teens group onto the team as Associate Superinten- of the consultancy we believe congrega- dent for Healthy Pastoral Ministry; Lani Church of New South Wales and the Austra- The pair are also somewhat of a contrast and we do a joint youth event incorporat- dent for Healthy Pastoral Ministry. tions are then more committed to imple- Zaragoza – Administrative Assistant). lian Capital Territory’’ (PCNSW/ACT). in their attire. As seen on the front cover ed with Jericho Road,’’ David says.

8 THE PULSE THE PULSE 9 FEATURE FEATURE

Tuggeranong ministers Peter Gobbo and Dave Brookes talk ministry over coffee. New Life Gungahlin congregation overflowing at the seams. They hope to have their own church building in the near future.

“The Church has changed significantly, sionate minister Russell Smidt explains, Russell says the church, which has a sub religious groups so we are using a per- The church has 130 participants in his Both ministers say Canberra is the most with greater ethnic diversity. We have Indo- it is a very different church with a very urban, community feel, caters to a fast forming arts centre. We now have the morning services including kids and 20 to secular city in the country and a hard nesian services on the fourth Sunday of the different demographic. Its main goal is to growing, transient population and has former Harrison congregation here, on 30 in the evenings, ages from babies to 96. city for churches – and getting tougher. month and our average attendance has gone plant as many churches in the suburbs of outgrown its building, so uses the school Sunday afternoons. We have now aban- “Mostly we are young families; we don’t up from that demographic. Gungahlin as possible. hall next door. doned church plants in schools and have have the defence force like Gungahlin “The government are planning in 2019 to look at other venues’’ does,’’ Peter says. to remove all religious chaplains from “We also have in our congre- “We opened the church government schools and replace them gation people from the em- building in 2001 with a con- Looking ahead, Russell is focused on “As time has gone on, Dave has joined bassies and here on overseas gregation of 30, having built with their own. We are unsure if the keeping the congregation growing in as associate minister after exiting from postings, along with the new it on land leased for 99 years government will one day not allow re- number and deeper in relationship with Carringbah in Sydney and we try to ligious groups to use schools which will Governor General, David from the government with a do our ministries under `Know Christ, Hurley. People like Ian Biggs, God. He has spent the past three years make it harder to find a venue to meet,’’ view to expansion,’’ he says. Love Christ, Share Christ’. the Australian Ambassador as Moderator at Argyle Home Mission Peter says. to Iran come . . . in fact I paid “We paid off the loan 18 Station (Goulburn, an hour away) and “We have no other paid staff, but have him a pastoral visit in Tehran months ago and now are ne- plans to stay where he is - “this is where There is a high average wage; people our people in various roles, have eight last year. gotiating over a vacant block we need to be’’. are financially well off. But on the other next door, hoping we can growth groups including one young adult, a youth group run by David, a hand, it’s what makes ministry here so “We have young families, a purchase it and build a 300- exciting. We just trust the same things as kids' church, people from Af- number of people going up to PY (Pres- seat auditorium.’’ TUGGERANONG Paul did, in the Gospel. rica and the Middle East, a byterian Youth) as leaders.’’ Chinese group . . . I went to New Life, he says, was a “very The Pulse’s meeting with Tuggeranong David has brought ESL (English as a Sec- “We are trying to reach new people, but Bible Study one evening and small place with a massive minister Peter Gobbo and his offsid- all the people there were from ond Language) classes to the church and the challenge is in creating forums for that vision, greater than really er Dave Brookes takes place not in a Egypt and Brazil! Sunday is achieveable, that had result- works with refugees. Tuggeranong has a to happen. We don’t want to settle for hor- church, but in their favourite coffee shop a very exciting day for this ed from a reasonably happy MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) chap- izontal growth. We want new blood.’’ in the lively shopping centre, where they church. I’ve never encoun- church split from Belconnen.’’ ter and the church provides a communi- tered such diversity.’’ say “much ministry is done!’ ty kitchen, comprising free meals to the David has done some walk up evange- “We have 300 in our congregation and “A small group of 20 people decided to needy, once every four weeks. lism, asking people what their content- Tuggeranong is the southernmost town David says despite its physical stature; in five years I have pastored 800 different head north, rented a shipping container ment levels are from one to 10. people see St Andrews as a community people; it is very diverse with people al- and met in homes, school halls, with no centre of Canberra, comprising 19 sub- “MOPS and the community kitchen ways coming and going,’’ he says. urbs and occupying 117 square kilome- church. “There are so many funerals!’’ minister, no elders until Phil Paul was ap- both use other local church buildings,’’ Church planting isn’t really on the hori- tres east of the Murrumbidgee River. he says. “Several a week. I did six ser- pointed privately, followed by Mark Ad- David says with a grin. zon, although David says Queanbeyan is vices in six days recently. Weddings un- “Because a lot of government workers ams as the first full time minister in 2000. With around 85,000 residents, it is a tra- and diplomats and defence personnel are more or less under Tuggeranong’s wing, fortunately have dropped off.’’ ditional, older style town popular with There is also a Kids' Club, an annual gin- moved on regularly, we find we can lose it might count as one. “New Life was in operation three or four families, once known as “nappy valley’’ gerbread house making event and days to 50 people at a time, but tend to get them The church is challenged, he says, by chang- years before it was recognized as a Presby- – but that is changing, Peter says. produce items for Allowah Presbyterian back by following up new arrivals.’’ “It is a home mission station, 20 minutes es in a few areas of legislation, mostly per- terian Church around 25 years ago.’ Children’s Hospital and meals for refugees. taining to Christian SRE and chaplaincy. Tuggeranong Presbyterian Church does up the road and allows us to minister to Gungahlin was part of the original 1957 These days, New Life runs two Sunday a congregation of about 35.’’ not have a building of its own - “we are “One guy works with troubled kids in a plan for future development in the ACT services for 120 people each and the cur- working on that - our building fund is local school, we have a men’s ministry and in 1991 was officially launched as rent building had become so overcrowd- Three churches; three very different -de open!’’ – but it is very much a church and where once a year we go to Queanbeyan NEW LIFE IN Canberra’s fourth ‘town’ by the ACT ed that morning tea had to be held out- mographics, three different sets of goals. that is clearly evident in chatting with Presbyterian for breakfast.’’ Chief Minister, with just 389 residents. side, which was tricky when it is minus GUNGAHLIN Peter, who is the longest serving Presby- But all linked through their affiliation two degrees in the winter! terian minister in the ACT, having had with the PCNSW/ACT and their com- Meanwhile in the north of the ACT By 2016 the population was 70,871, and it Peter is Interim Moderator at Queanbey- nine years there. mitment to share the word of Jesus. 10km north of Canberra city lies the is expected to rise to 83,167 by next year. Unfortunately, three years ago the op- an (adjoining Canberra but in NSW). town of Gungahlin where New Life Pres- portunity for meeting in schools on The Canberra Presbytery also includes byterian Church operates in a building It now has 17 suburbs and more than Sundays started to close, with the church “We have been meeting at the primary “Although the church is not a building, some nearby NSW churches, including that was originally built as a church hall 120,000 people visit each week to shop, losing access to a meeting place for its school for the past eight years and are some of our ministries would be helped with a view to extension. attend school, work and movies. One church plant in Harrison. blessed to have a good relationship with by having our own premises,’’ he says. Goulburn, Bateman's Bay , Moruya- government department recently relo- the school, but things are changing and “Ideally, that would be a big auditorium Narooma-Tuross Head and Queanbey- In contrast to St Andrew’s, its building cated to Gungahlin, bringing 1,000 pub- “A new government policy meant we are in the first steps of investigating a with room for expansion, a good kitchen an (but this is a story about the ACT is small and homely, but as its very pas- lic servants to the area. schools had to charge $128 per hour for building,’’ he says. and grassy play areas.’’ connection!)

10 THE PULSE THE PULSE 11 Special Feature: PY Special Feature: PY ANGELA AND KYLE TALK PY MENTORING WITH DAVE Changes to SRE (SCHOOL SCRIPTURE) PY runs a mentoring program for its leaders at Winter Camp and Summer Camp. This Summer, PY General Manager David Phillips sat down with a mentor, and Special Religious Education (SRE) experienced teachers can learn with someone who has been mentored for a few years, to see the benefits. is the Department of Education’s something new when reflecting on name for what is commonly how their lesson went. The person known as ‘scripture’ in NSW gov- observing gets to learn as well! ernment schools. Debbie Brooks is an SRE coordi- A couple of the people at church who had been years if you continue with the same people you There have been a number of nator at Narara school and was ob- involved at camps had said: “They’re looking for see them blossom and grow, and see how they’re changes to SRE since the very early served teaching SRE last year. mentors. Would you and David consider coming serving the Lord. days of education where there was to camp as mentors?" to be “not more than one hour” “While having lessons observed You also get to see them go from being campers, of religious instruction every day. can be a little stressful, it is defi- They had had children at camp, and it seemed like and on to internship, then appear as small group Now it is usually between 30 min- nitely a good way to help us focus a lovely way to be involved rather than just drop- leaders, and see them grow in their Christian utes to one hour a week. on what and how we are teaching,’’ ping them off, and picking them up at the end. walk and the way they want to serve. It’s an ab- she says. solute blessing. Other changes include the move They’ve really enjoyed this time. Wouldn’t it be from only Christian classes to FAMILY AFFAIR: THE OHLMUS FAMILY OF MACLEAN PRESBYTERIAN “Everyone can learn something HAVE A PASSION FOR TEACHING SRE. lovely to see what happens? You get to be involved in the activities; they start over 100 different groups ranging new by watching others teach, and THE MENTOR: to confide in you, and share things with you. It’s from single churches to many oth- I have always been encouraged by Chris Quirk had a list of questions to help get a blessing to be able to pray for, support and en- er religions such as Baha’i, Buddhist, and Hindu. my observers. Every class of children is different, and seeing how ANGELA BELL to know people, suggestions of how to know courage them. others teach is very practical and helpful.” people better. Each group that teaches SRE is called a provider and is regis- And to be there if they have issues at the camp. tered with the Department of Education. All teachers are au- Another big change recently has been the move of Murray Nor- It’s been an absolute blessing. You get to know thorised and teach from curriculum that parents can check via man from Presbyterian Youth to CEO of Christian SRE. This young people, and over a course of two to four It’s a lovely time. the school website. saw new research initiated into SRE which shows that “SRE is an important part of the rich tapestry of contemporary Australian The Presbyterian Church has more than 500 authorised volun- society.” teers teaching SRE all over NSW. Kyle is from Western Sydney / Penrith - ex Because people are coming from around NSW, The parliamentary celebration of SRE had a record 500 people Chatswood Presbyterian and has been leading you go in not knowing more than five to 10 peo- This could equate to teaching around 10-20,000 students. It has a attend and the Christian SRE Facebook page has over 28,000 PY camp for four years. He’s had three mentors. ple. Having someone assigned to you to care for wide variety of teachers including some who have been teaching likes. SRE has been visible on buses, and every school in NSW you specifically is a great way of caring for small for decades and those who have just started. Sometimes it even has had brochures delivered to promote SRE. group leaders. runs in families such as in the Ohlmus family from Maclean He has been a part of church missions; evangelistic Presbyterian. Murray says that “young people need the opportunity to explore events at NTE but says there wasn’t a formal men- Having the formal mentoring moves it from a faith, so we need to be praying for our SRE teachers. So, find out toring program set up: or the kind of relationship problem-solving approach to thinking about Mark began teaching SRE fulltime in 1993 at Hurstville Boys who they are in your church and ask how you can pray for them. you would have with your uni staff worker. how you can best serve the campers, how to be and Sydney Technical High Schools. In 1995 he moved to Ma- Why not have a conversation with friends, family and work col- flourishing as a leader. clean on the North Coast where he continues to teach SRE. leagues about SRE, explaining that SRE allows students to ask “PY is unique as the only camp with a formal men- big questions and explore faith for themselves?” THE MENTORED: As a 25 year old, to talk to someone with a cou- Lynda is in her 10th year teaching SRE in partnership with Mark toring program. You usually meet them on train- ple more decades of wisdom is helpful, includ- at Maclean High. An area to pray about for SRE is the changes made to the enrol- KYLE WONG ing day, some three months before camp, where ing seeing the overlap of what it’s like to work in ment process. This hasn’t run as smoothly as it should have and you go through the talks, discussions, if there’s a similar profession; what it’s like being a Dad, a Jasmine enjoys voluntary scripture at Carlton Public School, and many classes haven’t started as early as last year. Please pray that going to be a seminar. You meet, exchange details, husband, and getting more general life wisdom also recently started teaching a class at St George Girls High School. students and SRE teachers will settle in and be looking forward ask for prayer points in the lead up to camp. and insight apart from camp issues, this sup- to their lesson each week. port has been wonderful, and it’s a way for small Some administrative changes to SRE have come from the 2015 government inquiry into SRE, as well as generally increased Please remember that you must have a current authorisation On camp, you catch up with them for a meal two group leaders to know they’re cared for during camp and it’s what makes the difference. child protection measures. While some of these changes make card and an official name tag from the Conduct Protocol Unit to to three times. They ask how you’re going, your applying for SRE authorisation harder than it used to be, it also enter a school for SRE. energy levels, your small group. Is there anything Having someone concerned about the physi- means that SRE is being consistently done better. in particular you’re struggling with? It’s been in- cal wellbeing of the small group leader helps get Why don’t you volunteer to be an SRE teacher? For more infor- credibly good to have that level of support. through the week. Every Presbyterian teacher has a lesson observation before they mation on applying to be an SRE teacher or general SRE infor- are authorised and again every three years at renewal. Even very mation see: www.pynsw.org/sre

12 THE PULSE THE PULSE 13 GS&C

Book Review Special Feature: Christ College Book Review: BY SAMANTHA HO Does Christianity Really Work? Title: Walking through Infertility bility, but do we really think need further wisdom on how BY BEN GREIG Author: Matthew Arbo a Godly Christian life is in- we can support and encour- complete without children? age our brothers and sisters “When are you going to have a baby?” Arbo affirms that children to be Christ’s disciples, in are a gift, not an entitlement. their different situations, and The question about pregnancy seems His answer to the despair stages of grief. like a natural follow-on after marriage of the childless is that “the has settled. As I talk with younger and Creator and Redeemer of life A significant portion of the older Christian female friends, I realise has not forsaken the infertile book is spent dealing with how varied the fears and frustrations are. but has instead given them a infertility treatments and re- Title: Does Christianity Using examples drawn mostly from modern history, Does Chris- slightly different way of be- productive technologies. In Really Work tianity Really Work shows how the gospel has shaped much of One of my friends told to me how an- ing family, and thus of participating in the chapter, “A Moral Appraisal of Infer- Author: William Edgar our culture in the West. Series: The Big Ten noyed she was when older women asked the life and mission of God” (p.20). tility Treatment” Arbo cautions couples her about the prospect of children—but “not to allow the desire for a biological Paperback: 208 pages It doesn't shy away from difficult examples of Christian action Publisher: Christian Fo- never asked about her spiritual growth as To illustrate this point, Arbo helpfully child to supersede all other biblical, theo- cus; Revised edition (July in the world, such as the support given by some churches to the a Christian. Other friends experienced presents case studies of biblical charac- logical, or ethical considerations” (p.93). 20, 2016) Nazis in Germany in the first half of the 20th century, or the way a miscarriage and kept it a secret from ters such as Abram and Sarai, Elkanah But his explanation and subsequent warn- Language: English evangelist Chuck Templeton abandoned his faith. the wider church community. Several and Hannah and evaluates how the story ings should be weighed carefully. Couples friends have been moving in and out of of their infertility appears in the light of experiencing infertility should seek the The Big Ten: Critical Instead, Edgar tackles these hard questions, and asks: can we the waiting game, and some have given the gospel. advice of someone who is a trusted spe- Questions Answered is a judge God by the Church? This is the book’s great strength. up the prospect altogether. cialist in the field. For Australian readers, series of books on Chris- Arbo doesn’t just leave it at biblical exam- the careful consideration and weighing of tian apologetics, published In many ways, Does Christianity Really Work covers similar As I talk with younger and older Chris- ples, however. He weaves in the stories of Arbo’s advice is even more significant as by Christian Focus. ground to the recently released film from The Centre for Public tian female friends, I realise how varied his friends discovering their inability to legislation and procedures will vary from Christianity, For the Love of God: How the church is better and the fears and frustrations about preg- conceive; exploring their experiences at country to country. The goal of the series is worse than you ever imagined. nancy are. different stages of their journey. to address ten common- So how should one use this book? For ly asked questions about This film examines the Christian origins of modern human val- I don’t want my lack of experience to These contemporary stories also deserve Christians in general, and pastors spe- Christianity, the Bible, and ues like human rights, peace and charity, while also confront- wound a friend who needs consolation. to be told because the truths of the gos- cifically, engaging with the concepts in God. Does Christianity ing the worst of Christian behaviour over the last two thousand There are times when I feel too young to pel are further affirmed in the lived expe- this book will be helpful in developing Really Work is the third book in the series, and is written by Dr years. be a wise and loving friend. riences of those around us. I particularly the skills to be a caring brother or sister William Edgar, professor of apologetics at Westminster Theo- appreciated the extended interview with to friends in their grief, loss, and unmet logical Seminary. Does Christianity Really Work is recommended reading for any- I want to know how to respond to those Patrick and Jennifer Arbo, at the end of expectations. one beginning to explore the Christian faith. silent (and not so silent) desires for the book, about the emotional process of For a fairly difficult question, the book is a fairly easy read. children. So I picked up Matthew Ar- discovering their infertility. Personally, I’m thankful to have come The style of writing lends itself to either being read alone, or as bo’s Walking through Infertility: Bib- upon this conversation in my time of Edgar looks at six main topics to see if Christianity works: war conversation starter in one-to-one evangelism. The format of lical, Theological, and Moral Counsel It’s important to know what this book premarital counselling: I think this book and peace in the Bible and in the world today; Christian influ- For the Love of God might be easier to digest, and complements for Those who are Struggling, partly in (like any other book) seeks to address, would be a good primer and discussion ence on social reform; Christian involvement in health care; the Edgar’s book well. preparation for Christ College’s upcom- and what it doesn’t. Arbo says that his point for many couples to read before problem of unanswered prayer; the eternal security of God’s ing (April 10, 2019) lecture on the ethics purpose is “to address biblical, theolog- and/or during the early years of marriage. elect people; and the way Christianity helps people deal with Ben Greig is a member of the Gospel, Society and Culture of fertility. It didn’t seem like a long read ical, and moral questions surrounding persistent sin. Committee. (107 pages). infertility.” His aim is to “instruct and I’ve been convinced that we should ac- inspire the church, especially those cou- knowledge the pain and suffering of ples with personal experience with infer- our brothers and sisters, and seek to be tility” (p.19). people of understanding and comfort in THE STORIES WE TELL OURSELVES this area. Individuals think about preg- Award winning author to speak at Assembly dinner nancy with their own assumptions and Award winning writer Meredith Lake will be guest speaker at tee’s series of ‘Navigate’ events held annually. One of the main ideas that Matthew Arbo longings, and it may prevent a lot of this year’s Assembly dinner on Tuesday evening July 16 at PLC. discusses is how the different narratives HELP FOR CHURCHES AND heartache if we can work through them The annual Navigate conference held in March, focused on a we tell ourselves about the Christian life INDIVIDUALS together, in reflection and prayer to God. Lake is the author of The Bible in Australia, which won the 2018 Christian response to living in a ‘disrupted’ world. shape our expectations surrounding ex- Samantha Ho is the Communications Australian Christian Book of the Year. periences such as pregnancy. After reading the interview section, I was and Administration Officer at Christ Themes covered included religious freedom and the medical inspired to think about how churches College, Sydney. She is also currently The Australian Book Review said of the book: "A remarkable revolution. Sometimes, for example, people speak could welcome these sorts of stories in undertaking studies in the Master of book… Lake comes up with startling possibilities, and they keep and act as if Godly womanhood and their gatherings. Divinity course. Samantha is married surfacing all the way through the volume." Speakers were demographer Mark McCrindle, Prof Nicholas manhood corresponds to the number of to Nathanael. Aroney, Prof Nalini Pather and Dr John McClean. children you have. Even so, Arbo’s illustration of how child- Originally written for The Gospel The dinner is part of the Gospel, Society and Culture commit- less couples can participate in the life and Coalition Australia. Visit their website Nurturing children is a noble responsi- mission of God seemed limited. We still at au.thegospelcoalition.org

14 THE PULSE THE PULSE 15 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses

Special Feature: PY Metro entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others."

2 TIMOTHY 2:2 REFORMERS INTERVIEW:

MARKWITH MARK POWELL JONES

Mark, you are perhaps best known for writing ‘Knowing Christ’. Can you tell us a bit about why you wrote it? WHAT HAPPENS AFTER STUDY? Thomas Eglinton, Mark Jones and Mark Powell at Well I had done a PhD on Thomas Goodwin, and published an Reformers Bookshop’s Meet and Greet event, 2018. METRO APPRENTICES SHARE THEIR STORIES academic book that’s over $100 on Amazon, so no one’s reading it. And I felt like I got all of this key knowledge that took a lot of effort from the Puritans. Then as a pastor, you’re preaching God continues to raise up more people to undertake training in These apprentices may then go onto Bible College or return to the So after they’ve read Knowing Christ and got an introduction on Christ every week and I thought, you know I’ve got all of this gospel ministry under experienced trainers. secular workforce with greater confidence to proclaim the gospel. to the Puritans, what’s a good intro book into the Puritans? stuff that I was able to learn and I want people to be able to know It is encouraging to hear the stories of our METRO appren- We read here from James Jeffery, a new apprentice for 2019, and this. So as a pastor and as someone with a little bit of scholarly I think Thomas Watson. You definitely feel like he’s the sort of tices as they take part in local church ministry and on uni- Steve Soldatos, his trainer. And Caitlin McMillan describes life experience I thought how can I wed these two together and give John Calvin of the 17th century in the sense of how clear he is. versity campuses. beyond METRO. a book to the church that will lead them to love Christ more You just read it and there’s no problem, so I’d say Watson on and when I approached Banner of Truth, they said, “Well Mark, A Body of Divinity. If you wanted to have a Systematic The- books and our Lord, don’t sell very ology, The Lord’s Prayer, The well.” “Well, I’m going to write it so “It’s been surprising how many pastors have Ten Commandments, those are do you want it?” And then they said, said they learned a lot, I remember John good books. I think John Flavel is “Sure.” And I proved them wrong. McArthur said, “Oh I learned a great deal from probably the next step. If you’re My mum bought at least ten copies. [Knowing Christ].” feeling really adventurous, read Thomas Goodwin and Stephen When we put out the news that Charnock. Then for that lonely person who has nothing to do you were coming here, we got immediate feedback from all day and has heaps of time on their hands, they can crack John people on how it’s affected their lives. And I believe that it is Owen open and see what happens. on its third re-print now. Can you tell us a bit about your new book - The Prayers of There’s quite a bit of a Puritan theology that comes into it, Jesus? isn’t there? The Prayers of Jesus is looking at his prayer life and is a bit of a Yeah, it’s a bit of a Puritan theology for dummies. We have those companion to Knowing Christ. I think there are a lot of books on books in America. You know, Chemistry For Dummies, and all prayer that are very much directed to the believer and how to pray of that. So I’m trying to take Puritan thought and make it more better and there are some good ones. But this one’s taking you accessible with my own sort of thinking over the years on Christ. away from that guilty feeling that I don’t pray enough to looking JAMES JEFFREY CAITLIN MCMILLAN So, how do I put this out there where it’s sort of the Puritans but upon how Jesus prayed, why he prayed, and what he prayed for. it’s not going to terrify people. God provided me with the opportunity to undertake a METRO At the end of 2018 I completed my METRO apprenticeship at Maybe that will be a way to help people with their prayer life. apprenticeship starting this year under my pastor — Steve Sol- City Central Presbyterian in Wollongong and through AFES at datos — at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Rhodes. Wollongong Uni. Watch the full interview at reformers.com.au

My prayer is that the METRO apprenticeship will provide me I learnt so many practical ministry skills through my apprentice- with the opportunity to develop my ability to faithfully preach ship and it confirmed in me a heart for sharing the gospel in a THE PRAYERS OF JESUS (MARK JONES) God’s Word and grow my love and care for the local church. full-time capacity. How should Christians pray? There is no greater example than Jesus Christ himself, whose prayer life while on earth reveals a I am looking forward to the year ahead, and am excited to grow In order to be best prepared for this long term, I decided to con- pattern of seeking God’s help that believers can emulate. Written in my love and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. tinue my training at Sydney Missionary and Bible College for in a devotional tone, this book reflects on the content and structure the next three years. I have just completed my first assignment on the books of 1 and 2 Kings and learnt so much, not just about of Jesus’ prayers, showing just how important prayer was to him the history of Israel, but about the God that I serve. during his earthly ministry. Drawing on wisdom from church history STEVE SOLDATOS and offering practical steps for prayer in each chapter, this book This made me excited for the opportunity I have over these years teaches readers why, how, and what to pray, helping them follow in One of my primary roles as a pastor is to ensure that the gos- to learn from those who have studied God’s word for many years. Jesus’ footsteps and imitate his example when it comes to relating to our pel goes forward into the next generation. Training gospel heavenly Father. workers is the mechanism that the LORD has chosen to use My prayer is that I continue to grow in my delight of God and his (1 Timothy 2:2). word as I study it more deeply in my time at college. [$21.99 PAPERBACK]

Training James keeps me on my theological toes and helps me to I have also been really appreciating the many opportunities we articulate and reflect upon my own ministry. have each week to hear from those serving God cross-culturally, as I consider following in their footsteps. There is no question that the kingdom grows through making disciples who make disciples. Metro is a great platform to see They each have different experiences to share, which has already God’s kingdom grow. been invaluable in best preparing for the future.

16 THE PULSE THE PULSE 17 The Australian Presbyterian World Mission exists to glorify God by facilitating the spread of the gospel to people overseas and Aborigines within Australia. Special Feature: APWM Australian Presbyterian Back to Mount Druitt Culture Shock in Queensland Special Feature: APWM World Mission www.apwm.org.au 1 Clarence Street, Burwood NSW 2134 (02) 8073 7490 [email protected]

Reading the Bible with Indian eyes RICK AND KAYLEEN MANTON ROB AND JENNI ALLEY In January this year, Vijai Tagore, his wife Suchitra and their big parks and beaches, and the freedom and safety to move around. Thank you to the many people who prayed for Rick and Kayleen Rob and Jenni Alley are APWM missionaries who serve with children Adiel and Isabelle arrived in Sydney. Vijai is a lecturer Culturally, they’ve seen some challenges. “There is a fast-paced, Manton after Kayleen was diagnosed with breast cancer in early 2018. Pioneers. They run a ministry known as ‘Across the Divide’, which at Presbyterian Theological Seminary Dehradun in India, in the independent lifestyle,” say Vijai, “and it’s not easy to understand how is based in Taree. foothills of the Himalayas, but over the next three years will be to relate to people, the ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’.” Kayleen has responded well to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and working towards a PhD under the supervision of Dr Ian Smith at the doctors have told her that she is cancer free. Kayleen will now They take groups to Aboriginal communities across Australia so receive treatment to boost her immune system. This will continue Christ College. We asked Vijai what the that participants will grow in their understanding of what God is until August. Australian church and the doing and consider serving among Aboriginals in Australia. Vijai’s PhD work is on the Indian church could learn controversial issue of head Given Kayleen’s health needs Rick has returned to ministry at the One participant says, “One of the things that has stuck with me is covering (for women) or from each other. “The Mount Druitt Indigenous Church where he is preaching, visiting Indian church has joy in the culture shock I felt when we visited Cherbourg on our trip. I’ve uncovering (for men) in a and discipling. In addition, he is conducting funerals for people been to a few different places around the world, including South its close-knit community corporate worship setting. from the Aboriginal community. East Asia and the Middle East, but I’ve never felt culture shock While much has been and church life, which as strongly as I did in Queensland. I was in my own country, yet written by Western scholars is important when there Rick continues to chair the board of the Bimbadeen Aboriginal it wasn't my country. The environment was the same, trees and on the text of 1 Corinthians are trials, opposition and College at Cootamundra. Along with a small group he has been animals and smells, but the culture was different. I was an outsider.” 11:2-6, Vijai says the debate persecution,” he said. working on developing a training curriculum. is far from reaching a “It’s a community where Rob and Jenni write “Our current support levels are at 74% unanimous conclusion. churches, ministries and Kayleen recently visited the Global Recordings studio to record meaning we have a significant amount that we need per month families are managed with portions of the Bible in an Aboriginal language. Pray that those who more than we are currently receiving. If we were able to raise download and listen to the recordings will respond positively. “What makes this topic meagre resources and this, it means it releases us to focus on the various ministries we new to the academic numerous challenges.” But are involved with through Across the Divide rather than feeling world,” he says, “is bringing Vijai believes the Indian pressure to take on extra nursing shifts or machining jobs (we are an Indian perspective to church could learn some so thankful we have this option!). the issue. Head covering is things from the Australian Bibles for Refugees common throughout most VIJAI AND SUCHITRA TAGORE Would you consider partnering with us in this way? Additionally, church. “Keeping the gospel parts of India, for reasons that we'd be happy to come and speak at bible studies or churches pure and simple; generosity and willingness to share one’s resources are both cultural and religious. Within churches and other religious about what we do if you might be interested.” communities, and in Indian culture in general, head coverings are for the kingdom work; professionalism in church and ministry; integral to religious expression. But there is confusion and lack of valuing people above traditions and rigid structures; applying If you’d like to know more about this ministry then please go to clarity about this practice in many churches, and in modern, urban the Scripture to the changing cultural needs and challenges; and acrossthedivide.com.au India there is also a change in the attitude toward it.” a seriousness about being and living as a Christian in an anti- Christian secular world.” Vijai wants to thoroughly understand the text of 1 Corinthians 11 in its immediate cultural, historical and linguistic context, and to While in Sydney, the Tagore family will be attending Chatswood find the relevance of the text for the church in India as well as the Presbyterian Church on Sunday mornings, and Revesby in the A Company of Heroes church in the West. “I want to know if the text is about a principle, evenings. They are already participating in Bible study ministry and or a practice, or both,” he says. He wants to highlight the importance MEMBERS OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SOUTH Tim Keesee, author of ‘Dispatches teaching English. Vijai hopes to preach occasionally, and is keen to SUDAN, WHO LIVE IN EXILE IN GAMBELLA, ETHIOPIA, of studying the Bible in its cultural and historical context, and to from the Front’, the very popular book speak about ministry in India when the opportunities arise. WAITING TO RETURN TO THEIR HOMELAND show how this passage continues to speak to us despite our varied on frontier mission, has just released Please join with us in praising God for the $184,000 which has been cultural contexts today. his latest book ‘A Company of Heroes: donated for Nuer Bibles for the South Sudanese Presbyterians in Vijai and Suchitra are thankful to God for the generosity of Portraits from the Gospel’s Global the refugee camps of Ethiopia. We have now initiated the process This is the family’s second visit to Australia for study at Christ churches and individuals who are supporting them in Australia, Advance’ (Cost $22). College. Compared to six years ago, they’ve noticed more traffic both financially and through their prayers. Please continue to pray of placing an order with the Bible Society of Ethiopia and it will take a number of months for the Bibles to be printed, shipped and on the roads, the introduction of Opal cards, higher living costs, that God will continue to provide for their needs, teaching them to Keesee writes in a vivid narrative style handed out. Some of the money will be used to buy ‘talking Bibles’ and more variety in supermarket groceries. They love the fresh air, rely on Him each day. that draws the reader in as he sketches for blind refugees. We also praise God for the congregations who out what God is doing in this world to gave their Christmas collection to buy ESV Global Study Bibles bring glory to Himself, sometimes in and glasses for pastors in the camps. Please continue to pray for the face of suffering. Both books can our brothers and sisters in these camps. Pray that through their be ordered through Reformers books suffering God will do great things to honour His name. reformers.com.au

18 THE PULSE THE PULSE 19 Special Feature: Jericho Road Special Feature: Jericho Road Jericho Road is a great story of how we can work together to show that we, like the Samaritan, are ready to be the people who love our neighbours.

The Allowah Village You may have heard the African Proverb It takes a village to raise a child. This proverb reflects the importance of family and communi- ty in the life of a child. At Allowah Presbyterian Children’s Hospital it takes the contribution of many to support children with disabili- ties in maximising their quality of life. The Allowah “village” needs every one of its children, families, staff, volunteers and supporters so that it can be the hospital for children with complex health needs that God designed it to be.

Volunteers are a very important part of Allowah, contributing to the lives of children in the hospital just by being there. Friendship is a universal human need, yet being chosen as a friend is an experi- ence that people with disabilities rarely experience, with loneliness being a common experience. Allowah is a hospital that recognises the importance of friendship in the life of the children who stay there, with a volunteer program set up to enable this. Volunteers have the opportunity to enrich the lives of children staying at Al- lowah by assisting with recreation activities, participating in Kids’ Good bye Terry, Taking the Good News Church with the children, or becoming the special friend of a par- Hello Dennis into the South Coast ticular child. In December we said goodbye to Terry West Angela and Warren started volunteering at Allowah after retire- as Chaplain at the Tamworth Correction- Correctional Centre ment, when they had time to fill the need for volunteers in the al Centre. Terry had been our chaplain After 10 years as the Assistant Minister hospital. For Angela, volunteering at Allowah had a more personal there for three years. During this time at Charlestown Presbyterian Church significance after the death of her niece Grace at four years old. he was able to re-establish the work of the Rev Todd Galvin has accepted chaplaincy in this gaol and build good the position as chaplain to the South While both Angela and Warren were nervous in their ability to relationships with both staff and in- Coast Correctional Centre in Nowra. relate with children of varying abilities, they stepped out in faith mates. We thank Terry for his faithful This prison has increased in size and praying on their long drive from the Blue Mountains that God service over this time. now houses over 900 inmates. would help them to be a blessing in some way. This drive from the mountains to Allowah has now become a weekly trek, and God has In February we welcomed Dennis Tranter as Todd has extensive pastoral experience and answered their prayers - Angela and Warren are a profound bless- the new chaplain of the gaol. Dennis joins Jericho prior to theological training was working ing to the children, staff and families of Allowah. Volunteering with Road after serving as Home Missionary at Dungog-Clarence in the justice system. recreation, tending to the garden, bus driving for outings, and help- Town Presbyterian Church. He previously spent many years with ing out at fundraisers are among the ways that Angela and Warren AIM and Global Recordings Network in the Northern Territory. Todd commenced in the role in April. Todd is looking forward to bless the Allowah “village.” His experience in working in Aboriginal Communities will be a being a light for Christ in a dark place and being on the ‘frontline’ great asset as he works in this gaol. Please pray for Dennis as he in proclaiming the hope and comfort of the gospel to those he Bringing the gift of friendship to the children at Allowah is their most settles into this new role. minsters to. valued contribution. Theirs is a friendship that reflects God’s love for the children. Angela reflects that, “there have been many times where I’ve been able to come alongside a child who’s distressed and been able to bring comfort. Times when out of the blue a child has smiled or laughed with (or at) me and has warmed my heart.”

Pastoral Care Training It is these experiences that lead Warren to conclude, “you always In February our Senior Chaplain, Ian Schoonwater, ran a pas- been a person in great need a decade ago I was surprised by how leave with a smile on your face and a good feeling inside if you toral care training program at South Wagga Wagga Presbyte- many people at the time were more hurtful than helpful through volunteer at Allowah.” According to Volunteering Australia, “one of rian Church. Thirty people from around the region attended lack of understanding and ignorance and kept talking rather than the healthiest things we can do is to volunteer. Volunteering leads the training days. There was a further waiting list of 22 people. listening and giving platitudes rather than comfort. All round I to healthier, happier, and longer lives.” highly recommend the course to all who wish to grow in their Rod Liesfield from Henty commented on the course, “I was im- relationship with our Lord and especially in their care for others.” Allowah would love to welcome new volunteers to join the team. pressed with the two day course even though we were not able to If you are interested then contact Chaplain Rochelle Wainwright. dwell on any topic for long due to time constraints, but it filled in Jericho Road would love to partner with other rural churches “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name wel- a lot of gaps and clarified areas that needed me to review. Having and presbyteries in offering this training. comes me” (Mark 9:37).

20 THE PULSE THE PULSE 21 Special Feature: PIM Special Feature: PIM

A spiritual curiosity and Worth the Cost From Andrew Like all mission activities that seek to take the Someone recently asked why we bother to spend longing for God Gospel to people in isolated places, PIM minis- time and money driving out and visiting individu- try is expensive. To run a full time PIM Ministry als. Wouldn’t it be a better use of resources to go Kim first met Kevin through a God orchestrated Team costs about the same as running an aver- where there are lots of people? ‘chance meeting’. Kim had stopped at a local ser- age sized suburban Presbyterian church. That’s vice station just out of Hobart to fuel up for the trip around about $100,000 per year. The big dif- ahead. Kevin noticed the PIM logo on Kim’s vehicle. I studied business and management and was trained to think Curious, he asked Kim what PIM stood for. This led to ference though is that a local church is largely in terms of ‘Return on Investment’ or how do we get the most a conversation about PIM’s ministry and about the funded by offerings from the people who wor- bang for our buck? In many contexts, those are really great ques- God we serve. ship there. In the PIM world we generally don’t tions to ask and consider as we carefully think through how to get funding from those we minister to. In fact, we be good stewards of what are limited resources. About a month later Kim was on the road visiting people and he intentionally don’t seek donations from those we happened upon the same man at a small property. Kevin was im- visit. Instead, we rely on God’s people elsewhere However, we also need to be really mindful that the Gospel of mediately enthusiastic, clearly pleased to see Kim again, and they to fund this crucial ministry. Jesus is not just for people living in convenient places and in spent some time together discussing God and Christianity. Kevin large numbers. For many of the people PIM Teams connect with shared that he had a Catholic upbringing, but it was clear that his The PIM Committee works hard to be good stewards of the there is little other opportunity for them to hear the Gospel. In experiences had made him wary of God and the church. Kevin resources that have been entrusted to us so each dollar makes some places in our nation there is practically no credible Gospel had a ‘hell fire and brimstone’ perception of God. In his mind, as much impact as it can. We do this in many ways including witness. If we don’t invest the money and time in sending people God was just a harsh judge and not a loving father. Kim shared with Kevin the message about the love and grace of God. Kevin deploying some volunteer PIM teams who sacrificially give to these sorts of places, how else will people living there hear the openly received Kim’s message, showing an interest in learning their own time, and partnering with others to share ministry Good News proclaimed and see it lived out? more. He said he would take some time to contemplate it and costs. We also routinely evaluate the operating costs of vehi- compare it to his previous experiences. cles, equipment and property, and of course we regularly re- In Luke 15, Jesus taught us about the importance of seeking after view our programs to make sure they are an effective use of the one sheep that is lost. Indeed, He teaches us about the joy Kim’s friendship with Kevin has continued to grow, and when limited resources. in heaven when that one is found. Much of the ministry of PIM Kim can’t get out to see him, Kevin will call him up on the phone is about ones and twos. It is about seeking out the lost in small to chat. Kevin feels safe in sharing his thoughts and wonderings Despite all these measures, for many years PIM has been op- numbers, in remote places where perhaps no one else is search- with Kim and has sought Kim’s counsel on behalf of one of his erating at a financial loss. This gap has been filled, to some ing. Our great God saves sinners in all sorts of places. family members who has been deeply hurt by others. Kim reg- extent, by occasional large bequests and some investment in- ularly prays and intercedes for Kevin and his family, something come. However, in order for PIM to grow and develop and take We’d love it if you would join us on the journey. We value your which Kevin has shown appreciation for. the significant Gospel opportunities that are available in our prayers; this work belongs to God. If you are able, we’d also wel- Clearly Kevin took a liking to Kim at their first meeting, and the continent, we need to close this financial gap and we need your come your financial support. This ministry is not cheap but it is friendship has grown. Kevin has asked Kim for assistance building partnership to do this. effective. To donate, please visit our website or use the response the fence on his property, a venture which is giving Kim time to form here in On Track. prove his love and commitment to Kevin and create more oppor- If you are already a financial supporter of PIM, we really ap- tunities to talk about what God is really like and how Kevin could preciate you – thanks! Last year, you helped contribute to the Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ really is Worth Driving For. come to know Him personally. Thanks to that first ‘random’ God $500,000 that was donated by God’s people to keep PIM Teams arranged appointment, Kevin’s spiritual longing is being stirred on the road, sharing the Good News and building up isolated through the ongoing friendship, and as Kevin gets to know Kim as believers. Ninety new financial supporters joined us for the first a faithful friend, he’s also getting to know God as a loving Father. time last year, and this has made a significant positive impact. If you are not a financial supporter, please prayerfully consider The ministry of PIM brings a voice of hope and truth into the joining us. We need to raise an additional $200,000 per year to lives of people like Kevin. We often have the opportunity to bear close the gap, keep our teams going and pave the way for the ex witness to the outrageous love of our Father, as He seeks out those - who are lost and brings them home. Most of the people that PIM citing new ministry opportunities that lie before us. If you’d like Teams work with live in places where they have very little access to contribute, you can make a donation towards funding one of to the Gospel. There may be no Christian fellowship in their areas our Ministry Teams via our website. and no Bible-teaching church. What a joy it is to share the Good News of Jesus in these places. It really is Worth Driving For. Because reaching the lost really is Worth Driving For. pim.org.au

22 THE PULSE THE PULSE 23 LAST WORD WITH PETER BARNES

AFTER THE CONTEST 1 KINGS 18:36-46

he issue decided on Mount Car- be plenty of false believers there. BLESSING THROUGH THE mel is the perennial one: Who For all that, the first thing in SACRIFICE AND PRAYER is God? (18:21) It was to be saving faith is to bow before decided by fire (18:23-24). For the God of the Bible as the only God had honoured Elijah's sac- six hours or so, the prophets of true God. rifice, and so God the Father T Baal danced and for three hours honours the sacrifice of Christ they slashed themselves, but nothing happened (18:29). Then Elijah prayed, JUDGMENT ON FALSE PROPHETS in a far greater way. God's holy and the Lord answered that prayer, and wrath bypasses sinners and strikes Jesus! His justice has been satisfied, He fire fell from heaven. Yahweh, the God Verse 40 tells us that Elijah ordered the can show mercy. The blessing can flow. of Israel, is the true God; Baal is just execution of the prophets of Baal. How So it does in Elijah’s day (18:41-46). a fraudulent idol. Now what happened do you react to that? Do you say: 'This The sacrifice is accepted, God is at least after the contest? is the Old Testament, with its severe jus- acknowledged, and the false prophets tice'? (see Deut.13:1-5) The execution of the prophets of Baal is not an example done away with. After three and a half WE MUST BOW BEFORE THE TRUE GOD of Elijah's primitive notions of justice or years of debilitating drought, the curse his bad temper and narrow-mindedness. was lifted (as per Deut.11:13-17). Elijah The people fell on their faces and con- It is an act endorsed by God Himself. We bowed in humble, fervent, watchful and fessed what they could no longer deny, cannot simply dismiss it as irrelevant to persevering prayer. Six times he sent his that the Lord is the true God (18:39). us today. servant to look for the promised rain, For a while at least, they realised that and six times there was nothing to re- Elijah's God is the true God and that It is true that the Church does not do this port. Then, on the seventh occasion, Baal is a dupe of the devil. We should now. True, but remember two things. there was a cloud as small as a man's not then think that they had all come The first is that the prophets of Baal hand. Not much to get excited about, to saving faith. There is such a thing as were behind the persecution of the true but it was the beginning of blessing. a temporary faith. Sometimes people prophets of God (19:10). So their pun- go through a hard time, perhaps a stay ishment was just. The Irish revival of 1859 began when in hospital, or something happens, and just four boys began to meet together they try to get serious with God. They The second thing is this, that to claim for prayer. Hardly the sort of thing to do for a while, but it can wear off fair- to speak for God and to teach religious knock the latest NRL scandal off the ly quickly. So far as we can tell, most truth is no minor and unimportant front page of the newspapers. God's of those in Elijah's day who acknowl- claim (note Matt.18:6 and Rev.22:18-19). work can seem so small and despised at edged Yahweh as the true God only did False religious teaching is the greatest times. But persevere in prayer for bless- so in terms of believing that He exist- bane of Church and nation. It is certain- ing will come. On the basis of Christ's ed, not that they knew Him, trusted ly not the case that the Old Testament is sacrifice, pray for blessing. Him, and obeyed Him. severe on this, and the New Testament is not. Not so, both Testaments are severe, Israel only half-learned this lesson, but They had seen the fire from heaven but in different ways. it is one for us, to acknowledge the true burn up the sacrifice, and they had to God, to rid the Church of false teaching, acknowledge that the Lord was with and to pray that God would intervene Elijah. As Arthur Pink put it: 'Awful This is why not many are to be teachers from heaven and do a work of grace in displays of the Divine justice may ter- (James 3:1). What will God do with a our own day. Come, let us to the Lord rify and convince the sinner, may ex- minister who teaches that everybody will our God/ With contrite hearts return;/ tort confessions and resolutions, and be saved? Or a primate who teaches that even dispose to many acts of obedience, Christ did not rise physically from the Our God is gracious, nor will leave/ The while the impression lasts: but some- dead? Or that Christ is not the way, the desolate to mourn. thing more is needed to change his truth and the life? God will judge harlots heart and convert his soul ... there must and gangsters, He will judge Hitler and Then comes the promised blessing: be a supernatural work within him for Stalin and Pol Pot, but He will also judge man to be born again.' The people all with great severity those who teach in As dew upon the tender herb, fell on their faces and said: 'The Lord, His name but who do not know Him. Diffusing fragrance round; He is God.' Some may have come to true Al Capone or Peter Carnley - who does As showers that usher in the spring, saving faith, trust and obedience. But more damage to the kingdom of God? And cheer the thirsty ground. from what follows, it is clear that there We are not to imitate verse 40 down at were surely many temporary believers. the Mind, Body, Spirit Festival or at the If God was gracious even with a half- In the parable of the sower, there are General Assembly. But God pits Himself turn to Himself, how much more gra- not two soils but four. The second and in all His justice against those who mis- cious would He be if there were a decid- third soils look promising for a time represent His truth. He will not tolerate ed rejection of evil and falsehood, and (Matt.13:20-22). Hell is not just full of false teachers either inside or outside the a single-hearted embracing of Christ as atheists, witches and brutes. There will Church (1 Tim.1:20; 2 Tim.2:17-18). Lord and Saviour!