Eternity - December 2014 - Issue 54

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54

Number 54, December 2014 ISSN 1837-8447

Brought to you by the Bible Society

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Under fire

An Aussie church in Kiev Image: Hillsong

Samuel Marsden loved Jesus

Christmas in Geelong

Cuba says ‘si’ to the Bible

NEWS

Bible Society 8 Books, Culture 9-13 Opinion 15-20

Obadiah Slope HARD SAYINGS: “Love your enemies, do good to those who use you badly” is not usually thought of as one of Jesus’ harder sayings. But of course it is a hard saying when we have real enemies. The reaction to the Outreach Ministries “Love your enemies” poster which mimicked the form of an Islamic State flag is a great example of this. “Demonic” and “I have no love of people that behead children” were some of the responses from Christians to our online story posted on Eternity’s Facebook page. Humanly speaking, these are understandable responses and Obadiah is in no position to criticise; he’s had similar thoughts himself, privately. Yes, “love your enemies” is hard.

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: Reviewing a new book, Lila, by a great author, the Economist (not always kind to Christianity), says “Marilynne Robinson does what novelists are supposed to find impossible: she makes virtuous people interesting. Perhaps even more impressively, she makes their virtues interesting.” Robinson’s novels take Christianity seriously and she makes Christians interesting. Though not as gifted as Robinson, here at Eternity we aim to do the same.

Churches in Geelong are getting crafty for Christmas, coming together to create a knitted scavenger hunt around the Victorian city. Geelong locals will be searching for a series of handmade wise men, dubbed “The Wise Guys”, in shop windows around Geelong. They can collect a star sticker in their nativity “passports” from shopkeepers for each wise man they find. Elizabeth Breakley, assistant curate at All Saints Anglican in Geelong says the idea came from an event last year in her parish where members of the church made knitted sheep and put them in 30 local shop front windows. Each sheep was named by the shops, and a card was distributed by the church for children who wanted to play the game of finding all the sheep. “The community got so excited about it… we doubled our numbers at our Christmas services last year. We wanted to get the true message

Quotable

of Christmas out there, and we encouraged people involved in finding the sheep to come along to church at Christmas.” This year, the event has been expanded, with a group of 9 churches from the Anglican, Uniting and Catholic denominations getting involved. 120 knitted and sewed wise men are ready to be put into participating shop windows, made from local church “crafties”. The churches will also set up a nativity scene photo booth on the weekends leading up to Christmas, encouraging families to get dressed up as characters from the Christmas story, like a shepherd, an angel, or Mary, and pose for a free digital photo. Last weekend, the 120 knitted wise men were laid out in front of Elizabeth’s church congregation, who prayed for the initiative and “sent them out to do their work” of getting people to learn more about the real Christmas story. geelongcitynativity.com

Over the years as Samuel Marsden suff ered he found himself driven to divine promises and reassurance. Simon Manchester – page 15

Exodus... provides one of the important frameworks for understanding Jesus, the true fulfilment of the “escape from slavery” theme.

Greg Clarke – Opinion page 20

Civil Unions 29% 42%

76%

Anglican

85%

Baptist / Churches of Christ

46%

Catholic

42% 39%

75%

Lutheran

61%

88%

Pentecostal

72%

56%

91%

26%

Uniting Other Protestant

29%

59%

25%

22%

35% 53%

56%

35%

Image & Data: (c) NCLS

MANUFACTURING CONTEMPT: “When I survey the wondrous cross, on which the Prince of glory died; my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.” Obadiah has always found these words in a hymn by Isaac Watts difficult, to “pour contempt” on all the things of which he might be proud. Then he sung this song at church recently and realised he was looking the wrong way. Instead of looking to himself and despairing of his ability to “pour contempt”, Obadiah should have surveyed the wondrous cross. Looking to the Lord in all his glory makes it clear my richest gain is but a loss.

KALEY PAYNE

Do you agree with Same Sex Marriage and/or Civil Unions?

Same Sex Marriage

Disagree / Strongly Disagree

In Depth 5-7

Geelong wises up Infographic to the nativity

Neutral / Unsure

News page 2-3

DECEMBER 2014

Agree / Strongly Agree

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National Christian Life Survey: NCLS Attender Sampler Survey 2011

New voice for Christians: ‘Common Grace’ JOHN SANDEMAN

Common Grace, a new “Christian action platform” has launched on social media. It aims to build an online community with a welcoming and gracious approach to asylum seekers, action on climate change and other justice issues. “We want to use new technology to celebrate efforts for justice,” says Jess Smith, a spokesperson for the new group.

Perhaps surprisingly, Common Grace is not simply made up of members from more liberal churches. Instead, the organising group has a big proportion of Pentecostals and Anglican evangelicals. “We’re using the online campaigning approach of other organisations but bringing a deep theological framing to it,” says Smith. The launch of Common Grace comes from a conviction

that Christians have focused their public campaigns too narrowly in the past, on “moral” issues, or scepticism about climate change, for example. “I feel as though I am part of the audience Common Grace is seeking,” Smith tells Eternity. “I am a Sydney Anglican (a conservative evangelical) doing Bible study and praying – that is what my life is. Our teaching in the church is really strong on hearing from Jesus

that your life is different from the world around you and it’s going to overflow in love. I struggle to work out how that looks in terms of the justice angle: for the homeless person, the planet and the children in detention. Advocacy has become part of discipleship in a way.” Refugee advocate Jarrod McKenna has been seconded by World Vision to be national director of Common Grace. commongrace.org.au

NEWS

DECEMBER 2014

Box fit for a digger’s Bible (and a bullet) SUZANNE SCHOKMAN The next time Geoff Cannings sees the box he’s made, it will be on TV or behind glass at an exhibition. It’s a special box for several reasons. It now houses a very significant Bible, one that belonged to WW1 digger Elvas Jenkins. The little Bible in Jenkins’ breast pocket saved him from a bullet at Gallipoli, and is the subject of a TV documentary being filmed for Bible Society’s Their Sacrifice campaign. Throughout 2015, this campaign will share stories of the brave who’ve defended Australia and of the Bibles that have sustained them through war. When the Australian Defence Force learned of the “Bible with a bullet in it” they asked to take it to Gallipoli for next year’s centennial. Bible Society consultant Dr John Harris immediately roped in his friend Cannings, who works with wood as a hobby. “He asked me if I could make a box for the Bible, and I said, yes, I can make a box,” Cannings recalls. “But I didn’t know it was going to be bigger than Ben Hur, what with a film crew and using Lone Pine wood.” There’s a tree at the War Memorial in Canberra grown from a seed of the Lone Pine tree at Gallipoli. Dr Harris knew that a branch had been struck off the tree in a storm, and asked to have it for the Jenkins’ Bible.

“There was barely enough for the box, so I couldn’t afford to make a mistake,” says Cannings. Knowing he only had one shot at it, Cannings first made a concept box and then three prototypes. Only then did he make the actual box, cutting the lid during the TV shoot. “I was nervous. There was the double pressure of getting the cut right, and doing it correctly on camera.” After the shoot Cannings had the satisfaction of seeing the Bible placed in its new home for the very first time. He says he was thinking, “I hope it fits,” but his pleasure was clear to see. “I wanted to do a good job because of the scope of the story.” “Certainly, it’s a story that captures the imagination,” says John Harris, “this young Christian going to war, and giving his all. His whole story underlines for us that he made the final sacrifice and his life in the ultimate sense is preserved in the hands of God. That’s why we feel so able to tell the story, because we know that Elvas Jenkins believed absolutely the words of the Bible, and we know that what it said was more important to him than the book itself.” Eight other stories about Australia’s brave and the Bibles that strengthened them will feature in the year-long campaign. All the Bibles will be taken on a road tour, and a website and

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In Brief LATIN CONVERTS: The rise in Protestants in South America is due to conversions, which have occurred in the span of a single lifetime, according to Pew Research. Just one in ten Latin Americans were raised in Protestant homes but Raised as: nearly one in five Currently identifies as: now describe 100% themselves as Protestant. The 80% most common 60% reason for becoming a 40% Protestant 20% (usually a Pentecostal) was a desire for a closer connection to God.

special publications will provide further opportunities to know more. Anyone planning on doing something related to Gallipoli next year should visit theirsacrifice. com

Catholic Protestant Unaffiliated

THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER AND FASTING will be held on Feb 15, 2015 in Canberra and around Australia. It will be followed by 40 days of prayer and fasting through the traditional season of Lent which leads up to Easter. nationaldayofprayer. com.au ALPHA HAS LAUNCHED a new video series for youth. Alpha has reached 24 million people and wants to reach a new generation. The series is free. australia. alpha.org/youthfilmseries LAST YEAR, according to the Australian Retailers Association, Australians spent $43 billion on Christmas, including $17 billion on food. In contrast, Australians gave $2.4 billion annually in taxdeductible giving. TEAR’s Really Useful Gift Catalogue was in the last Eternity. usefulgifts.org

Cannings with the Bible heading back to Gallipoli in 2015

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DECEMBER 2014

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IN DEPTH

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DON’T MISS OUR FEATURE ON REAL FEAR with RUTH ADAMS*, DAVID LEBRON* and ALLISON HOWELL Image: Hillsong

Pastoring at Hillsong Kiev has meant encouraging the church to love their neighbours, including their sister church in Russia.

Church under seige KALEY PAYNE

Hillsong is renowned for highenergy services and enthusiastic worship – in London, Paris, New York, Sydney. It’s a friendly place where everyone smiles. But there was one Sunday, at a Hillsong service in Kiev in Ukraine, where nobody could smile. “People came to church on Sunday, but nobody smiled. They didn’t know what tomorrow would look like. I stood up on the stage and everybody looked: ‘What are you going to say to us?’ Praise the Lord that in that moment, God

gave encouraging words for his people,” said Hillsong Kiev’s lead pastor, Yuriy Ravnushkin. “People needed church at that moment,” he said. “When they don’t see hope anywhere, they come to church and they can focus on Jesus.” Only a year after Ukraine declared its independence from the USSR in 1992, Hillsong Kiev was born. The congregation, which has burgeoned to number in the thousands, has seen a lot in those 22 years: political unrest, revolution. But at the end of last year, when hundreds of thousands

E H T N I O J R E B M E DEC ING MATCH NGE E L L A H C

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All of our men could be called at any time to be members of the Ukrainian army as war continues to spread.

of protestors turned out in Kiev’s Independence Square, a new season for the church also began. The Ukrainian government had abandoned a deal to form closer ties with the European Union, instead forging a closer relationship with Russia and sparking violent demonstrations. The BBC reported Kiev’s “worst day of violence for almost 70 years” with almost 100 people killed in two days. Dramatic images of Independence Square flooded the world’s media. Just on the outskirts of the city, Hillsong Kiev’s leadership team

was trying to keep a church going. At Hillsong’s major conference in Sydney in July, Kiev’s lead pastor Yuriy Ravnushkin spoke about the challenges of that period, including plans for a government-imposed curfew at the height of protests in December and January that would have made it difficult for the church to operate in the evenings. Hillsong’s global creative director, Cass Langton was in Kiev in May, after the church decided to cancel its annual Colour Conference for women, because of unrest in the country. “We didn’t want the [leadership]

It’s Time.

Partner with Leading The Way today and help take the gospel to your neighbour and the world. All donations to the Australian ministry over $2.00 are tax deductible.

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DECEMBER 2014

Church under seige team to be under pressure to put on a huge event,” she said of the decision. “People were frightened and worried, and even from a financial point of view, it just wasn’t the time for that. So we refunded the money but decided to go anyway and just run one night.” Against expectations, women came out in force for the one-night event in May. Around the same time, Ukraine’s acting President Olexander Turchynov reinstated military conscription in response to the deteriorating situation in eastern Ukraine. When Cass arrived to meet the Hillsong leadership team in Kiev, they had started discussion about “how to deal with all their men going to war.” “We’re well aware that all of our men and male youth could be called at any time to be members of the Ukrainian army as war continues to spread,” said Tanya, who, with her husband Yuriy leads the pastoral team in Kiev. “It’s [also] a constant balance to accept people with different political points of view and to keep this topic away from the church platform.” But the conflict has made Hillsong Kiev more “outwards focused” than ever. “We’ve started to do a whole lot more outside our doors than we have ever before,” said Tanya. “We’ve accepted a lot of children who are refugees into our church and into our homes.” Yuriy told the Hillsong Conference that there were huge opportunities to minister to

Sasha Maksymenko/FLICKR

Making no assumptions

Protests turn into violent clashes in Kiev,January 2014. The Hillsong church is close to the main protest area. refugees coming from parts of Ukraine, particularly in the east where fighting is the most intense. “Children come to Kiev, and their fathers stay to protect their homes. Our opportunity is to show them that we love them. Even with simple things like food.” Also high on the agenda is to raise up a church that does not hate Russians. In 2007, Hillsong Kiev planted an offshoot church in Moscow. Hillsong Moscow is led by Vadim Feshchenko, whom Yuriy had ministered to as a youth pastor. Now, the two pastors are on either

side of a bitter, ongoing conflict. “There’s good camaraderie there,” says Cass. “They get together once a month and talk strategy and what God’s doing in their churches. “This could have been something that divided the two churches … but the leaders talk to their people about the fact that we’re all people under God. In church, it’s not us and them. In all their communications, [the leaders] have striven to get across that we’re Christian first, and that’s where our nationality is grounded.”

Yuriy’s wife Tanya says she sees that the church’s role in the crisis is to be an encouragement for the city of Kiev to look to Jesus. “It’s a daily decision for us to trust God more than the mass media, more than the news and more than what we see with our own eyes. There is a need to make sure that among us, in the unpredictable things, that we pay attention to God and remember that God’s plan is eternal and everlasting; that he is consistent and never changes his mind or his character,” she said.

News can be like one of those “spot the difference” games where two nearly identical pictures challenge your ability to pick up small (and sometimes big) differences. Sometimes something significant changes in one corner of the picture and you have to be alert to find it. Just when you think you have a group of Christians pidgeonholed you find out something new about them. In far off Ukraine, a branch of the Aussie Hillsong group has found itself in a civil war zone, in a country now facing a major conflict. How does an Australian brand of Christianity fare in a place when all the men may be sent to war? How do you make sure you do not hate the Russians? Whether in Kiev or Iraq, 2014 has been a year when Aussie Christians have been globally connected as never before. Let’s bless the world in every way we can. Have a holy Christmas. John Sandeman

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Refugees forced out of Iraq by ISIS IMAGE BY R. PESSOA, PHOTOJOURNALIST. USED WITH PERMISSION.

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What I have learnt from the Bible in 2014 COMPILED BY TESS HOLGATE

AJ Veale

Eternity asked Christians around Australia what they’ve learnt from the Bible this year.

Mark Durie

Minister at Oaktree Anglican Church in Caulfield & Elsternwick, a family of churches in Melbourne including a church of Iranian believers all newly turned to Christ.

“I have re-learned from the story of Abraham that God uses flawed people, to his glory. This gives me confidence to endure in ministry despite my own flaws and limitations. It also fills me with hope that I see God using so many people all around me, many of whom are facing significant challenges.�

Chris Little

New Christian, Darebin Presbyterian Church, Melbourne

MTS Apprentice, North Coast Church, Perth has been reflecting on 1 Peter 1:3-9

“We have a living hope, a lasting inheritance and it is in this that we rejoice. Our circumstances might change, our experiences might be horrible, but what we have won’t change. It reminds me that I belong to God. If I’ve had a bad day at work or a great day at work, my faith and trust in Jesus need not waver because it isn’t dependent on my experiences. This truth helps me press on because I know that I am secure in Christ and that there in an imperishable, undefiled and unfading inheritance kept in heaven for me. This truth from God is not only day changing – it’s life changing.�

in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ�. And the truth, of course, is written through the pages of the Bible. My job – as a follower of Jesus – is to communicate the truth in a loving way. Easier said than done. Many biblical truths are hard to hear if you are far from God, but it would be unloving for us not to share the truth in such circumstances. In John 8:31-32, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free�. The truth is what people need.

Claire van Ryn Mother and writer, Launceston The real epiphany for me has been this: that I don’t need to change people’s minds, rip the blinkers from their eyes, argue back and forth until I’m blue in the face. I only need to speak the truth, with love, and allow God to do the rest. The truth will always resonate. Ephesians 4:15 says, â€œâ€Ś speaking the truth

Daniel Hoang

New Christian and Mechanical Engineering student, RMIT, Melbourne “The Christian Union at RMIT has taught me that spending time with everyone learning about the gospel is a great thing. I used to be hesitant to get to know people, I would rather be alone and listen to music, but I’ve opened up and now I’m learning to share my testimony.�

“This year through reading the Bible as a new Christian I have learnt that I have been saved through Christ’s loving sacrifice on the cross. Jesus paid this cost so that I may be justified in front of God for my sins. I have found that works to save yourself are not what will save you, but trusting and believing in Christ is the only way to find true salvation. I have also come to realise that my life is not my own but should be done to glorify God’s name. “Everything I do should be to the honour of Christ our Lord who ascended after defeating death. This in itself has come as a big change of perspective for me, as I’m someone who has always tried to be a good person to feel internally good. I now try to think how I can utilise the gifts God has given me to his cause and not for my own purpose.�

Andrew Levy Pastor, one1seven church Green Square, Sydney 1 Corinthians 1:4-6: “I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge—because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you.� For me, the curious word here is enrich (it’s the only time it appears in the New Testament). But as I’ve thought about it, I recognise it as beautifully descriptive of the all-encompassing, all-of-life work Jesus does in me. Grace is God’s unmerited favour, given to repentant sinners as a free gift. As I read this verse, I’m reminded foremost of my salvation and assurance in Christ. But then, I’m taught that same grace enriches me - it transforms my mind and speech - so that I can live out the gospel to the glory of God in such a way that it can be confirmed by others. This year, I’ve been involved in starting a new church in Green Square, NSW, and this verse has so struck me, that we’ve incorporated it into our church vision: “We aim to be a church that loves and enriches our community as we call people to follow Jesus�.

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BIBLE @ WORK

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SEE MORE ONLINE biblesociety. org.au For decades, resourceful Cubans have had to fix things for themselves. Now granted new religious freedom, they’re looking under the hood on spiritual matters.

Cuba says ‘si’ to the Bible SUZANNE SCHOKMAN Money is tight so Cubans repair everything, from cars to Bibles. But now it appears that the nation itself is on God’s bench top. Castro’s revolution of 1959 introduced communism to Cuba, and religion was frowned on. Church attendance waned and those who wanted to get ahead made sure they didn’t profess to having a religion. But thanks to recent social and political reforms, Cubans are now more open about their spiritual beliefs. Members of the Communist Party are allowed to attend church and to profess their Christian faith. With this new freedom, many are looking under the hood spiritually. They’re reconnecting with their faith and looking to the Bible for answers. “We’re living through excep-

tional times in Cuba,” reports Alain Hernandez Montano, Biblical Commission of Cuba (BCC). “The church is growing at an accelerated pace. But we’re faced with a great challenge: a shortage of Bibles.” There are no official statistics on church growth, but some place it at 10 to 25 per cent per annum. Papal visits in 1998 and 2012 were another factor that helped stir the faith of Cubans. When Pope John Paul II and then Pope Benedict XVI went to Cuba, it was an important signal at different levels, spurring the unchurched to renew their commitment. BCC estimates that there are now one million Catholics and 900,000 Protestants actively practising their faith in Cuba. Bible study groups (casas de mision) are sprouting throughout the island nation of 11 million

“

... they need one million Bibles to meet demand people. Christians are ready and waiting to delve into God’s word. But finance is a major hindrance. Poverty remains high in Cuba and buying anything new is a dream for most. This, and the church’s rapid growth, have left a good number of the Cuban faithful with no Bibles of their own. It’s estimated that

this number is as high as 40 per cent of believers. Churches in Cuba say they need one million Bibles to meet demand, and several Bible Societies have taken up the challenge of meeting this need. A team from Bible Society Norway visited Cuba a few months ago and were amazed at what they saw. As Bible Mission Director Bernt Olsen travelled around the nation he was constantly faced with the incredible shortage. “There was a Bible group where everyone gathered around one Bible,” he reports. Bible Society Australia invites you to help meet the need for one million Bibles. With your help, Bibles will be given to new believers and to those who can’t afford one. They’ll also be distributed through a variety

of projects reaching churches, prisons, schools, libraries and pastors in seminaries. Joel Ortega Dopico, President of the Cuban Council of Churches, says this is an interesting time in his nation’s history. “It’s a special moment, a moment of awakening, a time when the church is growing in a way that can only happen through God’s spirit, as he did back in those early days of the church. We are living the word of God where it says that ‘every day the Lord is adding to the church those who are being saved’.” If you’d like to help a nation on the mend, and provide its people with the building blocks for growth, please help to send one million Bibles to Cuba. + To donate, call 1300 BIBLES (1300 242 537) or go online: biblesociety.org.au/eternityrwanda

B ks

Your special lift out supplied with Eternity

The Bigger Picture Many years ago in a little town called Bethlehem a child was born. The birth was announced by angels, celebrated by shepherds, and received the attention of a dangerously insecure king. These strange events make little sense without knowing the big picture of the whole Bible story. Two thousand years later at a little church in Chicago, eager families discussed how to best teach their children the Christian faith. The ideas of respected Australian theologian Graeme Goldsworthy became a “springboard” inspiring those parents to teach the “big picture” of the Bible story to their kids. There was a buzz as parents began writing devotional materials and both children and adults began memorising a set of Bible verses in which the promises and plans of God could be seen to unfold. During this time their pastor David Helm also wrote the The Big Picture Story Bible which has become a treasured book for many Australian Christian families. This Christmas, for the first time, the collected devotional material is now available. The Big Picture Family Devotional is written by parents who understand the time pressures faced by modern families, where “getting everyone together in the same place at the same time is nearly impossible.” Everything you need is contained within the book; a key memory verse, a short devotional thought to draw out the significance of the bible text, and a question for family discussion or personal reflection. David Helm says “The entire process can take as little as five to ten minutes – or longer, at those unexpected but enjoyable leisurely times when your kids are particularly interested.” Even just reading the key memory verses will begin to help your child understand the bigger picture of the Christmas story. This Christmas many children will be hearing about the child born in Bethlehem. The Big Picture Family Devotional makes it easy to continue teaching your kids the rest of the Bible’s story throughout the year.

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NIV First-Century Study Bible Explore Scripture In Its Jewish And Early Christian Context

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BOOKS

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DECEMBER 2014

KARL GRICE ON “WHAT IF?” Fervr have released a new book for teens wrestling with doubt, so we asked author of What If?, Kristen Young about her own struggles with faith and doubt: What have been your personal struggles with doubt? Kristen: I think we all have struggles at one time or another. When we believe things that we can’t see – like Jesus coming to earth, his miracles and so on - there are always times when we can be made to doubt the truth of what we’ve heard. Like when someone loudly and angrily says, “Everything you believe about God is wrong!”, then you have that moment of doubt, like “Oh, are they right? Am I deluded about this?” It can be quite confronting when worldviews clash. One of the big struggles for me was when I first went to university. I was constantly bombarded with different ideas about people, the world and our place in it. It was a bit like having a rug pulled out from under your feet! That first time you hear someone say, “Well, of course everyone knows that all religions are the same,” and you think, “are they?” Or a science professor says, “Only imbeciles believe that God is real.” When these worldviews collide, you can really be knocked about. Why did you write this book? I was seeing Christians struggling with their own faith in the face of opposition. In our ministry, we were hearing a lot of questions, but also a lot of unhelpful slogans, like “God is dead,” or “Jesus is like the tooth fairy.” Doubt caused a whole lot of stress for people. It was almost as if they felt that they had to know everything with 110 per

Dealing with doubts cent certainty, or they were wrong. I wanted to help them to try and work through all the emotions they were feeling, and see that there was another way of dealing with it all. Do you think teens have different anxieties about the Christian faith to adults? No, not at all. I think the difference comes in the way the challenges and anxieties present to us. For example, a teenager’s first challenge to their faith might come from a non-believing teacher, or a hostile peer group. An adult might face the same challenges from work colleagues. The language might be different, but I think the challenges are the same: Is God real? Is Jesus who he said he is? Can I trust my life to God? What if I fail? Am I missing

out on something? They’re the same anxieties, but they turn up in different clothes, if you like. Have any of your friends turned away from God because of doubt? Doubts are often a sign that something else is going on – whether it be the worry of looking stupid, or the pain of suffering, or having unrealistic expectations of God, or even the temptation to replace God with some other passion. I haven’t had any friends give up on God just because of doubt. There’s always been a complex relationship between doubt and other things going on at the time. Who has helped you work through your doubts? It might sound a bit strange, but

I think God is the one who really helped me through it all. At those dark moments when I was struggling so hard, God would just help me to see something in his Word, or he would send along a faithful Christian at just the right time to help me understand and talk about what I was hearing. There were also intelligent people who’d been through the struggles before me, who helped me to see the truth or otherwise of what I was doubting. But all along, as I look back, I can see God’s hand helping me through the storm. In what ways has the Bible itself increased your faith in God? The Bible has helped me enormously. It is so different from any other book (or library in a book).

Christmas gift ideas for Parents Answering Your Kids’ Toughest Questions by Elyse Fitzpatrick (right) has a timely chapter on talking with your kids about war and terrorism. And if Elyse’s book doesn’t answer every question your kids ask, R C Sproul’s classic book Now that’s a Good Question will cover most of the others. Perfect for teens with a genuine desire to understand our world from a Biblical viewpoint. For those wrestling with doubts Kristen Young’s new book is worth a look.

When I’ve struggled, it’s reminded me that God is still in control. Sometimes I think we make decisions based on “majority rule” – that is, we’ll believe it’s true if everyone else does. But books like Daniel help you to see that throughout history, there have been other times when the majority got it hopelessly wrong. It’s encouraging to see that God is real and working and powerful even in these situations. It’s also been helpful to see other people’s failures in the Bible – I know that sounds crazy! But take Peter. He was such a passionate bloke, but there was still that time when he faced questions and he totally caved on Jesus: “I don’t know the man!” The imperfect people that God uses to build his kingdom give me hope. The disciples saw Jesus calm a storm with his words, and their response wasn’t a cheesy hymn, it was, “Who is this man?” To be able to come through that uncertainty and then say as Thomas said, “My Lord and My God,” is such an encouragement. Ultimately, though, the Bible has given me Jesus. Of all the possible belief systems in the world, Jesus is solid and real and absolutely astounding. His life on earth, doing things that only God could do. But then his death – humiliating, broken and horrible death – and to say that he did that for his enemies? And he didn’t stay dead, but rose back to life? That’s completely mind-blowing! Nobody would make that stuff up. When everything seems haywire, I keep coming back to Jesus, and to what the Bible says about him. I know God is real because of Jesus. I know I can trust God because of Jesus. I know that God is with us because of Jesus. It all comes back to him.

Give Them Grace by Elyse Fitzpatrick & Jessica Thompson 9781433520099 Paperback

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Sex, gender, puberty, and self-image. How do you discuss these topics with a 10-14 year old? Dr Patricia Weerakoon shares her wisdom on this angst-ridden aspect of parenting in Growing Up by the Book. There are no guarantees this book will prevent awkward conversations with your kids, but they might be the conversations you need to start having now.

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What If?

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Dr James Dobson, author, founder of Focus on the Family, psychologist and leading voice on the family brings you two new books, just in time for Christmas.

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See the interview with the author above and our review on the next page!

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BOOKS

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DECEMBER 2014

What If? Dealing with Doubts by Kristen Young 9781925041460 See interview pg 10

Evangelism by Mack Stiles 9781433544651 Hardcover

Awaken the Spirit by Jay Jeffries 9781433544651 Flexibound

Hope Beyond Cure by David McDonald 971892220644 Paperback

$14.95 Reviewed by David Bell

$17.95 Reviewed by Guan Un

$29.95 Reviewed by Karl Grice

$12.95 Reviewed by Sandy Grant

Who of us has not had nagging doubts about God, Jesus, the truth of the Bible, the resurrection and the problem of ongoing sin in the Christian’s life, and that great perennial topic of suffering? If these are issues for you then this is a good book for you. It does not claim to be comprehensive but it deals with these big questions in a sympathetic and intellectually rigorous way. Although it is aimed at the youth market, mid-teens to young adults, it is a book that any Christian could read for useful information and encouragement. I found it an extremely helpful book, and I am pleased to recommend it to a wider readership. It deals with big questions in a way to make us think. And it does not avoid some disagreements between Christians on issues that are not foundational for our faith. It is a wonderful introduction to that area called Apologetics. Yet at all times it encourages the individual Christian to confront their own doubts. It is a book that can, and should, be read a few times. It can be read cover-to-cover but its structure allows the reader to select an area of concern and interest, such as “Can I trust the Bible?” I highly recommend this primer for the doubting Christian. It is a much-needed book. Its publication now is timely.

What I love about this book is that it’s realistic, biblical and practical. Evangelism begins with Stiles defining evangelism – “teaching the gospel with the aim to persuade” – and then goes on to show why he believes a culture of evangelism in a church is important. He’s careful to distance this from the idea of evangelism through programmes and evangelistic speakers, but instead churches which are “loving communities committed to sharing the gospel as part of an ongoing way of life, not by the occasional evangelistic raid event”. The picture that Stiles paints of the church with a culture of evangelism is attractive without being gimmicky, motivated by a true love of Christ and a true love of others, with an eye not only for the immediacy of conversion, but the reality of a long-term journey with Christ. When Stiles tells personal anecdotes about successes in evangelism, you find yourself nodding and thinking “I could do that,” rather than the many books where anecdotes had me fairly certain that I’d never be able to do the same. If that sounds like something you want to happen too, pick up this book.

Do you have friends who are on a spiritual quest but avoid the church? Friends who are searching for truth at Mind, Body, Spirit Festivals but haven’t considered Jesus yet? Awaken the Spirit: The Sacred Texts of Jesus is the fruit of a ten year project to present the Bible in a form which speaks to New Age people. It was a bold project, but Melbourne-based editor Jay Jeffries sought wisdom from friends and has successfully produced a stunning new format Bible. The Sacred Texts include Bible portions from Genesis, Luke, Acts and Revelation, interspersed with Psalms – all in the trusted New Living Translation. Hand-picked images and illustrations invite deep reflection on the text. The style of imagery may seem a little odd at first, but in a New Age context these images give reverence to the text. Specially commissioned articles and personal stories encourage people to take the risk of meeting Jesus, knowing that others have travelled that same journey with fear, excitement and joy. The New Age sub-culture can easily appreciate Jesus for his compassion, his integrity and his sacrificial love. In reflecting and meditating on the Bible texts, it is hoped people may also respond to Jesus’ invitation to be reconciled and reunited with the living God.

Cancer has become the leading cause of death in Australia. Everyone knows someone who is impacted. And – to state the obvious – not everyone gets better from a cancer diagnosis. Dave McDonald, a Canberra-based church planter, pastor and sports chaplain to the ACT Brumbies Super Rugby Team, was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer in late 2011. I read my copy of this book in just an hour on the train, between Central and Helensburgh. And that was with several pauses while I tried not to cry in front of everyone else in the packed carriage. Perhaps it won’t surprise you to discover Dave points clearly, winsomely, compassionately, but uncompromisingly towards the gospel of Jesus Christ, crucified and risen as the only source of hope for life beyond death. And he explains the reasons why he found that hope to remain a true hope, both objectively and subjectively, when cancer threw everything he knew up in the air. It’s brutally honest. It’s short and realistic. It doesn’t pretend to have all the answers. But it delivers what it promises: hope beyond cure. As Dave says: “There’s nothing remarkable about my faith. Sometimes it’s weak and sometimes it wavers. But Jesus is not weak and Jesus never wavers. He can be trusted.”

The Great Bible Swindle

Explore the religious beliefs of Australia’s Prime Ministers

In God They Trust? Hardcover 9780647518557

$19.95 Billy Graham on a subject very dear to his heart - Salvation.

The Reason for My Hope Softcover 9780849922046

$15.95

SOMEWHAT LESS CONDENSED is Jonny Gibson’s recent tome From Heaven He Came and Sought Her, with various writers delving into the topic of sovereignty, election and the atonement. Weighing in at just over a kilo and with a solid 704 pages of content, this volume is destined to be read only by those with a strong interest in the topic. Jonny will be speaking at the AFES National Training Event in Canberra this month. Mack Stiles will be at the same event. His latest book Evangelism: How the Whole Church Speaks of Jesus has been receiving positive reviews, including from our very own reviewer Guan Un (see left). THE Awaken the Spirit Bible was launched in Melbourne in November. It is the exciting culmination of a 10 year project by Jay Jeffries to present the “sacred texts of Jesus” in a form that will connect with people immersed in New Age spiritualities.

Hardcover 9780310439363

Hardcover 9780647518656

2nd PLACE - AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN BOOK OF THE YEAR 2014

FANS OF THE Big Picture Story Bible will be keen to read David Helm’s new Big Picture Family Devotional and his collection of Big Picture Bible Verses. The Bible verse booklet offers a modern children’s catechism, with the “Big Picture” of the Bible condensed into 45 kid-friendly questions and memory verses. That makes it more condensed than the Reader’s Digest Bible, and sweeter than a can of Carnation’s evaporated milk. Try it after dinner with the kids.

NEW NIV Real Life Devotional Bible for Women

WINNER - AUSTRALIAN CHRISTIAN BOOK OF THE YEAR 2014 From the pen of Greg Clarke (CEO of Bible Society Australia)

$19.95

BOOKNOTES

$39.95 Start the new year on the right note with one of these One Year Devotionals

Women in Book Christian of Bible History Promises Devotional Softcover 9781414369341

Softcover 9781414316086

God with Us Devotional Gold Cover 9781414389448

$16.95 $16.95 $26.95 Before Amen by Max Lucado Paperback 9780718016371

$14.95

DuoTone Razz/Rasp 9780310421047

$59.95 DuoTone Blue/Blue Compact Size 9780310429470

$54.95 DuoTone Pink/Choc Compact Size 9780310429487

$54.95 NIV Study Bible Hardcover (Personal Size) 9780310437321

$44.95

Order online at specials.biblesociety.org.au mail to Locked Bag 7003 Minto NSW 2566 call 1300 139 179 For mail order, please include the item numbers and titles of products requested, as well has your contact and payment details. Also add postage costs to your total order (Orders $0-$30 Postage $6.95; Orders $31-$60 Postage $7.95; Orders $61-$250 Postage $9.95). This book promotion is valid until December 31st, 2014 or while stocks last. All items in this catalogue are included in good faith from our suppliers. Any delays in supplier delivery may result in product being delayed or unavailable. While we endeavour to use correct illustration in this catalogue, final product delivered may have changeddesign without our notice. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars and include GST.

DECEMBER 2014

CULTURE

13

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This Summer’s best

Kids

Watch – Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day (December 9) Based on the classic children’s book by the same name, Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day is about a primary school aged boy who comes to realise that well-off people tend to be sympathy poor. His day begins with gum stuck in his hair, followed by more calamities, none of which his family appreciates – until they all find themselves living through their own nightmare day.

An excellent opportunity to teach compassion based on the mantra, “There, but for the grace of God, go I.� Buy – Planes: Fire & Rescue (December 10) Guardians of the Galaxy (December 3) is Marvel-ous fun for primary school aged kids but my preference would be for the sequel to the 2013 blockbuster Planes. This time Dusty Crophopper has to cope with life when all of your dreams don’t come true. Irreparable engine damage means our hero can no longer race. But his struggles lead to him learning a less selfish, more fulfilling path in life. Not a bad tool for introducing kids to the sovereignty of God. But whatever you choose, don’t get sucked into the hype that will surround the release of Transformers: Age of Extinction (November 26). This is not a kids’ film regardless of the toy connection and it contains some really sneaky attacks on the rights of Creators buried in the dialogue.

Teens

Watch – The Hobbit: Battle of the Five Armies (December 26) This is the impossible-notto-watch title these holidays, even though it’s been invaded by a veritable army of subplots – interracial love between dwarves and elves anyone? However the best way to tackle the conclusion to The Hobbit is to start a conversation about the path of the hero, Bilbo. The life he left behind

Image: Disney

Australians love movies. According to Box Office Mojo we bought $105 million film tickets over the last summer holidays – but that’s just scratching the surface. Australians have been buying more movies, year over year since 1990 with 95 million units sold in 2007 alone. Sales dropped in 2008 but only because digital flicks arrived. Screen Australia reports 8.5 million Australians aged 14+ watched feature films, TV drama or documentaries online in the past year alone. The movie remains one of Australia’s favourite pasttimes and purchases, and we’re set to watch and buy millions more hours of moving pictures these holidays. The question worth asking, though, is which ones represent value for money? Or to put it another way, what might make a great outing or gift for the other “viewers� in your life?

All your “bad day� nightmares come true in Alexander was ultimately a selfish one that only stood for comfort and quiet. By the end of the third instalment though, he’s become so convicted by what he believes is right he’s prepared to risk not only his safety but the good opinion of his friends. Now that would be a gain in any teenager’s life. Buy – The Giver (January 14) This is a case of the gift card combined with the cool recommendation. The Giver is based on the best-selling teen fiction book that introduces us to an idyllic community somewhere in the future where differences have been abandoned for the sake of peaceful coexistence. But hero Jonas begins to uncover evidence of a life outside of his ideal home. Among other things The Giver redefines faith from a baseless belief to the ability to “see beyond� what we perceive now based on the evidence and testimony of others. A thoughtful adventure that rises above Divergent and The Hunger Games.

Adults Watch – Unbroken (January 8) Post Middle Earth you’ll probably be looking for a real story to revel in – cue Unbroken. This is the inspiring life of Olympian Louie Zamperini who is involved in a near fatal plane crash during World War II and survives for 47 days adrift at sea only to be captured and interred by the Japanese. An epic tale that’s certain to inspire conversations about life, death and whether or not we have what it takes to persevere, beginning with, “What would you hold on to if you literally found yourself adrift in life?� Buy – Begin Again (December 10)

It was honestly a close call as I could just have easily pointed to the release of Son of God (December 3), the latest retelling of Jesus’ triumph over sin, or A Most Wanted Man (December 10), a powerful story about the lies told in the name of fighting terrorism. But instead I’d like to draw your attention to a film about whole-hearted redemption. Begin Again is a quaint, musically driven story set in New York about a failing record producer and an undiscovered starlet. There is a happy ending but not the one you think, and rising above it all ultimately means turning your back on what you thought you wanted and walking in the opposite direction.

.DUGHĂźOHU EX ROD\ODUĂ—Q ]DPDQ YH WDULKOHULQH GDLU VL]H \D]PD\D JHUHN \RNWXU d QN VL] GH oRN L\L ELOLUVLQL] NL 5DEŇ‹ELQ J Q JHFH KĂ—UVĂ—] QDVĂ—O JHOLUVH Ăśyle gelecektir.

%X ND\QDN GDKD ID]OD ELOJL LoHUPHNWHGLU 'DKD ID]OD ELOJL WHPLQ HWPHN LVWL\RUVDQĂ—] 7HYUDW =HEXU ĂşQFLO NLWDSODUĂ—QGDQ \DUDUODQDELOLUVLQL] JHOLEROX #JPDLO FRP For a full New Testament, which contains all the writings of the Turkish apostle, contact your state Bible Society bookshop. For a free Turkish language New Testament, to take with you, and present to a Turkish person, contact the Bible 6RFLHW\ DW FKULV PHOYLOOH#ELEOHVRFLHW\ RUJ DX

$IWHU WKDW ZH ZKR DUH VWLOO DOLYH DQG DUH OHIW ZLOO be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with WKH /RUG IRUHYHU

Therefore encourage each other with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4 : 14 ff

5DEŇ‹ELQ NHQGLVL ELU HPLU oDĂšUĂ—VĂ—\OD EDĂź PHOHĂšLQ VHVOHQPHVL\OH YH 7DQUĂ—Ň‹QĂ—Q ERUD]DQĂ—\OD J|NWHQ inecek. Ă–nce Mesih’e ait ĂślĂźler dirilecek. 172QGDQ VRQUD EL] \DĂźDPDNWD RODQODU GLUL NDOPĂ—Ăź RODQODU RQODUOD ELUOLNWH 5DEŇ‹EL KDYDGD NDUß×ODPDN  ]HUH EXOXWODU LoLQGH DOĂ—QĂ—S J|W U OHFHĂšL] %|\OHFH VRQVX]D GHN 5DEŇ‹OH ELUOLNWH RODFDÚ×] 18úßWH birbirinizi bu sĂśzlerle teselli edin.

16

According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you WKDW ZH ZKR DUH VWLOO DOLYH ZKR DUH OHIW WLOO WKH coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede WKRVH ZKR KDYH IDOOHQ DVOHHS For the Lord himself will come down from KHDYHQ ZLWK D ORXG FRPPDQG ZLWK WKH YRLFH RI WKH DUFKDQJHO DQG ZLWK WKH WUXPSHW FDOO RI *RG DQG WKH GHDG LQ &KULVW ZLOO ULVH À UVW

úVDҋQ×Q |O S GLULOGLÚLQH LQDQ×\RUX] $\Q× ßHNLOGH 7DQU× úVDҋ\D EDÚO× RODUDN J|]OHULQL \DßDPD NDSDP×ß RODQODU× GD 2ҋQXQOD ELUOLNWH JHUL getirecektir. 15Rab’bin sÜzßne dayanarak size ßXQX ELOGLUL\RUX] EL] \DßDPDNWD RODQODU 5DEҋELQ JHOLßLQH GHN GLUL NDODFDNRODQODU J|]OHULQL \DßDPD NDSDP×ß RODQODU×Q |Q QH DVOD JHoPH\HFHÚL] :H EHOLHYH WKDW -HVXV GLHG DQG URVH DJDLQ DQG VR ZH EHOLHYH WKDW *RG ZLOO EULQJ ZLWK -HVXV WKRVH ZKR KDYH IDOOHQ DVOHHS LQ KLP

Here are the words of the Turkish apostle, Salih Tarsuslu (Saul of Tarsus)...

TĂźrk Havari bilinen en eski portresi budur, Tarsuslu Salih, dĂśrdĂźncĂź \Â ]\Ă—OGDQ NDOPD 2 Roma catacombs GXYDUODUĂ—QD oL]LOPLĂź oldu.

the second “landing� All the holy books teach about the glorious return to earth of the Messiah, at the end of time. He has already been here once.

This is the earliest known portrait of the Turkish apostle, Salih Tarsuslu, dating from the fourth century. It was drawn on the walls of the catacombs in Rome.

14

úßWH 7 UN +DYDUL sÜzleri, Tarsuslu Salih...

LNLQFL ´DoĂ—OĂ—ß¾ TĂźm Kutsal kitaplarda DĂźnya’ya Mesih, PXKWHĂźHP G|Q ß KDNNĂ—QGD zaman sonunda |ĂšUHWPHN 2 zaten burada bir zamanlar ROPXĂźWXU

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DECEMBER 2014

E AUSTRALIA/TURKEY FRIENDSHIP PROJECT SPONSORED PAGE 14

Back to where it all began... Turkey Here is the great city of Antakya, gleaming with minarets. It boasts the oldest church building in the world (a cave church named for St Peter, dating from the second century). As ancient Antioch it ZDV WKH VLWH RI WKH Ă€ UVW mixed race church, where followers of Messiah -HVXV ZHUH Ă€ UVW FDOOHG Christians. Famously that congregation sent out pioneer messengers, Barnabas and Saul. They “turned the world upside down,â€? starting here.

YLVLWRU 0867 VKRZ UHVSHFW DV KH generously did to our forefathers ZKR DUULYHG XQLQYLWHG LQ )RU WKRVH ZHOO YHUVHG LQ RXU Western approach to “apologeticsâ€?, this may all seem benign, and a ELW YDJXH ,W GHOLEHUDWHO\ DYRLGV FRQYHQWLRQDO DSRORJHWLFV ZKLFK concentrates on “I am right, you are wrongâ€?. You win the argument, but not the friend. Such an intellectual, confrontational approach is counterSURGXFWLYH LQ DQ (DVWHUQ VHWWLQJ ,W LV RXU SROLF\ WR 1(9(5 $5*8( Proven rules of engagement : 5XOH 3(5621$/ &217$&7 'R QRW WKURZ WKHVH OHDĂ HWV RXW the window of the tour bus as you ZKL]] WKURXJK D WRZQ 7KDW GLVSOD\V GLVUHVSHFW DQG HQVXUHV D QHJDWLYH UHVSRQVH <RXU KDQGLQJ RYHU WKLV or any gospel material, must be 3(5621$/ 7KLV FRXOG EH WR D waiter, cleaner, tour guide, stall holder etc.

5XOH '2 127 $5*8( Stick to the things we agree on. 7KH SKLORVRSK\ RI WKLV OHDĂ HW is to concentrate on things that connect us, not the thorny areas of disagreement. Remember we go as peace-makers, not trouble-makers. THE ANZAC CARD Cut it out, and take it with you, RU JLYH LW WR VRPHRQH HOVH ZKR LV going to Turkey. With no Turkish language, it takes about 20 seconds to mime the $XVVLHV ODQGLQJ DW *HOLEROX ^WKHLU QDPH IRU ZKDW ZH FDOO C*DOOLSROLC` (pretend gun shooting), turn the page to show Ataturk. He pushed them back (appropriate hand action), then salute him. Page 3 SRLQW WR WKH WZR Ă DJV DQG WKH KHDUW logo/handshake. “Now we want to EH IULHQGVÂľ DQG H[WHQG \RXU KDQG :LWKRXW H[FHSWLRQ WKH KDQGVKDNH LV YLJRURXVO\ UHWXUQHG %HDPLQJ VPLOHV $QG QR ZDVWDJH QRW RQH

Richard and Ruth $QVRXO DUH KDSS\ to discuss your plans for travel to Turkey, and offer any insights that may be helpful. They also have a range of other resources in the Turkish language. You can contact them by phone on 08 8563 2158, or email richardansoul@gmail.com For further copies of the friendship card please make contact for ordering details.

Š Richard Ansoul 2014

The second landing Many thousands of Australians, and New =HDODQGHUV DUH YLVLWLQJ Turkey in 2015 to commemorate the centenary of this KLVWRULF HYHQW LQ WKHLU history. This time they all come in friendship

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Mustafa Kemal, UHVLPGH GLĂšHU VXED\ODUĂ—\OD 7Â UN RUGXVX EDĂźDUĂ—OĂ— ELU ĂźHNLOGH .HPDO YH 0Â WWHĂ€ N .XYYHWOHULQL EDĂźDUĂ—\OD SÂ VNÂ UWWÂ Daha sonra Mustafa Kemal BĂźyĂźk bir sorumluluk gĂśstererek KHU LNL WDUDIĂ—Q ND\Ă—SODUĂ—QĂ— RQXUODQGĂ—UPĂ—ĂźWĂ—U Daha sonra ona $WDWÂ UN 7Â UNOHUŇ‹LQ DWDVĂ— DQODPĂ—QD JHOHQ DG LWKDI HGLOPLĂźWLU

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The Turkish army successfully repelled the Allied forc-es, and .HPDO ODWHU H[SUHVVHG generous responsibility for honouring the fallen, of both sides. Later he led the nation, earning the title, Ataturk, father of the Turks

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Rubbing shoulders with ordinary 7XUNV VRRQ UHYHDOV WKH VSLULWXDO YDFXXP WKH\ OLYH LQ ,Q FRPSDQ\ they may be obliged to shun anything “Christianâ€? (remember the &UXVDGHV" EXW LQ SULYDWH WKH\ DUH spiritually hungry, and waiting for someone to show them a higher way. Richard has drawn on years of H[SHULHQFH WR GHVLJQ WKH $Q]DF friendship card (cut yours out and fold it twice to make a greeting card, Anzac landing on the front). He and 5XWK KDYH Ă€ QH WXQHG WKH XVH RI the card by sharing it many times in Turkey. It has ALWAYS been JUDFLRXVO\ DQG ZDUPO\ UHFHLYHG The true religion of the land is nationalism. “Insulting Turkishnessâ€? is an actual crime on the statute books. Ataturk is the Turkish hero of the war, who later led his nation in to the modern era. His LPDJH LV HYHU\ZKHUH LQ 7XUNH\ $

of these cards is thrown away. We QRUPDOO\ OHDYH WKH SHUVRQ WR RSHQ the card later to read apostle Paul’s description of the second coming, but if you open it with them, you can VSHDN FRQĂ€ GHQWO\ WKDW WKH VDPH thing is taught in the Koran. We all need to be ready. 2Q WZR RFFDVLRQV P\ LQFUHDVLQJO\ VOLFN KDQGRYHU unearthed old men, who said, “the Australians killed my grandfatherâ€?. In each case I bowed and H[SUHVVHG P\ VRUURZ 0\ DSRORJ\ was like picking off a gnarled old VFDE IRU PDQ\ \HDUV WKHLU ORVV LQ WW1 was carried as a burden, VXGGHQO\ UHOLHYHG E\ D VLPSOH apology. 2XU \RXQJ PHQ IDFHG WKHLU \RXQJ men, who were defending their homeland. It was not the best way to start a friendship with the Turkish people. But it is not too late for us to remedy the situation. You can be more than a tourist. Be an ambassador.

7KH À UVW ODQGLQJ $Q]DFV ODQG DW *DOOLSROL *HOLEROX RQ WK $SULO 7KH\ VXFFHVVIXOO\ retreated on 20th 'HFHPEHU

Many Aussies and Kiwis are planQLQJ WR YLVLW WKH H[RWLF ODQG RI 7XU key, as they retrace the footsteps of our Anzac forebears.For many WKHUH ZLOO EH WKRXJKWV RI DGYHQWXUH ORVV VDFULÀ FH ZDVWH RI KXPDQ OLIH and the futility of war, mingled with KHURLVP DQG SDWULRWLF IHUYRXU In the antipodes we acknowledge WKH KHURLVP DQG SDWULRWLF IHUYRXU of our opponents only incidentally. 7KH\ ZHUH À JKWLQJ WR GHIHQG WKHLU homeland. There was, and is, no enmity between us and the Turks. Among the swarms of Anzac YLVLWRUV WKHUH ZLOO EH PRUH &KULVWLDQV WKDQ H[LVW LQ WKH ZKROH RI 7XUNH\ The tiny Protestant community feels EHVLHJHG (VWLPDWHV YDU\ VHYHUDO WKRXVDQG LV DQ DFFHSWHG À JXUH Some cities of a million, in this QDWLRQ RI PLOOLRQ KDYH QRW RQH EHOLHYHU OHW DORQH D FKXUFK 7KLV LV LQ VSLWH RI WKH QDWLRQ EHLQJ RIÀ FLDOO\ secular. In reality almost 100% FODLP WR EH 0XVOLPV )RU YHU\ PDQ\ WKLV LV RQO\ D FXOWXUDO LGHQWLÀ FDWLRQ (think of the millions who celebrate WKH ELUWK RI -HVXV LQ RXU ODQGV ZKR GR QRW KDYH DQ\ UHDO IDLWK LQ KLP Richard Ansoul is a Baptist pastor, based in the Barossa Valley, LQ 6$ +H DQG KLV ZLIH 5XWK KDYH YLVLWHG 7XUNH\ PDQ\ WLPHV $W À UVW LW ZDV MXVW WKH WUDQVLW SRLQW IRU MRXUQH\V HOVHZKHUH EXW RYHU WLPH became the primary focus of their prayers, and plans. 5LFKDUG KDV ZULWWHQ D GHÀ QLWLYH book on the Turkish apostle (yes, 7DUVXV LV LQ 7XUNH\ ZKLFK KDV been recently released (in Antakya) in Turkish.

ĂşNLQFL ĂşQGLUPH Binlerce $YXVWUDO\DOĂ— YH <HQL =HODQGDOĂ— 7Â UNL\HŇ‹QLQ Ň‹WH EX WDULKL ROD\Ă—Q DQĂ—VĂ—QD \Â ]Â QFÂ \Ă—O dĂśnĂźmĂźnde ziyaret edeceklerdir. Bu sefer hepsi dostluk LoLQ JHOL\RU

DECEMBER 2014

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OPINION A mind soaked with scripture

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MICHAEL JENSEN asks if there’s still a Sabbath GREG CLARKE on Exodus and the big screen

Simon Manchester on Samuel Marsden, whose preaching of the first sermon in New Zealand occured on Christmas day 200 years ago.

Marsden was probably born in 1765 and grew up in the Yorkshire area of England. The Wesleyan influence on Marsden’s parents can be seen in the fact that the Marsden boys received the same names as the Wesley men – Samuel, John and Charles. Whatever led to Marsden’s call to ministry is not known but the financial means came through the Elland Society – a group of evangelical clergy who met to support one another and who began to fund suitable young men who were considering the ministry. Marsden trained in Cambridge, being influenced by older men such as William Romaine, John Newton, Rowland Hill, William Wilberforce and his mentor Charles Simeon. Even in the last year of his life Simeon wrote to Marsden with great affection and warmth and in his own last year of life Marsden reflected on these great friends – almost all having preceded him to heaven. He cut short his theological studies when the invitation came to become the assistant chaplain in New South Wales and Wilberforce recommended that he take it. At the age of 28 with his newly

married wife Elizabeth he sailed for Sydney in 1793. The men of power in New South Wales saw the role of the chaplain as “the guardianship of public morality and the maintenance of a due sense of subordination in the minds of convicts and settlers.” But Marsden was there for more biblical and eternal purposes. In fact he said in a sermon that God in his sovereignty had prompted the Americans to oppose the English in 1776 so as to allow southern peoples to hear the gospel! From his base in Parramatta he helped Richard Johnson in the conducting of services with a desire to see all peoples transformed, morals improved and churches built. Though accused of showing no interest in the Aboriginal peoples (and he certainly found them unresponsive) he planned for their welfare and evangelism but was naive in setting up farming districts for them to settle into. Even in 1810 he was concerned for their protection and enlightenment and confident that “the glory of the Lord” would shine upon them. A. T. Yarwood has quite reasonably suggested that finding

the Australian spiritual soil – made up of officials, convicts and Aborigines – very unreceptive, Marsden turned his hopes much more to New Zealand. The theology that drove Marsden’s mission and perseverance was of reformed faith from the start but it deepened and developed over the years as he suffered and found himself driven to divine promises and reassurance. He was accused of dishonesty, cruelty, greed and selfinterest. It was claimed that he ran a distillery, sold guns to the Maoris which contributed to the extinction of a tribe, accumulated property beyond reasonable bounds and even became besotted with power, ending up in a “mental state” unfit for office. It would be tedious to answer these accusations, but to take just one issue – the guns – Marsden claimed to have no gun on his own property and he considered selling guns to the Maoris as “a great sin”. He had supplied a missionary teacher with some powder for their own protection but deeply “regretted” it. No accusation is as famous as Marsden’s hand in sentencing

people to be flogged. As a NSW magistrate Marsden was expected to comply with set penalties. How much of this was done mercifully is a matter of much dispute but he wrote to his friend Miles Atkinson that he took the role of magistrate to obey the governor to bring leniency where possible. It was reported that two magistrates had ordered James Blackburn to be given twenty five lashes each morning till revealing information. Though Marsden was named as one of the two, he was in fact absent for the case, and Blackburn himself said that Marsden had not sentenced him. It is probably wrong to play down or play up Marsden’s thinking about the benefits of civilisation. To play it down might miss the reality that Marsden thought civilisation was a powerful apologetic for the gospel. When cannibals and warriors saw life at its peaceful best they would want the source. He longed for more of England to invade New Zealand in the cultural sense. Seeing the English flag he once said “I considered it as the signal and dawn of civilisation ... I never viewed the British colours with more gratification and

DISCOVER A DYNAMIC PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN YOUR PROFESSION & FAITH Choosing to study at CHC has given me the opportunity to grow my understanding and knowledge, strengthen my beliefs and reflect on what Godly leadership is all about. Perhaps there will never be a perfect time to start – but the journey is definitely worth the effort.” – Felicity

flattered myself they would never be removed till the natives of that island enjoyed all the happiness of British subjects.” In one sense it would of course be utterly naïve to suggest that the simple raising of the British flag could achieve a transforming power. But in another sense Marsden was right. To communicate the gospel required some groundwork and connection. Marsden strongly believed that “nothing but the gospel could redeem” and his question was therefore “who will have the honour of leading them ... to the foot of the cross?” He would write that “only the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God ... can subdue their hearts to the obedience of faith.” Iain Murray’s comment on all this may be helpful when he suggests that the early Marsden elevated civilisation beyond its powers while the older Marsden saw conversion as the only power. What is clear is that Marsden filled his mind with Scripture and over time this illumined everything else. He could see the people who were “without hope and without God,” but he could also claim that

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Manchester on Marsden God’s ways were hidden because “clouds and darkness are about his footsteps.” Marsden rejoiced in the “Day Star” and looked forward to the “latter rain”. When people came to get spiritual advice he could take them all over the Scriptures. In 1830, preaching on Good Friday, he chose Hebrews 9:19-22 and on Easter Day 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 – both vital and central passages to the Easter message. He encouraged Scripture translation and when the printing press arrived the New Zealanders “danced, shouted and capered about giving vent to the wildest effusions of joy.” So soaked was Marsden’s mind in the assurance of God’s character revealed in his Word that when his wife Elizabeth died (at the age of 63 after years of incapacity from a stroke) he wrote, “infinite wisdom cannot err.” When a dear friend died soon after Elizabeth’s death he wrote, “God knows and He rules over all.” On his fourth trip to New Zealand Marsden suffered one of the most difficult and painful setbacks. The Brampton, the ship Marsden was to have left on for home, was caught in such stormy and violent seas that she had to be abandoned. Compounding the stress under these terrible conditions, Marsden had the added burden of having with him a disobedient missionary and a difficult schoolteacher, both of whom he had removed from office. After a lonely and complicated discipline had been gently applied, everything to do

DECEMBER 2014

Michael Jensen ponders whether the Sabbath still has a place in modern Australia.

“

So soaked was his mind in the assurance of God’s character revealed in his word that when his wife ... died ... he wrote, “infinite wisdom cannot err”. with a peaceful exit from New Zealand had come crashing down. Marsden’s response was to say, “the Lord is too wise to err and too kind to afflict.” It is hard to read the chapter in Marsden’s journal on these events without marvelling at his thought patterns, integrity, respect, steadiness, wisdom, courage and godliness as he carefully and courageously dealt with the corruption in the European workers. Another theological theme of importance for Marsden was the idea of the great and “final Day” when all would be revealed and put right. He looked forward to this “final Day” with great confidence and joy. When reviled in newspapers or accused in the

courts he could say, “the Day is coming when the Judge of all the earth would do right.” He wrote that, “the day of resurrection will yield up God’s ways” and in the meantime “the full conviction in my own mind is that I am in the situation Divine wisdom hath placed me and this has at all times made me perfectly reconciled ... I have nothing to complain of ... I have no grounds for murmuring, for goodness and mercy have followed me all the days of my life.” Launching Marsden’s Mission: The Beginnings of the Church Missionary Society in New Zealand, Viewed from New South Wales edited by Peter Bolt, published by Latimer Trust. www.latimertrust.org

Growing up in a church family, I knew somehow that there was a different atmosphere to Sundays. Sunday felt different. Perhaps it was because we were squeezed into itchy polyester clothes (it being the 1970s), and had our hair combed and our faces polished. And perhaps it was because the aroma of a roasting leg of lamb was always filling the house by the time we got home from church carrying our Sunday School craft items made with raw pasta, toilet rolls, and cotton wool. But is Sunday actually different? What is the status of this day? Ought it to be a “Christian Sabbath”, set aside for the worship of God and for no other diverting activity? The witness of Eric Liddell, the Scottish runner who later died on missionary service in China, was to the sacredness of Sunday. He refused to run in the Olympics on a Sunday in Paris in 1924 because of his Christian conviction that Sunday was the Lord’s Day, and not for playing sports.

Was he right? For the most part these days, modern evangelical Christians are completely agnostic on the question of which day the church should gather and whether that day should also be in some way a sacred day of rest. There are good biblical grounds for this rather relaxed attitude, since the New Testament shares the same point of view. Romans 15 is instructive here: Some judge one day to be better than another, while others judge all days to be alike. Let all be fully convinced in their own minds. Those who observe the day, observe it in honor of the Lord. In other words: “whatever goes, just keep to your conscience!” Two other pieces of teaching in the New Testament give Christians further hesitation about making too much of their chosen meeting day as a “Christian Sabbath”. The first is the fulfilment of the Sabbath command in Christ. As John Calvin says: For [Christ] himself is the truth, with whose presence all figures

NT CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS

MÄPURU CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE PRIMARY TEACHER Are you a committed teacher who holds an inclusive Christian worldview? Do you have a deep respect for Yolŋu traditional, cultural practices and languages? Are you prepared for and enlivended by the realities of living and working in an extremely remote, cross-cultural environment?

We invite you to consider joining our team... Mäpuru Christian School has a vacancy for a teacher of the multi-age Primary class for the 2015 school year and beyound. This position is as a team member with Yolŋu co-teachers Roslyn Malngumba and Rebecca Gamadala.

Yolŋu ideas, protocols, knowledge and curriculum are respected in the school; this makes us feel proud that we are a team, working hand in hand.

Teaching duties include leading the Primary teaching team to deliver biliteracy (Djambarrpuynu and English) and numeracy programs through meaningful activities relevant to the Mäpuru context and in alighment with the aspirations of Mäpuru Christian School Council for their children. The Primary teacher will also be responsible for supporting the Primay Yolŋu teachers as they undertake their Certificate studies through the explicit teaching occurring in the classroom. Mäpuru Christian School is continuing to develop a rich and rigorous bi-literacy and bi-cultural syllabus in Djambarrpuynu and English. Whilst knowledge of Djambarrpuynu or other Yolŋu languages is a distinct advantage, having sound EAL/D experience and knowledge, alongside flexibility, creativity and the will to learn with the Yolŋu teaching team, will stand applicants in good stead.

POSITION COMMENCES: TERM 1 2015 , NEGOTIABLE APPLICATIONS CLOSE: 5TH DECEMBER 2014 This position may also suit a teaching couples, as potential employment of more than one teacher is an option.

For more information about living and working in Mäpuru, please contact Teaching Principal, Linda Miller at linda.miller@ntschools.net To learn a little more about the Mäpuru community, please visit www. arnhemweavers.com.au Please download the application form from the NT Christian Schools website. Submit the completed application form along with all other required documentation to: Human Resources NT Christian Schools PO Box 228 KARAMA NT 0813 email

Phone: 08 8920 4355 Fax: 08 8920 4399

human.resources@ntcsa.nt.edu.au

OPINION

DECEMBER 2014

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sabbath day vanish; he is the body, at whose appearance the shadows are left behind. He is … the true fulfillment of the Sabbath. There is no replication in Christian practice then of the Jewish practice of the Sabbath, since that which the Sabbath foreshadowed has arrived. Indeed, the whole of our lives now is a reflection of that truth – not just a single day. In this, by the way, I disagree with the great Westminster Confession of Faith (XXI.8), which describes Sunday as a simple transfer of the Jewish Sabbath into the first day of the week. But then, John Calvin didn’t think this either! There is no evidence that the earliest Christians treated Sunday as a rest day either, though they did meet together on this day. That there is no “Christian Sabbath” makes sense of the second piece of New Testament teaching: the critique of the superstitious or legalistic observances of special days. We find this well expressed in Colossians 2:16-17: Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Interestingly, Paul lists observances of pagan festivals alongside the Jewish Sabbath here and insists that observances of these rules do not represent the essence of holiness – and may indeed distract from them. Jesus, too, challenged the practice of Sabbath keeping that was prevalent in his day as a great spiritual distraction. But what about Sunday? If it is not simply a “Christian Sabbath”, then why has it become special for Christians over time? In Acts 20:7, we do hear that the disciples in Troas used to meet on the first day of the week to break bread together and exhort one another. In 1 Corinthians 16:2 the first day of the week is set aside for the collection.

The great Eric Liddell The term “the Lord’s Day” came to be used for this day in Revelation 1:10, and the writers of the first centuries of the Church used the expression to speak about the day on which Christians gathered for worship. The famous early bishop, Ignatius, wrote of Christians no longer celebrating the Sabbath but now “living in observance of the

Lord’s Day on which also our life sprang up again” – that is to say, the day of Christ’s resurrection from the dead. It was not too long before the idea of resting on the Lord’s Day became added to the idea that it was the day for gathering together. But when the Empire became Christianised in the days of Emperor Constantine,

the observance of Sunday became not just a minority practice but the rule of life for everyone. This happened in 321 AD. This is a crucial development, because it normalised the first day of the week as the day of ceasing work not just as matter of choice, but as a matter of law. We are still, even now, in the era in which Sunday is regarded as a day of rest as a matter of law – although successive laws about Sunday trading have eroded that principle. What has been lost in countries like Australia is a sense that Sunday is set aside for the Christian gathering. So to summarise: Sunday has been the traditional day for Christians to gather since New Testament times, though certainly not the only day. But the concept of “rest” has been imported into that day via the legislation of the state. The New Testament is, meanwhile, wary that observance of religious or holy days might become superstitious. So where does that leave a Christian church trying to do the right thing? First, Christians do not celebrate the Sabbath in the way that the Jews did in the Old Testament. In fact, to do so would be to misunderstand the way that Jesus fulfills the Old Testament law. Nevertheless, (second) the notion of taking time to rest one day in seven is a very good principle built into the fabric of creation itself by its maker. Christians ought to rest, because resting is an expression of trust in the sovereignty and goodness of God. But when? Anytime would be good – Sunday or otherwise. And we ought to be vigorous in upholding the rights of others to rest. The laws against trading on Sunday were by and large good and just laws. The erosion of adequate rest time for workers is a terrible scourge. Third, Christians ought to meet regularly together, and to develop the habit of doing so. Most of our activities are structured by the

working week, and so meeting together weekly is a great way to ingrain a habit, since the community follows that pattern of life. And it is good for us as a community to set aside specific times and places in which to meet. As Calvin said, because it was expedient to overthrow superstition, the day sacred to the Jews was set aside; because it was necessary to maintain decorum, order, and peace in the church, another was appointed for that purpose. That day, in the New Testament and in the history of the Church, has been Sunday. It has a special meaning as the day of the resurrection – it is a day of joy and hope. It is a great thing indeed for Christians to meet on that day, and it is a habit that connects them with Christians across the world and across the centuries. But does it have to be Sunday? Clearly it does not! In fact, we should feel free to meet together on any day and on every day! Why not indeed? We should feel free to dedicate any part of our time to consider the hope that lies within us, and to encourage one another in the Word and in love. But it is good that churches set aside certain times for this habit – and it is a great blessing when governments help them to do this. Sunday observance has a particular place in Western culture, and for good reasons. But it is not by any means a rule of God that Christian communities have to worship together on Sundays or they are not authentic. What we find difficult to do sometimes is distinguish between the commands of God and the rules necessary for the ordering of community life. And yet, it is a very important difference. Does God command us to meet on Sunday? No. Is it good that there is a day set aside for church-going by human beings? Yes. Can a real church meet on Wednesday? Indeed!

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&RXQVHOOLQJ IURP D &KULVWLDQ 3HUVSHFWLYH (YHU\ GD\ WKRXVDQGV RI Australians seek healing DQG JXLGDQFH IURP TXDOLĂ€ HG counsellors, and in a rapidly changing culture, the need for TXDOLĂ€ HG FRXQVHOORUV KDV QHYHU been greater. aifc offers Nationally Accredited Counselling Training that is Christ centred and bible-based, equipping students with the skills and tools they need to help WKHPVHOYHV DQG RWKHUV GHDO ZLWK the spiritual root of issues to EHFRPH DOO WKDW *RG LQWHQGV WKHP to be. What many entering into counselling studies don’t realise LV WKDW WKH\Ň‹UH DFKLHYLQJ PXFK PRUH WKDQ MXVW D TXDOLĂ€ FDWLRQ DQG potentially successful career, they are also embarking on a life FKDQJLQJ MRXUQH\ RI KHDOLQJ DQG WUDQVIRUPDWLRQ LQ WKHLU RZQ OLYHV and relationships. “To learn is a privilege, and it has been an honour to embrace knowledge, hard work, skills and insightful learning material. This course has changed the way I listen, love and communicate with those around me. It has enriched my faith, my family and given me hope for my future.â€? Rebecca Louise - aifc student “I can’t put into words how much I have learnt and how enormous the impact from this institute has been for me. I came out of a very dark

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OPINION

DECEMBER 2014

I said “Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh... not mirth!”

Tim Costello Mary’s joy Mary’s conversation with Elizabeth in Luke’s Gospel surely captures the world-transforming nature of what God accomplishes through the incarnation. In the lead up to Christmas, I often reflect on the revolution being wrought through these two women – played out not by powerful men but by lowly women. Women who in their culture were despised, one pregnant and unwed, the other aged and barren. Mary’s joy at God’s blessing raises a prophetic voice that announces the radical vision of a just world to come; the humble and meek will be exalted, the hungry filled with good things. By these words God opens a window into his kingdom, letting us imagine the world, not as it is, but as it will be. The political dimension has not been lost on those seeking social justice, or those opposing them, through history. Guatemala’s military regime tried to ban Mary’s words, even in church. But it seems worldly power cannot long withstand the power of God’s word! Mary’s meeting with Elizabeth still resonates, both for its message of cosmic transformation, and for the enduring image of two women caught in problematic circumstances – yet blessed with hope,

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and with each other’s solidarity. Even in the world’s toughest places, people still interpret new life as a sign of blessing, a token of hope, a rekindling of belief in the possibility of a better future. But healthy pregnancy and safe childbirth are still denied to many women worldwide. Encouraging progress is being made – the World Health Organization says maternal mortality has reduced by 45% since 1990 – yet so much more needs to be done. I think of women in 2014 who endure hardship, pain and fear. I think of those caught up in war and violence, those who are refugees, those who are victims of oppression and discrimination. I think of their suffering and of their strength, resilience and hope. As we approach Christmas, let’s remember Mary’s startling praise for the God who is always with us even in our worst times. The God who remains ever active in the world, who gives us the eye of faith that lets us imagine a better future, who calls us to build his kingdom. This Christmas spare more than a thought for those women who are enduring so much. Let’s commit to do more in prayer and in deed to help them rejoice in new life, and remake their world.

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Open wide the gates Maybe some of your readers are unaware of the number of refugee women and children we have taken in from Africa. Their husbands have been killed in wars and they have been in camps waiting for many years to be accepted by some country. Some also have young children, a result of being raped in the camps. Surely these are the ones mentioned in Isaiah 1:17. Now that Mr Morrison has stopped the boats it would be good for us to take in more needy people. Florence Liddy Scarborough Qld.

Letters

Our meal

Thanks for balance Congratulations to Greg Clarke (October Eternity) on his balanced article about the treatment of women. This is the first time I have heard such an admission from a Christian perspective that “men must face the fact that we have by and large failed to love women as they need to be loved”. Much has been said about women to justify their submission and their limited role in ministry, but little has been said about men loving their wives as Christ loved the church ( Ephesians 5:25). The government has committed $3.5m to fund Australia’s National

Research Organisation for Women’s Safety (Courier Mail 1st November 2014) for an Australian first research program launched to shed light on the ‘alarmingly high’ rate of violence against women. This is a great opportunity for Christian preachers and teachers to follow Greg Clarke’s example and promote a balanced and biblical perspective on the role of women, ensuring that domestic violence in all its insidious forms is not present nor tolerated in any Christian community. Karina Shim Cannonvale 4802

God’s Word, the Holy Bible, is like a roast dinner. God’s Word is a complete wholesome meal packed full of spiritual vitamins. Roast beef full of nourishment for the body, mind and soul, carrots of comfort, brussel sprouts full of correction (something we do not always like) and roast potatoes, the deliciousness of God’s eternal love. Finally covered in the gravy of God’s truth. God’s Word, the Holy Bible, is also like a bush walk. The reading of God’s Word is not just information it is transformation – inside out. (2 Timothy 3:16) Dave Vincent Bidwell NSW

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A national newspaper for Australian Christians, Eternity is sent free to any church upon request. Eternity is published by Bible Society Australia (ACN 148 058 306). Edited by John Sandeman. Email. eternity@biblesociety.org.au Web. www.biblesociety.org.au Post. GPO Box 9874 In your Capital City Advertising. Paul Hutchinson M: 0423 515 899 E: paul.hutchinson@biblesociety.org.au A: 5 Byfield St, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. Print post number PP 381712/0248. Printed by Fairfax print sites across Australia.

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OPINION

20

DECEMBER 2014

The continuing story... Greg Clarke marvels the enduring relevance of Exodus

If you are an international news watcher, you may have heard President Obama quote Exodus 23:9 in his executive action to bring changes to the US immigration system. The President said: “Scripture tells us that we shall not oppress a stranger, for we know the heart of a stranger – we were strangers once, too.” Whatever one feels about the appropriateness of using a passage of Israel’s law to introduce 21st century legislation (and plenty of commentators have weighed in on that), it is startling that the ancient book of Exodus should be invoked by the most powerful Western politician in a moment of decisive leadership. Exodus punches above its weight. At first glance, it is the story of the enslaved Israelites, the rise of Moses as their leader, and their dramatic escape from Egypt. It is also the book recording the “contract” between God and his escapees, summarised in the

Ten Commandments. Exodus also “entertains” the reader with the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites on their way to the Promised Land of Canaan. All of these elements of the exodus story have had a huge impact, beyond its immediate context, on diverse cultures ever since. The Ten Commandments still shape a great deal of ethical discussion and often adorn the wall in American courtrooms. “Wandering in the wilderness” is a theme for any lost, misdirected, and poorly led organisation. “Reaching the Promised Land” is still the way we describe our goals. Perhaps most famously, Martin Luther King cited parts of Exodus (and Deuteronomy) in his “Mountaintop” speech, employing the exodus narrative to give shape to the civil rights movement: “I just want to do God’s will. And he’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over and I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may

Exodus: Gods and Kings opens in cinemas December 4th, 2014. not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land.” And in this next month, Ridley Scott, the celebrated film director of Alien and Blade Runner, will release a new movie based on the exodus story. Australians will spend the Christmas season with Christian Bale as Moses on the big screen.

For those who feel the Bible has lost its relevance and appeal, Hollywood and the American president beg to disagree. An account of the rescue of one nation has become a cornerstone for many others. It has been found to speak loudly to issues of race relations, politics and power, and hope beyond oppression. Even more so, at Christmas

time, the exodus story provides one of the important frameworks for understanding Jesus, the true fulfilment of the “escape from slavery” theme. As the Gospel of Matthew tells us, “Out of Egypt I have called my son.” Greg Clarke is CEO of Bible Society Australia and author of the 2014 Australian Christian Book of the Year, The Great Bible Swindle.

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