Societas 2022

The end of the world?

Providing high quality training and equipping for SRE teachers.

Producing biblically based SRE Advocatingresources.with government in support of SRE in our local schools.

For some children, SRE is the starting point in exploring God’s Word, being nurtured in the Christian faith, and connecting with a local church community through their SRE teacher. SRE helps primary and high school students grow in their ‘journeys of faith’ in Christ.

Youthworks is commited to supporting SRE through...

To partner with Youthworks and support the vital work of SRE in local primary and high schools across Sydney and beyond go to: https://youthworks.net/donate-sre

Help nurture more young people in their journeys of faith through SRE

Not with a bang but a whimper.

The Hollow Men, T. S. Eliot

And then ‘the kingdom of this world will become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever’ (Rev 11:15). This is the way the world ends.

Beliefs and theories about the end of life as we know it are legion. In 1925, T. S. Eliot suggested whimper, not bang, as the mode of termination. This happens to put him in the minority. Between the Maya Calendar and Ragnarök, Nuclear Warfare and Superbugs, the Heat Death of the Universe and the Climate Apocalypse, most people across history and culture have subscribed to a cataclysmic finale.

In God’s kindness, Christians are spared such speculation. The true end has been revealed to us in advance: the end is, and comes via, a person. The apostle John, in the vision at Patmos, saw Jesus, who identified himself as ‘The Beginning and the End’ who is ‘coming soon’ (Rev 22:13, 12). Not with a whimper. Not technically with a bang either. Rather, as the apostle Paul writes, ‘the Lord himself will descend from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet call of God’ (1 Thes 4:16).

of ministry right in our personal and family lives? Motherhood as a challenging yet joyful vocation is considered through several perspectives. And when things fall apart, seeing how the return of Jesus connects to our own broken worlds, and so to console and inspire us, is crucial. As is learning to wait for the end, which, as noted, can mean suffering – but suffering which prepares us to share in God’s glory. Mention of glory also lightens any all-too-solemn construal of the end. After all, the final image provided to us in Scripture this side of glory is of a wedding banquet and inexpressible rejoicing.

Therefore, from the vantage point of faith, which sees and knows the end, we think backwards from that last day to our present age, confident that our Lord Jesus ‘will be our guide even to the end’ (Ps 48:14).

4EDITORIALJONATHANADAMSTHEENDOFTHEWORLD?

We hope you enjoy reading this issue.

This is the way the world ends

This is the way the world ends

This is the way the world ends

of Societas explores what it means to follow Jesus well in the last days. We reflect on how the resurrection of Jesus from the dead reconfigures our priorities and enables confident, even radical, living for God’s kingdom. For all of us students, College is a time of preparation for future ministry. But how do we get the foundation

All this is clear from Scripture. But the danger for believers is when such eschatology fades from view. When our hearts and minds are bound up with this world. One trap is to idealise and yearn for a past golden era, when perhaps Christianity had reached a cultural high watermark. But while ‘every age is not as good as every other’, as the Catholic philosopher Antonin Sertillanges put it, what demands attentive Christian faithfulness is our own age: ‘We must help our God to renew, not the buried past and the chronicles of a vanished world, but the eternal face of the earth’. However, a related pitfall to nostalgia is to be so invested in the present as to forget that the New Creation is just around the corner. Or to forget that the world to come will be brought in by God’s appointed King, and not by the strivings of a noble coalition of Thishumanity.issue

reconfigured lives 16 Post-grad

26 Third

37 Fourth

Donate College

wedding 41 Conversation with Andrew Leslie 44 Faculty 48 Chaplains 50 Waiting for the end 52

30 The

and

has aimed to see God glorified by men and women living for and proclaiming Jesus Christ, growing healthy churches and reaching the lost. Would you prayerfully consider supporting Moore College? You can find more information online at moore.edu.au/donate or you can call the Foundation on 02 9577 9900. Moore Theological College 1 King Street Newtown NSW 2042 02 9577 moore.edu.au9999 Societas Team: Adam GeorgiaMelAnnaJonathanJohnsonAdamsHooleClementBeikoff Editorial Support: Bronwyn Windsor Cover Design: Simon Swadling, 3rd year student Interior Design: Lankshear Design CONTENTS

First year profile year reality and and part-time year profile year in the last days year profile year end of your world the end of the year profile year better

Thinking from the end backwards

19 Second

9 First

Since 1856, Moore

SOCIETAS 2022 5 Societas team

world 34 Fourth

38 The

18 Second

29 Third

6

20 Motherhood

10 Resurrection

FROMTHINKINGTHE BACKWARDSENDMARKD.THOMPSON

1 P. F. Jensen, At the Heart of the Universe: What Christians Believe (Homebush West: Lancer, 1991), xi.

6 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Promises are by their very definition forward looking. They concern what will or will not happen in a future time. It is of very great significance that the Bible begins with promises: the promise of blessing at the moment of creation (Gen 1:28) and the promise of deliverance in the wake of the Fall (Gen 3:15). There is a forward moving momentum in the Bible. We long for that day when the blessing God pronounced at the beginning will be realised in full, when the deceiving enemy of humankind will be decisively defeated, when each of the elements of the promise made centuries later

The Book of Revelation ends with a declaration and a promise. ‘He who was seated on the throne said “Behold, I am making all things new”’ (Rev 21:5). At the end we are shown the renewal and recreation of all things. And the promise? ‘Surely I am coming soon’ (Rev 22:7, 20).

PRINCIPAL

A new heaven and a new earth, with a new Jerusalem at its centre, replaces what has been defiled and destroyed by the machinations of human history. This is a phenomenal challenge to our preoccupation with this heaven and this earth and even this earthly Jerusalem. This world is not all there is and we are not tied to it forever. In the new heaven and new earth at the end, everything that threatened or challenged human life is gone forever. Every tear is wiped away, no more death,

A former Principal of Moore College wrote a book about what Christians believe in which he took his readers on a journey from the end to the beginning and then to the middle. It was a brilliant move. ‘In seeing what God is planning’, he wrote, ‘we gain perspective on who he is and what he is doing to fulfil his ends’.1

to Abram will be fulfilled (Gen 12:1–3). From the very beginning of the Bible we are being pointed to the end to make sense of everything else in between.

As I write this, a war is being waged in Eastern Europe which threatens to engulf many more of us. At the same time, some of the old certainties in the West are crumbling and it seems we don’t know how to talk to each other anymore. A lot of our optimism seems to have been drained by natural disasters and not so natural disasters, or simply by a seemingly unrelenting determination to unpick the Christian heritage of Europe, America, Africa and Australia, and to eliminate all reference to Jesus in the public square. Economies are buckling and the everyday lives of men and women are becoming more difficult. How do we understand this and how do we face the future if it is to be like this?

Starting from the end is a very attractive option, not least because the often-unexpressed question on so many people’s lips is ‘Where is this all heading?’ There have been many times when Christians have

asked this question and the Book of Revelation was written, amongst other reasons, to answer it. It was written during a time of disorientation and despair, when the future of the Christian movement seemed on a knife edge. Sometimes it looked like the cause was lost. A bit like today.

We operate like that often. The examination in the future hopefully directs our teachers in their preparation for the class, just as it drives us to study in the present. Of course, we are all prone to distraction and our plans can be derailed by factors outside of our control. We are not God. We don’t always see the end clearly and we don’t always keep our promises.

Thinking from the end backwards into a world as confused and tumultuous as ours reminds us of

2 J. McDowell, The Last Christian Generation (Holiday, FL: Green Key, 2006).

In one remarkable picture, when all the might of Satan and his armies surrounds the saints and all seems lost, the final defeat of those forces arrives: ‘fire came down from heaven and consumed them, and the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur’ (Rev 20:10). Like the martyrs who are kept safe under the altar until the appointed time (Rev 6:9–10), not one of the saints of God are lost.

So social media and political parties don’t have a chance really. He is the one who will execute the final judgment and he will gather those who are his in the new Jerusalem.

The second big picture idea is the victory of the Lamb. In the Book of Revelation, opposition to the Lamb and those who are his escalates to monstrous proportions. Yet at the very end he is the one who is victorious. No matter what is thrown at the Lamb, and those who are his with all their fragility and failures, he ultimately prevails and they share his victory.

A third big picture idea occurs again and again through the Book of Revelation but comes to its climax at the end. Amidst all that is going on in the world, and despite all that might be done to them, those who belong to the Lamb, the saints, are safe. Their prayers are the incense that rises before God (Rev 8:3) and they, along with the apostles and the prophets, are those for whom God has given judgment in the end (Rev 18:20).

Today’s opposition to the gospel might seem ferocious and unstoppable. We might seem vulnerable and unprotected, uncertain we can survive. But the end shows us that the saints of God, the followers of Jesus, are safe. They have always been safe, even in the face of the worst the world can do. They are not lost and cannot be lost.

SOCIETAS 2022 7

It is easy to be overwhelmed by the opposition to Christ and his gospel by the loudest voices in our world. In some places it is noisy and overt. In some places violence and physical coercion is employed. In other places it is more insidious, a quiet fury displayed in our education system, in our legal structures, and by the gatekeepers of information. Language is reconfigured, history is rewritten, the most basic relationships are overridden and redefined. Most tragically, failures from within the churches compound the opposition from without and

sometimes we have to agree the critics have a point. Apologist Josh McDowell asked whether this might be the last Christian generation.2

no more mourning, or crying or pain. All that is left is blessing—the fulfilment of the blessing in the Garden. God’s purpose has not been derailed and at the end it will be exactly where God wanted it to be all along: a new heaven and new earth in which we live in full knowledge of how far God was prepared to go to have us as his people.

I am not for a moment suggesting that all we are or do now is unimportant. It is good and worthwhile. Each day there is a good work which God has prepared beforehand for us to walk in (Eph 2:10). But it will not last. So the picture at the end, the destination to which everything is headed, relativises the importance of the present and challenges us not to hold on to it too tightly. Achievement, acquisitions, authority: none of it lasts and all of it pales into insignificance beside the future God has already secured for us. What God has planned is wonderful and beyond our wildest imaginations. It is worth waiting for.

Yet looking at the end reminds us that any victory the enemies of the gospel might seem to have at this moment is temporary and illusory. Christ is building his church and not even the gates of Hades will be able to prevail against it (Matt 16:18).

at least these three things: there is a great renewal and recreation to come, at the centre of it will be the victorious lamb of God, and God is able to keep his servants safe. The Book of Revelation is a kind of peeling back of the curtain to see what we do not normally see in the midst of the lives we live. What we are shown is that none of what disturbs us, not even the most frightening of it all, has made the slightest dent on the sovereign rule of God. He is entirely in control and his purpose has not been derailed by even a millimetre. What he promised he will do. The blessing at the beginning will be there at the end, bigger, better and brighter than in the beginning. The promise of deliverance will be kept and the enemy of God and his people will be destroyed for ever. He will not trouble us in the new heavens and the new earth. And the grand promises to Abram which incorporated a blessing to ‘all the families of the earth’ will be fulfilled as a multitude from every tribe, language, people and nation gathers to praise the victorious Lamb and to celebrate their redemption. Knowing that end casts the present in an entirely different light, doesn’t it?

OMF.ORG/AU (02 ) 9868 4777 NSW@OMFMAIL.COM 18 22 OXFORD ST, EPPING NSW

8 THE END OF THE WORLD? SHARE IN OUR MISSION TO ANDHELPSTRENGTHENCHURCHES,TRANSFORMCOMMUNITIESSEETHEGRACE OF GOD OVERFLOWING TO A WORLD IN NEED! The aid and ministry support agency of Sydney Anglicans in partnership with the global church. (02) 9284 1406 anglicanaid.org.au ABN 28 525 237 517 DevelopmentOverseasTrainingBibleAid&EmergencyRelief

Heart for Asia. Hope for Billions.

MISSION

East Asia is home to many of the world’s largest unreached people groups. From China’s most densely populated cities to the highland villages of Vietnam, hightech Japan to the traditional wet markets of Myanmar, there are billions in Asia still waiting to hear about the good news of Jesus Christ.

We are looking for people to pioneer in new areas, persevere with us in the tough places, and partner with us to see culturally sensitive, biblical church movements in each people group of East Asia. Build relationships, share the gospel, and model a life of following Christ as Lord and Saviour in East Asia.

—get invoved!

I feel very fortunate that God helped me to persevere in faith through the jungles of Peru – that and thankful that he kept me alive! Coming out of that experience, I recognised that to live for Jesus outside of a Christian community and context is difficult.

care about it. As a Christian, and after reading Genesis 1 and 2, I saw our roles to be good stewards of the land God has given us.

I suppose that is why missionaries must have so much training!

concern. But being over there, living the life away from the comforts of Christian community solidified a few things for me about faith, and spurred me on to my journey to Moore College and beyond. The first thing you realise whilst in true isolation is what is and is not a result of community. With no one encouraging me to come to church, read God’s word, or pray, would I keep doing it? If there is great cultural shame in being Christian, would I admit to believing in Christ as Saviour? The underlying question was that when you stripped back everything that kept me at church –the people, the environment, the preaching, the corporate worship – would I keep faith or fall away? It is similar upon reflection in some ways to the parable of the seed in the thorny ground, except you’re removing the support instead of adding the troubles.

After training in biology, I left my job in Sydney in 2018 to work in conservation with non-profits in the Amazon. My whole life was chasing butterflies, watching monkeys, wrangling snakes and other fun reptiles. It was something out of a storybook. Everywhere I looked, I saw God’s good creation and who He is in the way He has made this world. It was impossible to be surrounded by such diversity and not recognise that there is a creator.

Whilst flying to South America, I didn’t think about how my faith would go while living in an isolated research station in the jungle. The

Afterwards, I sought to grow and be equipped in my faith. Whether or not I end up back in the Amazon or serving in Sydney, Australia or beyond, being trained and equipped for the life of faith makes sense. There is great joy and satisfaction in seeing some of the rarest animals on earth in their natural habitat and protecting that for generations to come, but there is no greater joy than seeing souls won for Christ!

FIRSTTOMPKINSCHRISYEARPROFILE

SOCIETAS 2022 9

Our culture and world are slowly destroying this planet, and I felt particularly drawn to serve God by caring for His environment. That led me to go, live and work in the Amazon Rainforest.

FIRST YEAR

Grew up in Ecuador with parents who love Jesus and love seeing the gospel go out to the world. I’m married to Caitlin and we pray to be equipped to do the very same thing. I love theme parks and helping people under stand the overarching story of the Bible.

SOCIETAS 2022 11

GEORGIA BEIKOFF

Annalise and I have moved over from New Zealand with our James, to be equipped for serving the Lord back in NZ. Please pray that we’d settle into life over here, make great friends, and learn to love Jesus more during our time at College.

MATTHEW BAKON

I’m married to Leanne and we have 3 children —Caitlin, Mitch and Toby. Praise God for leading us into full-time ministry training. And while this is an exciting change, please pray for the Lord to sustain our enthusiasm as I study and serve at St Mark’s, West Wollongong.

JOSIAH ELSLEY

Excited to learn and grow at College! I’m married to the wonderful Alice and with our daughter Imogen we serve at ducinggreatplayingoutdoors,spareParramatta.MBMInmytimeI’musuallyeatingorsportsbutmypassionisintro-peopletoJesus!

Hi everyone! Married to Philippa, currently a student minister at All Saints’, Woollahra. Originally trained as a corporate lawyer but quit to do MTS at St Matthias, Paddington —and here we are! Love great coffee. Pray that we would keep growing to know and serve God through Moore.

TIMOTHY CHAN

JAMES CHEN

I am married to Matt, currently serving at Jannali Anglican, and hoping to serve God cross-culturally in the future. I am a fan of running, snorkelling, and atHismoreexcitedpainting.watercolourI’mverytoknowGoddeeplythroughwordovermytimeCollege.

Making the move to the big smoke from Newcastle, I’m keen to see how God will grow and equip me this year at Moore! Please pray that God will help me to persist with study and to be always reminded of his abundant grace.

I am excited to study at College over the next few years and attend Hope Anglican Church, Leppington. I’m thankful for this opportunity to grow in relationship with God and be equipped to continue to serve Him into the future.

JACKSON BURT

DAMIEN CLARK

TIM CORNFORD

JOHN BREEN

CAITLIN BAKON

I’m married to Emma and we have a newborn daugther, Abigail. We’re serving the Lord at Village Annandale.ChurchPrayfor us as we manage the changes of parenthood, College and church.

Married to Susannah and dad to Merridy. I enjoy coffee and photography. Please pray that as I study, I wouldn’t get a big head, but rather a big heart for God and his word.

G’day! I’m Josiah. I’ve moved down to College from Northern NSW, keen to be trained up so I can get out there again—out there being anywhere in rural or regional Australia. I’m currently studying the Bachelor of Divinity and serving as student minister at St Barnabas, Roseville East.

JETHRO DICKENS

SAM CARLESS

CORNELIUS DO

My name is James and I’m married to Viv. Please pray for us as we learn to be parents of Henry this year, and that we’d continue growing in our marriage and godly character. Thank God for the joy of studying to know, love, and serve him more deeply and competently.

LEON CHEN

JESS DUNN

Born and raised here in the suburbs of Sydney. Married to Minna. We’re at Grace City in Waterloo where I did my MTS apprenticeship and have been a member for a while!

I was born and raised in Newcastle, the city of beaches. I came from Hunter Bible Church after finishing my MTS apprenticeship. I love to spend time with friends in any shape or form. Pray that I will be diligent in my studies while maintaining a balance of social time.

Married to Loz, we (mostly me) love NBA, and our church fam is The Bridge Church. I’m passionate about parish ministry and church planting—can’t wait to see where God leads us over the years.

Hello everyone! I am Duy Khanh Nguyen and my wife is Diem Phuong Tran. I attend Villawood Anglican Church, which is a part of Chester Hill Anglican Church. We hope that we will be well-equiped by God for His Kingdom during these four years at College.

Adelaide and I are very excited to get involved at College. Other than memorising Greek verbs, I’ve been serving at St Matthias in Paddington. We’d love you to pray for continued joy in this new season of life, as God reminds us of His goodness to us in Christ.

NOAH GILLHAM

BRIAN HAMILTON

LANA KULARAJAH

MADDIE GILLHAM

My name is Nikhil and I am married to Gemma. We got married last year just after Covid lockdown. We both grew up in Sydney’s South West and are serving at Hope Anglican Church!

My name is Imran Maqsood and my wife is Alia Imran. We have three children Rustum, Hania and Hayim. Please keep us in your prayers during my study at Moore. May God give me and my wife strength to learn God’s Word and support others.

I am thankful to be serving my church family at St Faith’s in Narrabeen. Please pray that I will grow in confidence of God’s power to work through the weak, for his glory and praise.

NIKHIL KURIEN

After growing up in beautiful Coffs, I moved to Newcastle for univer sity, where along with my degree, I met Jesus! After completing MTS with Hunter Bible Church, I’ve moved to the big smoke and joined St Martin’s Anglican, Georges Hall. Pray that I would love, know and honour Jesus always.

12 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Kathryn and I have been changed by Jesus and desire to see others know him too! We both completed a outsideGod,wouldMoore.nowAFESapprenticeshipministrywithinQLD,andarethankfultobeatPraythatwegrowinloveforeachother,andtheworld.

I’m married to Hayden and we have moved from the Sunshine Coast in QLD to get equipped to serve God well in ministry wherever we end up! We’re excited to be a part of the Moore College community as we enjoy and grow in our love for God together.

JAMES MARQUET

I’m super excited for this opportunity to study God’s word full time, and to serve at Church@thepeak in Peakhurst. Please pray that I would grow to know and love God more, to honour him in my life, and to proclaim the good news faithfully to those around.

IMRAN MAQSOOD

RACHEL MILLYNN

RENEE MILES

GREATHEADKATHRYN

Hey, I am Rachel. I am super excited to be studying at Moore over the coming years. I am currently serving at Point wordfriendshipexcitedConcord.Church,IamsupertogrowinandGod’swhilstatCollege.

I want to be trained and sharpened for student ministry in Victoria. I also love playing and writing music. Please pray for Kristen and I to be supported and encouraged by the College community as I study and she completes GP training.

I am married to Piri and am a human resources professional, taking this year off work to study God’s word. Please pray that it would be a refreshing time of learning, that I would study the Bible deeply and be able to grow to be more like Jesus.

JOHN LE

My name is John and I’m hoping to be trained and equipped well for a lifetime of ministry!

JONTY LEGGETT

GREATHEADHAYDEN

Looking forward to knowing God better over our time at College!

LUCY LANGFIELD

I’m so keen to be starting at College and serving as a student minister at St Luke’s in Liverpool this year! Please pray with me for joyful discipline to study hard.

Having grown up in the UK, I married the wonderful Olivia (Sydney born, UK based for 6 years) in July 2021. We are so excited to begin this new chapter together in Sydney at Moore.

KHANH NGUYEN

REHAN PRINS

ROBERTSONMARCUS

I’m married to Marcus, we love the beach, coffee and good food! We’re looking forward to the next four years at College, digging deeper into the Bible, investing in relationships, and working out where we can best serve Jesus post College!

ADRIEL STEPHEN

I’m married to Grace with a son, Thomas. Moved from Bathurst. We enjoy running, the beach, board games and football - well, me more than my wife. I’m excited to grow in knowledge of God and his Son Jesus. Please pray for di ligence and friendship in our new community.

BEC RADLOFF

Hey y’all. My name is Ben and I, with my wife Bec, have started at Moore. Excited to be growing in my knowlege and love of God and his word. I also have the great joy of being a student minister at Holy Trinity, Kingsford.

Hello! I’m married to Josh and we serve at Christ Church, St Ives under ‘Mission’. God first helped me catch a vision for ministry at Cumbo (Sydney Uni) before working as a Speech Pathologist and Ministry Trainee at UNSW. I’m excited to grow in love for God at College.

KARTIKA PRINS

NELSON PARKER

SAMUEL OGG

SOCIETAS 2022 13

Hi! I’m Bec, and I’m studying an Advanced Diploma of Bible, Mission and Ministry. Prior to this year, I was a Primary Teacher. I love seeing youth and kids grow in their love of God and one another. I am serving alongside my husband, Ben, at Holy Trinity, Kingsford.

DANIEL SHEATH

I’m married to Paige and we go to church at The Lakes Church on the Central Coast. I’m thankful for the opportunity to study this year, and am looking forward to growing in my love and knowledge of Jesus in his word!

I’m a Sydneysider fresh to Moore College. Please pray for my growth in love for God and his people to abound more and more through the year as I commence my study, and that my training will equip me for faithful service that bears fruit in Jesus’ name.

Sophie and I are from London, UK. We’re living in Newtown and are part of St Thomas’ Church, North Sydney. Whilst we’re here, we’re longing to grow in our faith, love and hope in Jesus. The plan is to return to the UK, equipped to proclaim the gospel to Brits!

My wife Lydia, son Ezra and I moved down this year from Armidale to pursue being equipped for mission in Japan for the future. I love a good book, game or cup of tea, often in combination.

I’m excited to have started College and church at Grace City in Waterloo this year! I’m looking forward to making new friends, learning from God in his word, and equipping myself for a lifetime of serving Jesus and his people.

I encountered the love of Jesus at university and was changed forever. I am married to Rehan and have the privilege of studying at College together to train for a lifetime of ministry. I love Asian food and resourcesfindingthatfuel my own and others’ zeal for Jesus.

Experiencing the love of Christians after school finished helped me to realise that God’s grace is out of this world and better than Physiotherapy! After 2 years serving as a Youth Pastor and seeing Jesus transform lives, my wife Kartika and I are keen to develop our convictions at College!

Hi, my name is Paolo! I am keen to be trained up to do ministry full time and hopefully to minister in Western Sydney, especially to housing commission areas! Please pray for me to grow in wisdom.

LISA SAWYER

HENRY PASCOE

PAOLO SANTILLAN

NAOMI ROBERTSON

JACK STILEMAN

My wife Naomi and I have come from the great land of Newcastle (sent by Hunter Bible Church). We’re student ministers at Bexley North. We don’t know what we want to do long term, so please pray for godly and wise consideration of our ministry future.

BEN RADLOFF

JOSH SAWYER

Joshua Sawyer, married to Lisa. I completed a ministry traineeship with Campus Bible Study at UNSW, and am serving as a student minister at Christ Church, St Ives.

KAREN WEBB

TOMMY WU

I’m looking forward to growing in my love for God and delight in his word whilst at Moore College and have been loving getting to know my new church family at Auburn Anglican Church! Please be praying that I can grow in asking good questions at College.

CHRIS TOMPKINS

The Ventura family— Josh and Emily, Edmund, Theo, Freddie, and inplantingregional/ruralandReformersChurchStanmoreyear.WestfromRobert—movedOrangetoMoore-atParramattathisWearepartoftheBaptistfamily(thinkBookshop),arekeentoexplorechurchopportunitiesthefuture.

I’m the oldest of 7 and grew up in a loving Christian home in Avalon. I met my hus band at the beginning of 2020, and we spent the pandemic dating, getting married and starting College! We’re at Vine Church in Surry Hills, and are excited to go into parish ministry.

NAOMI UTBER

My wonderful wife Beth and I have both started at College this year, and we’re super excited to be growing in the knowledge and love of God throughout our time here. We’re at Vine Church in Surry Hills, and we’re very keen to put what we learn into practice there!

After giving my life to Jesus in my early years, I worked for 2 years, did MTS for 2 years, and have just started College. Please pray that I’ll continue to take God’s mission and my ministry aspirations seriously!

DAVID WONG

BETHANY WILLIAMS

HAMISH SULLIVAN

CHRISTINE ZHENG

Hello all! I am Hamish Sullivan and I’ve started the Bachelor of Divinity this year. I am married to Priscilla and father to Arthur, born November 2021. This year I’m doing student ministry at my home church, Chester Hill Anglican Church.

BEN WILLIAMS

I grew up in Sydney, then worked in the Amazon Rainforest before transitioning into ministry. Now a student and serving at Christ Church, Lavender Bay, helping with their kids and youth ministries, and helping people from a very resourced area to be a blessing to those who are not.

JOSH VENTURA

BILL WALTON

Hi everyone! I’m from Hong Kong, and came to Sydney originally for study. After working for a couple of years, I then did MTS before coming to College. Currently serving at UNSW FOCUS church with a bunch of international students!

I am super grateful for this opportunity to learn at Moore College. I still can’t believe I am here! Praise God for His kindness, and I pray that I will use this time well to grow my love and knowledge of Him and equip myself for His kingdom.

Ahoy! After a few different stops across rural NSW, Victoria, and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, I’m excited for a new chapter at College and as a student minister at Menai Anglican in the sunny Shire. Please pray that God would use College to grow me in the likeness of Jesus.

It’s been such a privilege to be able to step away from my work as a high school teacher to spend some time letting God teach and shape me this year. I live in Wollongong with my three teenage children and serve as a student minister at Fairy Meadow Anglican.

14 THE END OF THE WORLD?

New Resources Helping you and your family grow in faith. youthworksmedia.netYouthworksMedia

Jesus’ resurrection is just the beginning of the harvest. For those of us who trust in Jesus, God promises that we will be raised with bodies just like his. And we will grasp hold of that glorious picture in Revelation 21:3-4: “God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more”.

What would it look like if we grasped the reality of the resurrection? Even though my scars remind me, I am quick to forget. It can be discouraging to look around the pews and sense that we aren’t too different from the world in our pursuit of earthly pleasures. We need to keep reminding each other of Jesus’ victory, and our present and future resurrection!

But the resurrection is not just a future event. In Colossians 3, Paul teaches we “have been raised with Christ” (3:1) here on earth and with Christ in the heavens. Because of this, Paul instructs his hearers to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (3:2), and to trust that “when Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (3:4).

Confidence in the face of death isn’t just for those who have felt it up close. It’s for every Christian. Our confidence is not based on gut-feeling memories of split-second moments, but on the eternal trustworthy word of God.

RECONFIGUREDREALITYRESURRECTIONWORLD?AND LIVES

Here are a few ideas about how Jesus’ resurrection reconfigures our lives to align with God’s desires.

16 THE END OF THE

I love the way Paul scoffs at death in 1 Corinthians 15:55, echoing God’s promises in Isaiah and Hosea: “O death,

So death still gnaws, our bones still break, and these sin-wraked bodies die. And it’s utterly awful. But the bite is gone! We shall be raised! That joy will be so great that Paul says it’s not worth comparing to “this light and momentary affliction” (1 Corinthians 4:17).

LISA SAWYER

I still look forward to meeting Jesus face to face. Yet I am thankful that the next people I met were my worried parents, the paramedics, helicopter rescuers, surgeons, and health professionals. People who mended my broken bones and eventually helped me out of my wheelchair.

At the tender age of 12, I had my very own brush with death. While bushwalking in Blackheath, I fell between 8 and 10 metres off a cliff.

where is your victory?  O death, where is your sting?”. Death has been obliterated, because “God gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (15:57).

Death is like a wolf that has had its teeth taken out. The best it can do is gnaw at us with its gums, but its bite is powerless since Jesus Christ really did die for our sins and was physically and gloriously raised.

It’s impossible to fully comprehend how much my brain processed in those split-second moments. Yet the sheer terror I felt didn’t outweigh my deep sense of peace; I was about to meet my saviour Jesus.

Refreshed hearts that are thankful and hopeful – this is ours in Christ.

3. RADICAL LIVES

1. REFRESHED HEARTS

For some, it might mean giving up a successful career in the world’s eyes to pursue vocational ministry. For all, it means holding loosely to the things of this world because we have been spiritually raised to live godly lives. For this life is short, and Jesus is returning to usher in the rest of eternity.

The reality of the resurrection reminds us to set our minds on the things God cares about – our relationship with him, our godliness, the spread of his kingdom. It recalibrates our minds to love eternal things more than the temporal. Because in the new creation, we won’t miss out on anything. Our satisfaction will be unending, placed in the person we were designed to find it in all along: God himself.

How radical would our lives look if we grasped hold of the truths of the resurrection? It’s a question we all need to answer for ourselves. Could it mean working fewer days to teach Scripture and lead at kids’ church? Or not buying that new phone straight away and giving to church extra generously that month instead?

God’s people ready to sacrifice anything for the glory of Jesus – this is ours in Christ.

SOCIETAS 2022 17

But we Christians can feel FOMO on a far broader scale. Fear of missing out on owning our own home if we sacrifice too much for the gospel. Fear of missing out on overseas holidays, new things, and having a comfortable life. Fear of missing out on a fulfilling career and the accolades that come with it.

The term ‘FOMO’ was included in the Oxford dictionary for the first time in 2013. Fear of Missing Out affects us all in different ways; for me it’s worry about missing out on fun things when I have responsibilities to attend to.

Thankfulness is a beautiful balm for our weary hearts. This is especially true when facing awful situations, like we have in these last few years of the pandemic. When we feel hopeless, we can run to God in praise and gratitude for his resurrection gift to us through Jesus, which can never be taken away.

I previously worked in the disability sector, and it was a joy to encourage Christian families who knew that one day their pain and frustration would be gone. When our bodies go through sickness, the hope of resurrection brings a kind of refreshment that no human medicine can offer.

2. RECALIBRATED MINDS

Minds sober to eternity’s timeline, ready to live for the age to come – this is ours in Christ.

UNDERGRADUATE PART-TIME Students Beejai Abrahams Lyn MattTiffanyMadiAshleyPhilOliveaThomasTimPriscillaPaulNickMegMichaelLilianAdamsonAuAustinBlightBodleBoggBoonBrakeCatchpooleFongChanChapmanCleworthDaugaardDavyDeSiqueiraIglesias Jenny Denny Alice ChloeDanielPeterEricJonathanOscarDanJacksonTahliaSamJordanAndyLaurenMaddyDickensDonohooDunstanFengFormstonFosterFreemanGatenbyGillisGlassGreeteHanHarvieHeardHearne Annika Jolliffe Amani GraceLawrenceKatherineJayeJamesVickiWataruBenjaminLeanneTimErinSylviaJohannaAbigailKazogoloKeeKennardKimLattenLiLukLukinsMachidaMayhewMcDonaldMckayMilhamNgOgg Sheila Pang Lydia BeatricePriscillaJillEddieKelvinMelanieAndrewJordanSarahGarthCaitlinEmmaRowenaMurrayParkerReedieRodgerRookRosslerRosslerRoweSeifertSetonSheathSmithSoStevensSullivanTang Sophie Totonjian Hanna Tsoi Ryan MichelleUy Varcoe Ningjia Wang Scott Ward Nat CarmenMingJeannyLucySusieAnitaWardWidyasaputraWrightWuYaoZengZheng POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH Students MT h BARNESNATHAN BISHAIGEORGE BULLTHOM COURTANDREW CHEUNGVIVIAN GRICELACHLAN ROBINSONMARTIN ROCKWELLSTEPHEN RUTHERFORDJAMES WHITEPAUL WUJONATHON BRACKENBURYDAVID CHEWIAN LEONGMICHAEL NICHOLLSTIM UNDERWOODBENJAMIN P h D 18 THE END OF THE WORLD? ACADEMIC SUPPORT OFFICER GORDON CAIN  Gordon is the College’s Academic Support Coordinator. His goal is to see a greater variety of students enter Moore and succeed, and to help all students flourish in their studies here. He is married to Lynette, and they have four children and three grandkids. He loves cooking, nature walks, short, well-written theology books, and chilling with family and friends.

SOCIETAS 2022 19

God-willing, after College I hope to be involved in pastoral ministry in a parish. Through God’s enabling, I am keen to love and serve God and his people, teach his word faithfully and clearly, and walk alongside his people. I am also hoping, Godwilling, to continue serving within the medical field in some way.

What difference has Jesus made in your life since then?

also challenged by my sin and by the brokenness in the world. I long for the day when Jesus returns. I’m challenged to consider how to number my days wisely (Psalm 90:12).

Even while this world groans, the certain hope of the gospel means that our current experience of hardship and difficulty is transient. I long for Jesus’s return and for people from all over the world to gather and worship him in the new creation (Revelation 21:1-4). Because of this, the message of the gospel must be urgently preached and proclaimed. I want to be better prepared to help others come home to heaven, and that’s why I’m at College.

What did life before College look like?

Why did you decide to come to Moore College, and what are you hoping to do after College?

I came to Moore College to be challenged and equipped as a minister of the gospel. My desire is to handle God’s word carefully and faithfully,

I remember being taught how to pray at home, and was challenged to memorise Scripture in Sunday school. A favourite song at our Sunday school assembly was ‘Thy word be a lamp unto my feet’ and it was sung with gusto! I looked up to my older cousins, who modelled the Christian faith to me.

providence. I’m grateful that I know the comfort of his word and the care of his However,people.I’m

Before College, I worked full time as a medical doctor in Tamworth, a city in regional NSW. I served within a resource-challenged community in the public hospital and was also involved in ministry at St Peter’s Anglican Church, South Tamworth. It was a wonderful community to be part of and I loved the country sunsets, the ease of getting around town (including no traffic lights getting to work!), and the banter on the local tennis courts.

CHEUNGADRIANSECOND YEAR PROFILE

What were the steps that led to you becoming a Christian?

Although I went to church and never doubted God’s existence, I still lived a life based on good works. I was blind to my own sin and pride. God’s word challenged me, and I placed my trust in Jesus as Lord and Saviour during high school.

I am grateful to God for the Christian influences I had from early childhood, which resulted in me coming to faith in Jesus in my teenage years.

Comfort and challenge are two words that come to mind for me as a disciple of the Lord Jesus. I am grateful that I rest in God’s love and

and I knew that College would help me do so with academic rigour (although this means lots of work!). I’m encouraged by the College’s reputation locally and overseas, and I have been personally enriched by those who have trained here.

How does knowing that Jesus will return soon shape your priorities and give you hope?

For a considerable time, I had been wrestling with how I could best contribute to the building up of the local body of Christ. I had an unsettledness about the transience of our time and a desire to share the life-changing news of the gospel, and I was encouraged and supported by my local church to consider training for ministry.

SECOND YEAR

I’m married to Emily. We serve at Concord Baptist Church with our focus mainly on the young adults there. We would love for you to pray for these young adults and for us as we serve them.

ADAM DAVIES

It’s good to be back in person with my cohort! Please pray that I will keep learning to lean on God and to grow in my love for Jesus and others, especially as I consider what the next two years of ministry and life will look like.

YI CAI

It’s a joy for Matt and I to be at College together preparing for a lifetime of serving Jesus. This year we are loving living amongst the College community and getting to know our cohort more. Please pray that we would use these years wisely and for God’s glory.

This year, Yvonne, and Isaac and I are serving at Hornsby Anglican Chinese Church. Please pray that as we give ourselves to Jesus in service of him, others may come to know the beauty of forgiveness.

Married to Priska, father to Ellie, currently serving at Rouse Hill Anglican Church. Thankful for sunny days, coffee, boardgames, and being embodied at church and College. Please pray for my continued growth in faith, love and hope.

ANGELINA CHUA

ZAC ANDERSON

ADRIAN CHEUNG

After a good break, it’s great to be back at College with minimal COVID restrictions. I have enjoyed the discussions in class and over meals. Pray that I balance my time well between College and building relationships.meaningful

MEL CLEMENT

I’m super excited to be back at College and in person for second year! I’m continuing at St Stephen’s Normanhurst as a trainee focusing on children’s ministry. Please be praying for me as I continue to learn and grow in serving and glorifying God.

It’s been lovely to come into second year full-time after studying first year part-time. Please pray that I would grow in love for God’s word and his people, inlcuding the women at St Aidan’s Anglican Church in Hurstville Grove.

We are serving at St George North Anglican Church this year and seeking to grow in love for Christ, love for his church, love for proclaiming all that he has done and love for serving him in every way.

DANIEL CHEW

We have been married for five years and expect our first baby mid-year. We are currently serving the people at St Thomas’ North Sydney. Please pray for us following our baby’s arrival (you may know better than us what to pray) and for God to grow us in this time.

SARAH BOLTON

I’m excited to be serving alongside the saints at Minto Anglican Church. Please pray that I would be able to learn and grow this year through study and fellowship. Last year was a blast and I’m really looking forward to this year!

CUNNINGHAMMELANIE

DAVID BURDIS

SOCIETAS 2022 21

MATTHEW CAPEL

I’m back at College after studying first year in 2018 with my wife Jess, who has now completed a BD. With our daughter Zoe, we’re hoping to be a blessing to others in Christ. Please pray for this, and that I will juggle family, College and church (NorthLight West Lindfield).

SARAH CHEW

Not related to the other Chew. Meditating on the sufficiency of God’s grace, made perfect in my weakness. Pray for contentment and strength in Christ as I consider how to serve the kingdom with how he has made me (love of many cultures and food).

My wife Annie, baby Ezra, and I serve at St Barnabas’ Fairfield in South West Sydney. We have a heart to bring the gospel to people of all nations. Please pray for us to get used to being parents and for wisdom in where to serve in the coming years.

Thanks for your prayers! Praise God for in-class learning and our College community. Please pray that I will grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and be better equipped to serve. I am serving at Chatswood Baptist Church.

TRACE AKANKUNDA

DANIEL BEMMER

RENEE CAPEL

22 THE END OF THE WORLD?

ROSS IRELAND

I give thanks to God every day for the blessings he has poured out into my life. I’m thankful that I’m able to study his word full time. Please pray that God would continue to embolden our cohort to take up our cross daily and follow Jesus.

Josh and I are delighted to spend another year growing in likeness of God’s Son at College, while enjoying life in Newtown and plenty of opportunities to serve at church! Please pray for diligence as we balance coffee catch-ups, timeresponsibilities,ministryandstudying.

I’m thankful for another year to study at College and serve at Naremburn Cammeray Anglican Church. Please pray that God will grow me in love for him and others this year. Thanks for your prayers!

TOM ISRAEL

FOTHERINGHAMLUKE

BELINDA LINEY

EDWARD HAPPER

DYLAN HOOD

I’m enjoying the opportunity to learn more about God with our stellar year cohort. Pray for wiseyounginternetpracticallytheologicallyCollege,andperseverance,humility,diligencegospelzeal.AfterIhopetothinkandabouttheandassistpeoplemakedecisions.

JARED LIDGERWOOD

This year I have joined the saints at Norwest Anglican with my wife Abi which has been awesome! Please pray that God would use my time at Moore to prepare and guide us for what he has planned after College.

It’s great to be full-time this year. Please pray that these next few years would equip my wife Emma and I well for an intentional life, lived out in service of our Redeemer.

MATT EVANS

TIM EDWARDS

My wife Erin and I have two daughters, Abigail and Maggie. After College I plan to serve in a country church as there’s great need for gospel ministry in small towns in Australia. Pray that we’ll grow in knowledge, maturity and love this year.

Bec and I are expecting kid number three in September. Pray for a safe arrival, for good study and family routines, and that we would settle into Sydney life!

Please pray that Anna and I would continue to know and love Jesus and that this would underpin our time at College. Also pray that we would serve his people at Eastwood and AnglicanErmingtonChurch with humility faithfulness.and

I am very thankful for second year, for the chance to serve the saints at St inGodmightPleasetheNormanhurstStephen’sandforChappocommunity.praythatIseektopreachinmyactionsandlove.

SARAH FITZPATRICK

JEREMY FOX

TONY KONG

My husband Hamish and I got married last year and we’re enjoying adjusting to married life at MooreWest! We attend St together.wouldPleaseAbbotsleighstudentNormanhurstStephen’sandmyministryisatSchool.praythatwegrowinfaith

Desperate to get as much as I possibly can out of College, grow in Christ-like character, and find time for tennis and basketball. Serving at Auburn Anglican, trying to proclaim Christ and get better at it while figuring out where I might best serve him in the future... overseas?

My wife Maddy and I are excited to be heading into our second year at College, especially as this year we are joined by our son Isaac. We are living in North West Sydney and continuing to serve at Pitt Town Anglican Church.

JOSH HOOLE

I’m married to Sophia, we have three boys Theo, Flynn and Zeke. I’ve just begun full-time study at Moore College after doing 3 years part-time alongside MTS. Please pray that my Godtoknowledgedeepeningwouldleadagreaterloveforandhispeople.

JASPER DE KEIZER

ANNA HOOLE

Lilian and Jemima are part of my family. We seek to grow and learn faithfully. College and Newtown life is an exciting time. Did you notice, that all of this is a rhyme?

AMY OLSSON

Zaneta and I are excited to learn and grow as we study. Please pray for soft hearts as we hear God’s word each day, and for eagerness to preach the gospel.

ZANETA NEAL

Ruth and I are excited for our second year of the Moore community, second year of serving at MBM Parramatta, and second year of being parents to Henry! Praise God for the path he has put us on and pray that he will continue to shape us into mature disciples.

I’m a Western Sydney patriot and praying a big prayer of revival for the area. Currently serving at Grace City Church.

CALLUM MORRIS

CAITLIN OGG

JOEL MAILEI

MAXWORTHYCAMERON

TIM LOWTH

We’ve come from New Zealand to be trained up for ministry. We’re loving College and its urgency for mission. The harvest field in New Zealand is ripe and its need for gospel workers is great. Feel free to come chat to me about opportunitiesministrythere!

Blessed to continue serving at St gloriousoflabour,ownthatcontinualPleaseNormanhurstStephen’sthisyear.beprayingforremindersitisnotoutofmystrengththatIbutthestrengthourgreatandGod.

Likes: Jesus, his wife Naomi, living in Croydon Park, trying (some) new food, fun socks, LordnoDislikes:looksministrythinkingchurchministry,universityournewatMalabar,aboutwhatafterCollegelike,funfacts.peoplehavingknowledgeoftheJesus,spiders.

Abigail and I got married in June last year and we’re serving at Scots Church Sydney. After College we’re thinking about the possibility of starting a church plant. Please pray that we would prepare well for future ministry together as a married couple.

I grew up in a Samoan church for 25 years before stumbling across an evangelical church in 2015. I started my ministry journey in 2018, and now I’m at College, with the aspiration of going back to do ministry amongst the Pacific Islander community.

I have learnt so much at College and Bossley Park Anglican and am excited to keep being moulded as a servant of Christ. Please pray that I would continue to love Christ, rely on his strength in this journey and cling to the Cross as my reason for studying.

MARC SAFARI

LACHLAN NEAL

POPO LOH

SOCIETAS 2022 23

JOSHUA RICH

SIMON SHEELY Loving serving at St Peters Anglican at St Peters. Prayerfully thinking about overseas mission after College.

I am in my second year of student ministry at my home church, St Thomas’ North Sydney. Britt has gone back to nursing at RNSH after completing the one year diploma. We would appreciate prayer as we say farewell to St Thomas’ and find a new church for student ministry.

JARROD NANGLE

I am thankful to be studying alongside my husband Lachie as we take steps towards long-term mission in Japan.

JAMES RUSSELL

I’ve come from a space of wanting to serve God and his people, but never being shaped to do that well, so I’m thankful for the opportunity that College has given me. Serving the people of someinvolvedtoBroadwayBarneysandhopingbecomeheavilyinmissionincapacity.

MICHAEL PARKER

I’m married to Ally, and we have a daughter, Eden. I am loving College and student ministry at Stanhope Anglican Church. Please pray that I would not become dull to the things of God, but continually grow in my zeal, wonder, and love for him.

What a privilege it is to be studying! Please pray for myself and my husband Ben as we seek to love the people at our church in Berowra, and as we work out what it could look like to serve our great God into the future.

CALEB TORRANCE

Kirsty and I (and baby Lucy!) are currently serving at St Mark’s South Hurstville and hoping to head to the Armidale diocese after College. Please pray that we will raise our family to know and love God and that he would be preparing us for rural ministry.

I’m excited to be in my second year and am thankful for all that God has taught me at College so far. I’m serving at St Stephen’s Anglican Church in Normanhurst and I would love prayer that God would grow me in dependence on him and love for his word.

24 THE END OF THE WORLD?

I’m married to Sophie; our daughter Lucia joined us in December 2021. We attend Vine Church Surry Hills, where I’m trying to develop my Christdirections.deepIcompetencies.leadershipAtMooreamseekingtodevelopbiblicalconvictPraythatGodwillourlivestoexaltinallwedo.

Please pray that I would build on the theological foundations from first year into a deeper understanding and appreciation of God and people. Thank God for the addition of Saskia to our family, and pray that we would love and care for one another well.

PIP WITHERIDGE

Thank God for the opportunity to study God’s word and live in community with other students. Please pray that God would be growing me and would continue to lead me to where he wants me to serve his church.

CLARE SMEALLIE

I live in Lakemba with my wife Em and our one year old daughter Beatrice. We attend Scots Church Sydney. I’m keen to grow in godly – worryingcharactermore about what God thinks of me than others.

NeutralattogetherministrywithEmmaTheBridgeChurch,Bay.

I am blessed to continue my studies at Moore College this year. I’m still serving at Soul Revival Church in Kirrawee. Please be praying for my wife Bek and I as we continue this journey together, that we will look to serve God in every situation.

LUKE TUCKER

BRAYDEN WALL

Thankful for the opportunity to study theology! Please pray that these years would also be a time of growing in love of God and others, and being well equipped for a lifetime of ministry.

JONATHAN TAN

NIC TREVENA

Priscilla and I are thankful to God for leading us to Moore to prepare for full-time gospel service. Please pray that our time at College will leave us in awe of our awesome God and grow us as humble servants of Jesus our Lord!

ANDREW STANFORD

KADIN WOOD

WITHERIDGESOPHIE

JULIAN YIN

ANDY ZHANG

Pray that I would grow in godliness, maturity, and love for God and his word while at College. Serving at Scots Presbyterian in Wynyard.

ELLIE ROLDANWILLIAMS

Serving at MBM Rooty Hill in Membership, and passionate about sharing Jesus every day as I stay connected with friends and family outside of College. Looking forward to teaching the Bible after College and helping churches win people for Christ.

Sophie and I are excited for another year of our College community and I am thankful for all I have learnt so far. We are joyfully serving as part of East Lindfield and Killara Anglican Church. Please pray that we would depend on our mighty Lord for all things including future plans.

My wife Vicky and I have a College!trainedtheWeafterchurchinwouldHannah,daughterandweliketoserveaChinesespeakinginAustraliagraduation.arethankfulforopportunitytobeatMoore

CAROLE WORBOYS

Excited to be heading into second year at Moore College and continuing to serve in youth and young adults

“We make meals for each other, babysit each other’s children, talk about how to teach the Bible to our children and generally just share life together. I’ve learnt lots of practical things too. For example, baby Panadol is cherry flavour and gross! There’s a strawberry flavour generic brand which children much prefer.”

“It’s a joy to do motherhood in the context of College community, with other mums to parent alongside and learn from. I love the opportunity for our kids to see Christian community lived out in real-time.”

In the goodness of community, Erin also considers the temptation to compare parenting styles or harbour judgement for others because of the ways that they parent that are different to her family’s. Feelings of inadequacy are quite common too, particularly when Hannah went through a stage of hating to read books and would shut the Bible. She has grown out of it, but it was a particularly hard stage.

Erin’s experience shows that even through challenges, we have a great God that fixes our eyes on what’s to come so that we can live at peace now, even when our circumstances appear rocky.

In terms of challenges, Chloe speaks of the frustration of not being able to be as involved or as present as she’d like to be – especially when periods of sickness and sleep deprivation hit. A lot of the daily grind of motherhood can feel samey, unseen and not very glorious (especially the nappies and large mounds of laundry).

MOTHERHOOD IN THE LAST DAYS Laundry, cherry Panadol, and glimpses of our coming king

MEL CLEMENT

Living in the last days has great reassurance for all of life’s stages, with parenting a stage where God’s grace and the hope of what’s to come shines brightly.

“It lifts my tired eyes and reminds me why loving, caring for and teaching my kids is valuable and important. This spurs me on to try and be a mum who parents with

“In parenting, you do go through some hard stages (not sleeping, kids not eating much, etc.). I often think that we are in a bit of a rut, but we’ll come out of it. God has reminded me that we should expect challenges and for things to be hard. Instead of thinking about all the ways that I will serve when things get easier, I’ve changed my mindset to what can I do now during the hardness, rather than waiting for the day that you will have all your capacity back and everything will be smooth sailing.”

Chloe Wood echoes these joys and challenges from her own family life. She lives with her husband Kadin who is in second year, and is mum to Eli (three years) and Saskia (five months). She expresses the blessing of flexibility Kadin has, which has been particularly appreciated in the early months of Saskia’s life.

Raising kids in the last days is no easy feat but can in fact be a great encouragement for our communities to look towards the kindness of our God and his imminent return. Meet three mums at College as they reflect on the value that motherhood has in the last days and what God has been teaching them in the midst of it.

Part-time student Erin Latten, whose husband Michael is in third year, reflects on the encouragement of living in College community with their two children Hannah (two years) and Daniel (eight months). She says that living in community is such a joy and she’s able to chat to other mums about all aspects of motherhood.

Do we have enough leftovers for dinner tonight? You can’t put that in your mouth! Does basketball practice begin at 6 or 7 pm? Why are your hands sticky again? Did we meet our budget this month? These are the common thoughts of a parent in the mundane of the ‘here and now’ phase of life.

26 THE END OF THE WORLD?

In our prayers and relationships, let us remember the spouses of those at College. So often our thoughts and attitudes are pulled towards the tangible things of this world and we easily forget the great hope that we have to come. We’ve heard that in the parenting phase of life, this is particularly pertinent, especially with young children. God has much to teach us through children, whether we are raising them or being involved in their family life. May we rejoice in being sanctified, grow in relationships and depend on God in our weaknesses. Parenting is a valuable part of community because it helps us – whether we are parents or not – to set our hope not in this life, but in what’s to come. “Therefore, get your minds ready for action, being self-disciplined, and set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming” (1 Peter 1:13).

Similarly, Elizabeth Rich shares about the frustrations of the ordinary moments of motherhood. Her husband Josh is in second year and they are raising Micah (seventeen months) and expecting a baby girl in early September.

SOCIETAS 2022 27 Australian Parenting Courses Courses we can run at your Church or School — great for church members with children of all ages and for community outreach like playgroups. Uniquely Australian  Practical  Based on world-class research  Content covers children all ages and stages to young adulthood  Various topics available  Delivered in person or via Zoom  Only $10 per attendee More info and to schedule courses: musydney.org.au/parenting-seminars musydney.org.au | Helping you support Christian families in your community FacebookPrivategroup ParentingChristianAustralia

“Knowing that Jesus will return changes our priorities. We’ll teach Micah God’s word, pray with him and go to church to show him that Jesus is the most important thing in life. I often need to be reminded that our children, although entrusted into our care and teaching, ultimately belong to God. Despite our failings as parents, we can trust God with our kids.”

gentleness, kindness, patience and grace. I want my kids to get a glimpse of what the coming King is like from how I seek to be more like Him in the day to day. I know my Heavenly Father sees the unseen and the mundane and that He cares for me even when I feel like I’ve got very little to offer. That’s a huge encouragement.”

Even in the constant mundane, Elizabeth shares about the joy that it is to have such a special relationship with someone who looks to you for so much. Her marriage relationship has grown through the change of parenting as well as her relationships with others, both single and married, as they show care and interest in their family. Children are an enriching experience for community in

“Often as a mum, you’re doing lots of tasks. Looking after a little human and caring for them constantly is full-on. But this can be harder to measure each day because it is constant and sometimes quite mundane.”

Elizabeth has found it challenging to learn to be less selfish with her time. This includes changing her expectations about what productivity looks like and also putting less emphasis on getting her worth out of how productive she is.

the ways that they allow care to be given and received by a family. It is clear that investing in children is valuable, and doing this in light of Jesus’ return brings such clarity to what is of greatest importance.

R A I SI N G U P ? O nline study options. W H O A R E YO U

Unfortunately, I never truly understood what it meant to have life in Christ despite being born and raised in a Christian home. As I invested more and more time to my career, I gave in to the temptations of this world and pursued the life I wanted to live. Things did not change until I started dating the woman who became my wife, Hanna. She was a music therapist who was looking after palliative care patients, and our conversations often revolved around the topic of death. They reminded me that although I no longer seek death, death could seek me. Hanna’s testimony compelled me to reflect on my relationship with God, and how I was using my life to serve Knowinghim.that

But what if I wanted things to end?

PETER CHAN

we can only have life in him, I was so convicted by the gospel that I could no longer live a life that served myself. Since then, I choose to live whatever life I have left serving God and his people, giving glory to him, and proclaiming the good news of Jesus. Neither death nor the end of this world frightens me, but I am in awe of God and yearn for the new creation that is to come.

When I was a kid, I loved reading astronomy books, learning about the stars, the sun, the moon, the rockets – until, one day, I read about black holes. I stared at an image on the page depicting a black hole draining all the atmosphere from a planet, and how black holes continually suck things in.

Although I might not see the end of the world, I knew I couldn’t avoid death and suffering. And to me, that was all there is to being human. Fortunately, I was corrected a few years later during an evangelistic talk at school. Afterwards, I committed my life to Jesus. From the talk I learned that I am a sinner and that, by accepting Jesus as my Lord and Saviour, I could have forgiveness and eternal life. It was certainly a lifechanging moment for me. While I desired death, God desired life for us through Jesus’ death. I was never brought to this world to suffer and die, but to enjoy fellowship with God and have life in him.

SOCIETAS 2022 29

THIRD PROFILEYEAR

Although we now know that’s a myth, as an eight-yearold, the thought that the world would eventually end scared me enough to never read another book about space ever again. The thought of the world ending is frightening because it implies the end of myself.

At school, I was often bullied, and I never made the grades. School was my life. But my life neither had joy, nor value. So, I told my parents one evening that, because I had figured it all out, I wanted to end my life. I had concluded that I was brought to this world to die, and all that is in between is suffering. Therefore, it is most rational to end life now so as to limit the suffering. When they heard this, my father laughed and said, “Son, you’re no wiser than I am, because I asked the same

THIRD YEAR

Married to Hanna. We will be celebrating Evangel’s first birthday soon with our church family at West Ryde Anglican. Please pray that God will teach us to be godly parents, and to be more effective in teaching his word, reaching the lost and loving God’s people.

Amy and I are serving at St. George North Anglican at Carlton. We’re loving the community there and keen to keep congregations.9amrelationshipsdevelopinginourand6.30pm

MAX BREWER

Jess, Zoë, Hannah, and I now attend Summer Hill Church. Pray for energy to love a young family and also for diligence at College and student responsibilities at the Healing Service. Thankful that God’s grace in Christ is sufficient for all our needs and aspirations in the gospel.

Recently married to Kim; student minister at St John’s Anglican Church, Maroubra. Please pray that Kim and I will invest wisely in both our College and church communities, and settle into good patterns of married life.

REUBEN BIRCHLEY

Leah and I are serving at well.familymarriage,thatandandpraychild,gaveChurch.CammerayNaremburn/AnglicanLeahrecentlybirthtoourfirstWilliam.PleasethatbothLeahIwouldbegodlylovingparentsandwewouldbalanceCollege,andchurchlife

ADAM CONDIE

This year Sophall and I have started at St. Stephen’s, Willoughby, and moved into housing in Newtown. I will be serving through music, walk-up evangelism, and learning from preaching opportunities. Pray that God would continue growing and maturing us as believers.

STEPHANIE ADAMS

PETER BLAKE

ASH BRAITHWAITE

My family and I have recently joined Grace City in Waterloo. Our daughter Lucie has recently become a big sister in April with the arrival of our second daughter: Sadie. Pray for a family.churchadjustmentsmoothtoanewandourgrowing

MICAH BEEL

My wife, Maddy, and I come from Sydney’s west, where we currently live, serve and parent our young son, Ezra. In the immediate future, we hope to serve in the Sydney Anglican Diocese. However, we’re keenly exploring opportunities further afield!

Serving at Wild Street, Maroubra, alongside Annette and our three children Jacob, Zac and Imogen. Thankful for another year of community with the Bible open!

JOSH DONOHOO

JONATHAN ADAMS

Ministry to Koreans is joy of joys. I get to do that with the saints in Strathfield. I live in Chappo luxury, where I evangelise many about the gospel needs in Korea via the spring board of K-culture & entertainment. Pray for the 70% of Koreans who hold no religion.

RANDAL BENN

CUNNINGHAMJORDAN

SOCIETAS 2022 31

2022 has been filled with change as we’ve left the mountains and my home church in Springwood. Georgia and I are delighted to be serving at All Saints, Petersham. We are excited for what God will teach us this year as we grow in our knowledge and love of him.

I’m part of Dundas Telopea Anglican Church, towardsworkinggrowing and training leaders for ministry to young children and their families. Pray for teamwork at church and for personal growth as I learn at College.

PETER CHAN

So thankful for your prayers for my wife (Karen) and daughter (Alice). It is a great blessing to be in 3rd year, my favourite year by far. Please continue to pray for our growth as we navigate through circumstances.challenging

I’m from the Mid North Coast and Newcastle. Resident of JCH. Serving at St Barnabas, Bossley Park, and doing a variety of writing things on the side. Pray my joy for God’s word stays fresh amid the study and for a year that honours Jesus, no matter what Covid does.

ROB MAYHEW

Please pray that my study of God’s word will shape all that I do and say. Vic and I are entering our second year at Anglican,Northmeadsoplease pray that we will continue to grow in our ministry skills and love God’s people.

32 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Liv and I appreciatewouldprayer for us in this first year of marriage. Pray that I would grow in character, conviction, and competency at College. And pray that I would serve well at Chatswood Presbyterian Church in youth and Sunday school small groups. Thanks!

JADE HAJJ

Katie and I, with our daughter Clare, are part of St Paul’s, Canterbury, and live at Croydon Park. Thank God for the safe arrival of our second child Finley in July and for wisdom as we lay groundwork and make decisions for life and ministry after College.

NATHAN MILHAM

My wife Evie and I serve at St Luke’s, Hornsby Heights. Pray that in our weakness Evie and I would trust God to uphold us, and that he would strengthen our marriage and deepen our love for each other.

SAM HERBERT

MICHAEL LATTEN

HAZELGROVEBROOKE

JAKE FITZPATRICK

MICHAEL HEMANS

HOSEA LUY

My wife Jen and I are thankful to be saved in Christ and know his grace to us and to have the privilege of studying here. It’s our hope that we and our four boys would be faithful, and thereby useful, in the Lord’s service in native UK post-College.

Please pray for us as we begin at St George North Anglican. Also, that 2022 will be a time where we gain better clarity about how we can serve after College.

Together with my wife, Erin, and our two kids, Hannah and Daniel, I serve at SWabundantgospelinCollege.WestministeringWeAnglicanCampbelltownChurches.hopetocontinueinSouthSydneyafterPleasejoinusprayingformoreworkersfortheharvestinSydney.

ALEX MACDONALD

HARRINGTONDAVID

God is pushing me to think more deeply at College about who he is, but he’s really been refining me with real life lessons. I’m thankful for my College family, and my church family at St Luke’s, Liverpool, who are caring for me and helping me grow.

My wife (Mel) and kids (Calvin and Charlotte) are at Christ Church Inner West this year. I’m finishing up study to head down to Tasmania as an Anglican Candidate. Pray for our growth in maturity, steadfastness in faith, and strength in love.

MARTIN FONG

Pray for afterministryalisedmissionRedfernWe’llandDavidDiploma,KatherineMissionshandingNathanoverSUNSWleadership,finishingherSophiaandstartingatschool,Elijahathome.spend2022atSSAClearningabouttothemargin-whilepursuingopportunitiesCollege.

ALAN NGUY

preparation for future ministry, and that we will be able to go back to Japan this year for Saya to see her family again after a long time.

Serving at Life Anglican, Marsden Park, and got married to Maggie in June. Please pray for our marriage and for wisdom with respect to future Brisbaneopportunitiesministryinnextyear.

JOHN SHELDON

Amanda and I will be continuing to serve at NCA church. This year I will be continuing to lead music and Bible study, while taking on more opportunities.preachingPray for wisdom for us as I plan to undertake ministry work next year.

SUTHERLANDDUNCAN

Please pray that Carmen, Norah, Nate and I would be continuously shaped by the gospel as we rely on God’s grace to love and serve him in all our lives. Pray that we’ll continue to soak up all the rich teaching and training in our final year at Scots Church.

Pray for Amy as she thrives as a primary school teacher, and me as I enter 3rd year. Pray especially that we might serve the saints at St Paul’s, Canterbury, and St Alban’s, Belmore, faithfully.

Francesca and I are loving our time at College and learning from a ministrydifferentcontext at Vine Church, Surry Hills. We are thankful to God for the way he has grown us in the last 12 months as partners but also as parents to Leo!

SIMON SWADLING

Continuing on my very unexpected journey from a designer and pastry chef to minister. Serving another year at church in Glenhaven, and enjoying third year at College. Pray that I would trust God as I work out my future, both looking to my final year at College and life beyond.

Please pray that Zoe and I will both continue to learn lots in College, especially as Zoe begins Cornhill this year. Please also pray that we can serve the saints at St Andrew’s, Strathfield, wholeheartedly as we adjust to moving churches.

SILVANUS THIEM

Hannah and I are loving being part of bringing the gospel to Surry Hills with Vine Church. We’re grateful to be growing in Christ, making friendships, and enjoying time with our doggo. ��

NATHAN TUCKWELL

SOCIETAS 2022 33

Saya and I are currently at Sydney bothcontinuePleaseEvangelicalJapaneseChurch.praywewilltogrowasChristiansand in

I’m serving at MBM Parramatta and living at Chappo. I’ve loved being back in College community this year with all its joys and challenges. Please pray for wisdom as I consider what ministry might look like during fourth year and after College.

MATTHEW PETERS

KEVIN PHANG

TIM YOUNG

Loving God and loving his people has fueled my life from an early age and I’m stoked that College can train me to do both for another year as an Anglican candidate. Pray for my wife Chantelle and myself as we start this year at Marrickville.

RICHARD WONG

OWEN ROBSON

Together with Suzi, Olive and Jet, I planted into and revitalised Life Anglican Church, Riverstone, where I currently serves as the lead pastor, under acting Rector Geoff Bates. Suzi and I have a passion for Western Sydney and seeing churches grow in evangelistic mission.

DANIEL WALMSLEY

34 THE END OF THE WORLD?

And yet, I am aware that I’m not alone in feeling like this. Be it divorce, death, mental illness, miscarriage, infertility, family instability, financial hardship or other difficulties, there are a seemingly endless number of ways to suffer. In those moments of grief and disorientation, it really can feel like the end of the world.

Firstly, Jesus’ promised return at the end of the world gives to the person of faith a foundation that can never be shattered. Even when we come unmoored from all other securities in life, this is a hope that is steadfast. In John 14:3, Jesus tells his confused and disturbed disciples that he will come back to take them to be where he is going. Later on, in John 16:33, he says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Secondly, Christian eschatology helps in times of suffering because it gives clarity on what life is about. The Christian person knows that life isn’t ultimately about what I do for work, how many experiences I

THE END OF YOUR WORLD AND THE END OF THE WORLD

Our Lord speaks with authority. It’s worth noticing where the peace he speaks of is located. It isn’t located in circumstances, but in him. Jesus knows that the disciples will face trouble in the world. But he has spoken to them about his death, resurrection, the sending of his Spirit and his return so that they will have real peace. Not peace in their circumstances, but peace in Jesus. This peace and assurance gives a profound security even when everything else is crumbling.

At the start of 2020, a couple of months before the pandemic, I had my own ‘end of the world’ moment. My marriage suddenly disintegrated against my wishes in a matter of weeks.

As I reflect back on my own ‘end of the world’ crisis moment, I’m struck by how profoundly the Christian view of the end of the world speaks to these adversities. The Bible’s teaching on Jesus’ promised return as judge and king give us resources to process horrible circumstances. It gives the man or woman of faith the ability to trust God through them and to praise him in the midst of them. In what follows, I’ll reflect on how Jesus’ return enables a life of trust and praise and suggest some ways this can impact Christian life together.

NATHAN TUCKWELL

“It’s not the end of the world.” Many of us have heard these words, often uttered by well-meaning people in response to our complaints. While meant to be a helpful reality check, we’ve often felt their sting. This is because there are moments in life when it does feel like your world is ending.

It’s not easy to find words to describe those early days. It felt like the foundations of my life had been pulled out from beneath me. All the prospective futures I’d ever pondered were obliterated. The present as I knew it was blown up. I couldn’t even trust my own recollection of the past. Was anything true? It was profoundly disorienting. It really felt like the end of my world.

Is your church a place where someone who’s going through a crisis would feel welcome? When my divorce happened, I moved to a different church. One of their core values was: we don’t do pretend. As I settled into church, I met pastors who were honest about their struggles. I heard people interviewed who didn’t have life neatly put together. I saw people serving who were survivors of abuse, repentant adulterers, burned-out former pastors. I felt like I belonged.

Jesus’ return reframes a Christian’s response to personal suffering and crises. These ‘end of my world’ moments are transformed by the promised end of the world when Christ returns. While this truth doesn’t make these things pain-free, it gives the person of faith resources to live well through them. With this knowledge, it’s worth reflecting on some practical outworkings for Christian individuals and communities.

SOCIETAS 2022 35

collect, or who I marry. Rather, God has made known his plan for all of creation, namely, to bring everything together under Christ (Ephesians 1:10). This will be fully realised at Christ’s return. Fundamentally, life isn’t about bringing glory to me, but about bringing glory to Jesus as we await his return. This means that whether my hopes and ambitions come to pass, or whether they fall in a heap, I am able to praise God. This praise may be with tears, but it is genuine praise.

How can your church be a home for people who are struggling? How can you be helpful personally? Perhaps you might be intentional about who you sit next to at church. You might wait for everyone to come in and sit near the person who slips in the back so that you can introduce yourself. You could work hard at sharing more about your own difficulties with Christian friends, in order to foster an openness among you. This could lead to a shared commitment to not do pretend with each other. There are lots of small ways that we can make a huge difference.

This also impacts how we listen to the Bible. We need to remember that a truth we discover may not seem applicable now but may be absolutely essential in a crisis in ten years. Resist the urge to import the hyperimmediacy of modern life into how we engage with God in his word. Not everything we hear in the Scriptures on a Sunday will revolutionise our Monday. But by regularly sitting under God’s word, we will come to know him more intimately, love him more fully, and be better prepared to trust him more deeply no matter what the future holds as we await Christ’s return.

you need is a firm grasp of who God is, what he has done in Christ, and where the future is ultimately headed. For those of us who are Bible teachers, we need to be focused on teaching the Scriptures accurately so that hearers grow in their knowledge and love of God. This is their actual need. This is not a free pass to be boring, as there’s nothing boring about being brought face to face with the living God. What it does mean is that we will want to work hard to expose the meaning of passages in a way that grips people and helps them to treasure Jesus.

Finally, don’t undervalue the place of solid Bible teaching. After some reflection, I’ve concluded that the most helpful thing in my crisis was the fifteen years of solid Bible teaching I received before it. When the brokenness of life comes up close, that is not the time to learn and internalise striking new truths. In that moment what

36 THE END OF THE WORLD? MOORE COLLEGE ALUMNI — HOSTING REUNIONS EVERY 5 YEARS moore.edu.au/alumni ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Helping young people discover life in 495 NSW public schools To apply, donate or find out more visit generate.org.au 120 SRE Teachers 150 School Chaplains Teaching 1,901 hours eachScriptureofweek Delivering 2,636 hours of Christian Pastoral Care each week Supported by 107 SRE Boards 751RepresentingChurches

For my 4th year church history assignment this year I chose to look at the ministry of Bishop Charles Perry, the first bishop of Melbourne. Perry was an evangelical who endeavoured to establish institutions (including my school!) that would faithfully teach Scripture.

SOCIETAS 2022 37

Lord willing, next year Sarah and I are returning to the UK to take up a position as chaplain in a boarding school. I’m particularly drawn to ministry in boarding schools as it provides even greater opportunities for sharing life (and Jesus) in community, and practically modelling the love of Jesus though pastoral care.

I don’t know the purpose of those chapel services either. Chapel was just something we did because that’s what boys at this school had always done.

In that sense, we’re moving to the other end of the world to tell teenagers about Jesus. But right here in Sydney, schools are seeking passionate chaplains, assistant chaplains, and Christian Studies teachers to hold out Jesus to the next generation.

Around the same time, I thought about all those students who endured school chapel with me for years but were never any wiser about Jesus’ offer of salvation. And I was privileged to be part of two Moore College school missions. That’s where someone asked me those two questions I started with.

I went to a school in Melbourne where we had chapel twice weekly. I never particularly hated going to chapel, but nor did I enjoy it. I just did it.

The teenage years are a formative time when worldviews are formed, and big questions considered. This is one reason why youth ministry is so crucial. But church-based youth ministry assumes teenagers are willing to come along.

13 years at the school, no chapel service ever mentioned what Jesus had done. Looking back, I feel a bit cheated.

RIGHETTIJAMES PROFILE

But from Monday to Friday, there are almost as many students in Anglican schools across New South Wales. And most don’t know Jesus.

As I considered options for ministry post-College, I knew I wanted to share Jesus with those who don’t know him. I also love answering people’s questions about faith, partly because I asked lots of them myself before becoming a Christian in my early twenties.

Since becoming a Christian, I now realise why chapel felt so aimless. Without the gospel, we were subjected to a deadly mix of morality and self-help. There was no good news, just moralistic exhortation to be gentlemen. Then we’d sing ‘Lord of the Dance’ and head off to period one.

FOURTH YEAR

Perry strongly opposed teaching Christian values without Christ. He warned against introducing “a syllabus where the superstructure of morality was taught whilst the foundations were neglected.” In other words: do not leave out the gospel.

So … what about you?

Surveys suggest there are roughly 60,000 people in Sydney Anglican churches on a Sunday, so it’s a wonderful thing so many Moore College graduates are committed to serving them.

How many years will it be before you have explained the gospel to 1000 Whatnon-Christians?ifyoucould do it every week?

He was right. The religion I was exposed to in chapel entrenched my focus on me, not God. It was about what I should do to make myself a better person. In my

Most of these students are required to attend chapel, and regardless of whether their chaplain proclaims Jesus or exhorts them to morality, they’ll be there all the same.

FOURTH YEAR

ADAM FRIEND

Avril, Caleb and I are looking forward to seeing how God uses all of this learning for his glory as we, God-willing, head overseas in the coming years to serve with CMS. Pray for energy for ministry and study, and wisdom as we look to the future.

Serving at St Luke’s Hornsby storetoplanGod’sgrowth,yearword.theandlife-longThankfulHeights.forCollege,friendships,growingdeeperinrichnessofGod’sPrayforanotheroffaithfulness,andtrustingoodandperfectasIlookforwardwhateverhehasinforthefuture.

ALEX HITCHCOCK

I’m thankful to learn alongside brothers and sisters for my final year! Please pray I could make the most of learning and growing in God’s word, and for wisdom in thinking through how to serve God in 2023 and beyond.

I’m married to Chloe and we have two beautiful daughters, Elise and Kate. Please pray that we will finish College well as we start to plan to minister in rural NSW post College.

ED HANNAH

SOCIETAS 2022 39

BRODIE CUTMORE

Adam, Chinzia and Mark are looking forward to 4th year at Moore, and looking forward to seeing how we can grow, learn, and serve Jesus’ Church in the years to come!

ADAM JOHNSON

MATT HEARNE

Mel and I are so thankful for our time at College and how God has also taught and sustained our family through chronic illness in this time. We’d love prayer for for wisdom about where to serve next year.

I am thankful to continue to learn and grow at College, being equipped for ministry wherever the Lord might take me.

JASON LING

EDMUND LEUNG

ASHLEIGH BOND

Sharon and I have grown so much while at College. We’ve loved the learning and community, and can’t wait to head into ministry next year along with Kingsley and Mabel. Please pray we’d be godly, wise and effective this year in Killara.

SAM DAVIDSON

RUSSELL DENTEN

JOSH GOSCOMBE

I’m married to Amelia and we have loved learning at Moore and are excited for more opportunities to put our learning into practice. Please pray that whatever those opportunites look like next year, God would use us to reach the lost and equip the saints for the work of ministry.

This year God has been teaching me that I am a creature. Please pray for myself, wife Bec, son Isaac and baby (due soon) that through our weakness, his glory would be revealed.

JAMES BOARDMAN

MIKE HUNTINGTON

Maggie, Erastus, Gaius and Jane with Edmund serve at Two Ways Ministries and at St Mark’s Anglican South Hurtsville.

startandPrayatGod-willing,Edmund,willserveAFESinVictoria2023.forgospelgrowthsupportneededtoinMelbourne.

Lots of new things for us in 2022 that we’re very excited for.

I’m married to Charly and we have three children, Elijah, Joshua and Hannah. We’re serving at St Peter’s Cremorne focusing on evangelism. Please pray for us as we think through opportunitiesministryfor 2023.

Joyce and I are newly married, she’s new to life in Sydney, and we’ll be new to Little Queen Street too. Pray that we would use these new circumstances to glorify God. Hooray for his goodness.

GOLDMANMATTHEW

We are so thankful for our time at College, and really keen to get as much out of 4th year as we can. Pray we will do so, and that God will prepare us in knowledge and godliness to serve him in vocational children’s ministry as best we can.

Mike is husband to Rach and father to Sylvia and Esme. Mike spends his time studying at Moore, serving at The Oaks Anglican Church, and watching Marvel movies. Pray for Mike as he works to serve his family and studies to be honed for service.

40 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Currently serving the Lord at St Marks Sadlier, married to Jess and now father of AnnieAmelia. Please pray for us as new parents to continue serving the Lord in raising up Annie but also for energy as we traverse this new ground.

Pray for Merryn and I that God might humble us in a way that enables us to follow his lead for ministry next year! Pray also that it might be a year of significant growth and learning.

JEREMY SMITH

SIUHENGALUNETANE

Pray for a year of face to face learning for my final year! Prayerfully my husband Jono and I are looking to serve God in the UK next year! Pray for provision of a great church for me to get a job, where Jono can also do some student ministry.

BRAYDON LUCAS

ANGUS MARTIN

TIM SMITH

NED TEUBEN

Tony, Yenli and Lukas are currently serving at Christ Church Gladesville and are exploring the possibility of overseas mission after College. Please pray that we would make the most of living in College community and that we would continue to strengthen our friendships and support networks.

BRYN WEIGHTMAN

I’m married to Felicity, and we have a little boy Albie born last year. Pray for wisdom in our decision-making for next year amongst the busyness and joy of 4th year, and as we adjust to being a new family of 3.

STUART SHARRY

What an incredible privilege it has been to be studying at College and to return to in-person fellowship for our final year! Please pray that I make the most of this last year of study and serving the saints at St Marks Pennant Hills, and for decision making for 2023.

TONY NGUYEN

Please pray that we would finish our time at College well, making the most of the opportunities we have with friends in the College community. We are fortunate to have a position confirmed with AFES for next year, so please also pray for our preparation.

LAURA SMITH

EVA TANG

James is doing student ministry at Shore School this year, in preparation for school chaplaincy post College. Please pray for us to adjust well to parenthood and for wisdom regarding where we serve in 2023.

We are thankful for all the opportunities and relationships we have here at College. Please pray that this year will continue to clarify, consolidate and shapren Eva’s thinking. Please pray for prayer dependence on the Lord as we consider ministry opportunities next year.

The Martins have appreciated the opportunity to deepen our tothingsapplyinglookingthinkingtheologicalandareforwardtothemanywehavelearntourfutureministry.

JAMES RIGHETTI

My wife Beth and I are thankful for our time at College so far. We look forward to serving Jesus in parish ministry, so please pray that we will be shaped by God’s word in 2022 and that He will guide us in finding a suitable church.

Thank God for a great 3 years at MTC and that this final year would prepare us well for the future. Pray for our decisions about where to do ministry in Melbourne in 2023!

SOCIETAS 2022 41 bushchurchaid.com.au Have you got a heart for people across Australia to hear about Jesus? Around 1 in 4 Australianslive in the bush Our Field Staff spread the gospel across rural, remote & regional AustraliaBCA is looking for men andwomen to go the distanceto share Jesus with the bush– is that you?

So then came the announcement of our engagement, and with it the name of our Facebook event:

I’m Laura, and my husband Jono and I got married in January of 2022. When we announced our engagement on Facebook, the post read, ‘Looking forward to Jesus returning, and us getting married next year. We would rather Jesus came back first. But pretty stoked either way. Keen to celebrate with as many people as legally allowed post-lockdown!’

As you may have guessed from the above, it did become somewhat of a joke. But joke or not, it helped to constantly reframe our thinking about marriage, and our prayers for our marriage, to be more focused on the return of Christ than our wedding.

‘Three Days to GO! Hopefully less til Jesus returns! But if he doesn’t return before then, here’s the link to our Wedding Livestream:’

‘Laura and Jono are getting married (unless Jesus returns first)’

‘19hrs to go, but hopefully less until Jesus returns!’

The wedding itself followed a similar theme: ‘the better wedding’. We wanted what seemed like a joke to land as a reality for those at the wedding, particularly for our friends and family who didn’t know Jesus. We wanted to point them to something greater than ourselves. We also wanted to make the message of the wedding welcoming and relevant to people regardless of whether they were married or single.

And finally, the name of our album of wedding photos on Facebook;

But the more I dwelt on the conversation, the more I realised that if I ever got married, I always wanted that desire to come after. I never wanted it to replace my desire for Jesus to return and ‘make all things new’. I never wanted it to replace my desire to glorify God!

At the time, I thought, fair enough!

‘Jesus hasn’t come back yet so we got Wed.’

42 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Jono and I talked about it early in our relationship. As we grew to know each other, we tried to push each other more and more to think first about Jesus and his kingdom and after about marriage.

For context, I was once listening to a woman who had been married for maybe 25-30 years talk about wanting Jesus to return soon! As the conversation went on, she had a small admission that on the night before her wedding, she did hope and pray that perhaps he could not come back tomorrow! Largely because of all the planning and excitement that went into that day!

LAURA SMITH

‘1.5 months until we get married, but hopefully less until Jesus returns!’

THE BETTER WEDDING

And then posts in our Facebook event,

My prayer for Jono, myself, and us all, is the same as John in Revelation 22:20: ‘Come, Lord Jesus Come! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.’

‘For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of hosts is His name; And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth.’  What I’ve found most helpful in this discussion, even now that we are married, is keeping Jesus’ return and his wedding feast at the forefront. As silly and jokey as it seems, to remind Jono and others of these things points me gently to Jesus’ return, even in the little Letthings. meencourage

We had four passages in our wedding service: Isaiah 54:4-8, Mark 12:18-27, Revelation 19:6-10, and 21:1-8. We saw that the picture of marriage in the Scriptures is only for this life, as Mark’s Gospel shows. Jesus responds to the Sadducees’ trick question about marriage and the resurrection. He teaches that ‘no one will be married or given in marriage’ in the New Creation. Though it might have seemed like a strange passage to have at a wedding, we hope that it showed that, in some ways, singleness is the trajectory of us all (indeed, with some humour!). Then, in the passages from Revelation, we saw what was to come! A picture of a wedding of Christ and his bride, the Church! Much bigger than just Jono and I, the whole people of God from all over the world and time will be in this better wedding.

you with these words from Revelation 21:

I sometimes (and perhaps unhelpfully) joke to Jono that he won’t even be the best husband I ever have. And indeed, that he too will have a husband one day! As it says in Isaiah 54:4-8, which we had read,

For‘Hallelujah!ourLord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad     and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come,     and his bride has made herself ready… Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’

I still laugh and lament that Jesus didn’t return before our wedding day (to be clear, we had a great time, and it was joyful and delightful). I hope and pray that the desire for Jesus to return before any other major event happens continues to carry me through this life.

SOCIETAS 2022 43

SometimesChrist!

We wanted to communicate that marriage in this life wasn’t the goal even as we were getting married! We were hopeful that even if someone’s earthly marriage was lonely or painful, they would see the hope of eternity. We were also hopeful that people who did have good earthly marriages would be pushed to see beyond and outside of them! The hope of what we knew was to come. A better hope for all God’s people, married and single alike united, together, with the best spouse, the son of God; Jesus

Head of Theology, Philosophy, and Ethics

Andrew: Most people think it has to do with their capacity to define their own existence in terms of choices that they make. I think it’s a modern phenomenon to prize freedom and to prize our capacity to make choices for ourselves. It’s what we tell our children at school, that the world is your oyster, and you can be whatever you want to be, if you set your mind to it. And that extends, of course, as far as what we choose to do with our bodies. That seems to be a particularly important feature of the modern identity, the way in which our sexuality has become a preference and bound up with our freedom and our choice.

Societas: What is your opinion on what humans are thinking about when it comes to being human?

To my mind, the most coherent way of thinking about being made in God’s image is in terms of reflecting God’s glory. If we think of creation as a kind of a cosmic temple, then in that temple created human beings are his representatives, who are called to reflect his glory, in enacting his will. And to harness the resources he has furnished us with in the beginning, so that creation as a whole reflects his glory. And so, there is an intended harmony between our identity as human beings and the natural world. And interdependence. A dependence of the natural world upon divine image bearers to realise its potential. And yet at the same time human beings depending on the natural world to provide us with the resources for us to do that. All of that, of course, went terribly wrong in the Fall. But the biblical trajectory is one of restoration, and a restoration that has at its centre the person of Christ, who has been given sovereignty, not just over the creation at the beginning, but over the new creation. And we are caught up in that destiny as those who are now being conformed to his image and likeness. So, that, I think, is a central concept to the way that we think about our humanity.

CONVERSATION WITH ANDREW LESLIE

Societas: Could you reflect, though, on our current relationship with technology, both in terms of how we use it and how it structures human society? And how it might shape the way we think about being human, too?

Andrew: In the beginning, there was the exhortation given to Adam and Eve to fill and subdue. Another way

44 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Andrew: Yes, I think that’s right. I remember John Haldane, the Catholic philosopher, identifying this modern ideal that anything that is sincerely felt ought to be acted upon. So, when people have a sincere desire, the expression of that reality needs to be affirmed. And yet we still have boundaries. There are still lines or thresholds that are considered taboo, although that has been shifting ground. And so, it’s a kind of ‘Where next?’ question.

Societas: That’s a good summary of the received (though seldom articulated) wisdom about being human. If we shift to a theological perspective, could you outline a Christian view of who and what we are as human beings?

Societas: Do you think it’s the case that, despite the prizing of choice, that some choices are more equal than others, that some choices are more noble or interesting or meaningful for us?

Andrew: I think that the key difference is that the Bible speaks about identity as something that is gifted to us by God. It’s received by us in the context of faith in him. That was true from the beginning. And it’s often captured in the notion of the image of God; everyone in the tradition has agreed that it’s central to explaining our existence and the destiny that God intends for human beings. It features in both the beginning and the end of the Bible.. So, it’s central to the whole story of salvation history.

of putting that is as being called to be stewards of the world that God had made. And theologians have equivocated over whether that privilege was taken away from us as a result of the Fall, such that now we’re inclined to scramble after something original that was taken from us. And the mark of that is now a vexed, ambiguous relationship to technology and resources at best, so that dominion now looks more like domination.

Other theologians would say that there might be a sense in which God has not taken away that gift that he gave us in the beginning, so much as brought it under the sentence of his judgement, so that it’s now experienced as a curse. Either way, it shouldn’t surprise us, theologically speaking, that human beings both want to use technology to master their environment, rather than using it as the instrument that God has made – like a musical instrument that he called us to play to resound to his glory. Now we use it to bolster our own sense of self-made identity.

Andrew: From a theological perspective, it shouldn’t surprise us that people are caught in this strange cycle of fear and optimism. And I think this cycle speaks to two realities. The first is the sense that we are outside the garden, and we are living under the sentence of the curse. And that there’s a sufficient perception of the reality that we will be held to account, since not all is well with our world, as well as in our own lives; that we are fearful of coming out into the light, and that we prefer darkness. And, at the same time, there’s optimism that, however much this accountability is a reality, we will be able to evade it.

Societas: So far, we’ve spoken about human beings as these choice makers with strong desires, who want to realise their desires, including through technology. There are questions about the viability and rightness of how we’re living out our humanity, from undue exploitation of natural resources to the more intimate violence of abortion, and in many other ways. How might you draw together these different threads and label this phenomenon? Where in general terms do you think we are, and what’s the direction of travel?

Societas: In the Apostles’ Creed, the only present tense statement regarding Jesus is that right now he is seated at the right hand of the Father. We then confess that he’ll come again in glory to judge the living and the dead. How might – or ought – these truths to shape the way 21st century Christians think about and live in this world that we’ve been describing?

there is this strange disjunction between the way that people feel, which is feeding a sense of this fear that things are getting out of control. And yet the reality that the very technology that we fear will be the end of us is what might well result in a better life for everybody.

Andrew: A kind of apocalypticism has touched the person on the street. And yet there is evidence that we’ve never had it better, and that there are actually very good reasons to be optimistic about the future, even with what technology can do to make our life and the life of the planet much better than what we fear. So,

SOCIETAS 2022 45

Societas: Do you think people might have a natural sense of the end of the world? That this fear is a hint or intimation of the actual end of things?

Andrew: Well, then we start to panic that we’ve gone a little bit too far. And that may be an expression of what Lewis was getting at. There is this sense that we’re not in control, that nature has mastered us, that technology isn’t an inert tool that we can use in whatever way we can, without any consequences, to serve our own ends. And so, for example, there’s almost an apocalyptic feel to the climate discourse.

Societas: I agree that it seems like we’ve co-opted it into our choice-making ethos. You’ve reminded me of C.S. Lewis’s argument in Abolition of Man, that as we master nature, nature in a sense is reverse mastering us, because we see nature as neutral domain over which we assert our will, for which technology is a useful tool. But in this view there’s no robust safeguard against applying that technology against humanity.

Societas: A security blanket of sorts for when we’re feeling extra bad?

Andrew: Firstly, our sense that our hope is elsewhere. It’s in this space that the Bible describes as the ‘highest heavens’, where the resurrected Christ is seated. It’s beyond the realm of our own bodily existence right now. And there’s something important about this reality that figures the shape of Christian hope. It’s why Paul in 1 Corinthians 7 writes about this ability Christians have through hope to live in this world and to use it and to embrace it. But to do so, at the same time, with a lightness and fleet-footedness that recognises its transitory character. And yet there’s a way of pushing that logic perversely that would incline us to think ‘Who cares about the world around us?’. As if to say, ‘Christians shouldn’t bother with trying to make the world a better place because it’s all going to burn up’.

46 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Prepare for a vocation of Christian teaching and research

Andrew: Feeling bad or when things are manifestly out of control. I think that’s a mistake. I think our hope actually provides us with a context to be radically countercultural in the way that we approach life in this world, including its woes; to be willing to do things with our possessions, and with our bodies, for the sake of others, and for the sake of the glory of God, that reflect our confidence that our life is now tied to the life of the risen Christ. And that it can be a context in which we can be radically thankful and radically generous. We can use at our disposal, with the wisdom that he calls us to have, the resources that God has given to make friends, as Jesus puts it, for eternity. I think you see this in Paul: he castigates the Thessalonians for being idle. There’s a kind of apocalypticism that almost leads to inertia, a way of thinking about our hope that has no bearing on actually how we conduct our business in this world. So, I think that’s the beauty and blessing of hope.

Societas: In closing, could you reflect more specifically on the place of of hope – the hope we have that’s outside this world that also shapes the way we live inside the world? What’s the beauty and blessing of Christian hope in these last days?

Andrew: The content of Christian hope can sometimes be thought about as a kind of consolation prize for the miseries of life.

Societas: Thanks for the conversation, Andrew. moore.edu.au/postgraduate

Looking for biblically faithful resources for making disciples?

Students will connect with like-minded school-leavers that are passionate about Jesus, go deeper in God’s word and grow in a community of young Christians from all around Australia.

CHANGEYOURWORLD

DISCIPLESHIP GAP YEAR IN 2023?

Year 13 is a discipleship gap year for school leavers, preparing them to change the world for Christ, whatever walk of life they choose.

Encourage your young people to change their world and apply today for our 2023 discipleship gap year. Our open events are a great way for young people to meet the staff, hear about our program and tour the campus.

MARK THOMPSON

48 THE END OF THE WORLD?

PHILIP KERN

Chris is married to Susan and they have five children aged 4-12. They belong to St Thomas’ Anglican Church in Enfield. Chris teaches New Testament and Greek, and loves getting to know the students at Moore and helping them read God’s word closely. When he isn’t doing that, he enjoys cricket, board games, reading fantasy, and spending time with his kids.

The Höhnes have been part of the Moore College community since before the iPhone, attending aroundstoriesAsESLRegionministryAmeliateachesasAnglicanNewtown/Erskenvillechurch.DavidservestheAcademicDeanandtheologyandphilosophy.servesinAnglicareintheNorthernofSydneysupportingministriesinlocalparishes.afamilyweenjoytellingandlongconversationsthedinnertable.

Simon and Margie have two adult children, Maddie and Noah. They served as missionaries in Namibia before coming to Moore in 2016. Simon teaches Mission and Ministry subjects at College, and Margie works raising up missionaries for CMS. They enjoy time with family and friends, sailing and riding their motorbike together.

SIMON GILLHAM

CHRIS CONYERS

ANDREW LESLIE

Andrew is married to Felicity with three children, William, Tessa, and Hugh. He lectures in Christian doctrine. Andrew loves spending time with his wife and kids, and with friends near and far. He enjoys the music of Bach, Brahms, and Mahler, the poetry of Eliot and Manley Hopkins, as well as cooking, a bit of exercise, moderately effective efforts to make his garden grow, and rest. On Sundays his family attend All Saints’ Petersham.

Mark Thompson is the Principal of the College and teaches in the area of Christian doctrine. He continues to be grateful to God for the opportunity to serve at Moore College and to see God at work in the lives of our students. He is also engaged in a number of writing projects. He is married to Kathryn and they have four young adult daughters.

MARK EARNGEY

George is married to Koula, and they have two daughters, Hosanna and Josephine.

FACULTY

Philip and Amy married in 1984. They have 1 daughter, 3 sons, and 2 daughters-inlaw. Philip joined the New Testament department in 1998. He likes to read widely, explore eastern Australia by motorcycle (preferably with Amy), and watch his children participate in various sports.

DAVID HÖHNE

GEORGE ATHAS

CHASE KUHN

George has been on faculty since 2006. He teaches in the Old Testament department, and is the Director of Research. He loves helping people know God by understanding the Bible. He also enjoys history, archaeology, good coffee, and Formula One.

Mark is married to the indefatigable Tanya, and they have four young and energetic children: Grace, Simeon, Sophia, and Zoe. The Earngey family worship weekly at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Canterbury, holiday annually anywhere north of Sydney, and recreate really well with Bluey (kids) and Blue Cheese (parents).

PAUL GRIMMOND

Chase is married to Amy and they have four children.

He lectures in Christian Doctrine and Ethics and is the Director of the Centre for Christian Living. He enjoys playing games with his family, cheering the Swans, going fishing, and riding his motorcycle. As a family, they attend and serve in a local Anglican Church.

Paul loves his job as Dean of Students and enjoys lecturing students in Ministry and Mission. He is married to Cathy and has 3 kids and a new son-in-law. He loves working with students to develop self-awareness and relationship skills through intentional ministry reflection and he’s thrilled to be studying expositional preaching and thinking about how to do application better.

Paul and Karen have two adult sons, Matthew and Andrew. Paul has taught Old Testament at Moore since 2001. He is currently working on commentaries on Exodus and Ezekiel. Recreationally, Karen and Paul enjoy seaside walks, and basketball.

Tara serves in the Ministry Department, team teaching a number of Advanced Diploma and Degree units, including cross-cultural discipleship and leadership. She’s also the Dean of Women, overseeing the pastoral care of the female students (alongside 12 part-time chaplains), women’s chapel, and the female residential community. She and Ian love relaxing down south at Jervis Bay, as well as being part of All Saints’ Anglican Church in Nowra.

Archie is married to Ainsley and they have three children, Georgia (married to Ben), Zoe and Archie. Archie has the joy of teaching in the Ministry Department and is currently formalising his lifelong research in developing clergy competency. He doesn’t have any passionate hobbies apart from learning about anything he observes. He loves helping out in cross-cultural ministries.

PAUL WILLIAMSON

CHRIS THOMSON

TARA STENHOUSE

ANDREW SHEAD

JANE TOOHER

Jane lectures in Ministry, Church History, and is the Director of the Priscilla & Aquila Centre and lives in Newtown. She loves walking, movies and spending time with family and friends. Jane is a member of All Saints’ Petersham.

PETER ORR

Peter is married to Emma and they have four sons, Ben, Ollie, Jonny and Daniel. Originally from Northern Ireland, he joined the faculty in 2014. He teaches the New Testament and is thankful for the privilege of time in class reading God’s Word. Peter enjoys spending time with family and partaking in lunch-time cricket at College. Peter and his family church at All Saints Petersham.

LIONEL WINDSOR

Chris started following Jesus at Oxford University. After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant he joined the ministry team at St Helen’s, Bishopsgate, before studying and teaching at Oak Hill, Cambridge, and Edinburgh University. His research interests are Hebrew language, sin, and righteousness. He belongs to The Bridge Church in Kirribilli, and enjoys walks and meals with friends.

Between teaching, which he never tires of, Andrew spends time with his students, preaches, and writes on the Old Testament. He is excited about the richness of the Old Testament as a source for Christian theology. Andrew is married to Jean. They have three children who fill their lives with excellent conversation.

SOCIETAS 2022 49

ARCHIE POULOS

Lionel is married to Bronwyn and they have three children, Adelaide, Harry and Eleanor. Lionel has been lecturing in New Testament and Greek since 2015. Lionel loves seeing people grow in joy and confidence in understanding God’s word and speaking it to others.

DAN WU

Dan is married to Chrissie and they have three sons, Liam, Archie and Harry. On the faculty since 2013, Dan teaches in Old Testament and Biblical Languages. His research explored the relationship of honour, shame and guilt in Ezekiel. Dan also loves fishing, footy and basketball.

Isobel is married to Peter, the bishop of the Georges River region in Sydney. They have three daughters and one son-in-law. Isobel is encouraged by the next generation of gospel workers, as she meets with them in chaplaincy group and counts it a privilege to play a small part in their preparations for ministry. Isobel continues to chair the EQUIP Women’s Conference. Pray that she’ll continue to share Jesus in all the opportunities God gives her.

return to College serving men and women as they prepare for a lifetime of ministry.

CHAPLAINS

ANNA HU

ISOBEL LIN

CATE HONG

Anna is married to Tim and they have 2 school-aged children. Since College she has served in a university team as a women’s trainer, in motherhood and in various ministries with Tim. She is thankful for being able to spend time again at College sharing in the challenges and encouragements of ministry with the students.

TIM HU

Louise has enjoyed leading youth, student and church ministry over the years with a particular focus on pastoring and mentoring women in ministry. She is excited to be involved in the chaplaincy program at a College that loves and serves men and women, training them for ministry. She is married to Roger, the Senior Minister at Emu Plains Anglican and they have three young adult sons and a daughter-in-law.

Emily serves at Sans Souci Anglican with her husband Stephen, whom she met at Moore College around 10 years ago.  They have two sons in primary school. This is Emily’s first year serving as a chaplain, and she finds it an absolute joy to be back in the College community. Please pray she will be an encouragement to the students as they continue to prepare for a lifetime of ministry, and making Jesus known far and wide.

EMILY GILMOUR

Jocelyn is married to Ed, who was on faculty from 2014–2019. She is delighted to be back in the College community as a chaplain since 2021. They have 5 kids and are part of the church at Naremburn Cammeray Anglican.

Tim started working at the Centre for Global Mission and continues to serve as a cross cultural Chaplain this year. Tim with Anna is involved in ministry to Mandarin speakers, including churching at Artarmon Anglican, co-ordinating the Chinese PTC, and running a little publishing ministry at mimai.info.

50 THE END OF THE WORLD?

Since graduating from Moore in 2005, Emily has been raising their four children together with her husband Luke. Emily has also served in teaching Scripture on behalf of the saints at St Peters Anglican@St Peters and in pastoral care and coordinating Scripture for her church family Anglican.Newtown:ErskinevilleatEmilyisdelighted to

EMILY DELLER

Cate serves together with her husband Elvin at Australian Asian Church. They have 4 children and seek to raise them up to follow Jesus. Cate has always had an interest in sharing Jesus with people from other cultures. She enjoys proclaiming Jesus to children and youth and encouraging women in living a life of service for Jesus.

LOUISE CUNNINGHAM

JOCELYN LOANE

Wendy is married to Phillip Swanton, has two adult children, a son-in-law and three grandchildren. Over the years she has worked in church and school ministries and loves seeing young people converted and growing in devotion to Jesus Christ. She currently works with Two Ways Ministries, a parachurch organisation which works to see young adults live single-mindedly for Christ.

This is my 9th year of Chaplaincy at College and it’s such a joy to work with the students as we live and learn together. Over the years I’ve been mothering and ministering in university and church contexts around the inner west. Now I spend a good part of my week working with the team at Anglican Aid, helping churches overseas support their communities.

JOAN YOUNG

For most of her adult life, Joan has served in church and Bible college-based ministries. Her happiest moments are when she is focused on teaching the Bible, meeting one on one, and mentoring others seeking to follow Christ. She lives with her husband Warwick in a high rise apartment in Sydney’s inner west. They are members of St James, Croydon.

RUTH SHEATH

JULIA WILLIAMS

Sarah delights in the roles God has given her. At College encouraging students, at Church (Dundas Telopea) serving alongside her Senior Minister husband Alistair, being Mum to 3 great kids and working for ENC as a teacher evangelist.

Sarah delights in seeing people transformed by God’s word and counts it a privilege to be spurring on the next generation of gospel workers. She served with CMS for 12 years in Mexico and now spends time reading the Bible with missionaries on home assignment, teaching and mentoring women in Summer Hill Church, and teaching Scripture. Her husband Peter works for CMS-A and she has 3 adult daughters.

SARAH SHOLL

SARAH SEABROOK

WENDY SWANTON

Ruth, and her husband David, love serving as part of The Lakes Church which they planted on the Central Coast 20 years ago. Ruth is also a Professional Supervisor, works with FIEC as Women’s Network Coordinator and has found being involved as a chaplain at Moore a great encouragement. Ruth loves spending time with her 3 adult children, 2 daughters-inlaw and grandson and going for walks exploring God’s creation.

SOCIETAS 2022 51

As adults, we wait for the bus, we wait in line to buy our groceries, we wait at the traffic lights, and we wait for our kids to finally fall asleep at the end of the day.

FORWAITINGTHE END

First, what we are waiting for: For many people, both Christian and not, their picture of the future beyond death is one of floating around in heaven, free from the constraints of our mortal bodies. Our bodies limit us; they get sick; and they will die. So growing up, even as a believer, I thought of heaven as where our souls go when they are freed from these bags of flesh. Or perhaps you’ve heard something similar to when I listened as my atheist uncle gave the eulogy for my great aunt. He spoke of her ‘looking down on us’ from the clouds – as if the dead are still there, floating around without bodies but have nothing better to do than watch those of us who are still living. (He admitted afterwards that he doesn’t believe any of it, but he had nothing else to say in the face of death.)

So what exactly are we waiting for? And what should we be doing while we wait?

Waiting is a universal human experience. As kids, we waited for our birthday or Christmas to come, or for the interminable trip to get to our grandparents’ place to finally end.

Waiting is never fun, but we can’t avoid it. God’s people aren’t immune from waiting, either. Abraham was promised children (Gen 12:2), but had to wait twenty five years for Isaac’s birth (Gen 21:5). The Jewish exiles in Babylon had to wait seventy years to be able to return to Jerusalem (Jer 29:10; Dan 9:2). And we have been promised that Christ will return, but Christians have now been waiting for almost 2000 years! God promises good things for his people, but he keeps those promises at the time of his choosing, not ours.

But these bodiless phantoms aren’t what we’re waiting for. Rather, four times in John 6, Jesus says ‘I will raise them up at the last day’ (6:39, 40, 44, 54). Just as Jesus calls Lazarus out of his tomb (John 11:43), he will call us out of

CHRIS CONYERS New Testament Lecturer

OK, at first glance, that doesn’t sound better than killing zombies on my phone. But sharing in Christ’s sufferings is not meaningless suffering, pain that achieves nothing. Rather, it is our privilege to suffer for the same reasons

our graves in a bodily resurrection from the dead. Paul describes it in different terms: the Christian future is to experience ‘adoption’ (8:15). We are adopted already, as certified by the Spirit who dwells within us, but it’s like we are still in the car on the way to our new home from the adoption agency. Our adoption is complete, but we don’t yet experience its full riches. What will those riches look like? Sharing in Christ’s glory (8:17). That is, we will share in the same glory that the disciples witnessed in Christ’s resurrection. We will, like Christ, receive new immortal bodies. Throughout the New Testament, the Christian hope is not freedom from bodies, but the freedom that comes with new, glorious, immortal ones – just like the one Christ revealed to his disciples after he rose from the dead.

That is what we are waiting for: Our own bodily resurrection from the dead, which will come at Christ’s return. So what should we do while we’re waiting? While we’re waiting for the bus, we might pass the time by playing games on our phones, but God has something better in mind while we’re waiting for the resurrection of the dead: we get to share in Christ’s sufferings (8:17).

For Christ, suffering for that purpose meant suffering the cross. Our experiences of suffering won’t be identical to Christ’s, but we will share in his sufferings when we work for the same purpose of bringing salvation to sinners. As we lay aside our own interests, face worldly opposition, and are despised and rejected, we don’t experience anything new but we experience what Christ experienced. We share in his sufferings. So as we do, the sufferings themselves ought to remind us that we will also share in his glory – the resurrection from the dead. That’s why Paul can speak with confidence in his sufferings (Rom 5:3): they are an essential element of the life that is like Christ’s, where we suffer now but have full confidence in the hope of resurrection (Rom 5:5).

The Christian life is therefore one of waiting –waiting for Christ’s return when we will receive our own bodily resurrection to eternal life. But it is purposeful waiting: Suffer for Christ now, be raised with him later.

This story of present suffering and future resurrection is the story of every Christian. Together, we work to glorify

Christ and make his name Individually,known.weall make different contributions as different members of one body, but we are united in our service of Christ and our pursuit of his purposes. While we wait for the end of the world, we also prepare for it. We prepare ourselves, and we call others to prepare by repenting of their sin.

SOCIETAS 2022 53 moore.edu.au/ptc FLEXIBLE & FOUNDATIONAL CERTIFICATETHEOLOGICALPRELIMINARY

Christ suffered. Why did Christ suffer? ‘Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners’ (1 Tim 1:15). He came so that everyone who believes in him ‘shall not perish’ (John 3:16). He came to save his enemies – us – from sin and death.

CONNECT your congregation and wider community with specialised services, providing the support they need to navigate challenges at all stages of life.

1300 111 partnerships@anglicare.org.au278 anglicare.org.au

ANG7335

Partner with AnglicareTogether we can... equip connect love

EQUIP your ministry leaders and church members with practical training to tackle big issues confronting people in the congregation and wider community.

LOVE people through partnership initiatives supporting your church to share the love of Jesus in the local community and beyond.

moore.edu.au/jch Will you partner with us to develop our student accommodation and communal learning environments as we seek to train men and women for gospel ministry? As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. PROVERBS 27:17 (ARCHITECT’S DESIGN OF PROPOSED JOHN CHAPMAN HOUSE).