Societas 2019

SOCIETAS 2019 EVANGELISM

Preliminary Theological

Certificate

Foundational Flexible

An affordable, unaccredited course that will help you grow in your knowledge of God and equip you to serve the Lord in your local church.

For more info and a sample lesson: moore.edu.au/ptc

moore.edu.au/postgraduate

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Master of Theology (MTh)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Research in Biblical Studies, Christian Thought or Christian Ministry

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EDITORIAL

STEVE DRISCOLL

Around 35AD, a young man was rejected in the temple for proclaiming the truth. He was arrested and brought to the Jewish council. He was charged falsely, but he responded wisely. He committed his Spirit to God, prayed that his murderers would be forgiven, and died outside Jerusalem, just like someone else two years prior.

We don’t know a lot about Stephen before he appears in Acts 6. We know that a complaint had been made about the distribution of food to the Greek widows (v1). We know that the Apostles appointed seven men of good repute (v3) and commissioned them to the task (v6). And then we know that the first martyr to the cause of evangelism was this guy, freshly appointed to the culinary department. But we know very little else about who he was, what gifts he had, or what made him tick.

Yet in his bold actions, Stephen shows us his inner convictions. Stephen was a follower of Christ living a crossshaped life. So, whether he served at tables, balanced ledgers or worked in the army, his

driving desire would surely have been to proclaim the gospel.

I wonder if there’s something significant about the fact that this guy wasn’t an apostle or a prophet or an evangelist. It wasn’t his job and in that narrow sense it wasn’t his responsibility. But it was his joy and deepest obligation to speak of Jesus and God and the truth, despite the opposition.

So, Stephen told the truth, despite the immense cultural awkwardness that he found himself in. His opponents were charging that he was

a threat to the customs of the place, to the law and to the temple. He was a threat to society, to the community; he was different and strange. The potential for offence was enormous, but he didn’t back away from that.

Just like someone else two years prior.

This edition of Societas is given to the difficult issue of evangelism. In this magazine we offer a range of reflections on sharing the gospel. It is our hope and prayer that the magazine will be an encouragement in the face of fear and difficulty. We also pray that it will inspire you

with some stories of success. The picture of global evangelism is far from gloomy, because the gospel of Christ is far from weak.

We pray that this edition would encourage you, like Stephen, not to be ashamed of the gospel. For the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Rom 1:16).

CONSTANCY AND CHANGE

COLIN BALE VICE PRINCIPAL

This year marks my twenty-first year at Moore College as a member of Faculty. The College in that time has been marked by both constancy and change. The purpose of Moore to train and shape men and women for gospel ministry has not altered over the period.

We remain committed to preparing people to serve the Lord Jesus, usually in vocational ministry, in Sydney, throughout Australia and to the ends of the earth. There has been, and continues to be, a whole-hearted commitment to the mission of the Lord Jesus. The College’s focus on biblical theology has also been a continuing feature, as has the commitment to learning in community with its emphasis upon residing in College accommodation to maximise the experience. We aim that all members of the community, as they sit under God’s word and are shaped by it through the working of the Spirit, will grow in Christ-likeness, enjoy deepening fellowship with other community members and, most importantly, show our love for Christ in the way that we relate to others in the community and love them as Christ commanded. There has also been an ongoing commitment to prayer. Every week in term time the Faculty meet to pray, students join together in prayer groups, a prayer support group

regularly meets to uphold the College’s ministry and mission, and a quarterly prayer bulletin is issued to supporters. More could be said about those things which are unchanging, but it is important to state that the essentials remain constant.

Yet there has been change. The changes I have witnessed are understandable ones. The current Principal, Mark Thompson, is the third leader of the College under whom I have served. The Faculty have certainly altered over that time. Some have retired, others have moved to positions in other theological colleges, missionary ventures or pastoral ministries. New faculty have joined the Moore team. So, too, has there been movement in the membership of the Governing Board and the College staff. And, of course, there is an ongoing parade of different students over the years through the College.

The number and scope of the College’s courses are marked by both constancy and change. The Bachelor of Divinity and Bachelor of Theology remain very much at the heart of the College’s program, but new courses such as the Diploma of Biblical Theology, which is in online mode, and the Advanced Diploma, with its mix of core units and electives, provide new opportunities for the College to engage people in theological training. Our distance course remains a significant ministry of

the College and while its content remains largely unchanged, the modes of delivery embrace either the printed text approach or online access. The creation of four new centres (Global Mission, Ministry Development, Priscilla and Aquila, Christian Living) has facilitated great community engagement and training. Thus, constancy and change have been the reality for me during my time at College. It has been thoroughly enjoyable to be involved in what is the dynamic community which is Moore College. Yet, the most important constant in my College

experience has always been that the College has been integral in directing me back to the one who gives purpose to everything –The Lord Jesus. Some decades ago a Christian friend gave me a poster that was a paraphrase from a line in T. S. Eliot’s poem ‘Burnt Norton’: ‘Jesus is the still point of the turning world’. It is a truth statement that still resonates for me even though I lost the poster some years ago. As the Sydney evangelist John Chapman was always keen to remind us, ‘It’s always about Jesus’. In the constancy and change of those twenty years at College, the most important constant has been, and

continues to be, the Lord Jesus himself:

‘…the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and the first born from among the dead, so that in everything He might have the supremacy.’ (Col 1:15-18)

Won’t you join us in our mission to Reach Australia for Christ?

Join us in our mission to reach Australia for Christ

BCA is looking for men and women who will equip the next generation of Christian leaders in the bush. Our Field Staff spread the gospel across Australia. Is God calling you to join them and go the distance with BCA?

bushchurchaid.com.au

MOORE COLLEGE’S MISSION TO THE

WORLD

You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.

(2 Tim 2:1-2)

Moore College prepares men and women to carry the gospel of salvation to the ends of the Earth. Will you partner with us in this great mission? moore.edu.au/donate

* Roger Kyngdon, Kristan Slack, Luke Collings and Daniel Faricy are some of the Moore College Graduates who serve with BCA as Field Staff. They minister in Newman WA, Katherine NT, Moranbah QLD and Kununurra WA.

PERLA APOLONIO

which says that there’s work to be done that is far more important, i.e. to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in His vineyard.

I was born in Manila, Philippines. I’m the eldest of five kids who were raised by very loving parents.

I’m Perla – my name is the Spanish word for “pearl”. Knowing this always comes in handy whenever I need to remind myself that I am a precious daughter of the King – undeserving of His love, yet so precious to Him that He would give everything He has in order to have me. (Mat 13:45-46)

Before joining Moore, I worked in the corporate world for 20 years.

I am an accountant and an SAP certified professional who specialised in setting up the billing area of an accounting system called SAP. I loved what I was doing, and I initially thought that I would work in this area until I retire. But these past few years, there’s been a nudge deep within me

I was fourteen years old when God revealed Himself to me through an unexpected storm –my dad had a stroke and was in a comatose state for almost a month. After being prayed for by my mom one day, my dad then instantly woke up from a coma. It was a miracle according to the doctors, and the first one which I’ve ever noticed myself.

Dad woke up from a coma that day but there were still countless times when we had to rush him to the hospital after that event. We didn’t have medical benefits in the Philippines which could help dad, so we almost sold everything to pay for the hospital bills. We experienced how it is to lack, even to the point of having times of not knowing where to find our next meal. Regardless, we would just always pray that the Lord will heal dad and

provide for his medical expenses and for our other needs.

It was not easy to be still while in the middle of a storm. But God has been faithful. That storm is gone now. I was able to work, and my family’s needs have also been provided for. My dad just passed away last year – and I thank God so much for allowing us to still have dad with us for twenty-six more years after that first miracle.

(And yes, he was saved!)

Going through that season was difficult, but it taught me that God indeed never leaves us nor abandons us, that He supplies all our needs, and that He is still the same God who’s in the business of parting Red Seas and quieting storms.

I don’t know specifically yet where I will serve after finishing my studies at Moore, but I pray that the Lord will be able to use me to share with others about His goodness and love – a love so lavish and selfless that He was willing to give everything He has, even His own life, so that we can have ours.

First Year

FIRST YEAR

PERLA APOLONIO

I am so excited to study at Moore this year and to meet people like you who also have great love for our King! I have a heart for evangelism. I pray that I’ll be equipped so that the Lord will be able to use me to bring more souls to heaven.

I am married to Sophall and am just starting first year. We are excited to learn more about how we can serve God in our lives and carry that on to ministry.

I am married to Charly and we have an 18 month old called Elijah. We are very excited to be joining the Moore College fellowship. Our long term plans are to go into family ministry. Please pray that God will help us balance college, church and family life.

My name is Ashleigh and I’ve just moved from Brisbane to start a BD at Moore. Orientation so far has been a really great week of meeting fellow students and hearing their stories, getting into our Greek study and finding my way around Newtown. I am hoping to keep sharing Jesus at university campuses after college!

ALEXANDER BROWNE

I am married to Lavinia and we are excited to be studying at college to prepare for a lifetime of ministry. I am looking forward to learning Greek and Hebrew so I can dig deeper into God’s word. We hope to proclaim the gospel clearly in any context God places us in.

After a traineeship with Campus Bible Study –where my wife Sharon continues to train –heading to Moore was the logical next step in our preparation for ministry. We’re excited to join the community, to drink deeply from God’s word, and to be guided where best we can continue serving Christ.

I am married to Mel and we have two beautiful boys, Ezekiel and Joshua. Thank God for the great joy and privilege of studying at College and serving alongside the saints at Auburn Anglican Church.

My name is Russell, and I am excited to spend deeper and devoted time in God’s word at MC. Pray that this year (and the years to come) would be of great benefit and worth as I seek to trust God and see others trust Him as well.

I am super excited to be studying God’s word full time with my wife Lauren. Please pray for us as we work out how best to serve God and his kingdom after college.

I feel very privileged to be able to study this year. I am married to Michael. I am thinking about chaplaincy or pastoral care and Michael is thinking about local church ministry. Please pray for wisdom and opportunities.

My wife, Avril, and I are here to be trained to know God richly in His Word so we might be equipped for a life of faithful service of His Gospel. Hopefully this will eventually take us to new and different cultures! Pray that our doctrine and lives might please the Lord Jesus.

I’m really excited to delve into God’s word that I may know him and make him known. I do not have plans at this stage but know he will lead me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Please pray for strength and good health that I may be sustained to do his will.

I am thankful for the opportunity to study and grow at Moore. I look forward to using what I learn in sharing the Gospel in remote parts of Australia.

I thought I came to Sydney for an engineering degree, but it seems God intended it to be more, some ministry training and theological education too! I intend to use what I’m learning here to take the joy of the Scripturerevealed gospel to rural Australia or overseas!

I’m Chloe, I am married to Matt. I am really looking forward to growing in my knowledge of God so I can better love Him and be better equipped for a life time of ministry. Matt and I are open to ministry where ever is needed. Please pray for wisdom in future ministry opportunities and trust in God over the next 4 years.

ADAM FRIEND

JEREMY FULLER

M ATTHEW GOLDMAN

EDWARD H ANNAH

MICAH BEEL

JAMES BOARDMAN

A SHLEIGH BOND

BRODIE CUTMORE

S AMUEL DAVIDSON

RUSSELL DENTEN

GEORGE DUNSTAN

LOUISE FIGUEIRA

CHLOE HEARNE

M ATTHEW HEARNE

My name is Matt, I’m married to Chloe. I’m studying a bachelor of Divinity in my first year. Chloe and I are keen to get equipped in teaching the Bible and are praying about doing rural ministry after college.

ALEX HITCHCOCK

Married to Bec in 4th year. Pray for us that we would love and support each other in our studies as we span the college years. Pray that as my head is filled with knowledge that my heart would also be filled with God’s love for his people shown in Jesus!

MICHAEL HUNTINGTON

Hi, I’m Mike. I’m a first year student, moved back to the city after 10 years in Albury. My wife Rach is lovely. I love sport, being noisy, and one on one time with people. I’m looking forward to being set up for planting a church in regional NSW.

R ACHEL HUNTINGTON

I’m Rachel Huntington, a first year student. I’m married to Michael, who is also studying in first year. I grew up in Orange and went to uni in Wagga. After college, we hope to move back to country NSW (or Victoria) to work in church ministry, and hopefully raise some babies.

I have just started at college, and I’m excited for the year ahead. Pray that I would continue to grow in my love for Jesus and those around me. After college I would love to head into youth ministry in a local church.

ERIN L ATTEN

I am married to Michael and together we are excited to be trained for a lifetime of ministry. We are currently at Unichurch – UNSW and spend lots of time with university students. But I do especially enjoy children’s ministry and look forward to having our own child in July.

EDMUND LEUNG

I have a wife named Maggie and a son named Erastus and a second baby due June 2019. We have moved from Melbourne to study. We plan to move to the western suburbs of Melbourne after college. Pray that I constantly remind myself to serve God and God’s people better.

JASON LING

Jason moved up from Melbourne this year to study at Moore. He really enjoyed his MTS apprenticeship at Deakin Uni and wants to keep learning and working out where he can serve God in the future. Also, he misses his family and friends back home, but is thankful for the internet.

THOMAS LINGAFELTER

After studying and working in Canberra, I’m returning to Sydney to start at College. This year, my wife and I plan to set up a new homein the Northern Beaches, join a new church family at St Augustine’s Neutral Bay, and get her started in her career as a lawyer.

BRAYDON LUCAS

I’m married to Merryn. I’ve felt that God has wanted me to come and study the bible full-time, and so am following that call. Pray for motivation and patience in study. I am open to God’s direction in ministry but currently I feel I am led toward youth ministry.

The Martins are thrilled to be a part of the student body this year! We are cherishing being further equipped to handle and teach God’s word. While only in 1st year, we are setting our sights on leaving Sydney after 4 years at Moore.

I am married to Yenli with our first child due in April 2019. Aiming to go overseas with the Gospel to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ with the family.

I’m married to Ben in 3rd year and we are very thankful that God has allowed us the opportunity to study together this year. I am very excited to study God’s word more deeply and continue serving at MBM Rooty Hill. Please pray that God uses this year to grow me in love for him and shape me for his service.

I’m married to Sarah and we moved from the UK to Sydney in January in order to start at Moore College. We’re excited to see how God will use this time to grow and change us and we plan (at this stage) to return to the UK after finishing study.

I’m Erina, getting married to Dan (3rd year) in April. I grew up as an MK in Japan, trained as a primary teacher, and love playing sport. Long term, we hope to go overseas. Please pray for changes this year and that I will use what I learn to love others.

AMANI K AZOGOLO

ANGUS M ARTIN

TRUNG NGUYEN

BRONWYN PURDY

JAMES RIGHETTI

ERINA SAWYER

S TUART SHARRY

Stuart and Yukiho Sharry have been sent from their home church, Grace City Church Tokyo, in Japan for Stuart to undertake the Bachelor of Divinity at Moore College. They plan to return to Tokyo to serve in university ministry after graduation. Please pray for wisdom during this period of preparation.

NETANE SIUHENGALU

Hi! My name is Netane. I’m thankful to God for the privilege to be immersed in His word and fellowship at Moore College! Please pray for faithfulness and perseverance in the service of Him and His people. Grace and Peace.

JEREMY SMITH

I’m Jeremy. I’ve just come from serving in ministry at Campus Bible Study, UNSW. I’m excited for the big year at Moore as I continue to dig deeper into God’s word with other like-minded students! I’ve also just started at St James’ Menangle as student minister.

TIMOTHY SMITH

Tim Smith. Married to Jess who is studying at UOW in Primary Education and is in 3rd of 4 years. I’m very excited to study the languages and also doctrine as I gain the skills and some knowledge to better serve God’s people.

DANIEL SPERINCK

It’s such a privilege to have been saved by the precious blood of Christ. I’m looking forward to continue being trained and equipped alongside our brothers and sisters. This year my wife, Rach, and I are serving at Summer Hill Anglican, to grow God’s Kingdom and mature his people there.

My wife Dee and I, along with Poppy and Boaz, are stoked for this opportunity to get equipped for what we pray is a life of full-time gospel ministry. Both growing up in country NSW and seeing the plentiful harvest but that the workers are few, we’d love to return.

I am married to Howard. Pray that we will adjust well as I enter full-time studies, while Howard continues to work and study (at another college) at the same time. Pray that I will build strong and long-lasting relationships with the peers at college.

I am married to Beth, I love her, the gym, food and Jesus. We have moved from Dural into Newtown and started at Naremburn Cammeray Anglican. Please pray for us, as Beth continues full time work and I start studies.

I’m David, married to Emma, and we have 2 children, Reuben and Paige. We moved to Sydney from Perth for college. I’m looking forward to digging into God’s Word at college, and being equipped for a lifetime of ministry. Please pray for me in my study, that my knowledge and love for God will increase. Please pray too we will settle well into the college community, and into church.

I would love to do country ministry with youth, kids and women. Please pray: I would grow in my love and knowledge of God, develop lifelong relationships with people from college, retain what I learn and for my new position at Guildford, leading the Years 6-7 team and kids.

My wife and I have both moved up from Melbourne and started studying at Moore in 2019! We’re excited to be equipped for a lifetime of ministry during our time here, and hope to return back to Melbourne to build up the church through being involved in university ministry.

My husband and I moved from Melbourne to study at Moore College this year. Prior to college we both did a two year apprenticeship through an AFES group in Melbourne. We hope to return to this ministry in a university in Melbourne after college.

M ATTHEW S TONES

E VA TANG

NED TEUBEN

DAVID THOMPSON

K IMBERLEY WALKER

BRYN WEIGHTMAN

K ATE WEIGHTMAN

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LEARNING FROM THE STORY OF THE GLOBAL PROGRESS OF THE GOSPEL

SIMON GILLHAM

If we accept the important maxim (as I do) that mission is no longer ‘from the west to the rest’, but is now ‘from everywhere to everywhere’, it is important that we understand the nature of the global progress of the gospel. This will enable us to make wise decisions about where we might most usefully contribute in ‘going’ or ‘sending’ to other parts of the world, and where in humility we might look to other places to teach, train and resource us in areas of our weakness.

It is particularly difficult to do that if we feel under siege in any sense ourselves – struggling to see much fruit for our labours, with the noise of the ‘cultured despisers’ ringing in our ears and filling our newsfeeds. But the story of the global progress of the gospel is one we need to hear and retell.

The progress of the gospel is a varied story of dramatic growth in some places and significant decline in others. We in Australia feel the weight of the story of decline, because that has been our story in the past decades. Our census figures tell us that the percentage of Australians who identify as Christian has fallen from 88% in 1966, to 52% in 2016, with 30% of Australians then indicating that they had no religion.1 Australia is also a nation with many followers of other religions too, but after Christianity the next most common religions are Islam (2.6%) and Buddhism (2.4%), so the

numerical dominance of Christianity is a long way from being challenged. The rise of those identifying with no religion is mirrored in Western Europe and North America, and it would be natural for us to believe that the world is becoming a less religious place. In fact, the numbers of atheists in the world has plummeted over the last thirty years – due primarily to the decline of the communist bloc. Once the active suppression of freedom of religion and the state sponsored promotion of atheism relaxed, these areas witnessed the flowering of all kinds of religious thought, and the Christian church has grown dramatically in some of those places. While global numbers of those not identifying with any religion are predicted to continue to grow over the next 40 years, they will grow at a significantly slower rate than the numbers of Muslims or Christians and

shrink as a percentage of the global population.

As we reflect on these things, the trend of decline in Australia is a cause of great concern for all who long to see men and women come to know and trust the Lord Jesus – more of that later. Knowing the global picture, though, helps us to see that this decline is neither universal nor inevitable.

Between 1900 and 2008 the number of Christians in Africa grew from about 9 million to 424 million.3 That’s an average growth of over 10,000 new Christians per day, sustained over more than 100 years. In 2008, the growth in the Chinese church was even stronger, averaging 16,500 new Christians per day.4 In fact over 90% of the global increase in numbers of Christians comes from Africa, Asia and Latin America.5 Even amongst some of the most notoriously difficult people groups in the world for

Gospel ministry is busy, and there are always more good things to do than there is time to do them. Amid that busyness we rarely take time to lift our eyes beyond the immediate; to see and rejoice in what God is doing in his world, as he draws more and more men and women to the Lord Jesus.

Christians Muslims Hindus Unaffiliated Buddhists Folk Religions Jews

Religions

World Population by Religion2 (expressed as Billions)

Christian evangelism, there are signs of encouraging growth. David Garrison’s work, A wind in the house of Islam,6 documents significant movements of people to Christ from Islam (defined as 1000 new baptisms or 100 new churches in a given area). During the first 1350 years of Islam he could find no reliable evidence of any such

rapid and sustained, however, the church has understandably not been able to keep pace with adequately preparing leaders for their roles. This leaves young churches with many new believers in the vulnerable position of being blown about by the latest wind of false teaching (Eph 4:14).

movement. There were two such movements documented in the next century (1880–1980), eleven more between 1980 and 2000, and sixty-nine between 2000 and 2015! Whilst these numbers are still small in global terms, they are unprecedented and tremendously encouraging.

We must note that in these areas of significant numerical growth, rapid growth in numbers has followed local evangelism rather than evangelism by western missionaries. Ex-pat missionaries were often crucial in the pioneering phase of taking the gospel to new places and people groups, but the most significant evangelism and churchplanting work was undertaken by locals. Where growth has been

How does all of this help us to think about our place in global mission? Well, in at least two ways. Firstly, we need to recognise the way God has blessed us with theological education and ministry training in this country. Many of us go to church where there are staff teams of well-trained leaders, backed up by congregations full of more well-trained people. We have systems and conferences and access to resources that are the envy of Christians around the world. Surely this places a moral obligation on us to generously share those resources for the good of the kingdom and the building of the church around the world. Some of us need to be prepared to “go” to places where the growth of the church and the scarcity of resources is greatest, and the rest of us need to get behind sending them and making available whatever other resources we can.7

Secondly, prompted by our concern for men and women in Australia to hear and respond to the gospel, we should look

to learn from our brothers and sisters in parts of the world where the church is growing. Why would we send evangelists and church planters to places where locals are doing that so much more fruitfully than we are? The growth of the church in places like Africa, China and the Middle East has largely come about through ordinary Christian people witnessing to their friends and neighbours. Small, rapidly replicating churches are more characteristic of growth than a reliance on high profile leadership or evangelism. Ordinary people telling others about Jesus is the key. The best social research in Australia points in the same direction. In 2017 the McCrindle group published their Faith and Belief in Australia report.8 From a myriad of fascin-ating statistics, it is worth us noting that more than half of all Australians already identify with Christianity, and of those who don’t, one in four are open to exploring or considering it. Despite this openness, and that Australians are regularly having all kinds of conversations about religion, 82% of Australians have a conversation about Jesus less than once every 3 months. It seems that even some of those who go to church at least once a month (22%), don’t have a conversation about Jesus every three months. Those who are talking about Jesus must almost all only be talking

to other people who already go to church!

For all of the baffling statistics and the complexities of tracking the progress of the gospel and the growth of the church around the globe, it comes down to this.

The genius of church growth in Africa and China and other places where it is found, is that ordinary people talk to others about the Lord Jesus. The heart of the problem in places like Australia where the church is in decline, is that on the whole, ordinary Christian people are not talking about Jesus to those who don’t already know him.

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

(Romans 10:13–15)

ENDNOTES

1 Australian Bureau of Statistics www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/

2 Figures sourced from the PewTempleton Global Religious Futures Project www.globalreligiousfutures.org/

3 David B. Barrett and Todd M. Johnson, “Missiometrics 2008: Reality Checks for Christian World Communions,” International Bulletin of Missionary Research, Vol. 32, No. 1 (January 2008), p. 30.

4 Ibid., p. 29.

5 Ibid., p. 28.

6 David Garrison, A Wind in the House of Islam: How God is drawing Muslims around the world to faith in Jesus Christ, (Midlothian: WIGtake Resources, 2014).

7 For more information about how we as a College are rising to this challenge, check out the work of the Centre for Global Mission cgm.moore.edu.au

8 faithandbelief.org.au

“Some of us need to be prepared to “go” to places where the growth of the church and the scarcity of resources is greatest, and the rest of us need to get behind sending them...”

JESSICA ANDERSON

actually take more faith to say God wasn’t real. But… which God?

I sat in my room looking up different religions online and seeing what I could learn. That’s when I had that thought: “I’ll never become a Christian!” It was just too weird. God becoming a human; God loving bad people? That’s not how I would have done it.

going to be. At different points I was disturbed, thrilled, comforted, confused. And could I be one of those people who’d be saved if they called on the name of the Lord?

I spent my life looking for meaning. Something to live for, that would make things “worth it”. Was it being successful, or a good person? Or rebelling against those ideals? Was it art and music? Friends? Falling in love? None of those were a satisfying answer. In the end, the best I could come up with was living for good times.

But this really weird and annoying thing started to happen. As I was going about my life, playing music, partying with my friends, I couldn’t shake this thought: God must be real. The more I considered it, the more I thought that it would

As I started to learn about various religions, I kept getting stuck. Each one was based on what a man said about God. And who was right? Did an angel really visit Muhammad? Did the Buddha really find the truth?

It was around this time that I came across this idea: Jesus said he would rise from the dead. And if he really did something as out there as that… then that made him different from the others. That meant the other things he said would be true too.

I found that there is really compelling evidence that Jesus’ resurrection really happened. And so I had to (begrudgingly) admit that the stuff about Jesus was true!

I began to read the Bible and found that it was nothing like the religious textbook I thought it was

I started very timidly going to a local church, Epping Presbyterian Church. I would sneak in, sit in a back pew and sob at the thought that God might forgive me. One day we were having the Lord’s Supper and I was about to just sit there and not participate. But then I thought: hang on, I know Jesus died for me; I want to live for him. I think I AM a Christian!

In God I found the meaning and truth that I was looking for. But one thing that really surprised me is how GOOD it is to be a Christian. God is always with me and I know he cares for me. He’s changing me for the better. He’s given me a massive family of brothers and sisters. There are so many joys in being a Christian. One of the greatest for me has been seeing my dad trust Jesus too a couple of years ago.

Why am I a Christian?

Because it’s true. But I thank God that it’s not just true, it’s GOOD!

“I’ll never become a Christian!” That’s what I was saying to myself a little over eight years ago. But let me tell you how I got to the point where God even crossed my mind.

SECOND YEAR

Looking forward to second year and the chance to learn new things. This year I have the wonderful opportunity to learn from and serve at Rouse Hill Anglican. Our family of five appreciates any prayers.

Jesus has totally changed my life and I’m here to learn so I can share his gospel with as many people as possible. This year I’m a student minister at St Barnabas Bossley Park and my husband Zac and I have moved into college housing in Newtown which we’re loving.

Naomi and I have been Married for 8 years. Before College I worked full time in parish youth ministry and decided to study at Moore to further my understanding of the Bible to teach it to others. Pray for continued dedication to studies and balance in life and ministry.

Hi, my name is Elle and I am extremely excited to continue learning from scripture the depths of God’s goodness to us all! Please pray that I will not only focus on learning well but also putting my learning into action and sharing this wonderful truth with others :)

Praise God for a thoroughly encouraging first year and another wonderful opportunity to dive deeper into God’s word and grow in Christ. Please pray for me, my wife and children as we continue at college amidst the pressures of life and for wisdom regarding how to best serve after college.

My wife Elizabeth and I are excited for me to be studying at college with the purpose of pursuing full-time parish ministry. This year I’ll be beginning as a student minister at Fairy Meadow Anglican and will travel up to college from Wollongong by train each day.

Please pray that Mary and I would grow deeper in love for God, our church family at St Andrew’s Wahroonga, the college community and our neighbours. Pray for boldness and opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus to our non-believing family, friends, and Newtown neighbours! Thanks for your prayers!

RUSDYAN COCKS

First year was a great joy in being humbled by the Word alongside dear brothers and sisters. Looking forward to the privilege of another year at college to grow in my love of Jesus and another year serving with His people at Berala. Thanks for your prayers.

WALLY COX

Jordon and I have two boys (Augustine 2.5yo, Edward 1yo). We are still thinking through our post-college plans, but hope that this will become clearer over the next year. One thing about college which I’m thankful for is Chapel, where we stop ‚ ‘studying’ and simply gather together around Jesus.

M ARK DAVIES

From Perth, I came to college to be trained and equipped, honing my skills to communicate, teach, exhort, rebuke and love. I have a heart to see God’s love clearly articulated and lives transformed through the gospel. Raising up strong disciples in Christ is what I desire to do.

I am returning to college after a year off and am very excited to get back into studying God’s word. My wife and I are hoping to head to rural NSW after college and would love prayer as we continue to firgure out what that will look like!

I am married to Louise from first year. We’re not sure where the Lord will take us. But we are willing to serve him and bring him due honour and glory. I’m excited for the studies this year especially Doctrine!

My wife and I have four wonderfully outgoing children. After 11 years as a Logistics Officer, the Army is currently sponsoring my study so that I can pursue Chaplaincy. Please pray for godly men to serve the growing needs of military personnel as many Chaplains are retiring.

Praise God for getting me through 1st year. I’m so grateful for all I learnt last year and the many friends my wife and I have made. Please pray that God will grow us both to serve him well and please be praying for us as we navigate parenthood this year as we welcome our first child into our family.

MITCHELL ALBERT

JESSICA ANDERSON

TIMOTHY A SH

ELLE BRYCE

L AURIE CARLETON

RHYS E WING

MICHAEL FIGUEIRA

DANIEL GILLIS

M ATTHEW GOODMAN

M ATTHEW C ARMODY

JOEY CHENG

PAUL GRAHAM

I’m entering my second year of subjects, but my first year at Moore College. I’ve spent the last 2 years working as a Youth Minister at Northern Beaches Church, while studying at Youthworks College. I’m excited to be able to devote myself full time to study!

AM GRAHAM

Hello, I am super excited to be getting stuck in to learning God’s word more. My husband and I are serving at Christ Church Gladesville where I will be focusing on Kids Ministry. I am really looking forward to seeing kids and leaders grow in their knowledge of God.

ERIC H AN

Janice and I are parents to Ellenia who turns one in early 2019. I have done the 1st year of the course in part-time over several years. I am looking forward to the 2nd year study in 2019 as a full-time student. Janice will try to look for a part-time job as a exercise physiologist.

Z ACK H ANKIN

This year has been a struggle, I haven’t been able to rest due to my medical conditions (no matter how much sleep I get). Please pray for endurance and rest in God. I will continue at St George Public Hospital as a student chaplain, it has been great so far.

BENJAMIN H ARRIS

Hi my name’s Ben. I’m married to Soph, and we have a 1 yr old son, Reuben. I’m fascinated by stories, and love pointing people to see how they are part of God’s bigger story. We go to Vine Church, in Surry Hills, and my role on staff is helping people connect into our Church, and helping the church care for each other in community.

Eliza and I are looking to sink our teeth into rural ministry after college. Give thanks to God that we both finished 1st year. Please pray that college will prepare us for full time ministry and pray for my sister and Dad who don’t know Jesus yet.

My name is Jaison and I’m looking forward to another year of growing in knowledge of God’s Word and in loving service of the Lord Jesus. Please pray that I would continue to grow in the likeness of Christ throughout the year ahead.

Second year brings with it many changes: a big step up from first year, and marriage in July! Please pray I would grow in my knowledge and love of God, that I might keep seeking to raise up the next generation of gospel workers in my ministry and that I might learn to be a good husband to Kat.

My name is James Liu, married to Janet. I am a student minister in Lidcombe Anglican Church. Pray that I will be better equipped to serve Our Lord Jesus Christ and the people He loves.

My name is Gordon, married to Leanne and we have a one year old son, Jonathan. We are privileged to prepare for life-long gospel service of the Lord here. Please pray that we would be transformed, equipped and know where to serve after College.

Through grace alone I made it into studying my second year of theology at Moore! Lucy and I live the west life out in Moorewest as we also attend Moorebank Anglican Church. My passions surround youth ministry and seeing people come to maturity in their faith serving the Lord Jesus.

Husband to Amy, father to Solomon and Elijah and in Christ. I specialise in providing Daddy backpacks to two children and making overly optimistic plans. Please give thanks for those who support us and pray that God would grow our family’s love of Him and mould us to be like Christ.

PHILLIP

Janine and I are thankful to God for His care for us in our first year of College and living in Sydney. Please pray He might sustain us again and prepare us for whatever His plans for the future are.

L AWRENCE NG

I am married to Joanne. We are glad to expore the width and depth of the words of God with the aim to preach and proclaim. We are hoping to serve God outside of Sydney in the future.

NICHOLAS O’NEIL

I’m Nick and I’m married to Elissa, with baby O’Neil on the way. I’m excited to getting stuck into John and 1 Corinthians this year, and to keep serving at South Coogee Anglican. Please pray that we’d be godly and faithful parents, and that this new stage of life might bring gospel opportunities.

E VAN H ARRIS

JAISON JACOB

BENJAMIN KO

JAMES LIU

GORDON LUK

ANDREW M ARRETT

JESSE MORRISON

MORROW

S

VANESSA ONG

Though I miss home dearly, I’m really thankful for the privilege to be full-time at Moore. I am hoping to return to ministry in Malaysia. Please pray that the Malaysian church I will be returning to will receive sufficient help to fund me and future students.

BENJAMIN PANTLIN

After doing college part-time for the last three years, it’s nice to move to full-time in 2019. Looking forward to learning more about the Bible, being a part of Oatley Anglican and studying with my wife. Please pray that I may be further awed by our great God through my studies this year.

K IMJENG PANTLIN

Last year saw big changes and I’m thankful that I survived them. I’ve also had a lot of fun due to having a great year group and a very supportive church. Please pray that I’ll grow in wisdom and love as I use my time at college to explore various ministries.

BECKI PHILIP

I’m excited to be continuing my studies this year, and super thankful for the encouragment of my husband, Ajay. Please be praying for us as we navigate him working full-time while I’m at college; that God may grow us in love, patience and obedience.

S ARAH ROOTES

This year I’m excited to deepen the relationships started in 2018. Give thanks for the enjoyment and encouragement I found in first year. Please pray that the studies will continue to bring deep joy and I will grow in love for others as expectations and assessments increase.

ANDREW RUSSELL

Courtney and I welcomed Sophie into the world last year. Please pray that I enjoy fulfilling my responsibilities as a Christian, a Husband, a Father and Student –none of which I find easy. Thank you for your prayers.

DAMON SCOTT

I am a second year student married to Coralie. We feel a lot more settled now after a full year in Sydney. We’re grateful for a wonderful year of study and growth last year. Looking forward to this year. Please pray that I’d work hard, be humble and learn lots.

TIMOTHY SCOULAR

My wife Lauren and I are Sydneysiders attending Norwest Anglican Church in Baulkham Hills. Please pray for us that we would treasure Christ more and more as we continue through this season of preparation for a lifetime of ministry.

LING TANG

I’m grateful to be in my 2nd year of study and in a new student ministry role with Two Ways Ministry. I’m looking forward to having my heart and mind being shaped by God’s word to us, and through fellowship with college and church community.

RYAN V ERGHESE

Married to Lynne, and father to Alisha (1). I really enjoyed learning the languages last year, and am excited to be able to learn to do more this year! Pray for us as we work out whether we can go overseas and serve God’s people in another context after college.

SCOTT WILLIAMS

Married to the amazing Britt, living in the Sutherland Shire and now student minister at Picton and Wilton Anglican Churches. Second year here I come!

Pray that I’d share the gospel every day, wherever I am. Thanks for reading my profile.

Pray for my wife, Eunice and I as we study and equip ourselves for full time ministry. We are excited to return to Malaysia to serve great gospel needs there!

I’m Aaron, married to Ada and serving at Chester Hill Anglican. Please pray that I would continue to love the Lord and thank God that we learned so much last year. Pray for our marriage, future ministries and Ada’s new role as an SRE coordinator and teacher at Ryde Secondary College.

My wife Emily and I are currently living in Croydon Park College community, expecting our first baby in March. I am a student minister at St Stephen’s Normanhurst. We hope to settle in at a church that may work with migrant communities.

Husband to Sally and father of Nathan, Ben and Daniel, I’m returning to college after a three-year break to complete my studies. Please pray for God’s guidance as we figure out how to serve him long-term as a family.

MIKE WOO

A ARON YAP

FARAJ YUSUFOV

MITCHELL ZINSLI

UNDERGRADUATE PART-TIME Students

Sarah Abboud

Lyn Adamson

Margaret Armstrong

Serena Aseervatham

Doris-Day Awad

Eliza Batten

Edwina Blowes

Timothy Brake

Adam Breasley

Elizabeth Budd

Rebecca Carleton

Chu Hang Chan

Leon Chan

Philip Chapman

Katrina Clark

Melinda Clement

Ashley Cleworth

Rachel Clifton

Adam Condie

Veronica Costin

Tansy Coull

Steven de Jong

Jasper De Keizer

Melissa Domingo

Lauren Drysdale

Lauren Dunstan

Matt Evans

James Flood

Luke Fotheringham

Jordan Francis

Justin Fung

Peter Gardiner

Joshua Goscombe

Simon Graham

Nicholas Hackett

Jade Hajj

Margaret Icke

Bryce James

Josie James

Paul Kershaw

Chris Kong

Sally Kyrios

Seong Hee Lee

Gabrielle Lewis

Wenshuo Li

Chia-Jung Lin

Ran Liu

Leanne Luk

Joy Luong

Jared Marshall

Olivia Martin

Katherine Milham

Joyce Nguyen

Bethany Perrett

Timothy Pinnock

Andrew Pow

Buhui Qiu

Samantha Robb

Christopher Rooleht

Sarah Rowe

Katherine Saville

Susie Schubert

Kareena Seifert

Felicity Sheridan

Katie Stringer

Philippa Taylor

Marinka Terry

Jemimah Thompson

Lauren Trappel

Andrew Tuskan

Ryan Uy

Lynne Verghese

Jillian Visser

Chunli Wang

Claire Williams

Richard Wong

Juan Yao

POSTGRADUATE RESEARCH Students

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

GET COMMUNITY

Connect with like-minded school leavers passionate about Jesus.

GET IMMERSED

Go deeper with God so that you know how to shape your life and future around Jesus.

GET EQUIPPED

Be discipled by our experienced lecturers and pastoral leaders.

GET MISSIONAL

Play your part in God’s global mission as you experience real, life-changing ministry in an eye-opening month-long trip to Fiji.

GET MOVING

Move forward in your knowledge of God, service of his people and understanding of yourself.

Hear Richard Coekin give an overview of Titus with a special focus on elders and the ministries of women in the church.

THE UGLY SIDE OF FEAR (JONAH)

Your heart starts to beat a little faster, and you suddenly remember the important conversation you need to have with your bible study coleader Tracey about this week’s study. You hesitate, other avoidance strategies forming in your mind. A range of awkward interactions with the man play out in your mind, spiralling into his probable responses to box six of Two Ways to Live. In the end, you nod hello and head into the service, hoping that someone else might notice this man.

Cast your mind back to church last Sunday. You arrived early, bible in hand, ready to go. You said a quick ‘hi’ to Sally and Tim, who were trying to pour grape juice from a large bottle into inordinately small cups. But being a good minister of the pew, you were on the lookout for someone new.

In God’s kindness, the opportunity presented itself. A man wandered in. He looked a little out of place, and not as nice as the young family you met the week before. No-one has introduced themselves yet.

Evaluating fear in evangelism:

What I’ve just described is an instance where fear inhibited evangelism.

‘Fear’ is a word that we use to describe a feeling of unease, anxiety or apprehension about the outcomes of a situation. Fear may involve physical symptoms (e.g. sweating, fast breathing) as well as behaviours such as avoidance. It is sometimes associated with evangelism.

However, the issue I want to explore here is not whether we fear evangelism. I take it that many of us do. I’m more

interested in what you do after an experience like this.

After an interaction like the one above, do you ever stop and think about what’s going on, and why you responded the way that you did?

In a society that is wrestling with the issue of mental health in its population, there has been a drive to understand fear, and a tendency to normalise some fear (e.g. when a tiger is chasing you) in order to distinguish it from the condition of anxiety (ongoing feelings of fear without a clear cause or reason).1 Alongside a host of other factors, it seems to me that this makes it difficult for Christians to work out what to do with feelings of fear and avoidance around evangelism. The question can become whether feelings of fear are rational or overwhelming, rather than about whether they are godly or sinful.

What I want to suggest here, is that ongoing evaluation and interrogation of the thoughts and feelings we experience evangelising is essential for Christians, because fear can reflect sin.

While fear may be common, and even sometimes appropriate, I want to show from Jonah one instance of a seemingly rational fear, that really stemmed from an ugly, sinful heart, for our benefit, as those who sometimes fear on the other side of the cross (1 Peter 3:14-17; 2 Timothy 1:8-12).

Evaluating Jonah’s fear:

1. Jonah fled because he feared God’s mercy (Jonah 3:10-4:5)

Let’s begin in chapter four. Jonah, after a delay involving a boat, a storm and a big fish, has fulfilled his God given task of preaching judgment upon wicked Nineveh. In a surprise happy ending, the Ninevites have genuinely repented and God has relented from destroying them.

Except there is a fourth chapter. This helps us understand the purpose of the book, which is more about the conflict between Jonah’s character and God’s, rather than the repentance of the Ninevites. So Jonah, grumpily sitting on a hill overlooking the stillintact city, prays:

“O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding

in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster.”

(Jonah 4:2)

The darkness of Jonah’s heart here is astonishing. In chapter 1, we learnt that Jonah did not fear the storm, nor the waves, nor even death – though he did ‘fear the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land’ (Jonah 1:9). But here we see that his fear was not of God’s might, or even his wrath, but his compassion. Jonah fled because he feared God’s mercy.

What a warning that holds for us who want to normalise fear. Fear can reflect a corrupt attitude to God’s character. It can be sinful. It can be astonishingly wretched.

2. Jonah’s sinful fear is not obvious from the beginning (Jonah 1:1-3) However, did you notice that the author waits until the end of the story to reveal the source of Jonah’s fear and flight? In fact, chapter four is an appropriate close to the story because it resolves a puzzle generated in chapter one: was Jonah’s flight to Tarshish all that bad?

There are early hints that Jonah’s flight, was silly, if not outright sinful. He disobeyed a direct instruction from God. However, we are a long way from the darkness of heart that emerges in chapter four. In fact, Jonah is almost pitiable. He has the very unfortunate job of

being sent as a kind of prophet-missionary, to a nasty people who might kill him. Surely a bit of fear is fair enough!

However, as the story progresses, we see hints that something is amiss. Jonah sleeps, instead of fearing the storm. He is calm, when the sailors are terrified. He ‘fears God’ but is not worried about his judgment. He prays, but without real repentance. He flees Nineveh, then brazenly declares its overthrow. All these moments are hints that Jonah’s flight was actually very bad. But the depths of his sin are not obvious from the beginning. Jonah’s sin is most revealed at the end of the story, not the start.

Evaluating our fear:

For us who are slow to reflect on why we fear, the way the author gradually unveils Jonah’s fear is really important. It’s not just a good storytelling technique. I think the gradual reveal reflects an appeal to the reader to ‘examine themselves’ (2 Cor 13:5; Gal 6:4). It invites us, as those having received mercy, to consider our attitudes towards those who need mercy (Luke 15:31-32; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20). To stop when we fear, reflect and pray.

Evaluating your fear:

I’m hopeful that next time a newcomer walks through the door of your church you won’t be paralysed by fear. But if you are, will you stop, reflect and pray? Here’s what it might look like:

1. Stop. Don’t assume everything is fine because being afraid of evangelism is commonplace.

2. Reflect. Think about what happened. What were you worried about? Were there particular things you didn’t want to talk about? Are there particular types of people you avoid? Were you adequately prepared? What things drove you to fear?

3. Pray. If you have sinned, confess, and enjoy forgiveness (1 John 1:9). Ask for God’s help in understanding your fear. Pray for boldness and a deep love of the gospel. Pray for opportunities to speak for Jesus and for God’s help to take them. This is not a complex formula. It’s a simple appeal. An appeal to not grow weary in doing good, or in wrestling with sin, by justifying fears that inhibit the bold proclamation of the gospel.

ENDNOTE

1 For one example of this logic, see “Anxiety”, Beyond Blue, January 2019, www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/ anxiety

Partnering with you to reach your local community

Empowering parish ministr y by partnering with churches to strengthen community care and gospel outreach is a core part of our vision.

Depending on local circumstances this can include:

• working alongside parishes to establish ministries that provide practical help to people who are vulnerable, ageing or marginalised and open doors for them to be connected with other church activities

• initiatives that enable churches to boost local visibility while also engaging congregations in practical projects serving wider community need

• equipping churches to welcome people from other cultures with training, support and resources for English as a Second Language (ESL) ministry

• supporting youth ministry through initiatives that engage, educate and empower young people to recognise and respond to need in their world.

To explore the possibilities contact us at partnerships@anglicare.org.au

Serving people in need, enriching lives, sharing the love of Jesus.

S tudy in a supportiv e

c o mm unit y , where yo u

a re empowere d to learn .

ww w . m ac . ed u .a u

PAUL COOPER

THIRD YEAR PROFILE

and quite sporadically, mainly just to keep the peace. But if something needed doing, like mowing the lawn or dealing with a leaking tap, I was there. I didn’t need much of an excuse to just wave goodbye from the driveway.

The lovely Bronwen and I have been married for 22 years and we have three children – Erin, Lachlan and Tristan. I was raised in a loving and supportive family but we did not attend church and I grew up not knowing Jesus.

After studying electrical engineering I met Bron in my first job in an engineering department for a mining company.

Bron and I moved quite a bit over the course of our married life, starting from Perth then to the UK, then Canada, back to Perth, the USA and finally to Sydney.

It was not until Sydney that Bronwen settled again into a regular church. It was here that her faith grew considerably and she encouraged me to attend church with her. I would, but reluctantly

Bron asked me to read different books about Jesus, but I was always more interested in the latest novel I had by the bedside table and I resisted pretty effectively.

It wasn’t that I was adamant there wasn’t a God, I just wasn’t interested in exploring it. There was always something ‘more interesting’ to do. In hindsight, I wonder if deep down I was uncomfortable because I knew it meant changing.

In any case, as Bron’s faith grew she began asking more questions at church and one Sunday came home very upset after a conversation about marriage.

I wasn’t too impressed that someone had upset my wife. In any case, from my point of view we had been married 15 years by that time and we had three kids – a bit late to want to start

changing things! But I considered the options as I looked at her and I knew that her faith (not that I would have described it as that back then) was not going anywhere. That was clear. I wasn’t going anywhere either, seeing as though I loved her, so I thought I’d better look into this thing she was into. But I’d do it on my terms (so I thought). So I told Bron that I’d have a read of whatever she wanted me to read, but that I would be making up my own mind. She suggested I speak with someone from church, but I was firm – I’d be looking into this myself and I’d be making up my own mind.

I read several books and  CS Lewis’s Mere Christianity made good moral sense. But I wasn’t sold.

Bron gave me a book by Francis Collins, The Language of God. Collins ran the Human Genome Project mapping human DNA and he laid out a very strong argument for why life on earth wasn’t just random chance. It was very logical and it appealed intellectually. It prompted me to learn more.

So I began reading the gospels. I realised they all said the same things. I researched them a bit and found they were written by different authors and they were dated differently. So I began saying a simple prayer ‘God if you’re there, I just need to know…’

One day I was in Perth for work. After reading a section of Mark’s gospel I went for a morning run.

At the corner of Mounts Bay Rd and Riverside Drive I stopped and felt strongly that things had just become very clear. I remember thinking that the truth of it seemed so obvious, questioning myself why it had taken so long! I recall looking at others passing by and perceiving them differently. The gospel suddenly made sense and I accepted it as true. From that time I have been a follower of Jesus.

The ministry team at our home church were very good at getting alongside me. One of the minsters was planting a new congregation and we were asked to be part of the plant team. He got me involved in many aspects of that and spent a lot of time

with me preparing me for service leading, small group leading and other aspects of church and ministry. He ran training courses which, looking back, I think were at least partly intended to get me involved in another aspect of ministry.

This minister spent many mornings before work reading the Bible with me, something I will be always grateful for. One morning he asked me if I had considered full time ministry. I laughed and said ‘You mean doing what you do? You must be joking…’

But the thought never went away.

Eventually Bron and I realised that we wanted to prioritise gospel ministry and manage other aspects of our lives around that. So we thought, if that was the case and we had the ability to go to college, why wouldn’t we do that full time? I left my job and here we are at Moore College.

If you’d asked me even 4 years ago if we were going to serve in full time ministry I would have thought that was crazy. But at the end of this year that’s exactly

what we will be doing – its been an amazing journey, one in which we look forward to the next step with great anticipation. We are so very thankful to the Lord for his blessings.

THIRD YEAR

SETH ADDO-BEKOE

Seth Addo-Bekoe from the Anglican Diocese of Sunyani Ghana married to Abigail Boateng. We have two daughters namely Emmanuella and Sethina who are still in Ghana. I am preparing to go back into Chaplaincy in Ghana and am glad to receive Biblical and sound theological education here.

ELSIE ANDERSON

I’m looking forward to another year of delving deeper into God’s Word. Pray that I would serve well at St Luke’s in Clovelly and keep finding joy in living and studying at college and that God would continue to challenge and shape me through his word and the people he puts around me.

JOHN B ATTEN

I’m married to Eliza and we have a 1 year old daughter Pippa. I’ve come to college to be better equipped for youth ministry. This year we’ve changed churches to St Stephen’s in Penrith. Please pray that I’ll juggle family life, church and my studies well this year, growing in Christ.

PAUL BERZEKIAN

In my third year at college, my prayer is that God would mature my character and draw me closer to him. Steph and I are excited to have the next two years serving at Wild Street Anglican. We pray that it will be a time that will shape us as servants of Christ.

K

ARINA BRABHAM

I’m thankful for the friendships built in my time at Moore so far, especially living at Carillon House. Please pray that I would keep trusting God in times of change and growing in my dependence on Him.

N ATHAN BREWER

Kirsten and I look forward to growing in our knowledge and love of our Lord Jesus as we continue our journey through Moore College. We look forward to starting student ministry at North Rocks and are looking forward to serving there for the next 12 months.

I am thankful to God for my time at College and am looking forward to entering third (and probably my last) year with dear friends and getting married to Cameron at the end of June this year. Thank you for your prayers and gospel partnership!

Dan is husband to Kat and Father to Ainsley and Llewyn. Please pray for us as we move to a new church this year. Dan will be leading the Junior Youth at Chatswood Baptist and Kat will be helping out with the Playtime Group, reaching out to local young mums.

Ash (wife), Poppy (daughter) and I are excited to welcome our second child this year, and can’t wait to continue growing and developing at college and church this year. Please pray that I would be humble, diligent, disciplined and compassionate.

I am married to Bronwen and we have three children, Erin, Lachlan and Tristan. Thank God that we can serve Him and grow in faith. As we consider life after college please pray that God would continue to ready us for ministry and show us where he would place us.

Loren and I have been married for 3 great years. Please pray that God will continue to grow our trust, love and knowledge of him. Please also pray for wisdom about what we are going to do post college. This is a bit of a daunting topic for us!

Please pray for Veronica and I as we welcome our first daughter into this world, God willing, in late April. Please pray that she would arrive safely and grow to know our Lord Jesus as her Saviour.

My wife, Kat, and I serve at St Jude’s Anglican Church Randwick, where she is the Women’s and Families Minister and I am a student minister. I hope to do schools ministries long term. Please pray that I would find my study engaging and edifying.

I am married to Tania since 2000 and God has blessed us with Grace, Marcus, and Matthew. Our desire is to see every person on the planet bowing down to our One and Only true God now because He is the only one who is worthy to be worshiped.

This year I’ve been working as a student justice chaplain working with women incarcerated at Dillwynia Correctional Centre. Please pray for the women there that they may come to know Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.

WINNIE CHAN

DANIEL CLARK

CHARLES CLEWORTH

PAUL COOPER

ANDREW COPEMAN

JOHN COSTIN

NIGEL COWELL

WISAM DARMO

BETHANY DOWNES

Thank God for all that we’ve learnt the last two years, and pray I’d be able to use what I’ve learnt to serve God’s people.

Lauren and I are excited to be starting our third year at college. We have hugely benefited from the biblical training we have received and are looking forward to applying what we’ve learned. It will be our second year as Student Ministers at Glenmore Park Anglican, out in the West!

Married to Bec, father of Dom (4), Olivia (1) and Joshua (0). Please pray God would grow me in love and knowledge of Him this year, for his honour and that more people might be saved.

My wife and I are looking forward to this year. Tahlia continues as a CNS nurse at North Shore hospital, and we both start at St Thomas’ North Sydney. Please pray that we would engage those around us with the gospel.

Hayley and I, along with our three boys – Tommy, Harvey and John – are looking forward to this year at college, which will be our final year. Next year we will be serving in a church in preparation for Defence Force Chaplaincy ministry.

Give thanks that God has helped me cope with FT study and ministry at St Andrew’s Cathedral. Please pray for dependence on God and that I will faithfully share Jesus.

Nikki and I are excited to be starting third year and thankful for the opportunity to learn and grow, especially for all the people who have invested in teaching and guiding us. Please pray we use our remaining time well in being equiped for a lifetime of ministry.

I am thankful for God’s goodness to me, and love the Carillon community! Please pray that I can settle well in Sylvania (my new church) and more lives can be transformed by God’s word. Please also pray for my perseverance and humility as a student.

Melody and I are serving at Scots Presbyterian. Post-college, we look forward to returning back to Melbourne to support gospel ministries. Praise God for his goodness shown to us in college life but ultimately in Christ Jesus.

I’m looking forward to another year of rich Bible teaching, ministry training and friendships. I’m thankful for kids and youth ministry experience last year, and am excited to be part of planting a new service this year. Pray that I would long to glorify God instead of myself.

Please pray that God would help me to explore two issues: The first is to deepen my conviction that the Bible is the Word of God. The second is to explore how to love and serve Christians who find it difficult to mature.

I love getting to know and delight in our great God with good friends around, especially marvelling at God’s sovereignty in safeguarding his precious church throughout history. Pray that I’ll keep saying “no” to sin and “yes” to Jesus.

Thank God for supports from my physical family (Vivian(wife), Sabrina(12) and Caleb(10)), as well as my spiritual family at St Pauls’ in my journey in getting to know Him better.

I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue in third year and I’m looking forward to getting deeper into God’s word. Please pray that I will be faithful in my studies, continue to hold fast to the gospel, grow in godly character and be abounding in love towards all those I serve at St George North Anglican.

Thanks for your prayers! This year brings changes in church plus a change from engaged to married! Please pray for trust in our God who never changes, for wisdom, patience and godliness for myself and fiancé Ben (2nd Year) and that God would transform and grow me to love Him more.

L AUREN DRISCOLL

S TEPHEN DRISCOLL

DANIEL FORD

MICHAEL FREEMAN

S TEPHEN GIBBINS

C AROL GILBERT

JOSHUA HESFORD

CHIM HO

JAMES HOEY

GRACE HUANG

JIREH JANG

V ICTOR K HOR

TAK L AU

AVRIL LONSDALE

K ATRINA LOW

C AMERON M ASON

Really looking forward to digging deep into God’s Word in 2019!

I’m engaged to Winnie Chan, so please pray that we’d prepare well for serving Jesus together. Looking forward to serving with ENC.

K URTIS MCCABE

Keen to bring the gospel to the many in our country who need to hear it and come to Jesus. Pray that my time at college will equip me to best bring the gospel to the lost and to grow those who are found to stand firm and grow to maturity.

MEAGAN MCGILVRAY

Hello! I go to St Andrews Wahroonga, telling kids and youth about Jesus. I am very thankful for another year at college, being challenged by God’s word and sharpened by students. Please pray I will serve God whole-heartedly.

HOPE MILES

Hi, I’m Hope. Please pray that as I study God’s word this year my relationship with him would deepen. Pray also that I’d be diligent and prayerful as I serve on staff 1 day/week at Anchor Church Sydney. Thank you for praying.

LEONIE MORRISON

I’m married to Matt in 4th year and I’m so thankful to God that we can study together. Pray for opportunities and guidance on where we will serve God’s Kingdom after College, whether that be within Australia or throughout the world.

MONIQUE NEW

Very thankful to God for another year of college, of reso life and serving at Enfield Strathfield Anglican. Pray that the Lord would continue to soften my heart to his word and give me gospel opportunities.

My wife Sophie and I are moving into college accommodation and continuing student ministry at Grace Church Peninsula on the Central Coast. We are excited about the next two years figuring out what future ministry will look like.

I recently married Zoe and we are moving back to St Paul’s Carlingford. Pray that we would love and serve each other well and that I would grow in godliness. After college we would love to serve youth and young adults in Sydney.

My family consists of my wife Sarah and daughter Betty (1). We live at But-Har-Gra. I am a student Minister at All Saints’, Oatley West. Post-College we hope to serve outside of Sydney or overseas.

I am excited to be part of God’s great plan for God’s big world.

My wife Shuvah and I welcomed our daughter Eliana in October last year. We are loving parenthood! Serving at St Andrew’s Strathfield for the next two years. Please pray for Eliana to grow up knowing and loving our Lord, and for wisdom as we consider where to serve God post-college.

Bron and I are very thankful for the opportunity to study together at college this year! We are both doing ministry at MBM in Rooty Hill. This year we are praying that God grows us in our knowledge and love of him and his people!

God willing I will be able to complete my studies this year. I have learnt and grown more than I could have ever imagined. Adrian and I continue to enjoy the challenges of parenting both adult children and teenagers. Such a blessing that our kids are standing firm in Jesus.

I’m Dan, will be married to Erina in April, and looking forward to another year of digging deeper into God’s word and growing in my knowledge and love of Him.

I’m married to Aiesha and have loved studying God’s word at college so far. We’re keen to be a part of gospel ministry in our hometown Adelaide. Please pray for: greater compassion, future clarity, that we’ll bless our new church (Scots Presbyterian).

TODD PARRY-JONES

JOSHUA PHILLIPS

JAMES PIGGOTT

THOMAS POLLETT

JOSEPH PUN

BENJAMIN PURDY

ROWENA RUSSELL

DANIEL S AWYER

JAMES SEYFANG

JESSICA SHEELY

Hi, I’m Jess and am part of the Scots Church family. Thank you for your prayers!

M ATTHEW SHERIDAN

Past the half-way mark! This year we’re at church in Lugarno. As we continue at college, please pray for Flick and I as we learn more about God and ourselves. Pray also that we’d be faithful in raising our daughter to know and love Jesus as her Lord and Saviour.

ISAAC SHUMACK

I’ve loved being captivated by the gospel afresh at college and I’m keen to kick off at St Luke’s Miranda this year. Beyond college

I’d love to be serving in cross-cultural ministry in a church somewhere in Australia. I’d love your prayer for patience as I plan where to go.

JORDAN SMITH

Jordan and Millie love being a part of the Moore community in Newtown and are excited to be able to love and serve those around them. They have a passion for sharing Jesus with local churches in Sydney and look forward to continuing to do this in the future.

MILES S TEPNIEWSKI

My wife Morgan and I are excited about me continuing at college and Morgan starting at USyd. Please pray for us, that we would honour Jesus in all that we say, do and think.

DAN TOOMA

Married to Belinda, we have two children, Scarlett and Abigail. We’re thankful for the great blessing college has been. Pray that we will continue to grow in godly character and that I’d be diligent in my studies so that I can be better equipped to serve God’s kingdom wherever He places us.

Fi and I are excited to welcome a new addition to the family this year. That and a change of student ministry to Two Ways Ministries means there are a lot of big changes happening.

We’re currently exploring university ministry opportunities overseas so please pray we’ll trust in God’s direction.

GRANT VAN DER MERWE

My wife Lauren and I are serving in the youth ministry at St Andrews Roseville. Please pray that God would sustain us and give the young people at Revive a strong love for the Lord and for one another.

This year I started as a student minister at St Matthias, with a focus on Women’s ministry. Pray that through the many changes this year I will continue to depend on God’s good timing and provision. Please pray for wisdom in how and where to best serve God after college.

Lucy and I just got married at the start of this year and we’re excited to be serving at Watsons Bay Anglican Church together. I would love prayer that God would keep growing in me a deep love for people as I learn from his word and partner with others to proclaim it.

I’m married to Athena and this is our second year at Naremburn Cammeray Anglican. We are really thankful for college, the community and all that we have learnt about our great God. Please pray that we will continue to grow in our love and dependence on him :)

Married to Mathea, we attend St Mark’s Anglican, South Hurstville. We love training people to serve Jesus for a lifetime and look forward to doing this in 2019 as a student minister with Two Ways Ministries and as Mathea serves at the Evangelical Christian Union –Cumberland Campus.

SIMON T SANG

MEZ WICKS

OSMOND WONG

JIE YEO

K EVIN YEUNG

WHEN THE FISH DON’T BITE DISCOURAGEMENTS IN EVANGELISM

GORDON LUK

week, showing them the gospel repeatedly, explaining why they should accept Jesus, praying for them again and again, only for them to say “no”.

The Mark 13 Syndrome

As we left our New Testament 1 class, my mate asked me, “What would you do when you read Mark 13 with a nonChristian?” (My head was still spinning after two hours in this chapter.)

“I don’t know,” I joked, “it’s not something I’ve ever had to worry about; the non-Christians I read Mark with never last til Chapter 13!”

Evangelism can be discouraging. It can be discouraging that people aren’t interested. It can be discouraging when you lose friends because of it. It can be discouraging when years of hard work don’t seem to pay off – meeting up with someone every

You could be doing everything you’ve been taught but the fish are just not biting. You could be doing the exact same thing as someone else – using the exact same lures, rod and hooks; and they’re bringing in fish after fish, but you’re getting nothing.

What do you do when evangelism is discouraging?

Who do you turn to for advice and support? What is helpful and unhelpful?

The english premier league answer

I’ve been watching the English Premier League for over 20 years and a never-ending debate is which of the three English midfield superstars was the best – Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), or Paul Scholes (Manchester United).

This debate has taught me something

interesting about how we evaluate performance.

If you asked neutral fans, most would say that Gerrard pips the other two. However, if you looked at the stats (goals and assists), Lampard is on top. Yet, if you asked ex-players who had played with or against all three (ie. the experts of the game), the majority would say that Scholes was undoubtedly the best.

And here is a snapshot of how the world evaluates performance. We listen to three different voices: the Fans, the Stats, and the Experts.

Thumbs-up thumbsdown temptations

Don’t we do the same when we evaluate our evangelistic performance?

Our ‘experts’ (spiritual mentors and leaders whose gospel ministry we look up to) can give us a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down. Our ‘fans’ (those who fill the church seats every week whom we minister to) can support or criticise us. And our ‘stats’ – how easy is it

to use membership or conversion numbers to measure success in evangelism?!

Of course, we’d be wise to consult all three voices. There might even be a temptation to listen to one voice over the others. But could there be an even bigger temptation?

evangelism to focus on some other good ministry work.

me, the best way to increase conversions is to do some peddling (2 Cor 2:17).

When we’re evaluating our evangelism, could we be in danger of ignoring God’s voice – the voice we need to hear the most?

Three Biblicallybased don’ts

Thankfully, God’s Word has lots to say to us when we are discouraged in gospel ministry. Here are three ‘don’ts’ that have encouraged me to keep going.

1. Don’t give up

When evangelism is discouraging, the easiest thing to do is to give up, to even take a break or focus on something else. Instead, let’s be encouraged by Acts 4. Here, Peter and John are given an official warning not to preach the gospel (Acts 4:18). Yet despite this blatant violation of religious rights and freedom of speech, they didn’t stop preaching the gospel. They didn’t just keep their faith to themselves. They didn’t even take a break from

Being bold is hard and unnatural, so we must pray for boldness as the disciples did (Acts 4:29). And we must remember that ultimately Jesus was unstoppable (Acts 4:25-28), so His gospel will ultimately be unstoppable too.

2. Don’t change the message

When I was working for an engineering consultancy, the directors ran monthly all-staff meetings to update everyone on how business was going – lots of graphs and numbers. One director just hated giving bad news and completely avoided it. Even when we all knew business wasn’t going well and redundancies were happening, she would only give us half the truth. Now you could say that she was just playing the “managerial game”. But isn’t it so easy for us to change the message we preach, so that people might be more inclined to hear?

When people are disinterested or likely to be offended by the gospel, isn’t it easy to leave out the uncomfortable bits? As someone once told

Paul’s not saying that we can’t be creative in how we proclaim Christ. But he is saying that whoever preaches the gospel can guarantee that they will either be a fragrance of death, or a fragance of life (2 Cor 2:15-16).

Many will hate the Christian message. But the messenger can’t tamper with the message they’ve been given.

3. Don’t boast in yourself

The one who saves is not you – so don’t boast in yourself. Boast in Christ. Don’t blame yourself either. God is the one who saves and we are called to be faithful. Our natural instinct is to think that we’re evangelising as individuals. But we proclaim the gospel together – one plants, another waters, but God gives the growth (1 Cor 3:6-7).

We all play our roles, but God is the one who saves. And to testify to this, I want to revisit the opening Mark 13 story.

In 2016, some girls at Campus Bible Study UNSW, where I was serving, shared the gospel with a guy sitting in the quad. He was interested in finding out more about Jesus so they set him up with me and we started meeting

together to read through Mark’s Gospel. We never made it to Chapter 13.

After chapter 7, he said he wasn’t interested. He actually understood quite well what Jesus was on about, but he didn’t want Jesus in his life. I pleaded with him, but he didn’t want to read on. He avoided me for the next year and a half.

At the end of last year I found out that his Christian friends had invited him to see the Mark Drama, he watched the whole thing (including Chapter 13), and afterwards gave his life to Christ!

No way is salvation ever down to us! God is the one who saves.

Evangelism can be discouraging. But don’t give up. Let’s keep preaching the unstoppable gospel of Jesus Christ and let God decide which fish bite.

“Being bold is hard and unnatural, so we must pray for boldness as the disciples did.”

MELLISA WANG

Through this friend’s intentional and bold sharing of her faith and persistent prayers, God graciously opened my eyes to see how I had been suppressing the truth of his existence in my unrighteousness. Growing up I had always wondered about the big questions of life yet I never wanted to accept that God was the answer. I’m always reminded of my own haughtiness and God’s mercy whenever I read Romans 1:18-20.

After explaining the gospel to me, my friend brought me to Australian Asian Church (in Hurstville) and there I was exposed to faithful gospel teaching and

living. It took me a while to fully grasp the call of the gospel message to a sinner like me because I was just looking for meaning and purpose for my life. It jarred with me that as a Christian my life was now meant for glorifying another “I don’t want to give up my life.” That was me responding to my pastor when he asked me to consider quitting my job to start a ministry apprenticeship. I thought full time ministry was for the super-Christians and that I had done enough for Jesus simply by actively serving at church with my free time. At that time I really felt challenged by Jesus’ words in Luke 14:26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” I knew I was still wanting to live life my own way and that needed to change.

Again, by God’s grace, He changed my heart and helped me see that following Jesus meant taking time out to consider serving him in gospel work full time. After 2 years of apprenticeship I was encouraged to get theologically trained and I had no doubt that

Moore College would be the place. The people who had taught me the gospel were trained here and I have great respect and trust in them as ministers of God’s word and people.

My time at college has been the most rewarding and joyful period of my life. The breadth and depth of study provided here has grown my conviction and love for God. Doing life with fellow students, staff and faculty has been a great model of servanthearted, loving, Christian community.

I was at a crossroads in life during my time at university and I’m so thankful for God providing a Christian to bring light into my dark world. This is the case for many university students who are seeking wisdom and direction in life and the word of the cross is the wisdom and power of God. Australia is in a privileged position where the world is coming to us through huge international student intakes. My hope after college is to serve with AFES at a university campus outside of Sydney to share the gospel with international students so that they may know their saviour and rightly live their lives for him.

Fourth Year

“Perhaps in my old age I’ll consider believing in God.” That was me responding to a Christian friend at university after she had invited me to her church’s evangelistic event. Little did I know that a few months later I would ask this friend to help me become a Christian.

FOURTH YEAR

ROB ABBOUD

With my wife Sally and our little boy Micah, we’re planning on working in Western Sydney to see the many nations flooding into our country won for Christ. We love the support of the community around College and look forward to strengthening those friendships further for the Gospel.

ANDY ABEY

I’m currently serving as the student minister at Pymble Anglican where I coordinate the youth ministry. God willing, my plans beyond college are to pursue further study, and continue to tell people about Jesus.

DANIEL BISHOP

Married to Shannon, Father to Zeke, Jed and Abi. Serving with Two Ways Ministries and St Mark’s South Hurstville. Please pray for focus in 2019 and planning for 2020.

PETER BLAIR

For our final year in Sydney, Jodie and I are serving with the saints at St Thomas’ North Sydney, and working with CBS. Jodie is also heading up MooreWomen and serving on the EQUIP Committee. We’re excited for 4th year, and excited to return to Northern Ireland to serve God’s people there.

TIM BONES

Hi, I’m Tim. Along with my wife Jess and son Sam, I am finishing college soon. We hope to head outside of Sydney to serve God’s kingdom and see it grow. Pray that I would have the same love for the lost that Christ has.

ANDREW BOOTES

Married to Miriam, we have 3 kids, Mathias, Tommy and Macey. We are so thankful for our time at college and your prayers. Pray that God will use us in his kingdom to take his gospel to the lost and strengthen his people wherever he takes us in the future.

I’m married to Lily, and we have two wonderful boys, Elijah and Reuben. We worship and serve at Dundas Telopea Anglican. Please pray for continued growth in our knowledge and love of the Lord Jesus this year, and that God might provide a parish ministry position for us in Sydney for 2020.

SIMEON CUMBERLAND

Being my last year I’m keen to suck all the goodness out of 4th year before launching into the real world and into ministry life. Pray I’d learn and be shaped in big ways this year. Please also pray for our family, wife Kristen and boys Jude and Ben, as we welcome a new member to the Cumberland crew in July.

SUSAN DUC

I’m so thankful to be in Fourth Year and really loving my cohort. Came to College for one year and haven’t left yet! Thinking about ministry in South West Sydney or on a university campus somewhere. Praying for God to open doors and guide my feet.

M ARLEE GREEN

I love sharing the gospel with uni students, and training them to trust Jesus, speak of him and live for him. I’m part of God’s family at Chester Hill, learning how richly the gospel speaks to all cultures. Please pray that I’d learn well, work hard, be humble, love others and thank God.

We are newly married this year! Pray that we would settle into married life in a new home, fourth year and serving at St Basil’s Artarmon together.

REBECCA

I am so thankful to God to have the opportunity to study at Moore with my husband and grow together in our love and knowledge of the Lord Jesus! Pray that this time we spend in God’s word helps us glorify God and prepares us for a life time of proclaiming Christ.

Cherry and I were joyfully joined by Joy last year. Please pray that we would have the love to raise Joy to be a God glorifying woman. Please also pray for wisdom as we consider whether to stay in Sydney or to go back to Hong Kong after college.

S

I’m Stu, and I’m passionate about seeing kids and families won for Jesus. I’m thankful for my time at Moore College, and I’m both excited and nervous about what comes next. Please pray that God will give me clarity about next year.

Serving at St John’s North Ryde Anglican this year. Husband to Vincy and father to Toby. Please pray that we might have greater clarity and conviction as to what next year will look like; to whom and where God would have us serve.

WILLIAM AND XERRI HE

HITCHCOCK

JOHNSON HO

TUART JANSEN

JOSE L AM

DANIEL BUDD

C ARMEN L AU

Please join me in thanking God for college. God has used it to grow me in my love and knowledge of His Son, and my desire to see others do the same. Please pray for life after college that I’d be faithful and depending on him wherever I go.

BRIAN LUONG

My name is Brian, married to the lovely Joy. Our household is busy chasing around two girls, Andrea and Chloe. Next year we plan to serve the Lord in Melbourne. Please pray we would trust the Lord in all things. I’m looking forward to studying the book of Hebrews this year!

M AKITO MIYASHITA

Thank you for your prayers while I have studied at Moore! I hope I can thank you in person one day. Please pray that I would continue to enjoy fellowship with God, and that I would be able to encourage people that God brings across my path to do the same.

MATTHEW MORRISON

I’m married to Leonie in 3rd Year. We would love prayer for guidance and wisdom on where we will serve God after College. It is a pleasure to know that we have so many people praying for us and we thank God and you for your prayers.

E VAN MOSES

My name is Evan and I am married to the wonderful Madi. I’m very excited for my final year at Moore, but even more excited about what God holds for us after. Under God’s love and grace, we’re training for full-time youth ministry in Sydney. Please pray for us and our future!

THOMAS MURRAY

4th year at college, 1st year of marriage and Baby #1 on the way. Please pray that both Jodie and I would continue to honour God in our marriage as we plan to return to Ireland with a newborn. Pray that God would continue to equip us and raise up further gospel workers for ministry in Ireland.

ROBERT AND JEMIMA NICHOLS

Robbie and Jemima are both in 4th year and attend Urban Grace Church in Marrickville. They love using their different interests to minister to the different people in that area. Pray for wisdom and direction as they consider what to do post-college.

I’m married to Bethany and we have two boys, Ethan (4) and Zack (2). We are currently exploring options for serving in FOCUS work or overseas after college.

Very thankful for the many learning opportunities that God has provided here in Sydney! I’m currently at All Saints Petersham. Would love prayer as I think through opportunities to serve God and his people post college – possibly parish or student ministry in Qld?

Callan is in 4th year, and with Katrina lives at MooreWest (Parramatta). Katrina teaches high-schoolers, Callan studies. Please pray that they’ll: abound in joy and delight while serving Jesus; have God-given-wisdom for future decisions; be thankful.

I’m married to the gorgeous Matt and we are looking forward to serving in university student ministry together next year in WA (Godwilling). Please pray that we would joyfully serve others and always seek to bring glory to Jesus in our marriage and our ministry.

Please pray that I will use this last year at college well, to be well equipped for God’s work in the next 30-40 years. And we will be obedient to wherever God puts us to serve his people.

I’m thankful for the way college has been equipping me to be a better student minister at St John’s Sutherland. Please pray that I would continue to grow in knowledge and love for God and others this year. Also please pray for wisdom in working out the best way to serve God’s people after college.

I grew up as an atheist, came to accept Jesus through uni. This year I’m at FOCUS Mandarin (UNSW) and hope to serve in a university somewhere in Australia in the future, reaching international students, particularly Mandarin speakers. Please pray for humble reliance on God and love for his people.

I’m looking forward to absorbing what I can from these last few months. Please pray for my diligence and stress levels as I balance life and college, but also for my faith and walk with God. I’m still looking at bible translation in the future.

JOHN PERRETT

MICHELLE POLLEY

C ALLAN PRITCHARD

BETHANY SMITH

YC TANG

JAMES V IGAR

MELLISA WANG

L ACHLAN WEBB

Heart for Asia. Hope for Billions.

CHURCH PLANTING

—Could you do it?

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, high-tech 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. We need people to build relationships, walk alongside others, and model a life of following Christ as Lord and Saviour... Could this be you?

Diploma of Biblical Theology

For more info and a sample lesson: moore.edu.au/dbt

Breaking geographical boundaries to teach and equip you to serve the Lord in your local context.

EVANGELISM FOR THE NONEVANGELIST IN THE WORKPLACE

BEN PURDY

The Bible seems to talk about ‘evangelists’, people who are particularly gifted in the area of of sharing Jesus with others. My younger sister is one of these people. She has a particular gift of leading people to trust and follow Jesus. I wouldn’t say I am one of those particularly gifted evangelists.

Looking back at my walk with Jesus there have been times when I have been more focussed on sharing about Jesus. I grew up hearing about Jesus and considered myself a Christian throughout high school. In my first year at uni I came to a point where I realised I had been consciously walking away from God in an unhelpful relationship. With a broken heart, but most strikingly an awareness of the darkness of my sin, I prayed to Jesus. It was an amazing experience. Knowing the grace and forgiveness of God, like an over shaken bottle of coke, I couldn’t hold it in. I had to share my new life in Jesus with everyone in my life, and God gave me so many opportunities!

I confess that as I look back, having worked in graphic design, marketing and in fulltime ministry, the fizzing flow has become a

trickle. Even now, as I study at Bible college and work part-time in a bike store in Parramatta, I don’t as regularly look or pray for opportunities to share about Jesus with others. Still, I am convinced of the work of evangelism biblically, personally, statistically and experientially.

Biblically, evangelism is a necessity because of the famous Great Commission, an active push to ‘go and make disciples’. Also, Peter instructs Jesus’ followers, scattered throughout the world to ‘always be prepared to give an answer for the hope you have’.

Personally, I am convinced of the importance of evangelism because I know and have experienced how amazing the grace of God is, and thus I want others to know and experience it too. God has saved his people from a Christless eternity and our desire is that others might too be saved.

Statistically, I have recently heard that 1 in 10 people might say yes to coming to church if they were invited. I work with 10 people—that means 1 of them might

say yes to coming to church. In a workplace of 50, that’s 5 and in a lecture of 120, that is 12. In a Facebook friend list of 500, that is 50. That is a lot of people that we are regularly interacting with who might say yes to being asked to church.

Finally, experientially, I have found that there are people who are curious about spirituality, church, and even Jesus. The loudest Australian voices silence the Gospel, but I’ve found in my workplace that people are happy to talk and are often curious. I work 2 days a week in a bike shop in Parramatta and I’ve had many opportunities to answer questions, talk about Jesus and invite people to church. One of these particular people I’ve had conversations with is Lauri (pictured)

Evangelism is important, it can also be awkward, and it’s certainly hard. Perhaps as followers of Jesus, we need to focus less on being “gifted” and more on how we are going spiritually, at prayer, and at the discipline of evangelism.

With this in mind, let’s talk about evangelism in the workplace. In a

sense, this article doesn’t seek to give any secrets or profound methods, but rather four things I have found personally helpful.

1. Look and pray for opportunities

It’s 8am on a Saturday morning and I’m walking down to work at the bike shop for the day. It’s been a full week of college and assignments, and my desire is still to be in bed. Crossing the road is my memory trigger to pray: ‘God, help me to live for you today and to have opportunities at work to speak of Jesus’. By praying I am asking God to work, and I am also getting myself into gear to be disciplined for evangelism, looking for and making the most of opportunities that God gives.

So many times, God has answered that prayer with a yes, I’ve had conversations about what church is like, different faiths, how God reveals himself and sadly conversations about sinful failings in the wider Church. I mentioned to Lauri I was writing an article and he was happy to be a part of it, saying “I love how you’re willing to answer any of my questions about religion”. When I meet someone for the first time, I’ll speak about what I do, or about church, to which most people say something like ‘that’s

interesting’ or ‘that’s cool’ and in a friendly way I will casually ask ‘do you have any religious background?’ Often this leads to great conversations and opportunities.

So, this week, will YOU pray before work each day for opportunities to share about Jesus?

2. Live it

It’s devastating when someone says “What! That person is a Christian? I can’t believe them of all people’… It’s a stopper for evangelism. It’s been said about me, it might have been said about you. Living as a Christian in the workplace over a long period of time is difficult—your colleagues see you at your best and worst. In my morning prayer I pray that God would help me to please him, work with integrity, that I would submit to my boss, do my job well and honour

my work colleagues. There are certainly moments where I haven’t done this at work, and I’ve needed to apologise to my colleagues.

What are the areas of your work life where you need to repent, apologise and change, to live for Jesus?

3. Listen well and be ‘that person’

The McCrindle research shows that people ask the deep questions of life during times of difficulty. If you are a good listener, and love and care for people, guess who they will come to in those hard times? Ask your colleagues about their family and significant life events, listen to them, and ask follow up questions. If you have to write things down, do so, so you can remember them.

If people have questions about spirituality, religion and church, and they

know you are a Christian, they will come to you. I’ve found many times people have engaged with me in conversation by asking questions.

4. Know that you’re in it for the long haul Evangelism in the workplace is so different to walk up or cold contact, because it’s all about the long haul. Over months, years, even decades your colleagues will watch how you live and how you handle the ups and downs of work and life and you will have so many opportunities to talk to them about Jesus. You don’t need to get every aspect of the Gospel into that first or second lunch time conversation because you will have many more, so keep chipping away.

Pray now for a work colleague and ask God for an opportunity to share the Gospel in the next 24 hours.

Anglican Aid works with local churches and Christian organisations in Australia and overseas to show Jesus’ love to a world in need.

Your donation will support:

Overseas aid and development projects in over 25 countries

Community care through Sydney churches Theological training in the developing world

www.anglicanaid.org.au

(02) 9284 1406

SDS Enhancing capacity for mission

Once you leave college, you’ll want to focus on gospel ministr y, not administration.

That’s where Sydney Diocesan Ser vices comes in.

SDS provides professional ser vices to parishes across the Sydney Anglican Diocese. Whether it’s a question about remuneration, property, risk management, or just how things work around here — we’re here to support you.

Check out our website at www.sds.asn.au where we have plenty of resources available.

Our mission is to help you get on with mission.

FACULTY AND CHAPLAINS

Faculty

Mark has been Principal of Moore College since 2013. He lectures in Christian doctrine and for the first half of this year has been on study leave working on a book on the person of Jesus Christ (amongst other things). Mark is married to Kathryn and they have four daughters: Elizabeth (20), Anna (18), Rachel (17) and Mary (14).

Colin is the Vice-Principal, Academic Dean and Head of Church History. His ongoing research interest is bereavement in Australia caused by the deaths of service personnel in World War II. Colin is married to Gillian and they have three adult children: Robert, Elizabeth and Edmund.

George is married to Koula, and they have two teenage daughters, Hosanna and Josephine. George has been teaching in the Old Testament department for 14 years, and is also Director of Research. He loves history and archaeology, is an avid Formula One fan, and enjoys good coffee and jazz.

Mark and Tanya have three children (Grace, Simeon, and Sophia) and another one on the way in July (d.v.). We worship at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Canterbury, and love being part of the Moore Theological College fellowship.

Simon and Margie have two adult children, Maddie and Noah. They served as missionaries in Namibia and before that in local church ministry in the Hunter Valley. Simon is the Head of the Department of Mission and teaches in areas of mission and ministry. He is passionate about seeing the lost saved in the Lord Jesus.

Paul is thankful to God for his job as Dean of Students and teaching in Ministry and Mission. He is married to Cathy and has 3 kids. Paul loves spending time with his family and watching students get enthusiastic about the Bible. He is excited about seeing God at work preparing future pastors, teachers and evangelists.

The Höhnes have been part of the Moore College community for more than a decade, attending Newtown Anglican Church. David’s main research areas are the coming Kingdom of God and Modern European history. Amelia serves as the Academic Support Coordinator for Moore College and also works in adult literacy.

PHILIP KERN

Philip and Amy, married in 1984, have four children, Alexandra, Philip Stephen, Eliot and James. They attend Abbotsford Presbyterian Church. Philip came to Moore in 1998 to teach New Testament. Current research interests include Galatians, Christology, and the patriarchal narratives.

CHASE KUHN

Chase has been on the faculty since 2016 teaching theology, ethics, and preaching. His current research is in the theological foundations of ethics. Married to Amy, they have three children: Olive, Ezra, and Penelope. They enjoy listening to music, fishing around Sydney harbour, and playing Uno.

ANDREW LESLIE

Andrew is married to Felicity with three children. He lectures in Christian Doctrine. Andrew likes to spend time with his wife, family, and dear friends, alongside music, reading, (a minimal amount of) exercise, and rest. On Sundays he and his family attend All Saints’ Petersham.

M ARK THOMPSON

COLIN BALE

GEORGE ATHAS

M ARK EARNGEY

SIMON GILLHAM

PAUL GRIMMOND

DAVID HÖHNE

Faculty

ED LOANE

Ed has been teaching Doctrine and Church History at Moore since 2014. He is married to Joc and they have five kids Jemima, Sophie, Ben, Sam and Abby. They are members of the church family at Cammeray Anglican. They enjoy spending time together bike riding, walking the dog and eating out.

PETER ORR

Peter is married to Emma and they have four sons, Ben, Ollie, Jonny and Daniel. Having worked in Romania, London and Melbourne, he joined the faculty in 2014. Peter loves spending free time with the family and watching and playing lunch-time cricket at college.

ARCHIE POULOS

Archie and Ainsley have three children – Georgia, married to Ben. Zoe is at Uni and Archie, in year 10. Ainsley works part time in speech pathology. For study leave in semester 1 Archie developed his work on enhancing clergy competency. The family enjoys Thursday night dinners where they play Uno.

ANDREW SHEAD

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.

Tara serves in the Ministry Department, teaching in areas of ministry, missions and church history. Tara is the Dean of Women, overseeing the pastoral care of the female students, two women’s chapels 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.

Chris started following Jesus at university. Before moving to Sydney, he was a biblical researcher and taught at Cambridge, Oak Hill College, and the University of Edinburgh. His current research focuses on linguistic misunderstandings in biblical interpretation. He belongs to Church By the Bridge in Kirribilli.

Will is married to Lizzy and teaches in the New Testament department. Originally from the UK, he has spent time both as a pastor and a lecturer. Early on in his Christian life he was attracted to Paul’s letters, especially Romans, which continues to be his focus. He enjoys music, rugby, cricket, and the natural world.

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

PAUL WILLIAMSON

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 playing competitive basketball.

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, all footy and basketball.

LIONEL WINDSOR

TARA STENHOUSE

CHRIS THOMSON

WILL TIMMINS

JANE TOOHER

Serving Moore College’s distance students. Please pray that God will use the PTC to grow and equip many Christians for ministry according to God’s word in their churches, workplaces, schools and other communities.

ALISON BLAKE

Alison, alongside her husband Michael, focuses on making and growing disciples among women and children, in the MT&D Wives program of the Sydney Diocese. She enjoys and values the privilege of walking alongside female students preparing to pastor and preach God’s Word.

K ATE BRADFORD

Kate enjoys co-leading a college chaplaincy group and having an opportunity to meet with female students. She is currently teaching pastoral care at Moore College, providing pastoral supervision for people in ministry and undertaking post-grad research at Moore. With her husband Steve, Kate is part of the Anglican Church at Church Hill, Sydney.

C AROLINE CLARK

Caroline counts it a privilege to walk alongside female students as a Chaplain at Moore. College mission and proclaiming Jesus together has already been a highlight. She is married to Mike with four inspiring children and since returning from Germany with CMS they have been serving as a family at St Thomas’s church, North Sydney.

Chaplains

LOUISE CUNNINGHAM

Louise has enjoyed youth, student and church ministry for many years including 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 and they have three young adult sons.

JOSEPH & NANCY FUNG

We serve as Cross-Cultural Chaplains and are both Moore graduates. Both of us serve our Lord as a husband and wife team. Our deepest desire now is to nurture a new group of disciples and pastors for our churches. We would love to meet new and old students, particularly students from overseas, and give them our spiritual support as much as we can.

ANNA HU

An MTC chaplain since 2016. Please pray that her time with the students will be full of thanksgiving, sharing of challenges and mutual encouragement to live gospel-shaped lives. Please pray that Anna will grow in graciousness and wisdom as she serves and loves her husband, children and their church family at Artarmon Anglican.

ISOBEL LIN

Isobel is married to Peter and they have 3 adult daughters. Isobel is encouraged by the next generation of gospel workers, as she meets with them in chaplaincy group. She counts it a privilege to play a small part in their preparations for ministry. Isobel continues to serve EQUIP as an Exec. Pray that she’ll continue to share Jesus in all the opportunities God gives her.

I am very thankful for this privilege of sharing in the lives of the students at College! The rest of my week sees me travelling with my husband Jim to encourage independent church-planting pastors, working in ministry in my church at EV on the Central Coast, and working on loving my family.

Caroline works full-time for City Bible Forum as an Evangelist and Trainer. City Bible Forum seeks to reach the world through the workplace with the good news of Jesus. Please pray for Christian city workers as they love their office neighbours and that God might bring forth a great harvest.

Wendy works in Two Ways Ministries as Operations Manager. Please pray for the work of TWM training students and young adults in evangelism. She and her husband Philip Swanton are involved at St Thomas’ North Sydney.

Julia and her husband Malcolm have worked in student and church ministry for twenty something years. Her involvement with Urban Grace Church, The Create Ministry, Outreach Media, the Mothers’ Union and their family keep her life full of blessings and busyness.

Joan has served in church and college based ministries. She lives with her husband Warwick in an inner west suburb. She enjoys teaching the Bible, meeting one on one, and mentoring others to follow Christ. Her favourite way to relax is with a cup of coffee and a good book. Please pray for wisdom as she meets with students.

LESLEY RAMSAY

C AROLINE SPENCER

WENDY SWANTON

JULIA WILLIAMS

JOAN YOUNG

JULIETTE ANTOON

Working with Pastors One-to-One

CMD offers personalised, one to one support to pastors as they seek to serve the Lord.

We also provide a range of face-to-face courses throughout the year to keep developing your ministry skills.

Our courses include:

• Coaching and Delegation

• Strategic Planning

• Change management

• Leading Staff

Why we need Jesus’ help with our sexualities