The qb, December 2016 by Queensland Baptists

The voice of Queensland Baptists December 2016/January 2017

Peace on earth Who can start a church? Steps of faith

s a m t s Chri s g n i t e e Gr

Print post approved ISSN: 100003837 The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890. This series Vol 14 Issue 6.

www.qb.org.au

QB MINISTRIES 24 Steps of faith (QB Women)

A passionate pursuit of excellence (QCCC)

Who can start a church? (MTQ)

Dean Sandham wins essay prize (QB archives)

I need to see a chaplain (Carinity)

New courses for pastors and planters (The Training Collaborative)

QB PARTNERS 34

Believing God and serving holistically (Global Interaction)

Extravagant generosity (BWAA)

ARTICLES

Peace on Earth

This Christmas child

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2017 ISSUE 04 08 10 12

Comment: David Loder Knowing God Series Speaking out: John Sweetman Baptisms

13 20 41 42

Around the regions QB & SSEC Called home Persecution brief

Our cover: Recently named as a finalist in the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation Awards, Neil Robinson has built QCCC’s Outdoor Education programs to become the success they are today. Renowned for his attention to detail, Neil is committed to the ‘passionate pursuit of excellence in Outdoor Education’. Well done, Neil.

44 Reviews 45 Fun zone 47 Classifieds

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COMMENT

WHAT’S THE NEXT STEP? ‘I will praise You because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, and I know this very well. My bones were not hidden from You when I was made in secret, when I was formed in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began’ (Psalm 139:14-16).

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David’s acknowledgement of God’s involvement in his life is noteworthy. In these verses he recognises that his life is not a succession of chance events but rather his life has been carefully planned out in eternity by the Sovereign Lord. This was not always initially discernible by those around him. The account in 1 Samuel 16 of David’s anointing as king is an example. The prophet Samuel arrives at Jesse’s place ready for this momentous act. The eldest son is paraded before Samuel and he

COMMENT The important lesson is laid before us. We know it well, but too often we forget to apply it. ‘Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart’ (1 Samuel 16:7). Jesse didn’t seem to be able to see this, but Samuel, responsive to God’s voice, was able to act on God’s behalf. Those around David saw his ‘beautiful eyes, and healthy, handsome appearance’ (verse 12) and while God saw this, He was looking beyond. God’s plan was unfolding in David’s life; nothing was left to chance. You and I will never be king of Israel. We probably won’t go down in history as a notable person in the wider community—but we will in some people’s experience! It is worthwhile examining some of the ways God has planned your life and mine. Here are four themes. First is our family of origin—our parents, siblings, birth order all come into play. Second is our history or our life’s journey as it has unfolded—our place of birth, places we have lived, schools attended, qualifications and employment have all been a part of God’s plan.

is immediately convinced that this is the future leader of God’s chosen people. Not so! Jesse parades seven sons before Samuel, each looking the part. Samuel is looking at the young men before him but he is listening to God. So where is the youngest? Jesse seems to be thinking, ‘Surely not!’ But God points the finger. ‘He is the one. Anoint him.’ So, acting in obedience, Samuel anoints David with the rest of the family looking on—probably with an element of disbelief!

The third theme to observe is the significant others that have had a huge impact on our lives—our family, friends, teachers, Sunday school teachers are just a few. These people have been both formal and informal mentors and have taught us many of life’s lessons, both positively and negatively. From them we have gained our level of self-esteem. Finally, there have been many critical events in our lives—incidents and accidents, passages of life and the loves we have had. It is not so much the events that have shaped us, but our response to them.

As we examine our lives along these lines, it is important to ask a few questions: • ‘Where was God at each of these times?’ • ‘How have these things shaped me?’ • ‘What is God preparing me for?’ We need to be careful we don’t reduce our lives to that of being a robot or puppet in God’s hands. Look at David. Samuel pointed to him and said, ‘You are the man.’ Many years later, David would hear those same words but in a very different circumstance. The words are repeated in 2 Samuel 12:7. This time it is Nathan the prophet confronting David, exposing his hidden sin. Certainly this act of David’s was not a part of God’s plan! I would encourage you to set aside some time with God, read Psalm 139, and examine your life to see where God has been involved, and where He is involved. Arising out of this exercise will be the question, ‘What is the next step?’ This is all a necessary part of following Jesus! Ministry Matters The end of the year is rushing upon us! Christmas is a great time to celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus. Doing this with family, extended family and friends adds to the excitement! Ann and I, along with all of the Queensland Baptists Services Group, delight in expressing our Christmas greetings to you and your family. We do pray that you will experience the presence of the Lord Jesus—Emmanuel, God with us—in a special way this Christmas season, and in the New Year! David Loder General Superintendent Queensland Baptists david.loder@qb.org.au

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NEWS, VIEWS & ISSUES

FROM THE EDITOR

The qb is a member of the Australasian Religious Press Association, published bi-monthly by Queensland Baptist Services Group in February, April, June, August, October and December.

Welcome to The qb!

Editor: Robynne Milne Design: Shell Graphix Print: Printcraft

In this final issue for 2016, our General Superintendent, David Loder, (Comment) encourages us to take time with God, read Psalm 139 and ask Him, ‘What’s next’? This is timely as we come to the end of another busy year. John Sweetman (Speaking out) sets out his thoughts about growing church congregations beyond 200 people and the shifts in thinking and practice required from everyone to achieve such growth. And QB Regional Consultant Warren Crank asks, ‘Who can grow a church?’ identifying five traits of ‘ordinary disciples of Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit with an apostolic-edge to their calling’. Pieter Henning and Steve Henley (QB team visits the Solomon Islands) report on behalf of those recently returned from their mission trip, and Geoff & Lyn Cramb visit PNG (Believing God and serving holistically) where Geoff has concluded his ministry of 13 years.

Carinity welcomes Inside Out Chaplaincy (I need to see a chaplain) as it becomes one of their broad range of community services, and The Training Collaborative announces new training streams to equip people for pastoral ministry. Stephen Baxter, who along with his wife, Jenny, are next year’s guest speakers at QB Convention, contributes some thoughts (Peace on earth) about Advent; ‘a celebration of Christ’s first coming and an anticipation of His second’. May God bless you and your family richly during this Christmas season and as the new year unfolds. Robynne Milne Editor, The qb qb@qb.org.au

This magazine is printed with soy based inks and paper from sustainable forest plantations. We welcome reader feedback and opinions about our articles. Remember to include your full name, email and postal addresses. Articles and advertising in The qb express the opinions of the authors, not necessarily the editor or publishers. Every effort is made to ensure the correctness of facts and information however we cannot accept responsibility for errors. The publishers reserve the right to accept or decline any advertising. Deadline for advertisement and copy: 10th of the month prior to the month of publication. PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053 P 07 3354 5633 F 07 3354 5646 Advertising rates are listed in The qb Media Kit available at www.qb.org.au/news-media. Prices are also available on enquiry and advertising packages can be tailored to suit your budget. Reduced contract rates apply to three bookings within a 12 month period. Please contact us for details. A limited number of inserts are also accepted. Copyright © 2003 by Queensland Baptist Services Group. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means without written permission from the publisher. Unless otherwise noted, Scripture verses appearing in The qb are from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Advertise in The qb

ISSN: 11323-7829

It’s affordable and effective! For pricing and details contact Lisa Hamilton P 07 3354 5600 lisa.hamilton@qb.org.au

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

53 Prospect Road, Gaythorne Qld 4051 PO Box 6166, Mitchelton Qld 4053 P 07 3354 5600 F 07 3354 5646 admin@qb.org.au

QB CONVENTION & LEADERSHIP DAY

Re EA giste RL Y B r now for ON (20% IRD APRIL 4th 7th 2017 R LY D UN isco ATES un TIL 31 D t) Guest Speakers: EC 201 Stephen and Jenny Baxter 6 Stephen is a business coach, mentor, and senior pastor of Hobart Baptist Church. Jenny is a radio broadcaster, writer and blogger.

For Pastors & Spouses P&S Appreciation Dinner Pastors' and Spouses' Retreat Relevant and interesting Electives

EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND LEADERSHIP DAY Friday April 7th 2017 THIS IS A FREE EVENT! Come along for lunch, hear the guest speakers and more about QB. Kids also welcome! Hosted by QCCC, 70 Obi Obi Road, Mapleton QLD Please go to the website www.events.qb.org.au to register online or download a form Please email marketing@qb.org.au or call 07 3354 5627

KNOWING GOD

DISCIPLESHIP:

TIME FOR ACTION PART SIX Intentional discipleship – pastors and leaders It was a special time as, together with a small group of international students, my wife, Barbara, and I sat in on the Bellevue Baptist New Disciples Class, learning first-hand from Dr. Adrian Rodgers as he connected with this group of new believers. At that time, he was the senior pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN, with a growing membership already consisting of around 20,000 people.

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Through meeting and chatting, and then experiencing more time with him over the next few days, one gained a sense of his ‘heartbeat’ – namely, disciple-making. He gained our utmost respect not only as an amazing biblical expository preacher, but as a senior pastor, and as a humble servant of God who enjoyed personally discipling new followers of Christ, despite his hectic schedule and large congregation. We

learnt some vital principles first-hand during that time that have had a profound impact upon our lives, and especially pastoral ministry, one of the main ones being that, for discipleship to take place in the church, it has to start with the most senior leaders living it out and modelling it themselves.

KNOWING GOD For churches connected to the QB family, the aspiration is for the prioritisation of cultivating and nurturing intentional discipleshipmaking to the degree that it becomes an easily recognisable characteristic of our QB ‘DNA’. However, for this to become a greater reality, the role of pastors and leaders is both crucial and pivotal. In fact, I think it would be fair to suggest that the level to which the stated aspiration will be achieved will be in direct proportion to the take-up and implementation by those of us who are pastors and leaders. In Cracking Your Church’s Culture Code, Samuel Chand lists a number of ‘potholes, mud pits, and collapsed bridges’ connected to a church’s culture, and he highlights some leadership pitfalls to avoid as he discusses culture being the most powerful factor in any organisation, even more so, he suggests, than vision or strategy. As one contemplates these suggested pitfalls through the filter of a discipleship perspective, one soon identifies areas for improvement if we’re keen to cultivate a culture of intentional discipleship. One of the more recent world-leaders in matters pertaining to discipleship is Edmund Chan. He spoke in some detail about Multiplying Authentic Disciples at the 2015 IDM Conference in Sydney, where he focussed on key biblical passages highlighting core requirements necessary for this to take place. For the purpose of this article, I want to use and ‘piggy-back’ on some of his principles, contextualise, and even modify some of them for the purpose of us being able to apply them to the role of pastors and leaders. Obviously, a brief article like this is deficient in being able to explain everything he shared with us; however, here are some aspects you might find helpful:

1. As pastors / leaders we should pursue the following transformations: • • • • •

Our values must be changed Our mission must be clear Our standard must be right Our motive must be pure Our allegiance to God must be true • Our relationships must be sound • Our foundation must be sure 2. Pastors / leaders should seek to create a discipleship environment by: • Establishing a discipleship training ‘environment’ • Establishing a discipleship ‘community’ 3. Pastors / leaders can cultivate a discipleship culture by asking the following questions: • Why is it so important? • If it is so important, why is it so neglected? • What is it all about? • What makes it difficult? • How can it best be accomplished? 4. Pastors / leaders can lead churches to embrace a discipleship philosophy by: • Ensuring that our core convictions shape our core values – determine one’s core beliefs that are pertinent to a discipleship philosophy (he went on to list at least twelve core beliefs that have shaped his philosophy)

5. Pastors / leaders can empower a discipleship movement by: • Recognising that God is in charge • Cultivating a healthy church culture • Personifying the values • Preparing the ‘ground’ • Mentoring – ‘…expanding the base will determine the height…’ • Clarifying direction • Making it a daily part of life In conclusion, while we recognise that all of the above information might be helpful and useful as guidelines, I would suggest that the key responsibility of pastors and leaders, in regard to discipleship, is to lead Christ followers into the reality of the fullness of the Holy Spirit so that one’s response is not merely commitment to a ‘cause’ but rather a perpetual and personal surrender to Christ! Recalling the words and tone of Dr. Stephen Olford spoken to me as I sat in his office prior to him passing into glory that still resonate within my heart and soul: ‘All Word and no Spirit, we dry up! All Spirit and no Word, we flare up! But all Word and all Spirit, we grow up!’ Pastors and leaders, lets aspire to this for ourselves as well as for those whom God has entrusted into our oversight for discipleship! Congregants, leaders need your support and encouragement as they endeavour to be intentional in this. As the body of Christ we have a unique and blessed calling to work together for His kingdom. Pieter Henning Regional Consultant for Nth Qld Queensland Baptists pieter.henning@ qb.org.au

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SPEAKING OUT

BREAKING THE 200 BARRIER Recently a few QB Regional Consultants and some Malyon College faculty combined to run a half-day conference on Breaking the 200 Barrier. We had a very helpful morning with over 40 pastors and church leaders attending. Let me briefly explain what such a conference is about. Now I need to note at the outset that I’m not saying that one size church is better than another. Healthy, effective churches can be any size. I’m sure there are tiny cell churches in China that are spiritually stronger than Western megachurches. It’s just that growth in numbers will eventually require changes in structure. Research on churches over the last 50 years has shown that many churches struggle to grow past 200 people in worship attendance. Sometimes the problem is leadership, sometimes it’s health, sometimes it’s a shrinking community, and at other times it’s spiritual apathy. But spiritually healthy churches with good leadership in growing communities can still find it difficult to grow past 200. In fact, quite a few of our strong Queensland Baptist churches are sitting around the 200 mark. One significant challenge is that around 200, a church has to considerably change the way it operates to allow further growth. If these changes are not made, it is likely that new Christians will still be added, but some attenders will eventually leave, keeping the numbers fluctuating around 200.

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Let me explain how church structures change above the 200 mark.

the family has the opportunity to have a say.

Family-size church versus teams-size church

A healthy church with a good pastor often grows quite naturally towards 200 as God does His work. Newcomers are attracted by the friendliness and family feel, and they find significant love and support.

A family-size church (up to 200) is just that: a big family that tends to centre around the pastor. The pastor knows everyone and everyone knows the pastor. The pastor keeps a fatherly eye on everything, dealing with pastoral issues, solving problems, teaching and preaching, and making sure that it all holds together. There will be lay leaders and maybe some junior staff members (as the church grows towards 200). It’s not that the pastor does all the work, but the pastor is the one with a finger on the pulse and who knows what is happening. In a family-size church, if you want to find out something, ask the pastor. The church feels like a family. Newcomers are easily recognised because the church members are familiar with the regular attenders. First names are used a lot in the church service, e.g. ‘It’s good to have Sam and Michelle back from their overseas trip’ or ‘If you want to know more about the ladies’ camp, see Debbie’. The big decisions are usually made together by the family in a church meeting. It’s important that everyone in

On the other hand, a teams-size church (200-500) consists of lots of family groups of different types led by a range of leaders. It’s no longer possible to know everyone in the church. Members tend to find their support and relationships within their family group(s). The main leader for them may not be the senior pastor, but an associate pastor or lay person who leads their ‘family’ ministry. So the young people will follow the youth pastor, the intercessors will relate to the prayer ministry coordinator, and those in small groups may gain most of their information about the church from their small group leader. When you have a need, you look for your leader/pastor, not the senior pastor. In a way, senior pastors of teams-size churches fade a little out of sight. They do less up-front leading of ministries and more behind-the-scenes coordinating and problem-solving, and seeking

SPEAKING OUT God. They focus more on leading their team well, keeping them accountable, and making sure they are all pursuing the same vision and operating by the same core values. If the team functions effectively in a way that is pleasing to God, ministries expand and the church can continue to grow as newcomers are attracted by, and find their place in, the range of ministries. Teams-size churches need strong management. As the church becomes more complex as an organisation and more diverse, it is easy for confusion and conflict to grow. Efficient structures and good communication become vital. You need systems to make sure that things happen. Moving from family church to teams church So you can see that family-size and teams-size churches are quite different organisms. Oh, of course they still have a huge amount in common (God and the Bible, theology, and the values and mission of the church don’t change), but there are also some significant differences. It would take an exceptional pastor to lead a 400 attendance church with a family-size structure. I am going to offer some suggestions on transitioning a church through this 200 barrier. They are purely practical suggestions. There are many prior questions to be asked like, ‘What does God want of our church?’ and ‘How is God calling us to change?’ The important question is, ‘Where is God leading our church?’ Some pastors and churches will operate most effectively at the family size and probably should not attempt transition. Other options for growth include church planting, moving to a cell-based structure, or even sending people to support other local congregations. But if you feel God is leading your church to move past 200, then here are some changes that need to be considered. I am going to state them strongly, but hold them lightly and test

them carefully. Scripture is our authority, not my ideas. 1. The senior pastor has to release the fatherly role. In a healthy familysize church, the pastor knows the congregation personally, ministers to each family in some way, and is trusted and loved by the church. Pastors in teams-size churches have a somewhat different role. They don’t know everyone personally, they don’t provide pastoral care for the whole church family, and they don’t keep tabs on everything that is happening in the church; nor do they need to. They share the load of pastoring and leading with their staff and other lay leaders, and they act more as managers and mentors and conflict resolvers. In other words, they pastor, support and lead the leaders. To make this transition, a pastor has to be willing to relinquish control of the ministries and the special relationship with each church family member. 2. The congregation has to release the senior pastor. Equally important, for this transition to occur effectively, the congregation has to be willing to release the pastor. It’s never easy for members to lose close connection with their personal, trusted pastor. If the pastor operates by a teams’ paradigm, but the congregation is not willing to accept the change, then a great deal of pain results. A few steps are essential to this transition. First, the leaders have to really be supportive of the change of role. Their support will help ease the grief of the congregation and partially protect the pastor from criticism. Second, the congregation needs to understand the reasons for the change. This will require constant communication over a considerable period of time. Third, the church needs a few wins with the new paradigm to gain confidence and see that it is not all loss. For example, the new pastoral care system needs to initially provide stronger support than the senior pastor could provide.

3. The pastor and congregation have to accept diversity. The familysize church often values safety, predictability, and commonality. The pastor can be relied on to steer the ship and avoid the dangers. The congregational members know what is going on and that provides security. But a teams’ paradigm requires the pastor allowing others to lead and pastor, and the congregation trusting people that they don’t even know to lead ministries. Leaders with somewhat differing theologies, cultures and perspectives will influence small groups and ministries. Commonality gives place to diversity in the teams-size church. Everyone gives away some sense of control over the outcome. 4. Vision and management need to sharpen. A church under 200 can still function well with minimal vision and management because a family grows around relationships, not systems. However, the size and diversity of a teams-size church requires common vision, systems and structures to make it work effectively. This is what Jethro had to explain to Moses, who was trying to lead Israel like the father of a family (Exodus 18:13-20). For example, in a teams-size church you don’t find Joe if you want to go to the men’s conference; you fill out a form at the information table. These can be big changes for a family-size church. You can see why growing past the 200 barrier can be so challenging for churches, even if they are biblical and healthy and evangelistic. May God lead you. Anyway, you can work on this in 2017. Have a great Christmas.

John Sweetman Principal, Malyon john.sweetman@ malyon.edu.au

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BAPTISMS

Kaylah Dorr

Trinity Dunn

Briony Spencer (aged 12), from Glasshouse Country Baptist Church, asked to be baptised after coming into a full understanding of God’s grace and the saving act of Jesus Christ. Briony (‘Beanie’ to her friends) was baptised by Ps Chris Johnson. Pastor Chris has known Beanie since she was about three years old and was honoured to perform the ceremony. Afterwards everyone stayed on for a barbeque and to celebrate together. We also celebrate with Mackay Baptist Church and the five people who were recently baptised there.

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Briony Spencer

Please pray for those baptised recently in all our churches around Queensland, including: Birkdale Baptist Church City North Baptist Church Daniel Garlick David Webster City Tabernacle Baptist Church Pattaya Paterson Gateway Baptist Church Shantelle Arnold Elizabeth Atkin Jayden Chew Conrad Folscher Eva Wright Ying Zhang

Joanna Lightning

Glasshouse Country Baptist Church Briony Spencer Mackay Baptist Church Stewart Bagley Kaylah Dorr Trinity Dunn Joanne Lightning Jordan May New Heart Baptist Church Jadon Beaumont Keh Mor Gee Shi Kue Paw Nor Pu Kea Pray Meh Mureh Naw Ehmui Boe Meh Paw Meh Plue Meh Say Myt Paw Lar

AROUND THE REGIONS

AROUND THE REGIONS QB ethnic leaders meet Queensland Baptists’ ethnic leaders met together on the south side of Brisbane for a special lunch on 12 November. The event provided a great time of networking and prayer for the 40 guests who attended, including Nigerian, Vietnamese, Romanian, Congolese, Samoan, Sierra-Leonian, Chin, Karen, Matu, Korean, and other pastors and leaders. QB Regional Consultant & Ethnic and Multicultural Ministries Coordinator, Emil Rahimov, welcomed the guests and invited Pastor Sarblair Twayjaw from the Zion Karen Baptist Church to speak. Ps Sablair expressed thanks on behalf of all ethnic leaders for the support given to them by Queensland Baptists, and he shared some of his experiences. Zion Karen Baptist Church meets in

the Logan City Baptist Church. The Karen people are an ethnic group from South-East Asia. Traditionally Karen’s practised Animism (spirit worship). Almost two centuries ago, Christian missionaries spread the Gospel to the Karen people and now many Karens are Christians. In 1962, the Burmese Army took control of Burma and the country still suffers under a military dictatorship. More than 150,000 Karen’s have fled to refugee camps in Thailand. Some made the safe exodus to Australia. QB General Superintendent, David Loder, also spoke, offering words of encouragement and appreciation for all ethnic leaders. He also shared the QB board’s focus on evangelism and outreach, and how that can be applied by the ethnic leaders to minister to the wider Australian community.

QB thanks John (and Lorraine) Walker for the work John has done in the pastoral registration process since around 2002. John has conducted the initial interview for those embarking on the registration journey in all that time, on a voluntary basis. This would have been the first contact many of our pastors had with the process. With the new registration process being implemented, a change of interview process will be introduced from the beginning of next year. Thanks John for an outstanding ministry in this way!

Beyond 200 Queensland Baptists and Malyon sponsored Beyond 200 – a miniconference, on Saturday 22 October at Malyon College. Designed for churches with a vision to grow beyond 200 people, the main aim of the event was to encourage and offer assistance to achieve this vision. Keynote speakers were Ian Hussey and John Sweetman from Malyon, and QB Regional Consultants Stewart Pieper and Warren Crank. DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

AROUND THE REGIONS

Ps Dean treated kids to rides on his vintage motor bike

Families with ASD treated to FUN day out LIVE church (Caloundra West) threw open the party doors for families who have children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and the verdict from the community was ‘fantastic!’. One parent said: ‘We almost didn’t come today as the risk of things not going well is so high, but I’m so glad we did as it was fantastic.’ The event, called FUNSplash, was intentionally designed to create a family-friendly experience for Sunshine Coast families who have children with (ASD). ‘The morning line-up included fire trucks, wildlife, pony rides, robotics, catapult launching, vintage side-car rides, a bouncy castle and plenty of water play,’ coordinator Mrs Wendy Paroz said. More than 25 special guests attended and they brought with them 100 parents and siblings to share the enjoyment of the day. One parent expressed her gratitude for the invitation. ‘It’s been so long since we had an enjoyable family day out

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without a meltdown. I know how much work went into organising the day and wanted you to know how much you, your family and your church are appreciated by us. You are an amazing group of people. Thank you again for including us in this fabulous event.’ LIVE church invited members of the local community to volunteer to help organise and run FUNSplash. ‘Special Education teachers and school staff, high school students, parents of teenagers with ASD and fire fighters worked alongside the LIVE team, serving our guests,’ Mrs Paroz said. LIVE Pastor, Dean Thomas, explained why volunteers were recruited from outside the church. ‘As followers of Jesus, we know He is a servant. We know He cares for those on the fringes of society, those often overlooked and isolated. We’re trying to influence the people around us to become more like Jesus and serve others. Along the way, we hope we have the joy of introducing them to Jesus. It’s such a natural, organic way to help people know the Servant King, and during FUNSplash we had the opportunity to show more than 40 volunteers what it means to care and serve like Jesus.

‘The feedback we’ve received has strengthened our resolve to continue to serve families with ASD on the Sunshine Coast, and recruit volunteers from the community to serve alongside us,’ Pastor Dean said. ‘One mother told us that her family has been unable to attend any fun community events in a long time, and that it’s been very sad to watch her daughter miss out and have to keep her away from people and groups who just don’t understand,’ he said. LIVE church hopes to run FUNSplash again next year. If it would be of help, the coordinating team has offered to share the insights they have gained with other QB churches interested in ministering to families with ASD. Please contact Christine Thomas, Christine@liveeveryminute.net or visit facebook.com/liveeveryminute.net for more information.

AROUND THE REGIONS

Boonah Baptist Church Ps Colin Christian (Boonah Baptist Church) writes: Boonah Baptist Church opened its doors to the community for a free meal and movie night on 13 November. The event was made possible through funding received from last year’s round of Baplink Ministry Grants. Outreach and discipleship occurred as people met together from all walks of life, fellowshipped around a meal, and were challenged and encouraged in

Crafty volunteers needed!

their Christian walk through the movie that followed. The movie, Where Hope Grows, touched upon the question, ‘What is the reason for our hope?’ and dealt with raw life issues. Afterwards, the young people present were involved in challenging conversations as they worked through the questions raised in the movie. Many asked, ‘When will we be doing something like this again?’ We are grateful for this opportunity to serve our community and to show the love of Jesus.

Helen Anderton (Jimboomba Baptist Church) writes: Under the umbrella of Eagles Wings, a children’s orphanage in Zambia, I run a small business from home called Inspirational Heat Bags. I have a team of volunteers who work for me, doing simple sewing, and they are an amazing group of Christian women including ladies from Cleveland Baptist, Victoria Point Baptist, Bracken Ridge Baptist, and others. God is awesome and He continually blesses us as we use the profits from making the heat bags to support programs within Eagles Wings. Our only costs are for fabric and cotton. We recently supported a camp program where 28 children from shanty compounds were introduced to God’s awesome creation and had Bible study each day. Fifteen of these children came to know Jesus as their Saviour. We know that this is God’s work! I live at Logan Reserve and I would love to hear from people on my side of town who would be willing to volunteer to help make Inspirational Heat Bags. Phone Helen, 07 3458 1372 or 0437 227 702, email iheatb@gmail.com or for more information, visit www. ew.org.au. DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

AROUND THE REGIONS

Growing on for God Dawn Vickers (Dalby Baptist Church) writes: It is seven years since Dalby Baptist Church built stage one of our new ministry centre and relocated to our eight acres of land. About a year ago, our senior pastor suggested that, with all our land and the number of farmers in our church, perhaps we should think about how to utilise this undeveloped resource for ministry to the community. This struck a cord with one of our church members Joe Garnham who then put a proposal to our church leadership. Joe has experience and training in the field of recycling of organic matter and sustainable practices as it relates to food production. The proposal was for

a food garden, using the project to help those on Work for the Dole gain some life skills and self esteem, while working in a Christian environment. With the church’s approval to proceed, Joe and our administrator, Vicki Payne, started looking into ways to fund the project, and with the help of someone with experience in applying for grants, applications were submitted. A ‘Best in the Community’ grant was secured for above ground benches and a Carinity grant for a propagation shed was received. The construction of the propagation shed is now complete and setting up a no-dig garden is well underway. This type of garden is easy to set up, requires very little maintenance, saves on water, tillage, machinery and fertilisers and needs minimal weeding.

Our goal is to teach people the necessary skills to grow their own food. We plan to make our produce available to other not-for-profit organisations, such as Meals on Wheels and Food Assist, and we will provide healthy fresh food for the Work for the Dole workers and others in the community. Because of the interest shown from local schools and pre-schools, we are seeking funding to increase our project capabilities to allow children to propagate, grow and harvest produce which they can take home. At the present time we have up to six Work for the Dole participants who are very keen and enthusiastically working towards getting this project underway. We are also grateful to a local family for providing benches for the raised gardens; this support allowed us to construct further aboveground benches. We are grateful for the Lord’s enabling to this point, and in covering this project with prayer, we are asking God that, as well as a harvest of good wholesome food, He will show us how we can also turn this project into a harvest of souls for His Kingdom.

AROUND THE REGIONS

testimony, and on our last visit we met with the prison chief and I gave him one of my paintings. A huge encouragement came six months later when I heard that one of the male prisoners was inspired by the message I gave, and he was drawing pictures about Jesus for other prisoners. More recently, I painted a portrait of the Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, and entered it in the 2016 Archibald prize. Although unsuccessful in the competition, Michelle loves it and now has it on display in Parliament House, Canberra, along with another painting of mine—a beach scene.

Michelle Landry & Catherine Boreham with the portrait of Michelle

Without Jesus, I can do nothing A portrait painted by Catherine Boreham now hangs in Parliament House, Canberra. Here’s part of her story: I live with my husband, James, and our boys, Jeb and Jude, in Yeppoon, Central Queensland, and we worship with Open Gate Baptist Church. One of the things I appreciate about Open Gate is that everyone is given the opportunity to develop their gifts and use them to operate in the body; the freedom to share and give testimony to God freely. I also appreciate the musicians! I can paint well, but my voice is not too ‘crash hot’! I believe that God gives everyone a different purpose and mission, and teaches us along the way. I endeavour to encourage the Body of Christ, and publicly declare that without Jesus’ help, I can do nothing.

My work is very enjoyable, and to complete commissions and hand over unique works of art to people is rewarding. For example: In 2015, I had the absolute privilege of meeting Steve Grace and painting his portrait. He is such a humble person, and it was great to be able to bless Steve by gifting the portrait to him. Usually I paint the beach, but I really love doing portraits and this was one of my first. It was really exciting to work on it. I have also been on a mission trip to Cambodia with some members of Open Gate church. We gave out water filters in remote communities, but the highlight for me was when we conducted three church services for prison inmates. While Ps Matt preached, I painted a picture which still hangs in the prison. On another occasion, I gave a message and

I feel privileged to paint a person’s portrait no matter their status. Each is unique and loved by God and this is what I want to express in my work. From the outset, I have included a Bible verse, written on the back of each painting, which is intended to be relevant to the subject. It is just another way to bring all the glory back to God and, hopefully, when people hang my work, they read this word and take it to heart. I think artists can glorify God by making good art … just as Jesus glorified God in His work as a carpenter. The call of the artist is no different to the call of any other believer to glorify God in their work. The aim of glorifying God through art is another facet of biblical theology of vocation. Created in His image, we, too, have the ability and desire to appreciate and create beauty. Imagination, creativity and beauty are clearly important to God, making them important to us also. Keep working… Keep humble… Keep expecting great things…

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

AROUND THE REGIONS

Wayne conducts Remembrance Day service.

Global Interaction’s Lynda McMahon (right) with friends

Love says ‘GO’ Over the weekend of 15–16 October, Bridgeman Baptist Community Church held Bridgeworld Missions Weekend. Guest speaker Noddy Sharma, who is the National Director of OM Australia, grew up in the highlands of Papua New Guinea and worked for 11 years as a pastor in Melbourne before taking on his current role. The National Director of Pioneers of Australia, Simon Longden, was also a guest speaker. Simon has worked with Pioneers since 2001 after serving for a year in West Africa in the 90s which turned his life upside down. One of his passions now is to help the local church to shift missions from the fringe to the focus. The weekend included a focused look at the opportunities and challenges of working cross-culturally with refugees in Brisbane. It was a chance to understand the challenges they face overseas and then as they settle DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

in Brisbane. Attendees discussed the question: ‘What is God’s perspective and how can we meet the needs of our neighbours?’ It was challenging to hear testimonies from two people who came to Australia as refugees. Nargez, an Iranian refugee, was impacted by the love of a local church in Brisbane. Her life is one that has now been radically transformed by Jesus. Jean Claude fled war-torn Burundi and found refuge here in Australia. He currently leads the All Nations Revival Church in Logan, but God has called him back to Africa. He and his family are preparing to work with Global Interaction in Malawi. Colour, vibrancy and joy were added to the event by the African Youth Choir from All Nations Revival Church, and a drama-filled interactive missions’ experience highlighted some of the most needy parts of the world.

Prayer for chaplains QB has a number of Defence Chaplains who have a special ministry in difficult circumstances. Wayne Ross is one and we have his permission to share the following: ‘I am at “Australia’s main operating base in the Middle East region” … I’ll be deployed for seven months, and prayers for myself, my family and the troops are most welcome.”

On the move Rev Allan Jones’ conclusion at Alstonville Baptist (NSW) Rev Andy Coller’s conclusion with BWA, effective July 2017

FAREWELL

Q: Do you have any amusing stories (that can be shared)? I recollect I was away from home one weekend (without my wife to care for me) and suddenly at 4.00 pm on Saturday afternoon, I remembered that I’d left my church clothes hanging on the door … at home! Thank God for late Saturday trading in that town, and a thank you to Judy for looking after me so well.

End of an era Col Peaker was farewelled from his role as a QB Regional Consultant early in August. By the time he officially concludes, he will have served as an RC for 15 years. We’ve asked Col for his thoughts as he leaves the role. Q: Col, what are the highlights of your time as an RC? Serving God in fresh and different ways throughout the years has been a real highlight. I loved the time in the north, with the expanse of country

to travel and the many characters we rubbed shoulders with (both churched and unchurched). The remote area conferences in the Northern Territory were inspirational. Memories of people and churches will be cherished for a long time! Q: Can you share any times when you experienced special value (or anointing) in the role? Usually that happened when I knew I was in situations way beyond myself and God had to presence Himself in very real ways to either get me through, or even use me for His purposes.

Q: What’s next for Col and Judy? I married a younger woman to look after me in my old age! So Judy will work part-time a little longer. We will join a certain group of senior citizens looking at our great country (we’ll leave Queensland until last as I’ve covered most of it as an RC). I’m looking forward to finding my place back in the local church, and currently I’m back in an educational role as a director at a QB school that was recently acquired. Other than that, three children and their families (12 grandchildren) all living in reasonable proximity) will no doubt keep us feeling valued and amused. Q: What is your impression of QB after all this time? I have had a great journey with QB: the many RC team members I worked with were a joy (about 10 team members in different combinations), an excellent supportive staff at the office just keep on giving (too many to mention), and the servant heart the organisation has for our churches has been inspirational. Is QB ‘perfect’? No, and never will be when people and systems are involved. But having a genuine heart for God and a focus on serving the local church has always been held before us as our primary calling. I thank God, and the variety of pastors and churches, for the opportunities given to me. DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

QB/SSEC

QB TEAM VISITS THE SOLOMON ISLANDS

From the outset, the team travelling to the Solomon Islands was aware of being ‘carried’ through prayer. Their 10-day visit, commencing 1 September, was organised in response to the existing partnership between Queensland Baptists (QB) and the South Seas Evangelical Church (SSEC) for mutual encouragement, training, equipping, and support; and as leaders, pastors, and congregations, to interact and engage in mutually beneficial ministry opportunities. The SSEC Bishop and leadership group gave us a warm welcome as we arrived in Honiara, and then again with a lavish welcome dinner that evening. After a thorough cultural and denominational orientation, team members departed to the areas and islands assigned to them for the next 10 days or so, before returning to Honiara for some final ministry opportunities, debriefing, and return to Brisbane. During the 10 days of ‘remote field assignments’, Steve Twible ministered DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

in the hilly regions remotely situated about an hour’s drive out of Honiara, Brian Robertson ministered in the Northern Province on the Island of Malaita, Steve Henley in the Southern Province of Malaita, and Pieter Henning around regions of Makira Island. Due to the remoteness and inaccessibility of some of the areas where the SSEC churches exist, various forms of transportation were used to get to these remote areas: small planes, small boats, utes, and by foot. The different situations demanded constant flexibility and the ability to improvise at short notice. Ministry opportunities included preaching nearly every evening and often during the day, leadership training sessions, dialogue sessions with SSEC pastors and leaders as experiences were shared, training of youth leadership groups, an opportunity to preach at the Bible college, and conducting a one-day seminar on expository preaching for pastors and leaders. It was a busy but fruitful and productive time for all.

While the SSEC churches are vibrant and enthusiastic, there is a dire need, especially in the rural and remote regions, for ongoing pastoral training, resourcing, and encouragement. The team was humbled by the hospitality extended by our hosts, and we were welcomed wherever we ministered. During this time a number of the Islanders came to faith in Christ, while many others responded in recommitting their lives and purposes to serve Christ afresh. The team returned enthused, encouraged, and thankful to the Lord for His goodness and presence. We are also that no one experienced any illness during this time. We would encourage each of you reading this article to contact your QB Regional Consultant if you’re considering taking a small group on a short-term mission trip to one of the regions of the Solomon Islands. Pieter Henning QB Regional Consultant – NQ

QB/SSEC

The QB team • Steve Twible, Team Leader & Senior Pastor – Beenleigh Baptist Church • Steve Henley, Pastor – Minden Baptist Church • Pieter Henning, QB Regional Consultant – NQ • Doug and Anne Reid, Pastoral Couple – Charters Towers Baptist Church (The Reid’s trip was cut short due to illness just as they were about to depart from Townsville airport.) • Brian Robertson, Pastor – Bargara Baptist Church

New idols On my recent two-week trip to the Solomon Islands, I was greatly impressed by the state of the church that had been started by missionary Florence Young with the SSEC mission movement. Now after 100 years, you can see that the church is progressing, and I was greatly impressed by the believers’ commitment to prayer and worship. Four of us QB pastors went to different regions, and we held workshops and took messages on Sundays and during the week. By their own admission, where they really need help is with Christian resources. Because they speak English often as a second or third language, they do understand the language, and many

L-R: Andrew Mahoro (SSEC Regional Superintendent for southern Malaita); Johnson (Chairman of the Onepusu Bible College Board), Steve Henley and Rev. Ezekiel (a local church elder)

had English Bibles and understood what was being taught. My main message throughout my time was in 1 Thessalonians chapters 1 and 2, particularly focusing on their need to be prepared for persecution and suffering. Being an animistic culture, they have turned away from many old harmful customs and idols (1 Thessalonians 1:9), but I taught how they need to recognise that Satan is deceptive and able to bring in new ways to deceive, and new idols to follow. They particularly were challenged by that thought, and at one place they held discussions on the kinds of ways they were facing persecution. We talked about how new idols would be coming

in via the internet, which is about to hit the country through mobile towers. The 3G network and therefore internet will be particularly challenging for the younger generation as they are faced with the temptations of pornography and social networking websites such as Facebook and Instagram. We must always remain vigilant because our enemy is always seeking ways to deceive and roams ‘like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour’ (1 Peter 5:8 NKJV). One of those ways is introducing new idols for us to fall for and worship. Steve Henley Reprinted with permission – Steve’s blog http://mindennews.blogspot. com.au/2016/09/new-idols.html

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

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QB WOMEN

STEPS OF FAITH When I am singing praises to God, I like to take note of the words so that I can sing them meaningfully. I try to zone out of my immediate surroundings and really picture the words I am singing. Recently I was singing along to Oceans by Hillsong United. As I sang the words, ‘Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders’, I became overwhelmed with their meaning. Did I really understand what I was asking God to do? I tried to imagine myself in a place without borders, where I truly and fully trusted God. That was a difficult thing to do. I started to picture myself in a room. This room was suspended in mid-air. The walls and the ceiling surrounding me were the ‘borders’ preventing me from stepping out and trusting God fully. These borders not only kept God out, but also prevented me from fully seeing God. I knew I had to break down those borders before I could be obedient to wherever God would lead me.

Firstly, I imagined removing the ceiling. Surely that would allow me to look up and see God better. But I noticed that all those walls surrounding me still prevented me from going very far. I am sure God didn’t want me to just stay within that room. He also didn’t want me to just take a little peak out of the window or through the doorway. He wanted those walls removed, once and for all. One by one, each wall came down. As I continued to imagine the room with no walls and ceiling, I felt as if I were better equipped to fully trust God. But God had another lesson for me. He gently whispered to me to start walking. As I walked, I was getting closer to the edge of the floor. God nudged me to keep walking. What on earth was God asking me to do? Did He really want me to step off the floor beneath me into mid-air? Anxiety rose within me. The words of the song came back to me, ‘Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders’. Here I was, singing these words, asking God to lead me

wherever He willed, yet I still wanted some earthly security on which to plant my feet. At this point, I decided I had two choices—either to stop singing the song if I didn’t mean it, or to truly mean those words and trust ‘without borders’. I really desired to have that kind of trust, so I kept singing. I imagined myself taking that step of faith from the secure floor beneath me into the unknown. I did it with great trepidation, not knowing what would happen. I feared not having control of the situation. I feared not having a clear pathway. I feared not knowing the end result. As I stepped out, I expected I might feel myself falling. Instead though, I saw some amazing things. There were eagles flying beneath me (Isaiah 40:31); angels were there to protect me (Psalm 91:11); the Shepherd was tending His sheep (Psalm 23); and I saw God’s mighty hand and outstretched arm (Psalm 136:12). What an amazing sight—I truly had no need to fear.

‘For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you and to give you a hope and a future’ (Jeremiah 29:11). DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

QB WOMEN

Reflecting on what all this imagery meant for me, I wondered what the walls/borders are in my life. One that stands out to me is that I doubt my ability to do things. In 2001, I had a feeling that one day I would start public speaking. Those who have met me know that I can talk ‘till the cows come home’, but more formal, public speaking is way out of my depth. The thought of God leading me into public speaking ‘haunted’ me for a number of years. I started to do a small amount within my church, always with nervousness and diffidence. By 2011, I had totally ruled out ever doing much in the way of public speaking, except at church. Fast forward to 2016 though and you guessed it … my role at work is now in public speaking. What changed during those five years? In hindsight, I can see that I have learnt to trust God more through a number of circumstances. God has also provided seemingly insignificant

opportunities to build my confidence in a number of areas. The possibility of something so daunting fifteen years ago has turned into something that I know, for sure, God is going to use for His kingdom. Through this experience, I have learnt to trust God more and not to fear the things that at first seem overwhelming. With the new year about to unfold, are you concerned with what 2017 might bring? My prayer is that each one of us will seek to break down those borders that prevent us from trusting God fully. I pray that we will step away from the faith we put in earthly securities. I pray that we will learn to trust God in all that He has planned— the joys, the challenges, the refining, the growth. God’s mighty hand is outstretched for us¬—trust in Him and take those steps of faith. We don’t need to know the detail of what lies ahead. We just need to take one step at a time and trust our almighty God.

‘For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you and to give you a hope and a future’ (Jeremiah 29:11). Shauna Gallagher, a mental health nurse, is married to John, pastor at Coolum Beach Baptist Church. For more information about She is… please contact: Cathy Knechtli State Director Queensland Baptist Women director@sheis.net.au

Degrees in theology and ministry Diploma | Bachelor | Masters | Doctoral

developing Christians of influence “Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding” Jeremiah 3:15

www.malyon.edu.au

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

QCCC

A PASSIONATE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE When we provide people with an immersive experience of Creation, regardless of where they might be on their spiritual journey, beauty and wonder speak for the Creator in tones far louder than our intellectual debate ever will (Psalm 19:1-6). Hars Urs von Balthasar suggests: ‘Beauty is the word that shall be our first. Beauty is the last thing which the thinking intellect dares to approach, since only it dances as an uncontained splendor around the double constellation of the True and the Good and their inseparable relation to one another.

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We no longer dare to believe in beauty and we make of it a mere appearance in order the more easily to dispose of it. Beauty is the disinterested one, without which the ancient world refused to understand itself, a word which both imperceptibly and yet unmistakably has bid farewell to our new world, a world of interests, leaving it to its own avarice and sadness. No longer loved or fostered by religion, beauty is lifted from its face as a mask, and its absence exposes features on that face which threaten to become incomprehensible to man. We can be sure that whoever sneers at her name as if she were the ornament of a bourgeois

past—whether he admits it or not—can no longer pray and soon will no longer be able to love.’ Michael Battle writes, ‘Many children growing up in the West no longer play in nature where they could learn firsthand about the intricacies of the interdependence of life—rather the norm has become video monitors in which they encounter self-identity through cyber worlds or once removed realities’. Bruce Dunning’s work in God of Adventure outlines how the majority of God’s interaction with humanity resembles Outdoor Education through

QCCC

the use of space and liminality to bring about life-changing experiences, and a good portion of Jesus’ ministry was conducted around meals or fireside chats with His disciples; much like a modern-day expedition program. Outdoor Education is one of the ways church can operate within the Creation mandate (Genesis 1:28). This mandate provides the starting point for any spiritual journey by answering the question: ‘Is there even a God?’ For too long this space has been the domain of environmentalists espousing views denying both design and God’s original intention for humanity’s work and enterprise. We are made in the image of God to steward His world, using our creativity and talents. Christian camping ministries are taking this space back. QCCC has been fortunate to enjoy the longevity and loyal stewardship of Neil Robinson, who over 25 years has built our Outdoor Education programs up to their success today. Neil’s contribution was recently recognised when he was named a finalist in the Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation awards, the equivalent of the Oscars or Grammys for Outdoor Education in Queensland. Neil has built QCCC’s Outdoor Education program from a one-man

operation to one of the State’s largest providers where, for most of the school year, QCCC employs an army of up to 30 Outdoor Education instructors to grow wonder and creativity. His home base QCCC Mapleton is easily the single largest provider of Outdoor Education programs in Queensland. Neil is a tremendous example of the focus Queensland Baptists has on discipleship. QCCC staff are trained in all aspects of Outdoor Education so they can follow their group through all activities, maximising the relationship with students and providing consistency. Over two decades he has personally trained scores of instructors to a very high level, the majority of whom remain in the industry because they have been given a priceless passion for their work. Whether they are working for QCCC or other providers all around the world, Neil has created a legacy of excellent instructors. The comment most often made about instructors trained by Neil is ‘they go the extra mile’. He is also renowned for his attention to detail, high level of care, and the expectation that all staff will embrace the highest level of service delivery. This has contributed significantly to the fact that in 20 years of Outdoor Education given to hundreds of thousands of participants, QCCC has never experienced a ‘major incident’.

Despite the busyness of his everyday responsibilities, Neil still regularly takes the opportunity to teach guest groups, his careful and engaging style still a fine example of teaching and instruction. He’s lost none of his excellence. He leads from the front. Neil has given two decades of his life to the passionate pursuit of excellence in Outdoor Education and has mentored many more to do the same. When he commenced in the industry he was one of a handful of hardy pioneers blessed with a vision for how Outdoor Education could enrich the lives of many. Now QCCC, and by extension Queensland Baptists, enjoys a respected place of leadership in the Outdoor Education industry, advocates for the beauty of God’s Creation to tens of thousands of people annually. Next time you visit QCCC Mapleton, be sure to commend Neil and his team for their excellent representation of our movement to our wider society. Andrew Grant Director of Queensland Conference and Camping Centres andrew.grant@qccc.com.au www.qccc.com.au

One of the jewels in QCCC’s Outdoor Education crown is a private display of butterflies, said to be superior to the collection held by the Queensland Museum. It’s a wonderful collection of the complexity and intricacy of God’s design and is extensively used in many of QCCC’s programs. We know private collectors often look for a ‘home’ for their cherished collections where they can be viewed by the public. If you have, or know of someone with, a private collection of butterflies, insects or lapidary which could be used to further God’s Kingdom, please contact Andrew Grant to discuss an arrangement.

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

MTQ

WHO CAN START A CHURCH?

In Acts 11:19-30, the Bible records something remarkable. Ordinary followers of Jesus started a church … or churches. Their names are withheld, probably because they wouldn’t have meant anything to anyone. Not beyond the locals in ancient Antioch, anyway. We know their region-of-origin, generally speaking. They were part of the ‘scattering’ in connection with the persecution of Stephen in Jerusalem (Acts 11:19). The disciples of Jesus fled to far-away places—like Antioch. We also know they weren’t fully-

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credentialed Apostles. By that I mean, they weren’t specially authorised by Jesus and honoured by the early church as were the Eleven and Paul. Yet arguably they evidenced an ‘apostolic-type’ ministry. Reggie McNeal, in ‘Revolution in Leadership’, gave the following descriptors of ‘apostolic’ leaders: a) Visionary. They have a compelling vision of what God wants to do in their community. b) Missional. Decisions and behaviours are oriented towards reaching people.

c) Empowering. Leadership is valued and shared among God’s people (not just a few ‘professionals’). d) Entrepreneurial. They organised, risked and went for new growth. e) Kingdom-conscious. They focused on disciple-making not institutionbuilding. These traits are discernible in the pioneering of these unnamed disciples. They were visionary. They saw that God had plans and purposes beyond Jerusalem, Judea and even Samaria (Acts 1:8)! They saw Antioch as more

MTQ

than a regrettable stop-over on a soonas-possible return trip to Judea. They got out and about. They were probably looking for work or starting up businesses. And they were captivated by a compelling vision of God’s heart for Antiochans; even Greeks! They were missional. In all probability, these nameless apostle-types identified as Jews—in culture and spiritual history. What seems unprecedented is their spontaneous willingness to cross cultural divides in order to reach mono-cultural Greek people. People with no, or very little, experience of the Jewish way and their Holy Book. [1] The Mission of God was to reach them. They were empowering. Obviously, they, themselves, felt empowered to forge something different; something new. They didn’t wait for permission from HQ in Jerusalem. This meant no disrespect. Clearly, the Holy Spirit had endowed them with vision and energy for this, as promised (Acts 1:8). Anyway, the Lord’s hand was with them, who could deny (Acts 11:21). They were entrepreneurial. F.F. Bruce called them, ‘daring spirits’. They were innovators. They tailored the message to the audience. F.F. Bruce also commented: ‘To present him as Messiah to people who knew nothing of the hope of Israel would have been a meaningless exercise, but the Greek terms kyrios (Lord) and soter (Savior) were widely current in the religious world of the eastern Mediterranean.’ They used concepts meaningful to the recipients so that their message about Jesus could be comprehended and apprehended.

And, they were kingdom-conscious. They understood that Christ was for all people, in all cultures, for all time. It was Christ they represented, not Jerusalem. This Christ-focus was so obvious that disciples were first nicknamed ‘Christians’ there (Acts 11:26). God did something ground-breaking through these anonymous, apostolictype believers. So much so, that word got back to HQ in Jerusalem and they deployed Barnabas to check things out (Acts 11:22). He added so much value to the mission! And, in a strategic master-stroke, he recruited the Apostle Paul to fortify their faith through teaching (Acts 11:25-26). So, who can start a church? The answer must include ordinary disciples of Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, with an apostolic-edge to their calling. People like this can start churches anywhere. Everywhere. Chad Brand wrote of North American, Southern Baptist Churches: ‘…the growth of the churches and the spread of the gospel in an entrepreneurial manner, especially in the South. Several factors led to this. One, Baptist churches in the South were autonomous bodies, which meant that they did not have to wait for denominational machinery, which can grind slowly, to endorse or catch up with church growth. They just went out and started new churches. Two, many Baptist ministers were bivocational … which meant that there were more ministers in the churches and that they had greater flexibility for relocating. Three, the Baptist seminaries in the South continued

to serve their churches and did not become independent “divinity schools” … This kept them more evangelical and tied to ministerial training and not just educating scholars … In other words, as America’s entrepreneurial engine was marching west and spreading its wings, Baptists were also marching west and spreading the gospel.’[2] We need apostolic-type people to start innovative churches. You may not make a name for yourself, but, Godwilling, the Lord’s hand will be with you! Reprinted with permission: Read more about Red Dirt Religion at https:// reddirtreligion.wordpress.com/author/ warrenbcrank/ Warren Crank QB Regional Consultant warren.crank@ qb.org.au The primary purpose of MTQ (formerly Mission to Queensland) is to see identified groups of Queenslanders reached and discipled in Christ. MTQ’s primary belief is that healthy Baptist churches participate in establishing new faith communities and its primary role is to be the catalyst within Queensland Baptists for the birthing of healthy faith communities. For more information about MTQ, please contact: Colin Stoodley Leader, MTQ colin.stoodley@ qb.org.au

[1] F. F. Bruce assumes this to be the case, while John Stott cautions that the question of the exact identity of these ‘Greeks’ has ‘long occupied scholars’. [2] ‘A Baptist Primer on Work, Economics and Civil Stewardship’.

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QB ARCHIVES ‘For the New Zealand church it was a dispersed church and independent culture which brought their Union to try and centralise the vision and plans for the whole. In Queensland the Union is promoting and providing a platform for interdependence, but still an independent culture can be seen developing. In both cases, addressing these cultures by investigating the Scriptural basis for what churches believe and practise is the key, not reacting to culture contexts.’

L-R: Prize presentation winner Dean Sandham and Eric Kopittke, President BHQ

Dean Sandham wins essay prize The 6th Baptist Heritage Qld (BHQ) Essay Prize was presented at the annual meeting of BHQ on Saturday 29 October by the president, Mr Eric Kopittke. The winner for 2016 was Dean Sandham, a pastor at Birkdale and Cannon Hill Baptist Churches. The prize is awarded by BHQ for the student gaining the top marks for the essay set in the unit on Baptist History and Principles by Malyon College. This course is offered as an intensive every two years, especially for students seeking ordination. The winner receives a cash prize, books published by BHQ and membership in the society. The essay topic this year required students to respond to a statement made by a New Zealand Baptist Union Leader in 2009 claiming that the commitment by Baptist churches to the well-known principle of local church autonomy was not so much the result of biblical teaching but of historical influences in the 16th century, namely, the Anabaptist

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movement in Europe. The students were asked to evaluate this claim and discuss the relevance of this issue to the Queensland situation. Dean’s essay, which won by a clear margin from other students, pointed out that the statement under review ‘raised the questions of a correct understanding of Baptist origins, a correct understanding of New Testament values for ecclesiology and how much the local culture and religious context influences individuals, and churches, interpretations of Baptist distinctives and Scripture.’ However, after examining various historical developments, he disagreed with the conclusions of the NZ speaker, stating that, ‘Baptists have traditionally held to the lordship of Christ and the authority of Scripture as distinctives which hold together the rest [of the other Baptist distinctives].’ He emphasised that ‘it was with a high regard for New Testament values that a Baptist ecclesiology was formed’. He concluded it was ‘cultural influences which ultimately create[d] the hindrance’ warned against in the statement:

The full text of the essay was published in the August issue of the BHQ newsletter, QB Forum, copies of which are available for $2 posted or by donation as a PDF. Contact BHQ.

Western Bulldogs 2016 Premiers—The Baptist connection One of the keenest supporters of the 2016 AFL premiers, the Western Bulldogs, who never lived to see them win a premiership, would have been cheering wildly when they won the grand final this year. He was the Rev Joseph Hunter Goble (1863-1932), a leading Baptist minister in Victoria. Goble played a major role in forging Baptist federation and became the first President of the Baptist Union of Australia. He was a keen supporter of the Footscray Football Club (now called the Western Bulldogs), which entered the VFL in 1877. As Goble died in 1932, the team never won a premiership in his lifetime. Its first premiership was in 1954 and this year Goble’s team rose to glory again by winning its second premiership. Joseph Goble and his mother lived in poverty in his early years, and he left school and worked in factories and on the railways before he gained an apprenticeship as a compositor. He joined the Printers Union, later rising to president of the Union.

He was converted to Christianity at the age of 15 years and soon became a Sunday school teacher and open-air preacher, where he quickly gained a reputation as a stirring and dramatic preacher totally devoid of self-importance. He especially attracted workers normally indifferent to formal religion. In 1895, a delegation from the Footscray Baptist Church visited him at his workplace and asked him to become their pastor. His pastorate commenced on 3 March 1895. His wife died of typhoid fever in 1897 and he never remarried. He returned to his studies and was ordained in 1900.

Leave a legacy to honour their memory.

By 1902, the membership of the Footscray church had trebled, the church building was twice enlarged and the Sunday school was the largest in the denomination. Evening services were held in the Federal Hall and attracted audiences in excess of 2,000. He refused to accept a stipend greater than the average working wage and he gave most of his money to the needy. He was an imposing man of 6 ft 4 in (193 cm) and was a familiar and much-loved figure around the Footscray district as he conducted his visitations on his specially reinforced bicycle. There are many wonderful stories of his loving generosity: on one of his rides around Footscray during the depression, he came across a barefoot man who was going for a job interview. Goble took off his shoes and socks and gave them to him to improve his chances of success. When Goble died in 1932 the citizens of Footscray erected a life-size marble statue of him on the Geelong Road in Footscray. I visited Footscray a few years ago to see his church and the statue. In one shop I asked if they knew the way to the Goble statue; it was a pharmacy, but the chemist did not know and did not even know the name ‘Goble’. When I left the shop, I looked up and saw that the building in which the shop was located was called the ‘Goble Building’! Hopefully Joseph Hunter Goble will be remembered much longer in Baptist circles around Australia. Bill Hughes

When you arrange a funeral through Bethel Funerals, you can create hope from the sadness. Because Bethel is a ‘not for profit’ company, we actively invest back into mission, humanitarian and community work. So your loved one will be honoured with a legacy that can make a real contribution. A legacy that leaves behind more than memories. To find out more, go to bethelfunerals.com.au or call us on 07 3219 9333

Q CCC

QUEENSLAND CONFERENCE AND CAMPING CENTRES

DISCOVER QCCC TAMBORINE Situated in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland, we have 4 venues that would be perfect for hosting your next family camp, youth retreat or men’s and women’s getaways. From delicious meals to comfortable accommodation, we have everything to provide your guests with a memorable experience. Contact us now!

Contact for more information Baptist Church Archives archives@qb.org.au Phone 07 3354 5642, 07 3878 3178

www.qccc.com.au bookings@tamborine.qccc.com.au 07 5545 1417

CARINITY

I NEED TO SEE A CHAPLAIN

At age 20, Leigh was a successful store manager at McDonald’s and was ‘on top of the world’ when he moved out of home. Like many young people, he got caught up in the clubbing scene, partying and getting into drugs. He started selling them initially to support his own habit, but over time, selling drugs turned into a profitable business. He bought a house and was living the high life until, one day, he was surprised by a police raid. In an instant, life as he had known it, was over. During the ensuing two-year court case, he realised the gravity of what he had done and the effect it had on those closest to him. He attended drug counselling before he was finally sentenced for drug trafficking. Leigh served his sentence at Wacol and Palen Creek, working in the prison laundry. Nine weeks before he was to be released, his girlfriend, who had supported him through the court case and sentence, ended their relationship. That Sunday, Leigh’s DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

visitors didn’t turn up and he was at an all-time low. There were no drugs or parties to distract him from the emptiness he felt inside. Somehow, as if driven by a force not his own, he got out of bed and walked through the prison to the guards and said, ‘I need to see a chaplain’.

to be a personal trainer. His struggles reintegrating into society after prison have inspired him to develop a program to help other ex-inmates. He plans to use the skills he gains from studying personal training to offer a holistic approach to assist others in healing mind, body and soul.

Sitting and talking with Inside Out prison chaplains David and John, Leigh felt a weight lift from his shoulders and a peace started to warm his heart. It was a feeling he hadn’t experienced for many years.

Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy has been providing effective and coordinated pastoral care in correctional centres since 1978. In July 2016, it became part of Carinity. You can help prisoners like Leigh by giving to Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy through the 2016 Carinity Christmas Appeal. Please visit www.carinity.org.au/donations, phone 07 3550 3737 or mail Reply Paid 6164 Mitchelton QLD 4053.

Leigh was released on Christmas Eve 2015. It didn’t take long to get back into old haunts. Reconnecting with his partying friends made it all too easy to drift. But this time was different. Leigh saw this lifestyle for the empty shell that it was. It didn’t hold hope or a future for him. He started going to church and embraced his new life of hope and faith. Leigh was baptised at Beenleigh Baptist Church and is now studying

www.carinity.org.au

THE TRAINING COLLABORATIVE

NEW COURSES FOR PASTORS AND PLANTERS In 2017, The Training Collaborative (TCC) will introduce two new training streams to equip people for pastoral ministry in Queensland Baptist churches. The Diploma of Christian Ministry and Theology – Church Planting and The Diploma of Christian Ministry and Theology – Pastoral Ministry will be part of TTC’s suite of training for people seeking to be equipped through the Vocational and Education Training (VET) sector. These two streams have been designed through consultation with pastors and ministry leaders who have identified the critical areas of formation of knowledge, skills and character for people commencing in pastoral ministry in pioneering settings (church plants) and in established churches. Queensland Baptists (QB) is keen to deliver ministry training for all people who are preparing for, or already engaged in, pastoral ministry. Malyon College offers one form of

training, and with the addition of these courses through TTC, QB is catering for people who may benefit from a different style and approach to learning. These new qualifications meet the training requirements for registration as a QB pastor. TCC Principal, Andrew McCafferty, explains: ‘These new streams of training will focus on integrating personal spiritual formation, practical ministry skills and biblical and theological understanding across a range of topics that are foundational for effective pastoral ministry. The courses are intentionally broad in the subject matters they cover so as to give new pastors a solid base on which to grow their knowledge and skills through further training,’ Andrew said. The courses are delivered online, with some subjects offered as optional face-to-face intensives. They take into consideration people who are looking

to fit study and training alongside their normal life responsibilities of ministry, work and family. These two training streams complement TTC’s existing ministry training stream directed at people in leadership in QB’s Ethnic churches. All of these qualifications are nationally recognised. For further information about the Diploma of Christian Ministry and Theology contact TTC on 1300 774 531, admin@ trainingcollaborative.org.au or online at www.trainingcollaborative.org.au Andrew McCafferty CEO/Principal The Training Collaborative (formerly CALAM Training) Ph: 07 3354 5681 / 0427 004 601

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

GLOBAL INTERACTION

Presentation to Geoff & Lyn Cramb

BELIEVING GOD AND SERVING HOLISTICALLY There are now over 400 local churches within the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea (PNG) since the first Australian Baptist ministry commenced in 1949. Global Interaction Consultant Geoff Cramb works alongside local leaders so they can effectively lead their movement in ‘Believing God and Serving Holistically’. Geoff and his wife, Lyn, were missionaries with the Australian Baptist Missionary Society (Global Interaction’s former name) between 1977 and 1981. Geoff has had a continuing role in PNG for the last 13 years. Recently Geoff and Lyn returned to PNG. Geoff reports: DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

‘Lyn and I are seen as the last of the “old missionaries”. In many ways, the PNG Baptist church is at a transition point in its capacity building. We attended a farewell gathering at Kumbareta, Baiyer Valley—a generous occasion. Representatives were there from the Baiyer Valley, Western Highlands Baptist Union, Enga Baptist Union, Eastern Highlands Baptist Union, Min Baptist Union and many urban churches (Port Moresby, Lae, Madang, Tabubil). The local national parliamentary member, Mr Koi Trape, also attended the occasion. The 500 or so in attendance gave a significant offering towards the Kyaka Enga Bible translation update.’

Very few believers have copies of the Scripture in their language due to losses in tribal fighting and the deterioration of the ‘old’ books. This project is an endeavour to ensure the current Kyaka Enga Bible is linguistically accurate for this generation of Kyaka Enga people of PNG so they are able to access the Word of God in their own language. Through this new access we hope to see their faith strengthened and communities transformed. Thirty-five thousand dollars of the required $65,000 has been raised so far. Revising the translation has

GLOBAL INTERACTION

Recently, 100 delegates from the BUPNG gathered in Mt Hagen for the Annual General Meeting, where Ps Jeffrey Moduwa (Snr Pastor of Tabubil Baptist Church (Ok Tedi) was elected as president, Ps Win Kongoe (Western Highlands Baptist Union) as vice-president, and Joseph Kala (Enga Baptist Union) as treasurer. Please pray for these men as they take up these important roles.

Bible study group

commenced with Sally Burton (in Australia) and Henry Yalu and Susan Trapu (in PNG) using funds to hand. Donations can be made to this important project at www. globalinteraction.org.au/support/ projects/papua-new-guinea/kyakaenga-bible-revision Geoff continues: ‘God is doing a fresh work across the Baptist churches of PNG. Ps Jeffrey Moduwa reports a movement of the Spirit of God in the Telefomin area, where large church buildings are being built to accommodate people. A movement of God’s Spirit is happening among the Min people. Several large new church buildings have been constructed. Tabubil (Ok Tedi mine town) seats about 450 and Sunday congregations spill outdoors. A new church in a settlement is being built to seat 500. Two hundred and fifty folk are already in the congregation. The Community Radio station at Kompiam, run by

Baptists, has undergone repairs and has come back on air.’ In the early 1980s, the national leaders of the churches and Global Interaction began the localisation process, officially handing over responsibility and full management of the Baptist Churches in PNG to the Baptist Union of PNG (BUPNG) in 2001. A mutually beneficial partnership exists between our two organisations to the benefit of people and to the glory of God.

The BUPNG leaders have recently identified the need to develop and deliver units of training for trainers, as well as overseeing the equipping of others, and they have asked Global Interaction for a residential specialist to replace Geoff Cramb. Working closely with the Co-ordinator of Ministry Training, the Director of Ministries and other leaders in the BUPNG, the focus will be equipping of pastors and training of trainers in their departments. Global Interaction has received a few expressions of interest for Geoff’s successor. No actual applicants yet. Please pray. Bob Rogers State Director qld@globalinteraction.org.au www.globalinteraction.org.au

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

LOOKING FOR A CHRISTIAN LAWYER?

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Do you pass on your copy of The qb after you’ve read it? Why not extend its reach and pass it on to a friend, take it when you visit someone, or leave it where it might be picked up and read. qb_Jun

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Print post approv The Queensland ed ISSN: 100003837 Baptist - first This series Vol published in 1890. 14 Issue 2.

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Or order extra copies to add to your welcome packs for visitors to your church. It’s a great resource for demonstrating what being a part of Queensland Baptists is all about. And if you have friends or acquaintances overseas, don’t forget they can read The qb online at qb.org.au/news-media/

www.qb.org. au 18/04/2016

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BWAA

EXTRAVAGANT GENEROSITY The Kamba tribe has a saying: ‘share a bird together’. And when I met Josephine earlier this year while visiting some of our projects in the Kitui County in Kenya, I experienced this incredible saying for myself. The birds that the Kamba tribe regularly eat are small, but the Kamba culture encourages its people to share what they have with one another, regardless of the amount or size. At its heart, the act of sharing a bird (or a meal) with a visitor is all about generosity. And the Kamba tribe believe that by sharing what is available with a visitor to your home, you are blessing them generously. For many years, Josephine and her husband struggled to put food on the table. Josephine is a farmer and mum of six children. Her husband, when he’s lucky enough to find work, is employed as a casual labourer, in a city far away from home. Try as they might, there was just never enough money to make ends meet. Rains in Kenya are infrequent and this often meant that it was difficult for Josephine to grow enough food to feed her six children. ‘The dry period is from June to October, which is the period of famine,’ Josephine explains. ‘It actually happens yearly because the rains have always been below (what is needed) for us to harvest enough food for a whole year.’ Can you imagine what it must be like? To toil day after day on your land

knowing that, no matter how hard you work, it will never be enough? This is what life was like for Josephine, until our Christian partner, Anglican Development Services Eastern, began working in her community. They gave her farming training and taught her to plant drought-resistant crops on terraces to conserve soil and increase irrigation. These simple techniques helped her to multiply her crop yield 18 times! In just four short years, with the support of Australians like you, Josephine has completely transformed life for her family. She is harvesting more food than ever, she has received training in animal care and now receives a small payment to look after the cows in her neighbourhood, and she has started a small shop in her village. Hers is a wonderful story of strength, determination, and transformation … but it was Josephine’s generosity that moved me most. Before I sat down to share the customary ‘bird’ with Josephine (in this case a delicious spread of mangoes, maize and bottled water from her shop) she paused to say grace … and it brought me undone. What she prayed that day was a genuine prayer of thanks. And, as I listened, I understood that she meant it with all her heart. In that instant, Josephine’s experience of poverty became a brutal reality in my mind. There had been times in her life when food was scarce. She’d lived through disaster and through famine … and regularly faced

the heartbreak of having to send her children to bed with empty stomachs. And yet, instead of storing her food away for the next hungry season, Josephine, who has so very little herself, chose to share the best of that little with me … a stranger who she’d only just met. I later asked Josephine what it was that motivated her to be so generous. ‘It is good to be generous because all things are provided by God,’ she said. ‘He wants them shared with our neighbours and friends (so we can) celebrate with them the little we have since God is our provider. The Bible says the hand that gives is blessed.’ What extravagant generosity! This Christmas, Baptist World Aid is celebrating the extravagant generosity of our God, who loves us so much that He gave us a Saviour we did not deserve. Can I encourage you, as Josephine encouraged me, to reflect God’s generosity? Share your blessing this Christmas with the families who live in the world’s poorest homes. Give to the Baptist World Aid Christmas Appeal today and help families like Josephine’s to transform their lives. Go to: baptistworldaid.org.au/christmas-appeal Samara Linehan BWAA Communications Coordinator

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

CHRISTMAS

Peace on earth The shepherds must have been quite overwhelmed and awestruck that night when the heavenly host gathered to praise God proclaiming, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests’ (Luke 2:14). A quick reflection on world events over the past 12 months reveals the world still needs peace as much now as ever. In every nation and every community there is much pain and suffering, sorrow and injustice, sickness, violence and poverty.

We long for peace, and not just any peace. We long for a peace greater than just the end of hostilities, but one where justice is done and the human heart is changed. Sixty years ago, during the Montgomery bus boycott in 1955, American Baptist pastor, Martin Luther King Jr, proclaimed, ‘True peace is not merely the absence of tension: it is the presence of justice’. This is the peace the world needs and it is the peace the angels sang about. Yet, such a peace is hard to come by. Even in my own life I find it uncomfortably easy to slip from peace to hostility.

There is something deep within our hearts that draws us away from mutual benefit for all too selfish ambition. We are controlled, the Bible tells us, by a predisposition to selfishness and rebellion, which it calls sin. The effects are felt across the world, in nations, communities, families and our own hearts. At Christmas we celebrate the beginning of God’s great intervention to bring peace to the world. To do so God does not arbitrate, legislate, or send an army. Rather, in a totally counterintuitive move, God sent his Son as a human being – a fragile, dependent baby Jesus. His task was to

And that’s what Advent is about; a celebration of Christ’s first coming and an anticipation of his second.

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

CHRISTMAS

proclaim, teach, model and eventually bring peace to the world. His great command is ‘love one another’. For all he did and said he was crucified on a Roman cross. Yet through his death, in a deft move of supreme justice, God brought judgment upon sin and at the same time paid the penalty for that sin. God’s forgiveness is the foundation and heart of peace. Advent is that time in the year when we celebrate again the coming of Jesus. We are in a very different place to those shepherds, however. We are more like the droves of people who

heard and responded to the words of John the Baptist, to ‘prepare the way for the Lord’ (Matthew 3:3). In doing so we encourage each other in welcoming Jesus into the world and into our lives. John’s baptism was an outward show to prepare for the Messiah by repentance—turning around from past sin and moving in a new direction. So as we approach this new season of welcoming Jesus, selfexamination is key. Let us acknowledge our need of Jesus ... because he is the only one who can bring true peace to our lives, our community and our world.

Reprinted with kind permission: https://stephenlbaxter.wordpress.com/2015/12/07/peace-on-earth/

On the morning Jesus was born, the angels sang because hope, true hope, was also born that day. God had embarked on an audacious plan to bring peace, righteousness and joy to the world once, and for all (Romans 14:17). In a sense it is still coming and we are still waiting. And that’s what Advent is about; a celebration of Christ’s first coming and an anticipation of his second. Stephen Baxter is the Senior Pastor at Hobart Baptist Church, a business coach and mentor. Stephen and his wife, Jenny, are guest speakers at QB Convention 2017.

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

CHRISTMAS

This Christmas child Watch him. Watch him. Watch this child, who grows into a boy, who grows into a man, and is found to be so much more. Watch him. Watch as he is born—with angelic visitations, amongst farmers and seekers and bright lights in the sky. Watch as he grows in favour and stature—as a youngster asking questions, giving answers, astounding teachers. Watch him in the desert—a young man in prayer, with hunger and parched lips, and a calling from heaven. Watch this 30-something northerner—with his heavy accent and unrefined style; with a complex story and a questionable history; with his calloused hands and wood shavings in his hair. He grew up with Galilee ‘pagans’, his parents nearly never married, his brothers once thought him unbalanced, and the locals once drove him out of town. Yet watch his authority, his acceptance, his patience; watch the invisible currents around him that draw a flock of souls to his side. DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

Watch him with the people—Jews, Romans and Samaritans. Watch him touch the leper, heal the diseased, cleanse the impure. Watch him confront the proud, release the afflicted and feed a multitude. Watch him teach the crowds to forgive enemies and pray always. Watch him call for people who will walk his ‘narrow road’. Watch as some scoff, some follow and some hide. Watch the response he draws from friend and foe alike. To some he inspires wonder, in others he arouses awe; to some he is a pest and heretic, a revolutionary to be heard no more.

Watch as he gasps and he cries and he prays. ‘Forgive them,’ he pleads, ‘for they know not what they do.’

Watch him as he kneels—in a garden, and in anguish. ‘Father, if it is possible, may this cup pass from my hand. But not my will but yours be done.’ Radical submission to the heavenly plan.

This Christmas child.

Watch as the Christ of God is betrayed with a kiss—from a friend, from a follower, with his army brandishing swords. Watch, as they arrest him, as his ‘closest’ friends flee; watch as he submits to a fate sketched out before time. Watch as they spit and they hit and they ridicule. Watch as they pin him to two bits of wood.

Watch as one final breath slips from his lips—the sins of the world on the shoulders of a man. Then watch, yes watch, as the stone’s rolled away; an empty tomb ringing hollow, for he indeed is alive! Watch as his name and his fame fills the world. This God, this man, this boy.

Reprinted with kind permission: http:// sheridanvoysey.com/this-christmas-child/ Sheridan Voysey’s latest books include Resurrection Year: Turning Broken Dreams into New Beginnings, and Resilient: Your Invitation to a JesusShaped Life. He will be touring Australia in May 2017, speaking at Lifepointe Baptist Church, Buderim, on May 20-21. www.sheridanvoysey.com/ itinerary

CALLED HOME

Lance Hogg 6 June 1926 – 25 October 2016 Hope Hogg 12 March 1925 – 26 October 2016 A joint funeral was held at Annerley Baptist Church for muchloved couple Lance and Hope Hogg who passed away within 24 hours of each other as a result of illness. The church was filled with those who remembered them fondly and wished to express their support to their five children, 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Lance Hogg, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday was a champion for God and Queensland Baptists over many years. A statement from QB given to the family, says (in part): ‘Lance’s ministry to Queensland Baptists was significant. He has served in the following roles: • Treasurer of The Baptist Union of Queensland from 1975– 1978 • Member of Executive Council from 1989–2001 • Member of Ministerial Services from circa 1990 for over 20 years • Auditor for approximately 30 years. ‘Lance approached all of these roles with a ministry heart. Life Membership was conferred on him by the Baptist Assembly in 1992. A further Minute of Appreciation was passed by the Assembly in 2009 recognising the invaluable contribution Lance had made to Queensland Baptists. ‘We are aware of the support that Hope was to him and her creation of a home environment that allowed Lance to function in the way he did.

‘Lance approached all of these roles with a ministry heart. Rather than merely question an action, an attitude or a financial figure, through astute questioning, he would seek to understand each issue in the context of the ministry at hand. As an auditor he needed an eye for detail but he was able to keep the detail in the context of the ‘big picture’. He was searching and precise in his approach but always maintained a courteous and pleasant disposition. ‘Lance stands as key a person who came to us at a pivotal time bringing a wealth of expertise from his life as a man of God with a servant heart that has enriched the work of God in Queensland Baptists.’ Our hearts go out to the family and friends of Lance and Hope, as well as to those who have been associated with Annerley Baptist Church in the past and present who have been blessed by their ministry.

Sharlene Joy Hunter 20 December 1952 – 13 September 2016 Sharlene was born in Brisbane, the youngest child of Clive and Mavis Cooke. Her mother had a stroke a few hours after the birth, so Sharlene’s grandmother took the new baby home to Maroochydore to care for her, and she lived with her grandparents until she was nearly five years old. Sharlene developed a very strong bond and deep love for her grandparents. She enjoyed attending school at Wavell Heights. She loved her teachers, made friends easily, and she loved music and sport. Later, after business college training, Sharlene commenced her 40-year career working in a variety of office roles. At 17, she met Geoff Hunter in the church youth group and the couple married in 1972. After living in Brisbane for most of their married life, in 2001 they moved to Twin Waters on the Sunshine Coast where they worshipped with the Goodlife Community Baptist Church.

In a Minute of Appreciation for Lance Hogg at the 2009 Assembly of Queensland Baptists, it is recorded:

Life was always busy. Sharlene loved to serve in her local church. She had various roles over the years, but the couple’s great love was music, and for over 40 years they were involved in Christian music together. In 1997, Sharlene was invited onto the speaking panel for Christian Women Communicating International, so for the next 16 years, she and Geoff travelled around South East Queensland as she was invited to speak at various functions.

‘Lance is recognised as a man of distinguished character. He has been appropriately described as godly, self-effacing, wise, gracious, and encouraging. As someone who takes a personal interest in those with whom he makes contact, Lance has acted as a mentor—formally and informally—to many around him. His godly advice was well received and heeded by those with whom he talked, whether it was in private conversation or in an interview in Ministerial Services. In this setting, Lance has demonstrated that he is a judicious evaluator of character, but always seeking out the best in others.

In 2010, Sharlene was diagnosed with endometrial cancer which was, thankfully, caught early. This led her to help facilitate a gynaecological cancer support group on the Sunshine Coast. In February, she was diagnosed with cancer of the pancreas. When Sharlene faced her cancer episodes, she took great comfort in knowing that God had everything under control—that before she was born, God knew the day of her birth, and He knew the day she would die. She just needed to put her trust in Him, and not worry. We offer our sincere condolences to Sharlene’s family and friends.

‘Queensland Baptists is a better movement because of the contribution of Lance and Hope. Today we thank God for His gift of these servants to us.’

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

PERSECUTION BRIEF

PLEASE PRAY! FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH AROUND THE WORLD There are 50 countries listed on the World Watch List, an annual report published by Open Doors that ranks where it is most difficult to profess and practice the Christian faith. The ten countries where persecution of Christians is most severe are: 1. North Korea 2. Iraq 3. Eritrea 4. Afghanistan 5. Syria 6. Pakistan 7. Somalia 8. Sudan 9. Iran 10. Libya Please pray for them! Source: www.worldwatchmonitor.org

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there (in Bethlehem), the time came for the baby to be born, and Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to the shepherds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lordâ&#x20AC;? (Luke 2:1-11).

PHOTOGRAPHIC & ART COMPETITION

Baplink has recently moved into new offices at the QB Centre, Brisbane, and we would like to fill our walls with representations of Queensland Baptists, by Queensland Baptists. We are inviting all photographers and artists to contribute to the Baplink Photographic and Art Competition. Photographers of any age and experience can get involved. The theme for the Baplink Photographic & Art Competition is to capture the growth of Queensland Baptist Churches, through its people, place or buildings. We will be awarding the following prizes: First Prize Adult: $150 Koorong voucher Second Prize Adult: $100 Koorong voucher Third Prize Adult: $50 Koorong voucher First Prize Child: $150 Koorong voucher Second Prize Child: $100 Koorong voucher Third Prize Child: $50 Koorong voucher

Please submit your photograph or image of your artwork to Baplink at baplink@baplink. org.au or PO Box 6166 Mitchelton QLD 4053 by 31 December 2016. Winning artworks and photographs will be displayed at the Baplink office at 37 Redgum Place, Gaythorne, and announced in the February issue of The qb magazine.

Join the growing number of Baptists making a difference by partnering with Baplinkâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;a ministry of Queensland Baptists. Baplink provides the means to make money work for the Kingdom of God by offering a range of services for Queensland Baptist individuals, churches and affiliated organisations. Through Baplink, you can finance your vision for outreach and ministry! Baplink works because people are willing to invest their money, as well as their time and prayers, in the ministry and projects of their local church. From its pool of funds, Baplink offers concessional loans to churches, ministers and Queensland Baptistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; facilities and projects, such as aged care facilities, church worship centres, schools, community welfare and more.

Full terms and conditions on our website and on the entry form.

1800 650 062

baplink@baplink.org.au www.baplink.org.au

REVIEWS: BOOKS, DVDS, MUSIC

CD – THESE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS MATT REDMAN $14.99 AT KOORONG

Matt Redman, the acclaimed worship leader and writer behind the worship anthems ‘10,000 Reasons’, ‘Blessed Be Your Name’ and ‘Better Is One Day’, is releasing his very first Christmas album. Written while on a pilgrimage to Bethlehem, Redman drew inspiration from the Holy Land. That locale and surroundings yielded a stirring collection of Christmas-inspired worship songs, perfect for celebrating the true reason for the season. - Koorong

DVD: BEN HUR $24.99 AT KOORONG

The epic story of Judah Ben-Hur (Jack Huston), a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother Messala (Toby Kebbell), an officer in the Roman army. Stripped of his title, separated from his family and the woman he loves (Nazanin Boniadi), Judah is forced into slavery. After years at sea, Judah returns to his homeland to seek revenge, but finds redemption. Based on Lew Wallace’s timeless novel, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. Also starring Morgan Freeman and Rodrigo Santoro. - Koorong

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

BOOK: THE REWIRED BRAIN BOOK – MAKING SENSE OF GOD: AN INVITATION TO THE SCEPTICAL TIMOTHY J KELLER $24.99 AT KOORONG

We live in an age of scepticism. Our society places such faith in empirical reason, historical progress, and heartfelt emotion that it’s easy to wonder: Why should anyone believe in Christianity? What role can faith and religion play in our modern lives? In this thoughtful and inspiring new book, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Timothy Keller invites sceptics to consider that Christianity is more relevant now than ever. As human beings, we cannot live without meaning, satisfaction, freedom, identity, justice, and hope. Christianity provides us with unsurpassed resources to meet these needs. Written for both the ardent believer and the sceptic, Making Sense of God shines a light on the profound value and importance of Christianity in our lives. - Koorong

www.koorong.com

BOOK – IN SEARCH OF JAPAN’S HIDDEN CHRISTIANS $24.99 AT KOORONG

The story of Japan’s hidden Christians is the subject of a major motion picture by director Martin Scorsese, based on Shusaku Endo’s famous novel, Silence. From the time the first Christian missionary arrived in Japan in 1549 to when a nationwide ban was issued in 1614, over 300,000 Japanese were converted to Christianity. A vicious campaign of persecution forced the faithful to go underground. For seven generations, Hidden Christians—or Kirishitan—preserved a faith that was strictly forbidden on pain of death. Illiterate peasants handed down the Catholicism that had been taught to their ancestors despite having no Bible or contact with the outside world. Just as remarkably, descendants of the Hidden Christians continue to this day to practise their own religion, refusing to re-join the Catholic Church. Why? And what is it about Christianity that is so antagonistic to Japanese culture? In Search of Japan’s Hidden Christians is an attempt to answer these questions. A journey in both space and time, the book recounts a clash of civilizations— of East and West—that resonates to this day, and offers insights about the tenacity of belief and unchanging aspects of Japanese culture. - Publisher

FUN ZONE

SUBSCRIPTION FORM 2016

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Why not extend its reach and pass it on to a friend, take it when you visit someone, or leave it where it might be picked up and read. Or order extra copies to add to your welcome packs for visitors to your church. It’s a great resource for demonstrating what being a part of Queensland Baptists is all about. And if you have friends or acquaintances overseas, don’t forget they can read The qb online at qb.org.au/news-media/

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3837 in 1890. ISSN: 10000 published approved Print post sland Baptist - first The Queen Vol 13 Issue 5. This series 15.indd

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7/10/2015

10:38 pm

Price: 1 Year $19.50 (GST inclusive) ORDER BY PHONE: 07 3354 5633 - Payment via credit card. COMPLETE THIS FORM & POST BACK: The qb Editor, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton QLD 4053 Australia

SUDOKU CHALLENGE Sudoku rules: Each row, column and block must contain one of the numbers from 1 to 9. No number may appear more than once in any row, column or block. When you’ve filled the entire grid, the puzzle is solved. Sukodu solutions to: QB Magazine, PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Qld 4053

PERSONAL DETAILS

Two correct entries will be chosen to receive a Koorong voucher. Don’t forget to include your full name and contact details.

Rev / Dr / Mr / Mrs / Ms / Miss (circle)

Name

Name Address

Address

State Postcode Phone (

) SOLUTION: 10/16

Email PAYMENT DETAILS

Congratulations to (Sheryl West) and (Netanya Steele) a $30 Koorong voucher is coming your way!

I have enclosed a cheque/money order for $19.50 payable to Queensland Baptist Services Group.

Sudoku puzzle provided by www.sudokuoftheday.com - visit them and get a new Sudoku every day!

OR Please charge my credit card Mastercard / Visa (circle one) Number Expiry Date Signature

EVERYONE … LOOK FOR LITTLE LUCY! Little Lucy is hiding somewhere. Have fun seeking her out. Congratulations! To all those who found Little Lucy hiding on page 28 (Oct/Nov issue).

This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests”. When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about”. So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told (Luke 2:12-20).

The Open Door

Retreat

Queensland Baptists’ Retreat Lodge

Relax

Refresh

The Open Door is situated 30km north of Gympie on Mt Kanigan in a rural setting with spectacular 360

degree views. The complex sleeps 27-30 people in seven bedrooms and one dormitory and there are two kitchens, two lounge rooms, four bathrooms, a dining room and fireplace. Other amenities include a children’s play area and games room (pool and ping-pong tables) and a small meeting room/chapel.

The Open Door is a relaxed, refreshing environment that provides a unique uninterrupted setting for leadership seminars, prayer retreats, team weekends and missionary holidays.

For further information contact: Queensland Baptists Phone: (07) 3354 5600 Email: enquiries@qb.org.au

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

www.qb.org.au

CLASSIFIEDS

POSITIONS VACANT

CHRISTIAN SINGLES

Travel with no single supplement. Register with Integrity Travel. For more information go to www.integritytravel.com.au.

YOUTH PASTOR HERVEY BAY BAPTIST CHURCH Do you believe that the radical message about the transforming love of Jesus Christ has been given to the local church? Does it stir your heart when you think about passing the spiritual torch onto the next generation? Do you see opportunity where others see barriers? Hervey Bay Baptist Church is seeking to recruit an experienced fulltime Youth Pastor for a growing Church of 650+ people, based on the Fraser Coast at Hervey Bay, Queensland. Our regional city continues to grow and we are determined to reach and care for not only those youth who come to HBBC with their families, but for the wider community of young people, desperate for the love of Christ, authentic connection with others and the hope and freedom found in the good news of Jesus Christ. While we are serious about reaching the next generation we seek to do so within the context of our unique demographics. In this we see significant opportunity for true inter-generational ministry that will impact and deepen the faith of GenYs and also our Silent /Baby Boomer generations. This role will oversee the strategy for our Youth, Young Adults and Kids’ Ministries as well as take an active role in training and mentoring leaders. In addition, we are seeking to raise the lid on our Sunday Night ministry so that it effectively connects our youth and young adults to God. Significant opportunity to team preach will also be available to the right candidate. Remuneration: as per Baptist Union of Queensland Ministerial Remuneration guidelines.

ACCOMMODATION BRISBANE: House available as a ministry for missionaries and church workers on the move. Three bedrooms, fully furnished, everything provided. Bus stop at the door. Minimal rent. Email: gtho4536@bigpond.net.au CALOUNDRA - GOLDEN BEACH: Highset three bedroom holiday home. Weekends or weekly. Pets OK. Close to beach. Phone 0402 077 822 or lizottaway15@gmail.com. CALOUNDRA: Sunshine Coast, Qld, beachside units from $400/wk, ph 0427 990 161.

FOR HIRE LARGE AUDITORIUM: Seats 290. Queensland Baptists’ Centre at Gaythorne. Phone Sharon, 07 3354 5600 for more information or visit www.qb.com.au – venue hire.

For a copy of the application package, including position description and instructions on how to apply, please email Church Ministry Facilitator, Joanne Lambden at email info@joannelambden.com.au Applications close 19 December, 2016 at 3.00pm

INTEGRITY TRAVEL

Book all of your holidays and travel with Integrity Travel and help missions. Tours & specials at www.integritytravel.com.au Ph 07 3142 2242 for more information and bookings.

DEC/JAN 2017 ::: QB.ORG.AU

No-one gets out of jail free People in prison are someone’s son, daughter, father, mother, brother, sister or friend. They have made poor choices, so they are in need of spiritual guidance more than most. Upon release they face hard decisions and tough challenges. They can follow the example of Jesus Christ or drift back into their old ways that may lead them back to prison. This cycle costs society a lot of money and resources. Carinity’s Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy supports people within the prison system and, upon release, connects them with local churches where they are embraced by God’s people. But this service survives on community donations. That’s why we are asking you to support the 2016 Carinity Christmas Appeal. By supporting Inside Out’s mission, you can share the ongoing message of hope that no-one is beyond the Gospel of God’s grace.

Your gift can be made online at carinity.org.au/donations

Your gift can change someone’s life.