The QB Magazine - October 2019

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QB MAGAZINE THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS | OCT/NOV 19

The end of an Era

The Science of Mental Health in the Bible

Prayer: When you feel guilty for not Praying

08

34

40

Print post approved ISSN: 100003837 | The Queensland Baptist - first published in 1890. This series Vol 17 Issue 5. | qb.org.au

CONTENTS

QB MINISTRIES 20

QCCC Everything Worth Having

22

QB Archives Tracking Churches and Pastors

24

QB Women Queensland Baptist’s Women Anew Conferences 2019

26

Mission to Queensland Sandstone Community Church

28

Carinity Families stay connected with Carinity technology

ARTICLES

12

22

32

In Christ you can be Teachable

34

The Science of Mental Health

in the Bible

36

I Belong

4

From the Director

38

Finishing the Book of Life

of QB Services

40

Prayer: When you feel guilty

7

Baptisms

for not praying

8

Vision Series

10

Speaking out: Peter Francis

12

Around the regions

REGULARS

16 Milestones

20

Front Cover: Be transformed anew conference

38

18

God Moments

19

Persecution brief

42

Reviews

44

Fun zone

46

Called Home

47

Classifieds

QB PARTNERS 29 BWAA

Big news about your big

hearted gifts 30

Global Interaction God’s Perfect Timing

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 3

FROM THE DIRECTOR OF QB SERVICES

THE LAST HOUSE There was a carpenter who was approaching retirement. He told the owner of the building company that he worked for of his plans to leave the housing construction industry and live a more leisurely life with his wife, enjoying his extended family.

He would miss the income, but he needed to retire. Although he did not own his own home, he believed they could get by. The employer was sorry to see his good worker go after years of faithful service and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favour.

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The carpenter agreed to this final building project, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship, cut corners and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end his career.

When the carpenter finished his work and the boss came to inspect the house, he handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “Congratulations, this is your house,” he said, “this house is my gift to you for your years of service.”

What a shock! What a shame! If only the builder had known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently. Now he had to live in the home that he knew was poorly constructed and below standard. He failed to realise that he had a vested interest in the construction of this dwelling.

It could be said that we are all building for eternity.

The apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:11-14 that as followers of Jesus we are building what could be described as a ‘house’ for our eternal future:

For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work. If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.

The things that we hold dear, prioritize and that we put our time and energy into now are the materials that will form our eternal ‘house’. Quality building products are those that have eternal value. It seems to me that the quality of the building product is proportional to the level of sacrifice involved in the service. Put simply, the greater the sacrifice, the greater the value of the action, and consequently the better the building material. Jesus described sacrificial actions done in His name for the service of others as building up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).

The bottom line is that we sell ourselves short when we are selfish with our time, when we disregard the work God is calling us to, or when we are half-hearted about giving of our time and energy in ministering to others. While salvation and the enjoyment of heaven is a free gift through faith in Jesus Christ, God has called us all to lives of voluntary and sacrificial service for Him. Our reward will be the ‘house’ we have built, and ultimately it will be the one we deserve.

Ministry Team Movements The month of September saw the ending of one era and the beginning of a new one with the conclusion of the QB Regional Consultancy Team and the commencement of the Church Support Services Team. Thank you to all the Regional Consultants past and present for your outstanding work in serving the Lord Jesus and His church.

The transition to the new structure coming out of the QB Review recommendations continues. The details regarding the Director of QB Movement role are being finalised.

I was humbled to be appointed as the Director of QB Services in August. The appointment of Regional Ministers’ is in process, and the roles of Director of Church Health Services and Director of Pastoral Services will be settled by special assembly shortly. It is anticipated that appointments to these roles will commence in 2020. In the meantime, Stephen Ball and Pieter Henning are assisting in the areas of pastoral and church support until the end of the year.

What kind of building are you constructing for eternity?

Stewart Pieper Director of QB Services stewart.pieper@qb.org.au QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 5

QB MAGAZINE

FROM THE EDITOR

THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS

of women through projects in Nepal and locally. We have photos from the various events, and more are online at www.qbmagazine.org.au.

We look forward to the 2020 season!

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.

Thank you to everyone who reads and contributes to the magazine. We are grateful to you all.

Editor: Linda Nevell Design: Shell Graphix Print: Printcraft

God Bless,

This magazine is printed with soy based inks and paper from sustainable forest plantations.

The months have flown past, and we are almost at the end of another year! We have also come to the end of a significant era in Queensland Baptists, as we farewell the Regional Consultancy Team, which was implemented 17 years ago to give ministry support to our churches.

We thank God for the various teams who served over the years, and Stephen Ball has prepared a tribute to them (The end of an era) to celebrate their contributions.

We also celebrate Stewart Pieper commencing in the role of Director of QB Services.

Another season of QB Women Anew Conferences has come to an end for 2019, and we are so thankful for the work and dedication of the amazing team led by State Director Cathy Knechtli. Many women attended from all across Queensland, and were impacted by the speakers’, worship, and fellowship. They also gave generously to improve the lives

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Linda Nevell Editor, the qb qb@qb.org.au

Father’s Day Memories I would like to share my father’s story. My dad, Bert Rouillon was a member of the Nundah Baptist Church for many years.

He worked as a shipping clerk for James Patrick. He assisted many ABMS (Australian Baptist Missionary Society) missionaries departing to their various fields, and he organized 44-gallon drums for the Missionaries to ship their goods to the field. As he knew many shipping crews, he was able to obtain free transport to the fields. He saved the ABMS a great deal of funds and enabled the Missionaries’ goods to get into the countries. He received a great deal of “thanks” from the ABMS and many Missionaries.

On Father’s Day many memories flood into my mind and heart of my Father’s service to the ABMS and his Church at Nundah.

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 5600 Advertising rates are listed in The QB Media Kit available at qbmagazine.org.au.

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 © 2019 by Queensland Baptists. 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.

ISSN: 11323-7829

by Rev. Graeme Rouillon

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Baptisms

PRAYER IS POWERFUL Please set aside some time to pray for the people recently baptised. They have taken a courageous and life changing step in their walk with Christ.

Baptism is an important event in the believer’s walk with Jesus Christ. The Bible talks about water immersion baptism, in which a believer makes a public confession of their faith. Jesus led the way in example of water baptism!

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!

Birkdale & Cannon Hill Baptist Churches • Clare Chang • James Woodward.

Clontarf Beach Baptist Church • Paul Krahe • Michael van Neikerk

Gateway Baptist Church • Catherina Beaumont • Monique Cora • April Elison • Mark Gardiner • Tess Guyatt • David Hall • Jonathon Hardie • Britney Mawnder • Alan Swanepoel • Megan Tyson • Joshua Tabaldi • Yaz Youssif

Coral Coast Baptist Church • Emma Paul

Innisfail Baptist Church • Luke Farlow

Dalby Baptist Church • Shelley Edwinsmith

Moore Park Baptist Church • Michael Chalmers

Bundaberg Baptist Church • Kalon Payne • Jasmine Guo • Breanna Grosse

Photos - top left clock-wise: Moore Park - Michael Chalmers, Clontarf Beach Baptist - Ps Dan Roberts and Michael van Neikerk, Clontarf Beach Baptist - Rev Andrew Otte with Paul Krahe.

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VISION SERIES

THE END OF AN ERA Farewell to the Regional Consultancy Team

The team worked collaboratively with the General Superintendent to promote ministry amongst our churches. The state was divided into three regions, one for each consultant to develop and encourage those churches in a more intentional way. Each region was further divided into areas where a local Pastor acted as an Area Coordinator who, along with the Regional Consultant, sought to build relationships, networking and support between the churches in that area.

THE ROLE OF THE REGIONAL CONSULTANCY TEAM COMPILED BY STEPHEN BALL ASSISTED BY NEIL BERNARD

THE REGIONAL CONSULTANCY TEAM 2002-2019 The year 2000 was a significant time of review and change for the whole world. Leading up to the new millennium, Queensland Baptists undertook a major triennial review which looked into who we were, and how we should function moving into the future. Rev David Loder had commenced as the new General Superintendent in 1999 and gave capable leadership as Queensland Baptists moved towards a significant period of growth and development. Until the early 2000’s the QB service team provided specialised ministry support with individuals serving the whole state in their area of expertise.

churches. The concept of the team was not a team of specialists, but a team of experienced pastors who could come alongside to encourage and equip local churches across a broad spectrum of issues and stages of church life.

Each Regional Consultant brought their own gifts and personality to the role. They needed to love people, as the role led to many relationships and visits to provide input into our diverse churches.

The official description of the role’s responsibilities included: • Provide spiritual leadership to local church pastors and leaders • Ensure pastors, area coordinators and leaders in their region receive effective Pastoral care • Promote healthy churches • Facilitate ministries in their area of specialisation

In 2002 a new approach to supporting and serving the churches was launched. The Regional Consultancy Team was formed to provide practical and spiritual support to Queensland Baptist

Under the direct leadership of the General Superintendent, the team that started in early 2002 was comprised of Geoff Cramb and Col Peaker (pictured) with Peter Francis joining the team during that year. As with future team combinations, they reflected the diversity and depth of our churches and pastors. Geoff had previously served as a missionary with the Australian Baptist Missionary Society and served as pastor at the Taringa, Park Ridge and Toowoomba Central Baptist churches. Col Peaker had a significant career as a teacher before becoming an Associate Pastor at Hervey Bay in 1995. Peter Francis had served in metropolitan Baptist churches firstly as an Associate at Cleveland Baptist, and then as Senior Pastor at Beenleigh before commencing his role with the team.

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Pictured L to R: Pieter Henning, Emil Rahimov, Stewart Pieper, Warren Crank, Stephen Ball

THE BEGINNING OF THE REGIONAL CONSULTANCY TEAM

CELEBRATING THE TEAM OVER THE YEARS Each Regional Consultant brought a different focus and experience but all contributed honourably to God’s work in Queensland.

David Chatelier (served 2004 2007) was originally from Victoria and came to Queensland as a church planter who planted a new Baptist work at Narangba.

James Baker came from Victoria where he had planted and pastored a church. He also served with the Baptist Union of Victoria.

Stephen Ball (served 2008-2019) has a background in teaching both at secondary level and at our college, as well as pastoral experience. His specialisation was in assisting the General Superintendent particularly in the area of Pastoral Services.

Stephen Twible (served 2009-2014) came to the role with a mixture of pastoral experience in both rural and urban churches, with special responsibility for the churches in North Queensland.

Emil Rahimov (served 2011-2019) came to Australia due to persecution in his homeland of Azerbaijan. He has had a special role in promoting and encouraging our ethnic and multicultural churches both as the Pastor of the Brisbane Slavic Baptist Church and as a Regional Consultant.

Pieter Henning (served 2015-2019) trained and initially served as a pastor in South Africa before migrating to Queensland to serve in several of our rural churches. He has a particular heart for our rural and remote churches.

Stewart Pieper (served 2015-2019) served in Associate and Senior Pastor roles in country and regional churches. His leadership skills were quickly recognised, by being appointed initially as Associate to the General Superintendent and then as Acting General Superintendent. He is now Director of QB Services.

Warren Crank (served 2016-2017) served as Senior Pastor in some of our larger churches. Warren brought a passion for community engagement and grass roots church planting.

Susan Harris has been the Personal Assistant to the Regional Consultancy team from 2007 until 2019 and has provided invaluable support and assistance in the operation of the team.

THE LEGACY OF THE TEAM As part of the wider QB movement, the Regional Consultancy team contributed to our ongoing growth.

They were very much involved in the encouragement and growth of the annual QB Week of Prayer which is held in the first week of June.

They were key in establishing the links with the South Sea Evangelical Church in the Solomon Islands. The team established support for new Pastors and introduced the New Pastors Conference which is now held each November.

THOUGHTS FROM THE REGIONAL CONSULTANTS Here are reflections from some of those who served as Regional Consultants.

My particular highlight was to see new emerging ethnic churches and those ethnic churches that were established some time ago, joining the QB family, and getting close to each other and the wider QB constituency. (Emil Rahimov) The Regional Consultant role provided great opportunities to be with Church Pastors and Leaders in the field. (Warren Crank) It has been a tremendous blessing to serve Queensland Baptists as a Regional Consultant.

I am thankful to God to have had the opportunity to serve the Lord Jesus and His church in this capacity and to be able to learn from and work with such an outstanding team of wise, godly experienced and gifted leaders. (Stewart Pieper)

It was a great time of growth for me both personally and in ministry. I learned so much because I was working in such a diverse group of churches, and as a result it helped me to be a better equipped Pastor for my current ministry context.

(Stephen Twible) I had the immense privilege of serving as a Regional Consultant and praying daily for the Pastors’ and Spouses’ of each of the 80+ churches encompassed in my region. (Peter Francis) Our emphasis was to encourage Pastors, building networks for their own pastoral support. Regional Consultants identified with these regular area gatherings. (Geoff Cramb) Interacting with Pastors from churches of all shapes and sizes was also a gift. I especially cherish the opportunity to support and mentor many young and new Pastors. (David Chatelier)

THE END OF A CHAPTER - THE BEGINNING OF THE NEXT God continues to work His purposes through His people in many different ways. The conclusion of the Regional Consultancy team is something to be celebrated and recognised as part of the journey we are on in Christ. As we move ahead to new structures, roles and challenges, we give thanks to those who have gone before, serving faithfully and building good foundations for the future.

Thank you to all those who have served faithfully as Regional Consultants.

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 9

SPEAKING OUT

THE LIVING HOPE “Grow a mo, save a bro!” That’s the tagline associated with what has become widely known as the month of Movember! Well, I’m not so sure about me and a mo, but over recent years I have happily supported this valuable cause that seeks to raise awareness, and support of, a range of men’s health issues including prostate and testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention.

At a time when men’s mental issues and suicide are at alarming levels, we should be rightly concerned.

Movember Australia1 claims that “globally, every minute, a man dies

by suicide. In Australia, 75% of suicides are men.” In September last year, The Guardian newspaper carried the headline, “Australia’s rising suicide rate sparks calls for national target to reduce deaths.”2 And, the painful reality is that Christians do not seem immune to this growing epidemic! You may have read the September edition of Christianity Today, which carried the report of the tragic suicide of young US pastor, Jarrid Wilson.

Jarrid was known as a passionate preacher and mental health advocate. “A co-founder of the mental health non-profit Anthem of

Hope, Wilson was open about his own depression, often posting on social media accounts about his battles with mental illness.”3 The fact is, even pastors are subject to the same kinds of mental health challenges that confront so many within our society. A helpful article which examines the causes of mental health issues, especially as they relate to pastors, and offers some helpful reflections on how we can better address this issue can be found online at www. thegospelcoalition.org/article/ why-pastors-are-committingsuicide or through the QB Magazine website.

https://au.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2018/sep/26/australias-rising-suicide-rate-sparks-calls-for-nationa l-target-to-reduce-deaths 3 https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2019/september/pastor-mental-health-advocate-jarrid-wilson-dies-suicide.html 4 https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2019/september/pastor-mental-health-advocate-jarrid-wilson-dies-suicide.html 1 2

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“

AT THE END OF THE DAY, PASTORS ARE JUST PEOPLE WHO NEED TO REACH OUT TO GOD FOR HIS HELP AND STRENGTH, EACH AND EVERY DAY.

”

Greg Laurie, the senior pastor at the church where Jarrid served as an associate pastor said,4 “At the end of the day, pastors are just people who need to reach out to God for his help and strength, each and every day.” And that is so true for every one of us!

While not wanting in any way to downplay the complexities of mental health issues, nor, for that matter, seeking to pass myself off as any kind of mental health expert, it would seem that the Word of God must surely have something to say to us as we grapple with such painful realities in this journey of life.

At a recent conference, I had the privilege of sharing a series of messages for 1 Peter. As I trawled

over this incredible letter, it seemed to me that one of the overarching themes was to be found in chapter 1 verses 3 and 4, which says, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade – kept in heaven for you.” At the time of the writing of this letter many Christians were already coming under increasing opposition and even persecution. Many may have begun to wonder what hope there was for them in this world.

Peter’s message was to remind them that they had been “given new birth into a living hope!” This hope was not just wishful thinking that, maybe better days lay ahead, if not in this life, at least in the life to come. No, Peter wanted them to know that they had a “living hope”— a hope in which they could live right here and now, regardless of their outward circumstances.

But like many of us, they wanted, or even needed, some tangible evidence of that which would sustain this hope. So Peter reminded them of a number of key realities, to instil and sustain their hope.

In verse 1 Peter reminds believers of who they really are. Regardless of who or what others think of them, they are none other than “God’s elect,” those who have been “chosen according to the foreknowledge of God.” This is where their identity lies. Not in what they’ve done, or accomplished, or even for that matter the standing they have in the eyes of others. They are God’s chosen children.

But, not only that, Peter reminds his readers in verses 3 and 4 that they are a people of destiny. They have an eternal inheritance assured to them in heaven, that nothing in this world can rob them of. No external pressures or even internal failings will ever rob them of this glorious inheritance in which they will finally

see Jesus face-to-face. In that day John reminds us, we will be finally and forever be like Jesus. John says, “But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:2).

Since they have been given a new birth into this living hope, Peter also reminds his readers of how and why they should live their lives. In verses 13 to 15 he urges the believers to be done with their former evil desires, to live self-controlled and holy lives. The language he uses here is reminiscent of Paul’s words in Romans 12:2 where he calls upon believers not to “conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but [to] be transformed by the renewing of your minds.” And the reason why Peter reminds us of this call is so that our lives might “declare the praises of him who called us out of darkness into his most wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9).

By remembering these things, and living in this way, we will know what it is to inhabit this wonderful living hope which has been given to us through faith in the resurrected Jesus.

Once again, these are not meant to be glib words that deny the reality of the mental pain and anguish that some of God’s children and servants endure. Indeed, if you are struggling with anxiety or depression, I would urge you to seek the advice and counsel of a faithful Christian counsellor. However, I sincerely trust that this reflection upon the Word of God may instil hope in the hearts of all of us. The words of Paul in Romans 15:13 so aptly frame my prayer for each of our readers, “May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Peter Francis Principal, Malyon peter.francis@malyon.edu.au

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Around the regions

Wiya-gal Ministry Gateway Baptist Church Gateway Baptist Church celebrated NAIDOC week with our Wiya-gal community, sharing their heart for neighbourhood and family across all the Gateway campuses. Wiya-gal is Gateway’s indigenous-led Christian community which gathers once a month for a time of worship and friendship. Wiya-gal means kinship in Yugambeh language and expresses the way we enjoy life together with God and all our mob. We are sharing the kingdom of God and empowering leaders from across generations to spread the life changing message of Jesus.

As part of NAIDOC week celebrations we gathered together members of our Wiya-gal community, and they contributed to our Sunday services, including sharing a message on ‘Forgive One Another’. At Gateway Mackenzie we honoured Rev Graham and Mrs Iris Paulson for their significant contribution to Indigenous ministry. Rev Graham is a Community Elder, and part of the Wiya-gal community, and in 1968 he became Australia’s first Indigenous ordained Baptist Pastor.

“What Wiya-gal is doing is not just for people now, but my heart is that it will impact generations of families to come,” says Wiya-gal community leader Raqual Nutley. “NAIDOC is a significant and special time for our people, and I love that we have the opportunity to share with the wider Gateway community the heart of our people, and strengthen connections that build understanding, respect and togetherness.”

Wiya-gal Ministry Leader Grant Paulson shares, “Wiya-gal is not just a ministry for Indigenous people. It’s ministry and style is intentionally directed at Indigenous people, but like all

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Indigenous families we invite you to have a cup of tea with us. We’ll tell you where the fridge is, and to come in and make yourself at home.”

“Wiya-gal is the opportunity for young Indigenous men and women of God to try on their calling, and work that out within the safety of their community. I think the thing that excites me the most about Wiya-gal is the sense of discovery and newness, of co-creating the spirit of God with the community here at Gateway, and with a new young leadership that are finding their calling in Christ.”

Please visit us online to find out more about the Wiya-gal monthly worship service at Gateway Mackenzie - https:// gatewaybaptist.com.au/mackenzie/wiya-gal/

Seniors Morning Tea

Nundah Village Street Festival

Beenleigh Baptist Church

North-East Baptist Church

Beenleigh Baptist Seniors enjoyed a Devonshire morning tea to celebrate National Seniors Week 2019. Nominated cook, Steve McGeorge baked the scones in the church kitchen (helped by an amazing team of ladies) during the first part of our program, making everyone’s mouth water!

Nita Woodward (church member) recited a poem she had written herself called ‘The Bridge’. It moved all present, including our guest speaker who asked for a copy of the words. Tracy and Steve Francis and their friend David entertained us with fine music and song.

North-East Baptist Church at Nundah had an opportunity to be a part of a fun community event – Nundah Village Street Festival. Not only was it a chance for the church to interact with their neighbours, but the church ran a baked goods stall and an art gallery which featured donated artworks from church artists to help raise money for local school chaplaincy.

Federal member for Forde, Bert van Manen MP, was our guest speaker. He commended our M.E.S.H (Meet, Engage, Share, Heal) group for extending the hand of friendship into the Beenleigh area—especially to those who are isolated and living alone. Bert encouraged the seniors to engage with all generations, teaching them by example through our Christian way of living. We have a wealth of information to be shared and used, and we are never too old to speak an encouraging word and extend friendship and help to those beyond our church doors.

Bert spent time mingling with the seniors, answering questions and encouraging them to ‘meet regularly’ to build one another up.

It was an awesome day. Appreciation and thanks were passed on to the all those who volunteered their time to set up and look after the stalls and gallery, and to those who baked delicious goodies, and created artwork. Well done to everyone involved.

Noel Frith, David Birmingham, Nan Botha and Bill & Vera Vassieff stole the show as our guest panelists for “Then & Now” Question and Answers, led by Glenda Dutton.

All had a tale to tell and gave us much to laugh about.

Their encouragement and lives are testimony to what the Lord can do in all situations. The committee worked well to bring together a beautiful morning that honoured our senior folk and our dear Lord.

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Kingdom Offset Account (KOA)

Let’s grow together

Supporting and growing churches for QLD Baptists The KOA is a non interest bearing investment account that partially offsets the interest charged to a church loan Minimum 31 days notice period to withdraw funds T&C’s apply For more info, contact Baplink at baplink@baplink.org.au or call 1800 650 062 General Advice Warning: The information contained in this document is of a general nature only and has been prepared without taking account of any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Persons considering investing with Queensland Baptists should consider the appropriateness of the investment in light of their own circumstances and read this document and the Identification Statement before making a decision. Queensland Baptists is not licensed to provide financial product advice in relation to these investments. Investors do not have a cooling-off period within which to withdraw their investment if they change their mind.

Investment funds will be used to support the charitable purposes of Queensland Baptists, namely the funds will be applied as an offset against the loan account of the affiliated Baptist church or organisation nominated by the investor.

Queensland Baptists’ Identification Statement under the 2016 ASIC Instrument may be viewed at www.qb.org.au and www.baplink.org.au.

Queensland Baptists is required by law to notify investors that the investments and their offering is not subject to the usual protections for investors under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) or regulation by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.

Queensland Baptists does not hold an Australian financial services licence. It has entered into an “intermediary authorisation” agreement under s911A(2)(b) of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) with Theta Asset Management Ltd ACN 071 807 684 AFSL 230920 (Theta Asset Management) under which Theta Asset Management has been appointed to arrange for the issue, variation and disposal of Kingdom Offset accounts by Queensland Baptists. Theta Asset Management has also appointed Queensland Baptists (Authorised Representative number 1253438) and Robert Chapman (Authorised Representative number 1253437), the manager of Baplink, as authorised representatives of Theta Asset Management in relation to dealing in Kingdom Offset accounts.

(a) the investment is only intended to attract investors whose primary purpose of making their investment is to support the charitable purposes of Queensland Baptists; (b) investors may be unable to get some or all of their money back when the investor expects or at all; and (c) the investment is not comparable to investments with banks, finance companies or fund managers.

Neither Queensland Baptists (controlling entity) nor Baplink (the fund) is prudentially supervised by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.

Therefore, an investor in the fund will not receive the benefit of the financial claims scheme or the depositor protection provisions in the Banking Act 1959. Investments in the fund are intended to be a means for investors to support the charitable purposes of the fund.

Learn more at

baplink.org.au P 1800 650 062 PO Box 6166, Mitchelton QLD 4053 baplink@baplink.org.au ABN 59 241 212 544

Let’s grow together

Queensland Baptists is required by law to notify investors that:

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 15

MILESTONES

CITY TABERNACLE’S 164TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS The City Tabernacle’s 164th Anniversary Celebrations were unique this year, with one of America’s leading evangelical voices Rev. Thabiti Anyabwile (pictured) and his family from Washington DC joining us. A former Muslim, Thabiti was converted under the preaching of the Gospel, and is a well renowned pastor, blogger, author, regular contributor to mainstream newspapers such as the Washington Post, and Council Member of The Gospel Coalition in the USA. By way of precursor to our Anniversary celebrations, we were incredibly blessed to join together with the Queensland Theological College and The Gospel Coalition to host an event on the theme of Living for Jesus in a Multicultural World together with Thabiti. The evening was hosted by Dave Pitt of the City Bible Forum.

It was wonderful to hear our Pipe Organ played by Len Ryan to open the service, with the hymns “All Creatures of Our God and King”

and “Crown Him with Many Crowns” being sung by hundreds of voices, the majority of whom were of younger generations. Rev. Thabiti Anyabwile delivered an excellent address from Romans 14:1-15:7, reflecting on the biblical command for us to welcome our brothers and sisters in Christ from all cultural backgrounds as Christ welcomed us.

Our Anniversary Dinner and Services attracted many visitors and were occasions of praise and thanksgiving. For our annual Anniversary Dinner, we had such an overwhelming demand from visitors attending, that additional seating had to be acquired. The Tabernacle hall was beautifully decorated with fairy lights. Each strand of light was made up of tiny bulbs, and the hall was filled with thousands of them— reminding us of the saints currently with us and those that have gone before us, and who in their own way, reflected Jesus’ light through the ministry of the church over 164 years. It was a blessing to hear Pastor Thabiti share on the Future of the Church in the West.

A group representing 18 cultures and countries from the Tabernacle

also shared in many languages and dialects that we are not ashamed of the Gospel.

A testimony was also shared of a young man whose life had been transformed from drug addiction to faith in our Lord through the ministry of RETO to Hope, being the organisation chosen as the recipient of our Anniversary Thank Offering. On Anniversary Sunday, our worship service was enriched by the participation of the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra. The Tabernacle Choir, supported by four hand piano accompaniment and pipe organ, presented “I Am Bound for the Promised Land”. Pastor Thabiti spoke about how Jesus Makes the Difference and transforms even the worst of sinners such as the Apostle Paul, and people like all of us, into followers of Him. What a privilege it was that the young members of the orchestra, and numerous visitors attending our 164th Anniversary events, heard the Gospel faithfully presented. All glory be to our great God.

ON THE MOVE •

16 OCT/NOV 19 QB.ORG.AU

Pastor Steve Ballin has concluded at Sugar Reef.

HERTFORD STREET BAPTIST CHURCH CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF GOD’S WORK On Sunday 14 July, Hertford Street Baptist Church (HSBC) in Upper Mount Gravatt celebrated their 60th Anniversary as a local body of Christ. The celebration was a special morning service that included a visit from Rev. Stewart Pieper (representing Queensland Baptists).

It was a great day of giving thanks to God for His work through the Church over the past decades.

The service also marked two other special occasions. The first occasion was celebrating the completion of a partnership with Sunnybank District Baptist Church (SDBC) over the past three years to help revitalise HSBC and its Gospel witness.

Through this partnership, a team of 13 people was sent from SDBC to come alongside a struggling church and help bring stability and growth to HSBC. This was a successful partnership, and a great example of a church helping another church for Gospel growth, through collaborative autonomy.

The second special occasion was the induction of Pastor Joshua Tan by Rev. Stewart Pieper. In 2017, Josh was sent from SDBC to oversee the pastoral work at HSBC as part of the partnership, but now has been called and inducted as the Pastor of HSBC in a full-time capacity. This was a great moment for the church, who had been without a full-time Pastor for many years and were considering if it was time to close its doors. Josh is a local who grew up on the Southside of Brisbane and is also very grateful and privileged to be called as Pastor of HSBC. There were many friends and previous church members who visited the church for this special celebration. During the service, Ken Mihill (HSBC Secretary and long-time member) reflected on God’s work in the life of HSBC. The church began as a plant in 1959 on Logan Road (as Upper Mount Gravatt Baptist Church). In 1989, the fellowship moved locations to Hertford Street, and subsequently changed names to Hertford Street Baptist Church. The reflection also noted the difficulties in ministry over the past decade, and the current revitalising work Rev.

Stewart Pieper opened God’s Word from 1 John 5, reminding the church that true life is found in the saving work of Jesus Christ.

HSBC praises God for His work through the Church, and in the Upper Mount Gravatt community for the last 60 years. We look forward to God’s continued work as He grows and revitalises this local body of Christ, for the glory of King Jesus.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY REG NIEBLING Retired Reverend Reg Niebling recently celebrated his 90th Birthday! Reg graduated from the Queensland Baptist College in the early 1950s and was full time minister at Churchill Baptist Church. May God continue to bless Reg and his family as they celebrate this milestone.

Baptist Church Archives Qld, detail from photo of Queensland Baptist College students and principal, 1954.

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 17

god moments

Didgeridoo

Somewhere Beyond The Blue

REV. DON MCLELLAN “Hollowness is no fault in a conduit, is it?”

– John Updike

JEANETTE KEINHI

Though termites have consumed my inner core and earthy ochre decorates my frame, though I feel nothing noble any more – a hollow branch which somehow dodged the flame, There is a sound which emanates from me, a solid, rumbling, lively sound and deep; a buzzing bass which haunts the harmony and stirs the whole creation out of sleep.

While dancers dance their high steps in the haze and celebrate the bridegroom and the bride, With one unending breath my master plays and makes a living thing of that which died.

I may feel hollow, something merely wood, but when the master plays me, it sounds good.

Somewhere beyond the blue there is a new home for me, A home where forever I’ll be as happy as I can be.

Love, joy, peace and always serenity.

With my God, my family, my friends, it is the place to be.

No more heartaches, no more strife and trouble I see.

Singing God’s praises this is my destiny It’ll be so great to see them and talk again.

But I’ll continue to love them on earth as I will in heaven.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR OWN “GOD MOMENT”?

CITY

TABERNACLE

BAPTIST

CHURCH

PRESENTS

CAROLS & BRASS Be inspired by this moving presentation and join in the triumphant Hallelujah Chorus finale

8 DECEMBER 2019 | 6.30PM 163 WICKHAM TERRACE, BRISBANE An evening of inspiration and praise, "Carols & Brass" will feature Sir David Willcocks' arrangements of traditional Christmas carols, interspersed with chorales, solos and ensemble pieces from Bach’s “Sleepers Wake”, K. Lee Scott’s “Christmas Cantata”, and Handel’s “Messiah”. Free parking is available at 51 Astor Terrace. All are welcome!

E: office@citytabernacle.com.au | P: 07 3831 1613

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It can be a poem, short story, testimony or quote.

Please email your entries to marketing@qb.org.au or post to PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Q 4053. Every published entry will receive a $30 Koorong gift voucher.

PERSECUTION BRIEF

Pakistan Muslim and Christians coexist in Pakistan; however, they are normally considered separate and unequal. The streets where Christians live are dusty, and the living conditions are cramped.

Christians are treated like secondclass citizens and often remain impoverished due to discrimination in the workplace.

Converting to Christianity is dangerous. Muslims wishing to leave Islam and follow Jesus are threatened by their friends and family. Their new faith is viewed as shameful and dishonouring. The blasphemy law also means Christians can lose their jobs, social status or their lives for speaking out about their faith in Jesus.

Blasphemy against Islam is a sensitive issue in Pakistan and can often be used to target the country’s religious minorities, including Christians.

Pakistan remains one of the most violent countries in the world for Christians. At least 15 Christians were killed during the 2019 World Watch List reporting period, often in relation to blasphemy laws. However, God is moving in Pakistan and the church continues to meet together despite the cost.

pray for pakistan •

Pray for Christians to preach the gospel with boldness, even in the face of increased opposition.

•

Pray for protection over Christians as they deal with Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.

•

Pray for new believers to remain strong in their faith in Christ, despite persecution.

Open Doors – www.opendoors.org.au

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 19

QCCC

EVERYTHING WORTH HAVING “People support what they create”.

This is one of 12 key principles for healthy community development recommended by the Berkana Institute, a leadership think tank whose materials have been a strong part of the development of QCCC’s staff culture over the past decade.

When talk turned to a promised mission trip for QCCC’s first and second intake of interns, some level of self-determination was important.

Our interns were given several options to consider, including to countries as far flung as Zimbabwe.

One of our instructors, Jimmy, made a strong pitch for his home country, Vanuatu, and so it was that Jimmy found himself group leader for the first CAMPFIRE Service trip with a wide-eyed Director and five interns, making their first visit to the Friendly Isles, in tow.

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Lots of clichés get thrown about trips like these. We went to be a blessing wherever we could, but also recognising that we would come away blessed in many ways we could not have foreseen. Jimmy proved to be a celebrity in his home village of Pango. We couldn’t move without people running alongside the bus, yelling out for his attention and wildly celebrating he was back (after two years away). It also meant he could take us to places not accessible to many visitors.

This started with a visit to the village chieftain, a reluctant leader who described the burden of wise leadership for around 5,000 people, treading the fine line between their traditional lifestyle and the modern pressures being posed by the incursion of overseas investment and culture (Port Vila had saturation

advertising coverage of its mobile phone and data networks for instance). He told us the best contribution we could make would be to pray for him in his role, and for emerging Vanuatu leaders to be people of the gospel and integrity.

Starting with the chief, and wherever we went, we were struck by the pride and simple pleasure people took in the presence of the gospel in their country. We were staying at the beach where the first boatload of missionaries had landed, and we were regularly reminded of the importance of this strip of sand to the history and ongoing vitality of Vanuatu. Churches were sprouting up everywhere, and we had the opportunity to join with a youth group of New Zealanders to help with the construction of a water tank for children’s programs at a half-built

church shell. As it was the school holidays, we had the opportunity to fellowship with several other mission teams and groups, combined with a passion for the gospel and the inspiration of the people around us.

One such group was Redlands College, a school which has come to QCCC sites for decades, including just coming off their Leadership Retreat at Tamborine. Redlands are working towards all their Grade 9s spending two weeks in Vanuatu, and we helped for two days with construction at their accommodation base, a partnership with YWAM. Our interns also gave their students some basic Outdoor Education and Group Facilitation skills to use during their time in Vanuatu schools.

won seven national championships by telling his front row to unnerve the opposition by praying for them at every scrum. I wish I’d been able to meet him.

A high point was a day spent building a wall at a local pre-school.

They had operated in Pango for nearly twenty years with no funding support, and had been praying for a group to help build a containing wall for which they had received government funding. In our hardest day of work, we laid the foundations and made a good start on the brickwork, but what remained with us was the stories of heroic sacrifice from the teachers investing their time and energy in generations of young kids to help them get a start in education and their Christian

invited to a village feast on our last night in Pango - their way of saying thanks, and a chance for us to say goodbye to our newfound friends.

Our contribution was the donation of a pig we picked out of a paddock in the morning before it spent the day over a spit fire. Our daily devotions for the stay had been drawn from the Beatitudes and the final evening bought home part of Jesus’ message that there is far more to life than earthly riches. The good folk of Pango are much like Paul who wrote to the Corinthians “we have nothing to bless ourselves with, yet we bless many others with true riches. We are penniless, and yet in reality we have everything worth having.”

Do you know a young person with a love for God and the Outdoors, who

A highlight for many was the time we were able to spend in Pango Village. We timed it well, attending the local Presbyterian church as they celebrated the anniversary of the establishment of the major national denomination. Over lunch we gifted their youth leaders some retired Outdoor Education gear which reduced them to tears as they described the work it would enable them to do with the children and youth in the village. We were told we were “family”, which also meant attending the funeral of a local leader and rugby coach, who had

walk. Ultimately we came away from our ten days in Vanuatu knowing we’d barely scratched the surface, both in terms of meeting needs, and hearing of the amazing things God is doing in their midst.

Regular readers of the QCCC articles will know how foundational the art of best-practice Christian hospitality is to our ministry. So it was humbling to be

may be interested in being part of experiences like this? Applications for the 2020 intake of CAMPFIRE interns are now open, closing at the end of October. For more details on the internship go to www.qccc.org. au/campfire.

Andrew Grant Director of Queensland Conference and Camping Centres andrew.grant@qccc.com.au

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 21

TRACKING CHURCHES AND PASTORS The Baptist Archives has a valuable new tool for tracking churches and their pastors over a period of more than 100 years, thanks to the efforts of Rev. Rod Bullpitt (pictured left). He has taken hours of time and worked through the information published by the Baptist Union since 1907 in the annual Yearbooks and compiled it all into an easily accessible database.

Using this database, it is possible to find any of the 1,300 Pastors and the churches they have served or check any of the churches for the pastors which have led them over this period. The database can be easily updated year by year. It is based on the popular Microsoft Access database application. Archivist, Dr David Parker, said, “This information has been available over all these years, but accessing it has required time-consuming manual searches, always with the possibility of making errors. Now it is searchable instantly and accurately.”

However, he went on to point out, “The accuracy of it is dependent on the original information, and we are aware of anomalies due to the original collection and the publication of the data.”

He explained that sometimes those compiling the original published material did not have information available, or there were inconsistencies and accidental (or

even intentional) omissions. He urged those submitting information currently to be sure to update their entries and double check them for accuracy and completeness.

The database has already been put to use on current Archives projects and will be a handy aid for those researching their church and pastoral family histories.

ALL THE WAY Baptist Heritage Queensland (BHQ) is currently conducting a project to record the impressions and reflections of Baptist leaders about their ministry and personal experiences. Called “All the Way” (after the gospel song), it invites ministers, lay leaders and others to write a brief account of their life story focusing on their ministerial and spiritual development, and the events and developments of which they have been part. This series is not meant to be a fullscale autobiography, but a way of capturing the impact of some of the most significant spiritual and ministry trends during the lifetime of people now in or reaching retirement.

Several of these have already been published in the BHQ’s newsletter, QB Forum, in concise versions while the full-length versions are stored in the Baptist Archives for future reference. The publishable editions are about 5,000 words in length.

Readers are invited to contact BHQ for further information and with offers to contribute. It is preferred that these life stories are autobiographical for maximum impact, but consideration can be given to accounts written by others.

Existing autobiographies can be adapted for this series.

Construction work at Rockville Baptist Church showing building being relocated

BAPTISTS IN THE GOLDEN WEST – FINALISING A PROJECT Baptist work on the Darling Downs began in 1875 with the establishment of a church in Toowoomba. Since that time, more than a dozen churches have been established in that vast area of southern Queensland covering 320,000 square kilometres. Not all have survived, and others have experienced profound highs and lows in their journeys.

Highfields came very soon after Toowoomba and then Warwick in 1911, but there were no more until after World War II. The churches have ranged from a Danish fellowship near Warwick to a mobile ministry using a van in the far south west based at Roma. For some, the time taken to plant and germinate was extensive, while others have come into the Baptist Union already established as viable churches.

There are about 4,000 Census

Pastor Jim Watson who did pioneering work on the Downs

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Baptists in the area, or 1.5% of the population, lower than the Queensland average. There are about 700 Baptist church members, 70% of which are in the two largest churches.

Typical group of church record books for archiving

Home Mission Superintendent Rev V Bowring driving the mobile mission van

Several years ago, Baptist Heritage Queensland, began to write the stories of these churches, with focus on the origins, especially the prehistory when preliminary activities were taking place that eventually led to the formation of an on-going work and a church. Writing up these stories has involved a lot of intensive research into documents, many interviews and emails, and travel. Some churches had already produced their own histories, and these were kindly made available for the project.

Rev Wm Higlett pioneer pastor of Toowoomba and the Downs

Now that the project is drawing to a conclusion, thanks is expressed to all who helped, and an invitation is given for any further information and photographs that may contribute to the project. Publication details of the 50,000-word project are yet to be finalised, but we hope to have an electronic version available soon. To be kept advised of details, please register your interest at archives@ qb.org.au.

ALL THOSE OLD CHURCH MINUTE BOOKS! Does your church have a filing cabinet or storeroom full of old church records–minute books, rolls, reports, and perhaps some photographs and audio tapes?

These may seem to be just useless musty volumes taking up space, but they hold the story of your church–its positive witness in the district, and record of faithful service and Christian growth (and perhaps also a few aspects that are not so positive!).

Furthermore, these records may be needed for legal reasons, which is likely to be an onerous matter given current trends. So do not throw them out—they need to be preserved carefully and managed well. The Baptist Archives is often contacted by churches for advice on how to manage these records, so we have prepared various Guide Sheets to assist. Basic guidance with free resources is found at www.qb.org.au/support-churchespastors/support-for-churches/ archiving-church-records/ (For more details of these and other resources, contact the Archives) There are some simple options for dealing with your existing records.

The first option is that material can be cared for by your church. It will take some effort to clean up the records and organise them properly, but it is easily achievable provided the necessary resources and personnel are available.

Another option requiring more investment is to digitise them (at least the most important) and place the paper originals in deep storage.

This option requires a sound digital environment in which to store the e-versions—after all, a messy computer system is no better than the musty filing cabinet!

The final option is to transfer them to the Baptist Church Archives at Gaythorne for permanent storage there and possible digitisation.

This last option requires careful consideration by your church administration and negotiation with the Archives. Details of the protocols involved are available on request.

Whichever option you choose, you need to also consider the careful management of current and recent records—say up to five years or so.

But there is more!

Paper records probably cover the period up to about ten years ago, but since then a lot of your church’s records will be digital–no more musty volumes, but invisible files now hidden away on old PCs and perhaps personal lap-tops. Yet these records are also vital and need to be managed too. Check out our Guide Sheets for advice on ‘born digital’ material, as well as newly digitised records. These digital records can be included in the transfer of materials to the Baptist Archives.

In certain cases, we can give on-site advice and appraisal.

Baptist Church Archives archives@qb.org.au Phone 07 3354 5642, 07 3878 3178 https://goo.gl/GRX4ET

Calling for Volunteers Expressions of interest by those with interest and aptitude and hopefully some experience in handling documents, computers and historical projects. Training can be given, and it is possible some work can be done off-site. Contact Baptist Church Archives for more information.

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 23

QB WOMEN

Queensland Baptist’s Women Anew Conferences 2019 What a special year it’s been for the Qld Anew Conferences!

God has moved amongst His women in Queensland as they have gathered together to worship, pray, fellowship, and hear from His word about how they can ‘Be Transformed”.

We’ve travelled from Mt Isa to the Gold Coast, Atherton, Gladstone, Mapleton and Mackay, and bought the event to some of these areas for the first time. In each place we met wonderful women who love Jesus and want to share His word with others. We met women who are hungry to know God more, and who have a passion for Him—women who have a heart for change.

We’ve heard God’s word preached powerfully from Kimberly Smith, Shauna Gallagher and Sally Contessi, and shared beautiful communion messages from Katisha Lindee and Jane Van Mourik.

For the first time this year, we gave the women an opportunity to give to a project in their own local areas to support needy women. We were blown away by the generosity of the women towards local projects, which ranged from supplying items for hospital packs for new indigenous mums in Mt Isa, to giving items for women’s shelters and food packs in North, Central Queensland and the Gold Coast, and supporting women coming out of the sex industry/drug addiction in South East Queensland.

This year we were also involved in giving for the Nepal Founding Partners fund through Baptist World Aid. This fund was set up specifically for Australian Baptist Women to fund the first year of a new project that we visited in Nepal.

We raised over $20,000 in Queensland towards this new project.

We are now preparing for 2020 and look forward to what God has planned for us as the women of Queensland.

Cathy Knechtli, State Director, Queensland Baptist Women director@anewconference.org.au

Induction Prayer

MISSION TO QUEENSLAND

Sandstone Community Church Giuliano and Leila Bordoni

Sandstone Community Church began in 2013 as an outreach church plant of the Bribie Island Baptist Church. It is located at Sandstone Point, a young suburb on the coast of Moreton Bay beside the Bribie Island Bridge.

Encouraged and led by the pastor, John Gollan, they commenced afternoon services in the Sandstone Point Community Hall. The church is actively involved in neighbourhood events like the annual Sandstone Point Community Carols, which has grown considerably in popularity.

Just three years ago a Mainly Music program was introduced to reach young families and became very well accepted. The church is also involved with young people at a nearby skate park and participates in the Sandstone Point Lions’ monthly Market Place. The congregation shares in a weekly prayer meeting, two home Bible study groups, a monthly coffee morning beside the marina, and a time of fellowship and refreshments

BY COLIN MCCOSKER

after Sunday services. Altogether there is a strong sense of church family.

However, two years ago, the Bribie Island congregation decided that their energies needed to be concentrated on their island ministry, and the small Sandstone congregation had to consider their future. The Leadership Team and the congregation prayerfully determined to continue as a church plant under Queensland Baptists “Ministry to Queensland.” John Gollan, recently retired, came back as transitional pastor to support the church on the pathway to becoming a self-supporting constituted church.

Sandstone Point, Sandstone Lakes, Ningi and Godwin Beach are adjacent suburbs with a population of over 9,000, with another 4,000 in nearby Beachmere.

New subdivisions continue to be developed. Despite the population equivalent of a small town, there is no other Christian witness locally, and only one church at Beachmere.

The need and opportunities for sharing the Gospel are challenges that cannot be ignored.

In 2018 the congregation began to work through the requirements for becoming a constituted church, and in faith sought the Lord’s leading in appointing a pastor. This led to the induction of Pastor Giuliano Bordoni on 28 July 2019 on

26 OCT/NOV 19 QB.ORG.AU John Gollan “passes the baton” to Giuliano Bordoni

a part-time basis, with the expectation Congregation that it will soon Arriving become a full-time appointment. The Induction Service, led by Director of QB Services, Stewart Pieper, was a special time of celebration, challenge and blessing. The new pastor was welcomed by around 80 people, including local clergy, community leaders and other friends. It was an exciting move forward for the church. To add to the joy of this time, Giuliano & Leila welcomed their firstborn, Eleanor, just a week later.

By mutual agreement, John Gollan is continuing to assist as Associate Pastor. Currently attendances at services total around 40, with occasionally 50-60 on special occasions.

There is a broad spread of age groups living in the district, with about one quarter under 20 years and one third over 60. The challenge is to present the truth of Jesus to our community, while loving and caring for them and their needs. There is a particular need for dedicated leaders who can reach out to younger couples and families.

The church is currently in the process of prayerfully developing plans for effective outreach. By emphasizing the teaching of the word, the discipleship of its members, prayer, sincere brotherly love, and a servant heart towards the wider community, Sandstone Community Church is pressing on in faith, trusting God to add to our church family. There is a sense of faith and expectation that God is going to do great things— the fields are indeed “ripe for harvest�.

kmsmith.com.au

Phone 3252 2031

CARINITY

Families stay connected with Carinity technology For Beverley Young, seeing her great-nephew get married in Melbourne was something she didn’t think possible.

But by using her new Mobi tablet from Carinity Home Care, she was able to share in the family’s celebrations from the comfort of her armchair in Rockhampton.

Mobi powered by Breezie is a personalised digital tablet device with a simplified, user-friendly format that cuts through the complexities of technology.

“I needed a little help with getting started on Mobi. My carer helped me for a couple of hours to learn how to use Skype. The more I use it, the easier it’s getting,” Beverley says.

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At the end of a two-week trial Beverley had signed up for her own device which she was able to fund through her Carinity Home Care package of care and services.

“I thought it would be a good way to stay in touch with my family and see my great-nephew get married,” Beverley said.

“It all worked out well. My nephew Philip said to me to turn on my Mobi at 1.30pm, and he’d turn on his phone and Skype me. I was able to watch the whole wedding, and I could even hear the vows of the bridal party.

“I did think it was very funny when Philip told me that I couldn’t speak at home or they’d hear me at the wedding!”

In addition to staying connected with family via Skype, the 86-year-old enjoys playing Solitaire on her Mobi.

Carinity Home Care also helps Beverley with home duties, getting her out and about in the community, and taking her to doctors’ appointments and to do her weekly shopping.

Mobi powered by Breezie is available through Carinity Home Care. For more information call 1300 109 109 or visit CarinityHomeCare.org.au.

Carinity Home Care Rockhampton Lifestyle Carer Alethea Giovannini assists Beverley Young with her Mobi tablet.

Thank you!

Your Big Hearted Giving means BIG impact for precious families like Ben’s.

There are the favourites you love – animals like chickens which can help change a family’s future! From nutritious eggs for hungry bellies, to breeding and selling at market, the humble chook can rapidly increase income and lift a family out of poverty.

Your new card on the block gives snuggly warmth to refugee children. Flimsy shelters mean next to no protection from snow and sub-zero temperatures. A snuggly blanket does so much more than battle extreme cold and illness, it’s the precious gift of security and warmth to children and families who have lost everything.

BIG NEWS ABOUT YOUR BIG HEARTED GIFTS

BY BAPTIST WORLD AID AUSTRALIA

Your Baptist World Aid Big Hearted Gifts are here and they’re better than ever! In your 2019 catalogue, you’ll find a wide variety of gifts with one thing in common: BIG impact for families living in poverty.

Families just like Ben’s.

Ben lives in Rural Kenya with his wife and three children. Every day was a struggle to feed his family.

Every day was a struggle against poverty.

And for the first time ever… ALL NEW value packs! You’ll love the Family Nutrition Value Pack, which combines three Big Hearted Gifts into one bundle, ensuring children and families have everything they need for a balanced diet.

“Now I am very much grateful, because my environment here has changed,” says Ben. “I am very happy because I am able to care for my family.”

“I felt very much troubled in in my mind,” he says. “I kept thinking on what I could do to have a better life for my family, but, with no answer.”

Every Big Hearted Gift you choose will make a BIG difference for families living in poverty. From growing livelihoods, to healthier homes, and safer communities.

But did you know that every Big Hearted Gift you choose for a friend or loved one also translates to real poverty-ending activities to help loving dads like Ben? And in your 2019 catalogue, there are so many wonderful gifts to choose from!

From value packs to animals aplenty, order your Big Hearted Gifts TODAY by using the enclosed catalogue!

Alternatively, you can go to: baptistworldaid.org.au/bighearted-gifts. Thank you for loving generously and from the heart!

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 29

GLOBAL INTERACTION

God’s Perfect Timing How often are we in a hurry with God? We pray about something and, in this rushing world, desperately want Him to answer our prayers in our time (often in our designed way, of course). We may say to Him, “Your will be done…”, but do we mean what we say?

I think of God’s seeming delay in rescuing His people, the Israelites, from Egypt. In the 144 years between Joseph’s death and the Exodus, up to three Pharaohs may have ruled Egypt, each tightening their grip on the expanding nation of Israel (Exodus 1). The result was brutal slavery and infanticide. After 144 years, it may have appeared to the Israelites that their God was not hearing their prayers. But God said to Moses, “I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt.

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I have heard their cries of distress because of their harsh slave drivers.

Yes, I am aware of their suffering.”

(Exodus 3:7) And, using Moses and Aaron, freedom and the great adventure to the Promised Land began.

Later the leader, Nehemiah, went through a similar situation. While living in Susa (in modern day Iran), he was told the walls of Jerusalem remained in ruins 93 years after the first exiles had returned to resettle the land following their exile in Babylon. Nehemiah immediately committed himself to prayer and fasting (Nehemiah 1:4). But it would be a further four to five months before Nehemiah even had an opportunity to do something about it (Nehemiah 2:1).

Sometimes (often?) we expect God to listen to our prayers and to act immediately in answering them in the way we think is best. But, truth be known, it rarely happens this way. Is God not keeping His word?

We remember Bible passages like Jeremiah 29:11-13 and 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 and expect God to adjust His programs to our timing.

Cross cultural workers often experience the apparent slowness of God. In some locations they have served faithfully for many years, only to see one or two people accepting Jesus as LORD of their lives and knowing the freedom this gives them. Often the new believers face real persecution from their families and community. Some persevere in their faith, some turn away. Surely His will is that all are saved. Are the

efforts of those who pray to no effect?

Has God heard their prayers?

But one thing the cross-cultural staff of Global Interaction have learned.

God calls us to be faithful, not successful. And with faithfulness comes personal growth, the Godgiven ability to persevere and an increasing “harvest”. We have learned that God does hear our prayers and He does answer:

God, as he explains the context and intent of the writer. What a joy to see Mr T grasping new ideas!

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Stories from the Field •

Ben and Pep and the family are currently on Home Assignment in Queensland. They tell of small but significant breakthroughs in the work on the Silk Road.

Recently a lady declared her trust in the risen One—the first after many years of work. Blessings continue to flow with the English language school (pictured left), and applications from potential students are far exceeding available placements. The result?

A long waiting list! This shows the acceptance the team is receiving from the local people. This will enable staff to build quality relationships which often lead to natural opportunities to share their story.

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As reported in the last QB Magazine (Vol. 17 Issue 4), after 70 years of Baptist service in Papua New Guinea, we see God’s church growing—more than 10,000 believers in the Western Highlands alone.

•

Daz and Bee write of a number of people who are persevering in their walk with the One, despite enduring persecution from their community. They speak of small but significant events in the lives of Muslim background believers (MBBs), such as Mr T who is the only follower in his family. As they study the Holy book together, Dan is already seeing his new language (Bahasa) being used by

•

Excitement was building both among the team and among the locals in South East Asia at the opening of the company’s refurbished and renamed café.

The café is literally the “shop front” for the company in its location, providing on-the-job training in hospitality. It is also a centre for teaching English, and a gathering place for followers of the One. The refurbished café has a more pointed focus on environmental care and concern (one of the platforms that keeps the company in the country).

A kitchen consultant assisted with advice for Daz on running the café and formation of a new menu.

Daz and Bee tell of several MBBs who meet discreetly to share in their new faith. They hold to their cultural practices, but now follow the One who saves. The changes in their lives are being noticed by those around them. Lives are being changed as minds and hearts are being set free.

•

In Malawi, Tim and Mel are seeing breakthroughs in the lives of local people. Ideas planted years ago are becoming fruit—an executive committee from among local MBB leaders has been formed to take more responsibility in ministry decisions. Culture is changing, as choices are made in a swing away from traditional initiation ceremonies to more Christcentred options. There is also a growing desire among the local believers to share more of their faith with their community.

These wonderful stories give account that God is still at work as He was so long ago. He may not answer in ways that suit us, but later we find His answers were always better than what we could possibly imagine.

Truly He is Almighty God.

By Bob Rogers Qld Director Global Interaction

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 31

IN CHRIST YOU CAN …

Teachable BE

ALLAN QUAK

“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.”

“I’ve had this habit since I was in primary school.”

“People will just have to accept me the way I am.”

Have you heard people use phrases like these? Basically what they are saying is, “I’m not teachable.”

This may be a position in life that we want to take, but it is not a position encouraged by the Scriptures. For instance, in Philippians 4:4-9, Paul teaches us that, in Christ, we can … … be joyful … be gentle … have peace … have perspective This is the abundance of life that is being offered to all who know Jesus as Lord and Saviour. However, to have this life, there is one more attitude in Christ to consider. Paul tells us about it in verse 9.

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

We will not have life to the full—joy, gentleness, peace, perspective, if we are not willing to be teachable.

That may sound like a blunt statement, but it is very deliberate,

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because Paul in Philippians 4:4-9 is being very deliberate about the life which will only be gained if we are teachable.

How teachable?

Paul uses four words to describe the type of “teach-ability” we need.

LEARNED Paul says:

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:14-15 Learning takes place as we look to mature Christian believers whom God has placed in our lives, so we can model our lives after their example. This learning has the specific focus of identifying people whose daily lives reflect that the Word of God lives in them, and that they are Scripture oriented.

Those who are teachable make sure they put into action what they have learned from Scripturecentred people.

RECEIVED

Paul summarises his ministry in this way:Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you.

Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures 1 Corinthians 15:1-4.

Receiving is very much focussed on being taught the truth of Scripture.

Studying, growing and being equipped. The attitude with which we receive is to recognise it is a lifelong action. Apollos was a learned man with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures who could speak with great fervour and accuracy about Jesus. Yet he was willing to be taught by Priscilla and Aquila who explained the way of God more adequately (cf. Acts 18:24-28).

Those who are teachable are life-long learners who make sure their receiving is always Scripture centred, so they can confidently put into practise what they have received.

HEARD

This word appears 427 times in the New Testament. The application of the “hearing” is not just “hearing” Scripture, but also “hearing” the life of a person. When you meet people, how do they speak and act? What sort of language comes from their mouths? Who are they when they are tired, or frustrated, or having a bad day? In seeking an environment where believers can be teachable, Paul is placing a responsibility on every kingdom believer.

It is one thing to say, “listen to me preach the Scripture”, it is quite another to say “listen to how I preach through my life”… what have you heard?

Such an environment calls for consistency in our walk with Jesus, but also honesty. The honesty of recognising, and accepting, and admitting, sin and failure.

Those who are teachable humbly hear the lives of others, knowing how difficult it is to “speak” consistently, and put what they have heard into practise.

SEEN

This word appears 476 times in the New Testament. The emphasis of the word, in terms of us being teachable, is very similar to “heard”.

It is an invitation to watch, and learn from, the lives of others within the kingdom community. This places a great calling upon all Christians, but especially mature Christians. It can be a daunting responsibility, because we realise just how much we fall short, and we can find ourselves being quite ashamed about what people see in us.

So, when it comes to seeing we need to be very clear.

This is not a call to provide a perfect example to others—only Jesus did that.

This is a call to live consistently in your relationship with Jesus.

Consistent living means recognising our sin, guilt and shame, and then coming to Jesus consistently in forgiveness and fellowship. It sounds like a contradiction, but it isn’t. Paul describes the situation this way: Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.

1 Timothy 1:15-16 Those who are teachable humbly see the redeeming work of Jesus in the lives of other believers, and then put what they have seen into practise.

LEARNING. RECEIVING. HEARING. SEEING. IN CHRIST WE CAN …

BE TEACHABLE This article series is based on a series of sermons preached by Allan Quak.

You can listen to the full sermons here: www.nec.org.au/listen-to-asermon-series/in-christ-you-can/

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 33

THE SCIENCE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN THE BIBLE

BY SHAUNA GALLAGHER

Mental illness can be a controversial topic amongst Christians. Some say that it’s all about our spiritual condition, and some say it’s a physical condition. Perhaps there is a middle ground.

Scientific research abounds around what helps our mental health. You have probably heard one of the latest buzz words, ‘neuroplasticity’.

This simply means that our brain is able to change and grow its connections depending on the environment (for example, through learning, injury, experiences etc).

This ‘rewiring’ of our brain is a very physical activity, contributed to by our thoughts and actions also. It’s important to note that rewiring of our brain is happening constantly.

Even if we don’t intentionally direct it, our brain continues to make new connections.

Whilst this may be relatively new research, it was written for us in the Bible a long time ago! A well-known verse that talks about rewiring (renewing) our brain is Romans 12:2.

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This verse is very clear that we can rewire our brain!

Many of the strategies that science says contributes to good mental health have been inherent in us as human beings since the creation of man. Worship, singing and prayer are such examples. Science even agrees that there are benefits to having faith in a higher power.1 It has been found that those with such a faith have quicker recovery and healing times (physically and mentally) compared to those who have no faith.

Let’s take a closer look at some activities that not only rewire our brain but are supported by the Bible.

PRAYER/MEDITATION – Science tells us that religious practices like prayer and meditation actually thickens the cortex (front part of brain). This thickening is thought to be protective against depression.2 The Bible also tells us that praying instead of worrying will bring you a peace that only God can give (Phil 4:6-7).

Likewise, the Bible speaks of peace and healing that can come from meditating on God and His Word (Prov 4:20-22; Isaiah 26:3).

GRATITUDE/THANKFULNESS – There is strong scientific evidence to show that having a thankful attitude lessens depression and anxiety by increasing the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. It also regulates the stress hormones which reduces anxiety symptoms.3 Once again, the Bible also shows (even commands) an ‘attitude of gratitude’ as something we should practise (1 Thes 5:18; Ps 69:30).

SINGING/MUSIC – Singing and music have been shown to have great benefits for improving mental health. They lessen the levels of the stress hormone cortisol and can give you a deeper sleep.4 Many times in the Bible we are told to sing and play instruments in praise of God (Ps95: 1-3; Ps 98:46). A number of verses also mention shouting for joy as a part of this.

COMPASSION/KINDNESS We all know how good it feels to have someone be kind and compassionate towards us. Science also tells us that showing kindness and witnessing kindness is also beneficial for our mental health.5 It would be hoped that as Christians we would always be kind and compassionate due to the great compassion/mercy that God shows us. It is important to realise that we are actually commanded to be kind (Colossians 3:12; Ephesians 4:32).

THOUGHTS – Our thoughts play a critical role in our emotional wellbeing. We can become stuck in unhelpful thinking styles, and this shapes the views we have of the world around us.6 The Bible also has much to say on what types of things should enter our thoughts. From the types of things to think about, to the things we ought not think about (Phil 4:8; 1 John 3:15).

SLEEP – Having a good night’s sleep is more than just about feeling rested and full of energy in the morning. Sleep is so vital to our mental health that chronic sleep problems increase the risk of mental illness.7 Sleep should be restful, and the Bible mentions various ways this can happen. For example, through having wisdom and through doing all that you do for God’s purpose (Prov 3:21-24; Ps 127:1-2).

NUTRITION – In recent years there has been much research done showing the connection between the gut and the brain. It has been shown that 95% of our serotonin (mood neurotransmitter) is produced

in the gut and impacts our mental health greatly.8 Eating what God created (natural foods) is well established as being the optimal way to eat for general health. Interestingly, nutrition for gut health emphasises dark, leafy greens as having an important role, and the Bible also talks about eating these things too (Gen 9:3).

EXERCISE – We have known for a long time that exercise is good for our body, but more recently, exercise has been shown to be as good as talking therapy and medication for mild to moderate depression.9 In particular, exercise increases the levels of endorphins and serotonin (which enhance mood).

The Bible refers to exercise being of benefit to us. But more importantly, we know that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, so we should look after our bodies and be self-disciplined, which relates very well to exercise (1 Cor 6:19-20; 1 Cor 9:27a).

Rewiring our brain is about forming new habits, so it becomes second nature to think and act in a particular way. In order to form a habit, we need to be consistently and persistently practising it. Remember that the more we practice these strategies, the more easily we will stay on track.

It is good to recognise that we can draw on God’s wisdom and Word to engage in strategies that will rewire (renew) our brain. In so doing, we will not only improve our mental health, but also bring us into a closer relationship with Him. He wants us to lean into Him, to be fully reliant on Him, and to be obedient to His Word in the continual renewing of our minds.

Shauna and her husband, John, live at the Sunshine Coast and minister at Coolum Beach Baptist Church. Shauna has written her first book of Christian relaxation exercises for children and awaits the release of her audio books for teens and adults. Her first book can be previewed through her website https://christianrelaxation. com.

Shauna is available for workshops on practical Christian mental health for churches and Christian schools. Please contact Shauna through her website or by calling 0414 864 714.

References 1.

Pshychology Today - https://www. psychologytoday.com/us/blog/talkingabout-men/201712/religion-and-mentalhealth-what-is-the-link

2.

Science Daily - https://www.sciencedaily. com/releases/2014/01/140116084846. htm

3.

Positive Psychology - https:// positivepsychology.com/neuroscienceof-gratitude/

4.

Wellways https://www.wellways.org/ blog/singing-mental-health

5.

Happify Daily - https://www.happify. com/hd/the-power-of-a-single-act-ofkindness/

6.

Psychology Today - https://www. psychologytoday.com/au/blog/insighttherapy/201009/sound-mental-healththink-again-about-your-thinking

7.

Sleep Health Foundation - https:// www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/ depression-and-sleep.html

8.

Harvard Medical School - https:// www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-onfood-201511168626

9.

Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue. org.au/personal-best/pillar/supportingyourself/exercise-your-way-to-goodmental-health

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 35

I BELONG

BY MELINDA MCCREDIE

Everyone wants a place to belong.

It is a desire we are all born with, and something many of us will spend our whole lives searching for. That feeling of belonging, when we eventually find it, is the most wonderful gift.

Some of us are born into loving families and have always felt like we belong. Others are not so lucky.

Some of us found our niche at school, perhaps with the popular crowd. But in the adult world, we have never found anything that compares.

Some of us find it at work, but then when a redundancy happens, or we get transferred somewhere new, we are left to start over again.

GOD CREATED US WITH A DESIRE TO BELONG The truth is, the desire to belong rises up in our hearts because God put it there. It’s actually a Biblical principle. God wants us to first understand that we belong in relationship with Him; but also that we need relationship with others.

We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.

(Romans 12:5) For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.

(Matthew 18:20)

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People may reject us, but God never will.

trust Him to guide us to the right people for connection.

We may feel lonely, but God is always with us.

He is the one we belong to. No person or possession can ever totally satisfy that longing. Only God can.

There may be a season of searching, and at times we will experience some discouragement. But as long as we don’t give up, and we listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, we will find our place.

When we grasp these truths, we are finally free to find our place in this world. We can put our trust in God as our first place of belonging, and

Following God and finding somewhere to belong and serve is intentional. It doesn’t happen by waiting for someone to come to you.

understand that trusting God was going to take time and effort. But it wasn’t until I was able to do that that I began to feel a sense of belonging.

Because with God, it’s kind of an all or nothing relationship. I have come to understand that we can expect more when we belong, when we are connected with other believers.

I learnt to trust God even when I didn’t understand anything. He was tender with my heart, and when the time was right, He led me to the right people.

The right place.

WE FIND A GREAT SENSE OF PURPOSE WHEN WE BELONG

It is a courageous decision to step out in faith and keep reaching out until you find the right place for you.

My journey to find belonging began when I first became a Christian. I heard a lot of messages about trusting God, but I had never experienced what that meant for myself. It was almost an abstract idea.

As I grew in my faith, I grew in my relationship with God. I started to

But in order for that to happen, I had to reach out. I had to make the effort myself to find out where I belonged. I tried serving in a few different places before I ended up in Women’s Ministry. I volunteered at Mainly Music for a year, and Rosie’s (feeding the homeless for 2 years).

When we belong in community, we find a greater sense of purpose. We find acceptance, support, friendship, love and a place to use our gifts and to serve.

first thing everybody wants are the pies and sausage rolls. They would fight to get in line first. Then some of the patrons would ask us what type of filling were in the pies we were serving, and then get annoyed because we had no idea! There is something strangely endearing about homeless people being fussy about free food! But after that I knew what to expect, and I eventually got better.

The most important thing I learnt over that period of time was not to give up if the first thing I tried wasn’t a perfect fit! Don’t be discouraged!

It really is ok to go through a season of searching and take the time to find out where God is leading you.

The true joy in serving comes from giving without the expectation of receiving anything in return. What can we bring? How can we use our gifts to make a greater impact for God? The answers to those questions are what will ultimately lead us to find out where we belong.

I have learnt that Jesus is the constant in my life, and I will always belong to Him. But I also know that He created us to need community, and when we find that place to belong and serve, we are fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives.

Melinda is a writer who primarily writes devotions based on her own life experiences with God. She also has a blog titled www. thedevotedlife.com and a self-published book. Melinda attends Gateway Baptist Church with her husband Drewe and two daughters.

The first time I served food at Rosie’s, I was completely unprepared for the “rush” of people coming at me! The food is all donated by a local bakery, and the

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 37

FINISHING THE BOOK OF

BY WENDY FRANCIS

life

At a time when Queensland has the second highest suicide rate in Australia, and when we are experiencing a crisis in elder abuse and the rise of inheritance impatience, it seems strange that our government is considering the introduction of legislation to allow assisted suicide, or euthanasia. With the parliamentary committee report on this inquiry due in March 2020, there is still time for input.

stage of life also have much to offer. Not only that, but sometimes people in the final stages of their life recognise the spiritual aspect of life for the first time. The question that must be answered by all of us is “how do we best love and care for those in our community who are dying?” Supporting people when they are dying is utterly different to intentionally causing them to die.

This debate is not about people wanting good deaths. Neither is it about people wanting to eliminate suffering. On these points both sides have agreement.

Euthanasia fundamentally corrupts one of the most important and precious truths that we hold to be self-evident – the invaluable worth of every human life.

Many of us have experience with relatives or friends who have suffered from illness, but the opposite of suffering is not death— it’s the relief of suffering. I’ve walked the journey to death with two of my sisters. Along with other members of my family, it was a privilege and one of the most profound times of personal growth in our lives. My sisters received expert palliative care. It is unthinkable that they would have been offered the active and intentional ending of their life by assisting them to suicide.

Former Prime Minister Paul Keating said that, “under (euthanasia) law there will be people whose lives we honour, and those we believe are better off dead.”

Professor Ian Olver is one of Australia’s leading cancer researchers and medical oncologists. He likens ending someone’s life by euthanasia to “ripping the last page out of a novel”. And there’s a lot of valuable information on that last page. Similarly, people at the last

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But the slogan ‘Dying with dignity’ creates a belief that some lives are not worth living. Every single human life has dignity. This is at the very heart of being human. Being created in the image of God.

There are many groups who are particularly vulnerable to being euthanised, including the elderly, disabled and clinically depressed.

A confronting response to the argument of those who want to control the end of their lives has been articulated by the disability rights group ‘Not Dead Yet’. They

state what should be obvious, but is often overlooked: “we don’t need to die to have dignity”. They explain: In a society that prizes physical ability and stigmatizes impairments, it’s no surprise that previously ablebodied people may tend to equate disability with loss of dignity. This reflects the prevalent but insulting societal judgment that people who deal with incontinence and other losses in bodily function are lacking dignity. People with disabilities are concerned that these psychosocial disability-related factors have become widely accepted as sufficient justification for assisted suicide.1 Circumstances are not difficult to envisage in which people come to regard killing themselves as ‘the right thing to do’.

In 2012 in Oregon, 57% of those requesting death reported ‘burden to family and friends’ as an end-oflife concern.2 For the most vulnerable, the right to euthanasia can change to an expectation to die, then an obligation to die.

There is inherent dignity in every human being. ‘Dying with expert medical care’ doesn’t need new legislation. Palliative care which facilitates this already exists.

Queensland has some of the best medical resources in the world but many of our health care professionals point to serious problems in this area: • • • • •

Lack of palliative care specialists Aged care facilities have no trained palliative care nurses; Inadequate financial support for aged care facilities; Insufficient funding for home care packages; Critically deficient numbers of nurses working in remote communities.

Consideration of legalising euthanasia whilst palliative care is not available is cruel. And it is utterly naïve to claim it is safe.

Based on overwhelming evidence from the Northern Territory and numerous international jurisdictions, wrongful deaths are inevitable when euthanasia is legalised.

The most powerful argument against euthanasia is that death is not the end. For those who have become children of God through the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, we look forward to a new world after death where there is ‘no more death or mourning or crying or pain’. But for those, however, who do not know God, euthanasia is not a ‘merciful release’ at all. It may rather be propelling them towards a judgment

for which they are unprepared, followed by eternal separation from God in hell. This would be the worst thing we could ever do for anyone.

Death is an enemy that only Jesus Christ can and will destroy.

Euthanasia is wrong fundamentally because God has said it is wrong— and when, as Christians, we are tempted to consider it, our response needs to be quite simply ‘it is written: you shall not murder’. Euthanasia is, after all, the intentional killing of an innocent human being. However, as well as being right, God’s laws also makes good sense. We can therefore argue effectively against the legalisation of euthanasia in a secular forum even when our opponents don’t accept that God exists.

If you would like more information or assistance in contacting your Member of Parliament, please get in touch with me.

Wendy Francis is the Queensland director of the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL). Contact Wendy on email wendy.francis@acl.org.au

(http://notdeadyet.org/disability-rights-toolkit-for-advocacy-against-legalization-of-assisted-suicide) (http://www.livinganddyingwell.org.uk/sites/default/files/LDW%20-%20Research%20%20Oregon%20Year%2015.pdf) https://www.smh.com.au/opinion/paul-keating-voluntary-euthanasia-is-a-threshold-moment-for-australia-and-one-we-should-not-cross20171019-gz412h.html)

1 2

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 39

PRAYER:

WHEN YOU FEEL GUILTY FOR NOT PRAYING

BY CHRISTINE WOOD

I know I should pray; I want to pray, I feel guilty every time I hear a sermon about prayer because I honestly want to have a disciplined prayer life, but I’ve never been great at praying.

And, if I’m completely honest, I don’t understand prayer. At all.

Why would Almighty God, who knows all things, need me to talk to Him and ask Him to intervene in the situations I find myself in?

Sometimes, seemingly randomly, He does something unexplainable and amazing and answers my prayer. Other times, nothing. Why? I don’t understand how it works.

I don’t know why God answers some prayers and not others. But this I know. I need to pray.

The Bible says a lot about prayer.

And it’s clear from all the verses in all the contexts, prayer is a vital part of our spiritual growth and relationship with God. But there is no formula to follow. There is no guaranteed way of twisting God’s arm into complying with our request.

Prayer remains a relationshipbuilding mystery of faith.

I don’t know how prayer works, but this I do know—when God does answer my prayers, it strengthens my faith exponentially.

Answered prayer changes everything!

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There is no fertiliser for faith growth like a miracle prayed for.

I am in ministry. People come to me asking for prayer, expecting answers. To be perfectly honest, I struggle with this because I know that I can’t do anything to help anyone who comes and asks me for prayer. I’ve got nothing to give.

Nothing.

One Sunday after church I was down the front during the prayer ministry time as usual, and a lady I hadn’t seen before came with her young son. She walked cautiously towards me, the “I’ve-got-nothingto-give” me and asked for healing of her son’s rash. He was suffering, and the doctors had no answers.

This little boy needed a miracle.

So, I put one hand on this little boy’s shoulder, and I prayed the very best rash healing prayer I could muster. It was a simple prayer; there were no fancy words.

My head was telling me how ridiculous I was, while my mouth was claiming God’s healing and my heart had a tiny mustard seed of faith.

and shouted, “Does anyone have a rash? I have a rash–healing prayer that works!” I didn’t, but, the next time someone gingerly walked to the front of the church asking for prayer, I had a little more faith in my heart, and a little more confidence in my voice.

When God answers prayer, our faith expands!

I don’t know why God heals some times and not others, but I do know that God heals, and so I will keep praying for healing. I don’t know why God answers some prayers and not others, but I do know that God answers prayer, and so I will keep praying.

The disciples saw the power of prayer and asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. Jesus lesson was a short and simple prayer that gives God all the glory and reminds us to submit our lives to Him and ask Him for everything we need (Luke 11:1-4).

Wow!

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught to keep your prayers simple and private (Matthew 6:58). Eloquence is not necessary; a platform is not necessary; an audience doesn’t help. A simple prayer, offered in faith to our Heavenly Father, is what God asks for. Simple, childlike faith.

The next Sunday I had so much faith I nearly stood on my chair

What does this kind of prayer look like in a normal busy life?

I found out the following Tuesday that the boy had been healed. God did a miracle.

I admire the people who carve out significant time to pray. I respect people who have beautiful prayer journals and war rooms and a disciplined routine. I do not doubt that it adds a lot of richness to their walk with God, it’s just not me.

I turn my joys into prayers When I see a beautiful sky, witness an act of kindness or hear a child laugh, I praise God. The first sip of coffee early in the morning, the warmth of sunshine on my face, the petals of a rose softly folded together, the feeling of clean sheets. My life is full of wonderful blessings! As I enjoy my life, I express my gratitude to God in simple prayers of joy and thanks.

The journal I use has a space to write down what I’m grateful for.

There are many gratitude journal tools available, but don’t just be

grateful—go the next step and thank God for His blessings!

I turn my worries into prayers When I’m struggling, when I don’t know what to do, when my mind goes over and over that conversation that didn’t go well, I pray. Turning my worries into prayers is a powerful practice in trust and submission. It acknowledges that God has control, that He is big enough to deal with my circumstances, and that I do not have to carry my burdens alone. We magnify what we think about. When we dwell on our struggles, they just get bigger and bigger until we are drowning.

When we turn these worries into prayers it shrinks them back to size and magnifies our powerful God. I pray with people I’m talking to When a friend or colleague shares a challenge with me, I ask them

if I can pray for them. Somehow, articulating the concerns in prayer brings peace and hope into the conversation, because that is who God is, and that is what He wants for us. It takes courage sometimes, and it can feel a little awkward at first, but I’ve come to love these opportunities to serve my friends by praying for them. It even works over the phone!

When we pray it gives God room to move in our lives. It opens the door to amazing possibilities. I don’t understand why sometimes my prayers go unanswered, but I will continue to pray! Because, when God shows up and the miracle happens, I want to be in the front row!

Christine is a mum, wife and Pastor at Gateway Baptist Church. Visit Christine’s Blog to read more stories and devotionals www.livingwithmargins.com

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 41

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BOOK (PAPERBACK) - HOW HAPPINESS HAPPENS: FINDING LASTING JOY IN A WORLD OF COMPARISON, DISAPPOINTMENT, AND UNMET EXPECTATIONS MAX LUCADO $24.99 AT KOORONG In a world searching for happiness, bestselling author Max Lucado provides a personal plan for a life filled with lasting and fulfilling joy, supported by Jesus’ teaching and modern research.

Do you feel happy?

Only one-third of Americans surveyed said they were happy. How can this be? Education is accessible to most. We’ve made advancements in everything from medicine to technology, yet 66 percent of us can’t find an adequate reason to check the “yes” box on the happiness questionnaire.

Worldwide, people profess that happiness is their most cherished goal. Marketers get this. “Want to be happy?” they ask. Eat at this restaurant, drive this car, wear this dress. Happiness happens when you lose the weight, get the date, find the mate, or discover your fate. It’s wide, this way to happiness. Yet, for all its promise, it delivers a fragile joy; here one day, tomorrow scattered by the winds of comparison, disappointment, or unmet expectations.

Max writes, “There is another option. It requires no credit card, monthly mortgage, or stroke of fortune. Age and ethnicity aren’t factors...an unexpected door to joy.”

In this book Max shares the unexpected path to a lasting happiness, one that produces reliable joy in any season of life. Based on the teachings of Jesus and backed by modern research, How Happiness Happens presents a surprising but practical way of living that will change you from the inside out.

- Publisher

42 OCT/NOV 19 QB.ORG.AU

www.koorong.com

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WIN A BOOK

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To win a copy of the book “Our Message” by Greg Miller, visit the QB magazine website www.qbmagazine.org.au and enter your details, or email your full name and address to maketing@qb.org.au, or post your full name and address to “QB Magazine – Our Message Book Draw”, PO BOX 6166, Mitchelton QLD 4053.

Two (2) winners will be randomly chosen, and the draw closes at midnight on 22 November 2019.

COMPETITION AND REVIEW BOOK: OUR MESSAGE BY GREG MILLER Coolum Beach Baptist Church members and friends have shared their testimonies of faith through a visually engaging coffee table style book titled “Our Message” . It is produced by award winning Sunshine Coast photographer Greg Miller.

This is a 60 page, A5 format hard cover book, with a compilation of ten testimonies and one testimonial poem from everyday Christians sharing their faith. It includes Greg’s personal testimony of how God has worked in his life over the past 30 years.

It is an easy-read gift book for a non-Christian, as it shares the testimonies of others, supported with biblical references, giving the reader an understanding of the Christian faith.

DVD - THE LEAST OF THESE: THE GRAHAM STAINES STORY (2019) $24.99 AT KOORONG

There are also eleven stunning photographic postcards with envelopes included in the book.

As the social fabric of life in rural India disintegrates in the late 1990s, journalist Manav Banerjee (Sharman Joshi) moves with his pregnant wife to the State of Orissa in hope of a better life and the promise of a lucrative career. When speculation mounts that local Australian missionary Graham Staines (Stephen Baldwin) is illegally proselytising leprosy patients, Manav agrees to investigate undercover for the newspaper. What he finds is a series of revelations that are difficult to fathom and even harder to explain, and Manav is forced to make a choice between his own ambition and the truth. In the end, his actions spark a tragic event that is felt around the world. Based on a true story and shot on location in India, “THE LEAST OF THESE” beautifully illustrates the power of love, hope and forgiveness to overcome hate.

Fundraising: These books are available to your church’s or associated church groups on consignment for fundraising opportunities. The recommended retail price is $25.00, with the seller receiving $7.00 from each book sold. Due to the high cost of freight, a minimum order of 12 books is preferred.

Greg can be contacted by email: ourmessage12@gmail.com or through the website Individual book sales are also available through the web site www.gregmiller.com.au/our-message

- Koorong

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 43

FUN ZONE WHERE IS THAT LITTLE PIGGY? Sir-Save-a-Lot the Baplink piggy bank is hiding somewhere in the magazine.

Can you find him? Congratulations! Congratulations! To all those who found Sir-Save-a-Lot hiding on page 30 (Aug/Sep Issue of The QB Magazine).

CROSSWORD

WORD SEARCH Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.

For solutions, visit Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GaythorneOffice/

44 OCT/NOV 19 QB.ORG.AU

Afghanistan Armenia Austria Bahrain Barbuda Belize Benin Chad Chile China Cuba

Djibouti Egypt Fiji Godthab Guinea Haiti Iran Iraq Italy Laos Libya

Macau Malawi Mali Malta Mexico Netherlands Oman Peru Philippines Qatar Russia

Rwanda Serbia Sudan Syria Togo Tonga Ukraine Wales Yemen

Puzzle Choice www.puzzlechoice.com is the source of this Crossword. www.puzzles.ca is the source of this word search.

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.

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

CALLED HOME

Charles George Day

Raymond Harold Elvery

“He was honest, upright and a man of his word”.

13TH NOVEMBER 1938 – 3RD SEPTEMBER 2019

Charles George Day was born at home in Turner Avenue, New Farm on the 10th December 1921. He was the eldest of five sons that made up the family of George Henry and Alice Day. New Farm must have been an idyllic spot for a little boy to grow up in. Swimming and fishing in the Brisbane River were favourite pastimes, and being a strong swimmer, he would swim from one side of the river to the other! Charles was a superb athlete. He loved sport and he loved the ocean. He was a Queensland under 14 years schoolboy 100 yards champion, and a strong swimmer, gaining his bronze medallion and later joining the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club. He also belonged to the City Tabernacle Cricket team and played rugby for GPS Old Boys.

Family was very important to Charles. He was raised in a close knit loving Christian family and was also very close to his wider family of grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins.

The building trade was in his genes, and on leaving school he was apprenticed to G E Day and Son. This was his Grandfather and Father’s building firm that was started in 1911.

In his working life, the foundations on which he had built his life shone through—honesty, respect, decency, self- discipline and hard work. He had a very strong work ethic. However, it was his faith that was the centre point and anchor of his life. His unswerving belief in God who he knew loved him, forgave him, and in whom he could put his trust. He always sought to live and share his faith, and I know that he impacted many lives through Sunday School, Boys Brigade, and serving as a deacon at the City Tabernacle for over 60 years. After he retired from building he became involved in jail chaplaincy work, becoming a force for good in the lives of many inmates, and leading them to faith in the God he knew and loved.

Charles saw many changes during his 97 years, from a world ravaged by war (in which he served in the Navy), right through to the digital age we live in today.

He was very much loved and will be missed greatly. He will live on in the memories of his children, his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

“The Lord will fulfil his purpose for me – Psalms 138:8” Ray and Ruth Elvery are well known names amongst Queensland Baptists, and Rev. Stephen Ball delivered a tribute on behalf of the QB movement.

After many years at St Peters college, Ray became an accredited Baptist pastor in 1999. The students at the college recalled Ray’s positive manner, wisdom, unwavering faith and genuine interest in their lives. One tribute summed up this impact “I’ll never forget how much of a blessing Ray was to me in my youth.

He had a unique and very special way of making everyone feel accepted and valued”. What a testament to his servant heart!

He served with distinction at Toowoomba Community Baptist Church. He was initially called as an interim pastor for 1 year but this extended to 8 years! The comments from the Toowoomba church are that Ray and Ruth brought healing and peace to the church when it was much needed. They were a great team with real pastoral hearts.

Good pastors don’t really retire, they just stop working full time!

This was certainly true for Ray and Ruth who moved back to Brisbane and became involved in the Victoria Point Baptist church, where they were well received and much loved.

From 2007 – 2009 Ray used his leadership gifts to benefit Queensland Baptists as a whole, firstly as President elect 2007-2008 and then as President from 2008-2009. This role had a very public expression, through preaching and visiting many of the churches, and representing Queensland Baptists at civic and public occasions. Ray also served on and chaired many Queensland Baptists board and committee meetings.

Ray’s wisdom and input was valued and appreciated, and on the conclusion of his presidency, special mention was made of the devotionals he brought to the board and ministerial services.

They were described as always exalting God and being from the heart of a man of God. On behalf of Queensland Baptists we give thanks for the life and ministry of Ray Elvery. May Ray’s legacy continue to impact God’s work in this world, through the lives that he has impacted and influenced for Christ.

Photo from the Australian War Memorial Collection

QB MAGAZINE

Subscription Form - $19.50 per year

THE VOICE OF QUEENSLAND BAPTISTS

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WHY NOT SUBSCRIBE? Treat yourself or give as a gift.

46 OCT/NOV 19 QB.ORG.AU

Email details to qb@qb.org.au Or post to PO Box 6166 Mitchelton Q 4051

Address Email Phone Send invoice via email

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QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 46

POSITIONS VACANT

ACCOMMODATION BRISBANE: House available as a ministry for

STEWARDSHIP IMPACT WORKSHOP One Day Workshops 9.30am – 5.00pm Sydney – Thursday 10 October 2019 Horizon Church, 7 Stapleton Avenue Sutherland Melbourne – Friday 11 October 2019 St Hillary’s Anglican Church, 12 John Street Kew Brisbane – Monday 14 October 2019 Stafford Salvation Army Corps, 54 Hayward Street Stafford For pastoral leaders who wish to revolutionise their Church by creating a culture of biblical stewardship.

REGISTER NOW AT www.compass1.org.au

POSITION VACANT SANDY BAY BAPTIST CHURCH Sandy Bay Baptist Church (Hobart, TAS) is seeking a Pastor.

Details: https://sbbc.net/pastorsearch

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: Sunshine Coast, Qld, beachside units from $400/wk, ph 0427 990 161.

CORAL COVE: BNB accommodation on coast

east of Bundaberg. Nightly costs $30 plus $12 each additional person plus one-off cleaning fee $12.

Weekly bookings discounted. Details can be seen at: https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/33140733.

Discounts available for Baptist members. You may phone Ken or Margaret direct on 07 4155 6605 or email: kandmbnb@outlook.com

SHARE ACCOMMODATION: Fairfield Christian Family (www.fcfchurch.org.au) is located in a vibrant inner city suburb close to universities.

There is currently one vacancy for a male (student or worker) in a share accommodation house adjacent to the church. Please contact Pastor Neil Pattemore, ph 0435 065 035 or tarragindipats@yahoo.com.au.

FOR HIRE

NORTH-EAST BAPTIST CHURCH North-East Baptist Church is an active, local, relevant and contemporary witness to Jesus Christ in the north-eastern suburbs of Brisbane, just 20 minutes from the CBD. NEB is currently seeking a part time (2 days per week) team member who can grow and develop our Connect Groups (Small Groups) and Teaching ministry. The successful applicant would ideally start in mid-January 2020.

Interested applicants who would like a copy of the position description are encouraged to contact Rev. Peter Cossgrove at peter@neb.org.au.

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.

LONGREACH BAPTIST CHURCH SENIOR PASTOR POSITION Longreach Baptist Church is located in Central Western Queensland and is seeking a Senior Pastor (full-time) to join us in loving God, following Christ, reaching the lost and building believers.

For more information, please go to our website: www.longreachbaptist.com and email the Pastoral Calling Committee at longreachbaptist@gmail.com

QB.ORG.AU OCT/NOV 19 47

L I V E T H E L I F E YO U LOV E I N T H E H O M E YO U ’ V E A LWAYS LOV E D

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We offer a full range of services from basic support to keep you healthy and safe at home, assisting with personal and nursing care, and getting you out and about.

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Our locally-based teams make it a priority to really listen and understand your individual needs and interests, and work with you to develop a tailored solution.

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