Digital edition 1 - Scope Magazine by Scope Magazine

IS & THE ISSUE OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

DIGITAL ISSUE 1

W H AT L I E S D E E P E R T H A N # F E E S M U S T FA L L ?

MARCH 2016

JIMMY NEVIS

SOUTH AFRICA

REACHING YOU WHERE YOU’RE AT.

EXPANDING IN PRINT ON YOUR CAMPUS.

FREED OM

ntents

ISSUES & INSIGHTS

MUSIC

EXPOUND

OVERTONE

RETHINK

SOUND CHECK

CONFRONT

CRESCENDO

QUESTION

RECOMMENDED 10

ANOTHER LISTEN

WHAT IS THE MOST LIBERATING EXPRESSION OF FEMINISM? LILLY MILLION: THE SOULFUL INDIE/ FOLK ARTIST DUBBED SA’S TRACY CHAPMAN.

LIVING 2.0 180 DEGREES

EXPLORE

GRANT PORTHEN’S REMARKABLE STORY OF REDEMPTION.

BO OKS THE EXCHANGE

DOG-EAR

CAMPUS CONNECT

HOW READING AWAKENS US TO THE GREATEST NARRATIVE OF ALL TIME.

ONE VOICE

IN RETROSPECT

NINE DIFFERENT UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AROUND SA SHARE ABOUT THE #FEESMUSTFALL PROTESTS.

RHYME & REASON

THE MISSION INSPIRE ACTION

TODAY

REMEMBER

JOHN PATON AND WHY HE WAS PREPARED TO BE EATEN BY CANNIBALS (LITERALLY).

FLOW

RECIPES

FANTASY

LIGHTER SIDE

THE HEART-RENDING FICTIONAL STORY OF MIRANDA DEALING WITH THE DEATH OF HER SISTER.

HELLO! Welcome to the first digital issue of Scope Magazine! Freedom is a weighty subject. As you flip through the different sections and sink your teeth into the content, I hope you will be impacted by the various perspectives that speak to you on a level that is easy to engage with. Some older folk have stressed concern about the name I chose for this media platform – Scope Magazine. If you’re a student born in the period after South Africa gained its democracy in 1994 (a ‘born-free’), you probably didn’t know (like I did till after I chose the name) that there was a big publication in South Africa called Scope. It was known to be pretty risqué and what could be classified as ‘soft porn’. It ended in 1996. You may be wondering why I decided on a title which carries such a ‘bad’ connotation with those from a previous generation? Here are two main reasons.

I WOULD LIKE TO FORMALLY THANK ALL WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THIS PILOT DIGITAL EDITION. 1. Even though the name may seem controversial to an older person, younger people going through university today weren’t exposed to the old Scope. Students are primarily our target audience and its aim is to introduce Christians and non-Christians to a bigger scope of our world today through the Gospel.

era), doesn’t the new Scope Magazine paint a beautiful picture of the transforming power of the Gospel? God takes someone who was living in rebellion to Him and offers a clean slate, a fresh start, and a new hope. As that person believes in what Jesus did on the cross, their sin is forgiven – once and for all. The name of that person may still be the same, but the nature of that name has been radically changed. I have been in the fortunate position to see God draw a broad range of different contributors together from all over South Africa. Even though most of these people have never personally met each other – we are all connected by a common love and purpose: the Lord Jesus Christ and His mission in this generation. I would like to formally thank all who have contributed to this pilot digital edition. I have personally been touched by every piece that has come in, and I pray you will be too. Could there be more to Christianity and the biblical worldview than what you previously perceived? I believe that the Gospel speaks to all of who we are. Will you be open to what God might want to say to you? If you’re celebrating Easter, enjoy this special time with loved ones. He has risen!

MUCH LOVE,

2. Even if ‘born-frees’ may have known about the old Scope (probably from parents or others who lived in the Apartheid

“Let us live and strive for freedom in South Africa our land.” ~ Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika JONATHAN JUST

@JO

NOJUST1

T EA M PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

INTRODUCING STUDENTS TO A BIGGER SCOPE OF OUR WORLD TODAY THROUGH THE GOSPEL.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR PROOF READER SECTRETARY

JONATHAN JUST MICHAEL JUST CATHERINE BURGESS MAX QOYO

ANY OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHER, SPONSORS, ADVERTISERS, OR SCOPE MAGAZINE.

CO N TRIBUTORS

Expound Ed Ender

Today Alice Clegg

Flow Nyathela Mhlongo

Rethink Bill Edwards

Remember Roxanne Daniels

Recipes Elizabeth McKerrow

Confront Kendra Lombard

Overtone Phathiswa Magangane

Fantasy Lauren Kirk-Cohen

Question John-Paul Harper

Sound Check Robyn Smith

Lighter Side The Skit Guys

180 Degrees Grant Porthen

Crescendo Jonathan Just

Explore Mégan Schilder & Noni Silomo

Recommended 10 Marvin Kimani

One Voice 9 university students

Another Listen Stacy Mata

In Retrospect Tendai Chitsike

The Exchange Graham Heslop

Inspire Action Annie Kirke

Dog-ear Matt O’Kelly

G O T S O M E T H I N G T O S AY ? PLEASE SEND US AN EMAIL WITH YOUR FEEDBACK: COMMUNICATIONS@ SCOPEMAGAZINE.ORG.ZA

RELIENT K LOOK ON UP

SINCERELY FREEDOM (SPOKEN WORD)

DA’ T.R.U.T.H. RELIGION

LECRAE UNASHAMED

JIMMY NEVIS ELEPHANT SHOES

RAVI ZACHARIAS DOES GOD FAVOUR A GENDER?

SHAUN JACOBS BAND STRONG

LOUIE GIGLIO THE COMEBACK

ISSUES & INSIGHTS

EXPOUND

T R U LY FREE BY E D E N D E R

P H OTO G R A P H Y BY C H R I S T I A N S P I E S

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e are a country riddled with racism. Changing the law hasn’t changed our hearts; which is why we’ve seen such a furore at universities across the country over the last few months. Even though we’ve gained political equality, our nation is still burdened by economic inequality. Recently we heard that 54% of our nation is living on less than R779 a month. And nearly 11 million South Africans are living on less than R11 a day. Can those people really be described as free? What does it mean to be truly free?

When Kenya gained political independence in the 60’s her first president said that the quest for independence was “not just a question of Africans ruling themselves, though that was the first thing”, ...but also “an end ...to the white man’s patronizing attitudes of half a century and more.”1 Freedom for him was about restoring

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personal dignity to black Kenyans.

Speaking at a meeting last year, DA leader Mmusi Maimane said,“...freedom means far, far more than just a symbolic freedom. It has to be a freedom you can use. It has to be freedom that gives you access to opportunities in life.”2 Freedom means much more.

And, actually, that’s getting closer to the Bible’s position. God’s word has always held out a solution to the human race that goes way beyond our political rights. A solution that meets our economic needs. A solution that goes further still and deals with our greatest need, which is spiritual.

And we see a beautiful picture of this kind of freedom in the very famous Psalm 23. It is a picture of harmony and contentment in the heart of the psalmist, because he knows that his every need is being met by God. He describes God as his shepherd; which is

JESUS TELLS THE BIRDS OF SEE HOW GOD FOR THEM. AN REMEMBER TH MUCH MORE V HIM THAN THE

US TO LOOK AT F THE AIR AND D PROVIDES ND THEN TO HAT WE’RE SO VALUABLE TO EY ARE.

to say, God is his owner and provider, protector and guide.

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters...”

It’s a picture of a shepherd, deeply concerned for the wellbeing of his sheep; leading them to where he knows they’ll find good pasture and a place to rest. God – who the Bible describes as our creator and sustainer – has promised His children that He will provide for their needs. Jesus tells us to look at the birds of the air and see how God provides for them. And then to remember that we’re so much more valuable to Him than they are.

But it’s not just our physical needs he takes care of. Verse three tells us that this shepherd restores our souls. Our souls are the most valuable thing we have. Jesus made that point in Mark 8:36 when he said, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

And yet it is our souls that are in jeopardy as we live in this world. It is our souls that are, in fact, lost to God through the rebellion of sin. We are like a sheep who have wandered away from the flock, out of the shepherd’s sight, and into dangerous territory. It is the best news conceivable to hear that God is in the business of restoring souls. In John chapter 10, Jesus explains that He is the good shepherd. He goes so far as to lay down His life for His sheep. He would do it at the cross, paying the ultimate price to rescue sinners from the consequences of their sin. He would rescue them from an eternal death, and restore their souls to God. And so, you see, it is not primarily our political or economic freedom that God is most concerned about. It is our freedom from slavery to sin and death. If we put our trust in the solution that God offers through Jesus, we will still have to deal with political and economic injustice in this world. We’ll still be faced with all kinds of evil and sin. Some of it coming from the outside of us; some of it from within

our own sinful hearts. That was the psalmist’s experience too. He still had to walk through the valley of the shadow of death. And if we are trusting in the same shepherd, we too will face struggles of many kinds. But notice that although this man’s life is threatened by one thing or another, he is a man at peace. He is confident of the protection, provision, and guidance of his heavenly shepherd. True freedom, you see, is not about being given independence in this world. It is not about our autonomy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It is about recognising that there is a rightful ruler over this world. He owns it, because He has made it. He loves each one of us and knows what we need in order to flourish. True freedom happens when we hand our lives over to Him; when we stop trying to live independently and put our trust in that ShepherdGod. It’s then that our deepest needs will finally be met. SOME IMPLICATIONS 1. TAKE HOLD OF THE FREEDOM THAT THE SHEPHERD OFFERS YOU Political freedom in South Africa is wonderful. But it will only go so far in bringing you contentment. Real racial equality would be a monumental achievement for our nation. But it will still leave you hoping for more. Economic equality would be an incredible achievement for our country. But that won’t restore anyone’s soul. 2. DON’T LOOK FOR HEAVEN ON EARTH One of the striking things about Psalm 23 is that the psalmist hasn’t suddenly come into a perfect utopia. No, while he’s in this world he has to walk through the valley of the shadow of death. So, he’s not surprised to have bad things happen to him. And neither should we be. God doesn’t promise that life in this world will be free of injustice and deprivation. It’ll never be picture-perfect. All of that is coming. For now we must know that the brokenness of this world will impact us. Sadly, we’ll be the cause of some of that brokenness. But, as we negotiate it

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ONCE WE’VE STARTED TO OPPOSE RACISM IN OUR HEARTS, LET’S GET ON AND OPPOSE IT ELSEWHERE. all, we have the assurance of God’s guiding presence with us. That ought to give us courage to live differently in His world. In a place like South Africa, won’t that mean being committed to opposing racism? 3. OPPOSE RACISM You don’t have to be Nelson Mandela or Martin Luther King to oppose racism. The place to start opposing racism is in your heart. We all have hearts broken by sin. And we’d be deceiving ourselves if we said there was no discrimination there…no stereotyping…no feelings of superiority.

We must remember that God, when he made humankind, made us through one common ancestor. He made us in His image. So, not only are we all essentially the same, we all have inherent value. God has invested value into us. And so every human on the planet – old or young, rich or poor, black or white – has an equal right to respect and justice. And so, let’s examine ourselves to see where we are not affording them that right, even if it is just in our hearts.

Once we’ve started to oppose racism in our hearts, let’s get on and oppose it elsewhere. Where better to seek racial harmony than in God’s church? Every Christian is an adopted child of God. And so if God has not discriminated, but made himself Father to children of every colour, language and culture, then who are we to think differently? Who are we to show favouritism? Who are we to generalise? Who are we to speak of ‘them’ and ‘us’? Instead, we should treat all people with the same respect. We should stand beside those who are being victimized.

4. EMBRACE THE DIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA The wrong thinking that motivated Apartheid was the notion that to protect the Afrikaner culture, the state had to enforce segregation. It claimed that segregation was necessary to protect and preserve a multi-cultural society. But the best way to honour different cultures – and to see them flourish – is to allow them to openly mix with one another. So, shouldn’t we be getting a bit more proactive about knowing other cultures? Shouldn’t we get a bit more proactive about building cross-cultural friendships?

Perhaps you might like to invite someone over for a meal and ask them to bring their favourite cultural dish? Perhaps ask them to teach you how to make it? Perhaps we should consider learning another South African language. It was Nelson Mandela who said, “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.”3 5. SPEAK TO OTHERS OF THE FREEDOM YOU HAVE In the years to come South Africans will no doubt get fed up with how things are going – whether they’re going well or not. There will be dissatisfaction, because the things they’re looking to will never fill that hole. But you, who have truly been set free, can live a life of peace amidst the corruption and the discrimination and the inequality. You can be cheerful and optimistic, because you know of a freedom that goes beyond political independence. A freedom that’s much better than economic equality.

Will you tell them of His death at the cross, and of His offer of forgiveness, of a freedom that meets their deepest need – the restoration of their souls? ENDNOTES 1. Quoted in Stott, John, New Issues Facing Christians Today, 246 2. News24.com 3. Brainyquote.com

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ED ENDER is a pastor at Trinity Church in Morningside, Durban. His main responsibility is to help people mature in their relationship with Jesus. He is husband to the lovely Liza, father to three delightful halflings, and he’s pretty stoked to be living in the land of the bunnychow. He is also has every intention to learn how to surf.

ISSUES & INSIGHTS

RETHINK

AND THE ISSUE OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM BY B I L L E D WA R D S *

n the Gospel of John, Jesus said: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”1 There’s a lot in that verse to discuss. For one thing, it implies that outside of the truth, there is no freedom. If you agree with such an implication, then you and the Islamic State (also called ISIS, ISIL or Daesh) agree on at least one point. I recognise that the comparison might be unwelcome – but Christ-followers need to see the parallels between their extremism and the radical claims of our own faith. Before I get into the parallels, however, let me outline some

of the motivations which drive IS to bombings, beheadings, and conducting a brutal war in a region already broken by sectarian strife. They see themselves as holders of the truth, and therefore free to act according to it: as obedient servants and forerunners of an Islamic revolution. Their goal is to break the power

of Shaitan (Satan) who has both the liberal and moderate Muslim world in his thrall, and, of course, the rest of the non-believing world. In practical terms, this means the establishment of an Islamic Caliphate in the Levant and Iraq, and Inshallah (God willing), in the Arab world and beyond. WWW. S COP EM AG A ZI NE. CO.Z A

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Those who do not subscribe to their radical form of Sunni Islam are either to be killed, enslaved or heavily taxed. IS’s brand of religion amounts to a political movement, in which Sharia law (religious law) trumps the authority of any secular laws which govern society. For them, it’s all about bringing ‘the kingdom of God’.

I believe the IS would recognise that modern secular states like South Africa, the USA or France go against the most profound Islamic truth – that God is one. They would call it shirk, or blasphemy. It may seem like a stretch – but when these governments legislate (and enforce) so-called ‘freedom of religion’, they set themselves up as the ultimate authorities on the limits of religious truth. The IS would see this as a kind of idolatry; it knows that state-sponsored freedom of religion often becomes a religion of its own: what philosophers call a “religious pluralism” based on the idea that there are many ways to God, and that all different religions are just different paths to the same goal.

CAN WE LIVE A CHRISTIANITY WHICH COSTS NOTHING, WHICH IS APPARENTLY FREE OF SUFFERING? In Christ saying, “I am the way and the truth and the life,”2 He meant that from its very inception, Christianity was revolutionary: it couldn’t accept such a tolerant view of religion either. Granted, it was an indirect and non-violent revolution. It did not raise armies against the Caesar or preach against Rome’s legitimacy. But it did refuse to bow down before the Imperial cult. It did preach against the decadency and immorality of the Roman Empire’s culture, which it saw as slavery to sin. In doing so, it committed an act of political dissent, a declaration that Rome’s government is subservient to the ultimate rule of God Himself, and cannot presume authority it does not have. The resulting persecution only ended once Christianity was decriminalised under the Emperor Constantine, and it soon became the official religion of the Empire. But in reality, this new political freedom meant that Christianity became a political tool and lost much of its transformative saltiness. To be a Christian

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was now to be a slave of Christendom – not a servant of Christ. Our current slave-master, if I may be so bold, is the idea that ‘freedom of religion’ makes sense: the idea that religions can be practised ‘freely’. I am not suggesting that Christianity be imposed on others as IS impose their form of Islam. An enforced freedom won’t transform anyone. I am suggesting, however, that we recognise that such a secular insistence on ‘freedom of religion’ is not the same freedom which Christ offers.

In the comfort of our ‘religiously free’ countries, like South Africa, the lukewarm state of the church shows that it has lost conviction in the truth of Jesus’ words. Yet in places like China, where Christians are heavily persecuted, the church is declaring in both word and deed the truth of the Gospel. Most South Africans are relieved that they won’t be persecuted or seriously attacked because of their faith – but at what spiritual cost? Can we live a Christianity which costs nothing, which is apparently free of suffering? If we took our religion seriously at all – as IS does theirs – then it would spell the end of Christian conformity to a secular view of freedom of religion. It would mean a shift in Christians’ identity – from seeing themselves in their day-to-day existence as citizens of South Africa, to citizens of Christ’s Kingdom here on earth. Imagine if we really held to the radical teachings of Christ and acted like His true disciples, revealing through our words and deeds the truth which sets people free. What if Christians en masse began to share their belongings out of a sacrificial love, feeding the poor, supporting orphans and widows, and speaking with conviction against slavery?

The time has now passed for a mediocre Christianity which changes Christ into an inoffensive, lovey-dovey religious guru, and which acts like secular religious freedoms are the summa bonum (the highest good) of modern society. The reality is that Christ will be offensive, and divisive, when His words cause you to act in radical obedience. A commitment to Christ means mocking the very idea that, apart from Him, freedom even exists. ENDNOTES 1. John 8:31-32 2. John 14:6

*BILL EDWARDS is a pseudonym

ISSUES & INSIGHTS

CONFRONT

THE NEW DEFINITION OF

CHRISTIAN FEMINISM BY K E N D R A L O M B A R D

he concept of womanhood has shifted from generation to generation. If you are a woman reading this, I want to challenge you to think about what makes you a woman. Men, I want you to think about what you reckon makes a woman.

Many struggle to comprehend what it means to be living as a woman when so many people say seemingly opposite things. The definition of modern feminism according to the Oxford Dictionary is “the advocacy of women’s rights on the ground of the equality of the sexes.” This movement falls short of true womanhood because it has made women (and men) believe that being called a woman is both liberating and oppressive. Liberating because now having ‘girl power’ is empowering, preventing traditional gender roles from emptying women of their worth. But is this really the case? Ladies, what’s so wrong with having a goal of finding

a lifelong partner and serving your husband in the way the Bible says? Here are just two objections that many mainstream feminists have against the idea.

1. Why give up your own dreams by becoming a housewife? Why has “housewife” become such a bad word? Ladies, being a stay at home wife/mom is arguably one of the most liberating privileges. If you are able to bear children or adopt (or both), you get the privilege of watching your child grow up and you get to care for your family. In some cases it is not an option for a woman to stay at home because finances are an issue and both woman and man must work to make ends meet, but if you are able to stay at home, why are some women actively fighting against it? Having a husband who not only provides for you but takes pride in providing for you and a family should not be seen as oppressive, but seen as a blessing. On the other hand, women sometimes become the partner who works, and that’s also a great thing. It is something that should be openly discussed between husband and wife.

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2. If I submit to him, won’t he abuse me? The concept of “wives submit to your husbands” (Colossians 3:18) makes many people uncomfortable. It is because it’s mostly misunderstood. This scripture is merely saying that women need to allow their husbands to lead and love them like Christ does the church. It is definitely not saying that women need to mindlessly accept everything their husbands decide to do, especially if their wellbeing is at stake.

If you think about it, Christ had a relationship with those around Him and even though He was in authority, He listened and cared about what other people felt and said. Just as women are called to submit in Colossians 3:18, in the very next verse men are called to love their wives and not be harsh with them. A relationship is a two way street and if you are a woman reading this and your boyfriend or husband is not seeking to love you like Jesus, get out of it. Being led by a man should be done out of love, not fear or duty. After all, it is a partnership – not a dictatorship.

maidens. She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. Most feminists in the world today would say that you should find your identity in the power you can exert or what you can autonomously accomplish. But it’s clear from this passage that a woman’s role in marriage should be first about honouring the Lord, putting the needs of her family above her own. The promise is that she will receive credit and honour from her husband and children in due course. Contrary to popular feminist belief, this is what a woman desires most.

In Genesis 2:18 it says, “Then the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” If you’re a lady, don’t let modern feminism make you feel as if serving your husband is a bad thing. It’s what we are biblically called to do within marriage. It is not saying that a woman is only fulfilled when she is married. If you’re still single or have made the decision not to marry, think about how you can appropriately apply this idea in the male relationships that you do have in your life.

IT’S IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND ANOTHER KIND OF FEMINISM GOD HAS PROMISED WILL IRONICALLY EMPOWER WOMEN THE MOST WHEN THEY HUMBLY SUBMIT TO WHAT HE HAS SAID IN HIS WORD. A NEW PICTURE OF FEMINISM If we are to find some or other blueprint for what the Bible considers to be a godly woman, there is no better place to turn to than Proverbs 31:10-31. Here are just twelve verses: An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her

It’s important to understand another kind of feminism God has promised will ironically empower women the most when they humbly submit to what He has said in His word. A woman is not defined by a man, nor is a man defined by a woman, but the most liberating thing for each is living in the framework where husband and wife are actively seeking to love God first and wishing to serve one another best. KENDRA PAIGE LOMBARD is an 19-year-old first year student at GWC living in Cape Town with a love for theology, photography and children’s ministry. Follow her blog and Instagram: www.halcyonchirp.co.za and @kendrapaigelombard

WATCH RAVI ZACHARIAS - DOES GOD FAVOUR A GENDER? 13

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ISSUES & INSIGHTS

QUESTION

IF GOD HAS GIVEN ALL PEOPLE FREE WILL, DOES HE CHOOSE US OR DO WE CHOOSE HIM? BY J O H N - PA U L H A R P E R

f there is a God who control all things, can we truly be free? Are we not in this case reduced to puppets on a string? And if God controls even my choices, can I be held responsible for those choices? The first thing to point out is that these are questions for any account of reality, not just a theistic one. If there is no God, then something else (the laws of nature or ‘fate’ perhaps) must determine everything, including our choices. It will not do to appeal to ‘chance’, since human choice would then equally be determined by something external to our wills. It is one of the ironies of modernity that the same Enlightenment that promised us freedom from the oppressive authority of society and the church, also reduced

us to little more than complex biological machines, determined by our genes and our environment. While many questions remain, it would seem to me that belief in an ultimate personal cause behind the universe gives more basis for affirming human dignity and freedom than any alternative account. In particular, the Bible affirms that we are uniquely created in the ‘image’ of the Creator God who is free in the sense of being unconstrained by any outside influences.1 Furthermore, the Bible affirms that while God ultimately determines all things, this determination happens in such a way that human beings remain morally responsible for what they want and choose to do. A classic biblical text that brings these

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two together comes from the apostle Peter’s speech shortly after Jesus’ crucifixion, “This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.”2 They were acting out God’s plan, but they were nevertheless responsible for their actions. Some Christian philosophers have tried to go more deeply into this by introducing ideas like ‘middle knowledge’, by which they mean that God knows what persons would freely do in any set of circumstances. This enables them to argue that God can still be provident over human affairs without infringing on human freedom.3 While this may help us understand how human beings can be held responsible for their actions, if taken too far could be seen as incompatible with God’s sovereignty and love. Could we not imagine that God may at times ‘infringe’ on our freedom out of love? What loving father, when he sees his daughter walking dangerously close to the edge of a cliff, would not pull her away against her will? This seems to be the best way to reflect on God’s choice or election of people. In fact, in the Bible, God’s free choice seems to be concomitant with God’s free grace revealed in Jesus Christ. Anyone who has been a Christian for any length of time comes to

a point where they ask, ‘Why is it that I believe, but many others don’t?’ At this point we can answer in one of two ways. We could firstly look to something different in ourselves. We might say, ‘I was willing to repent and they weren’t’. But then we would have to ask further why we were willing to repent and others were not, and we would eventually have to conclude that there is something about us that makes us (perhaps just a little) more virtuous or smarter or special than others. The only alternative way to answer is that God chose us, not because of anything superior in us, but out of his own free grace, and for the purpose “that no one can boast.”4 As Jesus also taught His disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you”5. It is often objected that this teaching is unfair. But how is it fair to imagine a world in which everyone had to pull themselves up by their own moral bootstraps in order to win God’s favour? There are many who, through no fault of their own, are deeply scarred by a painful past and it does not seem fair to compare their moral performance to someone who has enjoyed a relatively pain-free and stable middleclass life. In some mysterious way God’s choice levels the playing field. As the apostle Paul reminds the Corinthians who were in danger of becoming proud.

THIS PERSPECTIVE ON GOD GIVING UP HIS FREEDOM IN ORDER TO SERVE US CHANGES EVERYTHING.

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Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.6 In fact Jesus taught that all of us, although we may think that we oppose God’s will only in some small isolated areas in our lives, we are naturally held captive by our own desires to the extent that

only God can set us free. Drawing on the great Exodus tradition of God liberating His people from slavery in Egypt, Jesus remarkably insisted that only He could free anyone from this greater spiritual enslavement: “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”7 This sounds strange to modern ears, because for many ‘God’ is the archetypal oppressor who appears repressive or even dangerous. But to the Christian, God’s rule is experienced as liberating, since it fits the purpose for which we were made. In an excellent chapter on this subject, author Tim Keller points out how the modern notion of ‘freedom’ as the absence of any restrictions is seriously mistaken.8 We might argue that a fish is not truly ‘free’ in the water and that to restrict it to the water is stifling, but the reality is that if you take it out the water it does not experience freedom but death. True freedom, in other words, is not the absence of limitations but finding the right ones which fit our nature. Keller goes on to point out that freedom is often more complex than we think, as for example when a musician or athlete chooses to limit their freedom through rigorous practice, in order to be brought ultimately into a truer and greater freedom. Finally he points out that the freedom of love demonstrates this paradox most poignantly. It is when we really love someone that we find ourselves freely limiting ourselves in order to give ourselves to the other. A healthy love relationship is characterized by both unselfish service and a mutual loss of independence. This type of self-giving love is perhaps the most god-like activity that we as human beings can engage in, because this is what God ultimately revealed in Jesus Christ. Watch a good talk he gave at Oxford last year. God is not a cosmic tyrant, and the final

proof we have for this is that He has himself taken on humanity and in doing so, as Dorothy Sayers put it: He had the honesty and courage to take his own medicine. Whatever game he is playing with his creation, he has kept his own rules and played fair. He can exact nothing from man that he has not exacted from himself. He has himself gone through the whole of human experience, from the trivial irritations of family life and the cramping restrictions of hard work and lack of money to the worst horrors of pain and humiliation, defeat, despair, and death. When he was a man, he played the man. He was born in poverty and died in disgrace and thought it well worthwhile.9 This perspective on God giving up His freedom in order to serve us changes everything. Tim Keller writes, “Once you realise how Jesus changed you and gave himself for you, you aren’t afraid of giving up your freedom and therefore finding your freedom in him”. The fact that it is ultimately God who chooses us is what J.I. Packer calls ‘the family secret of the children of God’ and it is in fact a source of great security.10 God’s choice of you means that He will not fail to ultimately bring you into the true freedom all of humanity longs for.

ENDNOTES 1. See Genesis 1:26 and e.g. Psalm 115:3, Isaiah 46:10 2. See Acts 2:23 3. See for example the work of William Lane-Craig 4. See Ephesians 2:8-9 5. See John 15:16 6. See 1 Corinthians 1:26-27

JOHN PAUL HARPER is an ex-mathematician and software developer turned Christian minister who now works with students at Stellenbosch University. He is married to Julia and has two young daughters who teach him many things and bring him great joy. He loves reading, rock climbing, and thinking through the mission of Jesus’ people in the world.

7. See John 8:34-36 8. See Ch. 3 of Tim Keller The Reason For God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism, Dutton, 2008. 9. See Ch. 1 of Dorothy Sayers Letters to a Diminished Church, Thomas Nelson, 2004. 10. See J.I. Packer Concise Theology, Tyndale, 1993, p149.

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180 DEGREES

G R A N T P O RT H E N F R O M E X - G A N G S T E R T O C H R I S T - F O L LO W E R

180 DEGREES

hen I think about freedom, I think about it as being repositioned from hopelessness to a position of hope. I guess this has been the story of my life thus far.

I grew up in the hood – ‘Die Kaapse Vlakte’ – a place that represents so many things associated with hopelessness. It’s a place where violence is rife, where gangsters are the superstars, and where young girls are raising young girls. It’s a place where other than the ‘Gatsby’ (Cape coloured food), positivity is a rarity.

My parents were pretty well off when compared to the other kids in my neighbourhood, and they provided a great sense of security. It was shattered when my father had an affair which ended my parent’s marriage. My younger sister and I decided to live with mom and I remember those moments being one of the saddest times of my life. My mom used to cry most nights and it hurt seeing her so sad. As time went on I noticed something different in my mom’s life. There seemed to be a joy she was experiencing that hadn’t been there before. I wondered what could have brought about the change. Then suddenly the truth emerged – it was someone called Jesus.

HE HAS REPOSITIONED ME FROM A PLACE OF HOPELESSNESS TO HOPE Now I had never personally seen Him before, but after being dragged to church by my mom, I discovered that this ‘Jesus guy’ was apparently God who came into this world on mission to bring us into a relationship with God again. I was told that He did this by dying on a cross and then rising from the dead three days later. I thought this story was a bit strange and I didn’t really see the relevance of it for my life. After all, why would I need Jesus to save me? Leading up to my early teens I had other things to think about like sports, friends, and girls. My mom tried to run a tight ship, which would always be challenging for a single mom. She forbid me to play in certain parts of our neighbourhood, because of the negative influences that existed there. I decided to rebel at the age of 13 and started exploring the ‘dark side’. To my surprise, everything about that side appealed to me. What wouldn’t be more appealing than a group of guys standing on a corner that had so much power and respect? Everyone growing up wanted to be associated with them, including me, and it didn’t take long for me to make that move that would alter the course of my life. I had gained a new family. This family wasn’t like the family at home, because they lived by their own code. It was a code in which the gang comes first before anyone else. It’s a code which had no regard for law or 19

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others. There was a certain thrill and a deep sense of freedom being part of this family. We were takers – that’s what our freedom represented. We robbed, sold drugs, hijacked cars, because this is what our freedom represented. We would not be bound by anything or anyone. We were a law unto ourselves, and nobody could touch us – or so we thought. At the age of 16 my mom threw me out of our home because she feared for her life. I started having regular altercations with police which eventually led to my arrest for armed robbery. I was sent to Pollsmoor Prison where I would await my fate. When I was released, I never saw being incarcerated as a warning or as something that would actually rehabilitate me. I believed the lie that I had been destined to be a thug. Upon coming out I started selling drugs and quickly built my dark empire – one that came crashing down after two years because I got high on my own supply. I lost everything and found myself roaming the streets aimlessly until one day, while I was sitting in a drug den – surprisingly out of nowhere – a deep desire emerged for a way out of this life. I decided to go back home to my mom and ask her for a place to stay; goofed out of my mind and unaware that it was Mother’s Day. She took one look at me and said, “No!” Her response didn’t surprise me, because I had hurt her tremendously. But later that night she sent me a message telling me that I could sleep in her car in the yard if I wanted to. My mom had a rundown car in the yard, and I guess I was so desperate for some sort of change that I took her up on the offer. On the second night in the car, I remember reflecting on my life. I remembered the dreams I had growing up, and thought I’d thrown everything away for a false sense of freedom. How could I have been caught up into something that gave the impression of being free, but ended up enslaving me to a life of death? I remember feeling hopeless, like there was no way out, but then suddenly a voice within me was saying, “Jesus saves, Jesus saves”. At that point I thought it was the drugs in my system that made me think about the same guy my mom and the church was talking about when I was younger, but it wasn’t. It really was Him calling out to me, calling me to freedom. I realised that my circumstantial slavery was actually something that mirrored my spiritual condition before God. I was a slave because I had chosen to live outside of His reign and rule. In fact, I came into this world a slave and God was offering me freedom. He was offering me a life with Him, through His death and resurrection. Why would such a great God want someone like me? In that moment I cried out to Him and He heard me. In that moment, the shackles that enslaved me had been broken. When asked today what I think freedom means, I would say that freedom is a life with Jesus, because real freedom can only be found through Him. He has repositioned me from a place of hopelessness to hope, and the great thing is that He offers that freedom to everyone. My life’s mission now is to make this freedom known. Today I spend my days on the Cape Flats, doing just that. I’m currently involved with a ministry called Eden through Jubilee Community Church, which is essentially a group of people that seeks to reach people in one of the toughest community’s in Cape Town. Our entire team have relocated to the community, and we are excited to see what God’s going to do through us. Watch this video by yesHEis

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cape Town joburg MÉGAN SCHILDER

AND

NONHLANHLA SILOMO

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Last Minute Cape Town Fun in the Sun

ith the sizzling summer season coming to an end, and winter breezing in, we need to make the most of the blue skies and sunshine before it migrates with the birds. Living in Cape Town makes ‘seizing the day’ really easy with an array of places to go to and wonderful things to see. Whether you’re after what’s trending at the moment or just crave some adventure, there certainly is something for you! Herewith, some last minute fun before the sun becomes our less common friend… THE PINK FLAMINGO ROOFTOP CINEMA Take advantage of what’s left of the warm summer nights and make a turn at the world’s only rooftop trailer park hotel. Come and enjoy an all-time classic movie under the stars. The Pink Flamingo Rooftop Cinema is fun for the whole family and whether you pick General Seating, the Love Seat or the Couch, you are guaranteed a welcome drink, a bag of sweets and the all-essential bag of popcorn. The atmosphere is comfy and the vibe ensures a unique but enjoyable movie experience. For bookings and more information visit: http://www.granddaddy.co.za/cinema THE COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY This one’s for all the coffee lovers out there! Situated in the spectacle that is Lourensford Wine Estate, in Somerset West, The Coffee Roasting Company is probably one of the most beautiful coffee shop settings Cape Town has to offer. Customers are welcome to observe the roasting process and the friendly staff are eager to spill the beans on how to create the perfect cup. What makes this place a winner is that you can sit down for a light meal and some baked treats while marveling over a cup of excellence. And if that’s not enough reason to visit, the quaint shop has enough variety to impress tourist to toddler. For more information visit: https://www. coffeecompany.co.za JUMP AROUND Why not skip the gym for a day and consider

an exciting alternative? The first of its kind to hit Cape Town, Jump Around is an indoor trampoline park filled with 1000 square meters of bouncing brilliance. And if bouncing off walls is a little too mainstream for you, there is soccer on a trampoline, basketball on a trampoline, dodgeball on a trampoline, or summersaulting into a foam pit. With enough activity to keep the whole family entertained, there is even a sit-down café facility for those who would prefer cheering on the side lines while sipping on a coffee. To find out more visit: http://jumparound. co.za FERNKLOOF NATURE RESERVE Why not squeeze in a mini road trip and wander off to Fernkloof Nature Reserve? Situated in Hermanus, this 1800 ha of land in the Kleinrivier Mountains, 842m above sea level is enough to leave you awestruck. The mountain trails have lots to offer with views of Kammabaai, Grotto and Voëlklip beaches, fine fynbos and unique coastal flowers, a waterfall and a dam situated on the mountaintop which is open to the public for swimming. The reserve is one of a kind in that it is home to 1400 different kinds of plant species, all growing in close proximity to each other. If you prefer not to hike, there is a wonderful garden facility to have a picnic or simply enjoy the serenity. Best thing of all? It’s free! For more information visit: http://www.fernkloof.com RENT A BIKE There is something about driving along the Cape coastline with its breathtaking views— one hardly needs any convincing. But if admiring God’s handiwork on the peninsula is not enough, then the thrill of riding bicycles in Cape Town may just do the trick. Pick a perfect day, and head off to the location of your choice, either Sea Point Promenade, V&A Waterfront, or Waterkant Street—and ride off into the sunset…or just into the sunshine. And if it’s your birthday, you get 1 hour free cycling time! All prices include locks and helmets so come as you are, but wear your most suitable shoes. For more information visit: http://www. upcycles.co.za

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t s e

BABYLONSTOREN

are sure to be in for an all day treat.

Possibly the closest to the Garden of Eden we’ll get, this side of Heaven, Babylonstoren is a sanctuary situated in Paarl. Surrounded by the Drakenstein mountains, this Cape Dutch farm has much to offer with an onsite hotel and spa, top class restaurant supplied by their very own fruit and veg garden which is open to the public to stroll through and even pick produce along the way. There is a minimum entrance fee but the experience far exceeds the small tariff. If ‘hotel and spa’ can only be a dream for now, still come and experience the quietude of eight acres of garden made up of fruit, berries, some indigenous plants, lush lawns, a prickly pear maze and lots more botanical wonder. You could even stop by the bakery or farmstall for further eats and treats.

For information visit: http://www. imhofffarm.co.za

For more information visit: http://www. babylonstoren.com

For more information and to view the lineup visit: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/ kirstenbosch/summer-concerts

CLAY CAFÉ Get your hands dirty and your artistic juices flowing at the Clay Café situated in Hout Bay. Whether you make it a date or a party, the friendly assistants will facilitate a great time for as many as would be keen, and everyone gets to take home the proof. For the night owls, Clay Café is open until 9pm every Thursday, with early evening sessions available every other evening too. You’re guaranteed some good, muddy fun! For more information visit: http://www. claycafe.co.za IMHOFF FARM This beautiful olden-styled Cape farm has lots more to offer than meets the eye. Situated in Noordhoek, Imhoff is home to some of the finest restaurants like the Blue Water Café, hand-made curio stores, a fresh produce farm stall, an onsite animal farm and horse riding facilities that trail onto the shores of Noordhoek’s beautifully hidden beaches; you

KIRSTENBOSCH SUMMER CONCERTS South Africa has produced some of the finest and most talented musicians and artists around the globe. What better way to enjoy our homegrown talent than at an outdoor concert set in the glorious Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens? Round up your family, friends and picnic baskets and enjoy the likes of Zebra and Giraffe, Beatenberg, Jack Parow and more. The line-up also includes international acts such as Of Monsters and Men (Iceland), and Jungle (United Kingdom). Concerts take place every Sunday evening and run until the third of April, so make sure you catch at least one more show!

BLUE BIRD GARAGE FOOD AND GOODS MARKET Why not spend a Friday at Muizenberg Beach and pop over to the Blue Bird Garage Food and Goods Market for dinner? With the vast spread of meal options, every dish leaves you wanting more. From Spanish food, to Thai food, to the good old 400g pure beef burger, to delectable homegrown favourites— there is a dish that is guaranteed to satisfy your tastebuds. The market is open every Friday from 4pm until 10pm and is sure to keep any age entertained— even the children have their own play area. The fun, jovial setting is exactly what you need to start the weekend! For more information visit: http://www. bluebirdmarket.co.za. MÉGAN SCHILDER is an undergraduate student at the University of Cape Town, finishing her second year majoring in Jazz Studies and Media & Writing. She enjoys beautiful music and writing, and all things involving Jesus, people, and freshly baked sweet treats.

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Squeeze out the Last of Summer in Joburg

verybody knows that the beach is where it’s at during a long summer holiday. But as summer draws to a close, autumn is on its way and there’s no better place to be than in Jozi. From shopping, to graffiti, to lunch on a rooftop overlooking the Johannesburg skyline – there’s a little something for everybody. If you happen to be looking for an indoor wall-to-wall trampoline warehouse (because in what world are trampolines not fun?) – look no further than BOUNCE at Waterfall Lifestyle Centre. There are also Bounce fitness classes in the mornings and ‘Bounce after Dark’ on select Friday nights. You have permission to enjoy the experience with childlike enthusiasm. Spend a Sunday afternoon in Newtown, where the MABONENG PRECINCT is running ‘Food and Design’ each Sunday at Arts On Main. It is a creative blend of gallery and retail space where one can experience multi-disciplinary events. Maboneng Precinct also offers other exciting events, such as experimental productions at the Popart Performing Arts Center where you can watch actors showcase their raw material or get on stage yourself to launch your own career. Moreover, if you’re less of a couch potato and more of a go-getter, there’s the option of rooftop boxing at the top of the Main Street Life building, where George Khosi teaches boxing twice a week for only R60 a lesson. And once you’ve worked up a good sweat, visit The Living Room – an eco urban café serving healthy, delicious food on the rooftops of Maboneng.

For those of you who are more laid-back, there are an abundance of markets throughout Johannesburg. One I would highly recommend is the NEIGHBOURGOODS MARKET in Braamfontein, which has a rooftop area with amazing views of the city and places to shop for arts, crafts, clothing, and fresh produce. If you’ve never jumped from a suspension bridge with a rubber cord – what are you waiting for? THE ORLANDO TOWERS in Soweto is the perfect place for a 100m bungee jump and other slightly insane activities such as freefalling inside the western cooling tower, climbing, paintballing, abseiling and rapjumping (for those of you who don’t know, a rapjump is a face down abseil, because upright abseiling is much too mainstream). If the sound of that gives you a headache, go for the breathtaking view at the top of the towers, and you might just end up changing your mind. Live jazz, good food, vintage posters and an authentic historic atmosphere – if this sounds like your vibe, you’ll definitely be(er) at home at the RADIUM BEER HALL. The Radium Beer Hall is the oldest bar and grill in Johannesburg. The walls are filled with memorabilia and press clippings that record the bar’s history, so make sure to grab a friend and take a drive to Louis Botha Avenue and enjoy spending time at this historically ambient location. Some of you may be wondering what the big fuss about shopping is, but if you think out of the box (literally), you might end up joining me - a hopeless shopping fanatic. 27 BOXES is a shopping centre consisting of 102 stores made entirely of shipping containers. This incredible shopping centre in Melville includes

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Autumn is , on it s way and , there s no better place to be than in Jozi. 27

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fashion retailers, an art gallery and studio, a bakery, many restaurants, boutique gardens, walkways and a playground for children. An environmentally friendly, food filled day at the mall? Yes please. For a completely stress free day, the ZOO LAKE is an excellent option. It is the place for annual Jazz on the Lake and Carols by Candlelight, and the venue for the Artists Under the Sun open air exhibition. The park also features a popular African themed restaurant, Moyo. If you’re looking to have a good time while filling your mind with knowledge and history, go sightseeing on the RED BUS in Johannesburg. Climb to the top of Africa at the Carlton centre which is 223m high for only R15 or take a walk through Gandhi square where you can have a look at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi by Tinka Christopher. This sculpture depicts Gandhi as a young man dressed in his legal regalia as he would wear when appearing in court. The square is also the place where Johannesburg’s first court building was located, and this is where Gandhi appeared as a lawyer. Interesting, isn’t it? As you continue with the tour, you can go to the Origins Centre at Wits for only R37, or learn more about South Africa’s history at the Apartheid museum for only R40. Just don’t forget to show your Red Bus ticket.

If you are as much of a foodie as I am, the best place to find yourself is at 44 STANLEY AVENUE – the place that caters for everything cool and contemporary. Food is often what triggers memories about the best experiences of our lives, and this isn’t a bad spot to start making some new ones. If you’re looking for an alternative to Jozi’s mega malls, come and discover the best eateries.

NONHLANHLA SILOMO is a full-time Civil Engineering student at the University of Pretoria. She is an outgoing, quirky person with a heart for people and a smile just as big. As a young Christian female, she tries to model Christ in her behaviour as she interacts with her friends and family.

Then there is CONSTITUTION HILL. Come and admire beautiful art next to the justice court or visit the jail that held South African heroes. For only R50, now that’s how you have an adventure on a budget!

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CAMPUS CONNECT

ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students? BY

TAYLA HYNCH

AN-MARI FOUCHÉ

RUAN DE WET

GOMOTSO LILOKOE

JAMES PITT

ERWYN DURMAN

LUKE MACDONALD

CATHRYN MOODLEY

CATHRINE O’REILLY

P H O T O G R A P H Y BY D O N O VA N O R R

ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students?

NORTH WEST UNIVERSITY reedom! Equality!” has been the battle cry in our country for generations. Recently, this cry has manifested in the #FeesMustFall protests that have raged across South African universities. Thousands of students protested for their right to an education unhindered by financial difficulties. But will lower study fees really provide the freedom they seek? If so, at what cost? Even in 2016, universities are still being disrupted by riots for a variety of causes all under the guise of “freedom”. Sadly, perhaps they are fighting for the wrong kind of freedom.

“F

Some protesting students believe in their cause so firmly that they are willing to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. And yes, the #FeesMustFall cause was just. In a country where 12 million people live in poverty, tertiary education can be considered a luxury. When school children are expected to learn with unreliable teachers, poor transport, few or no textbooks and distracting home conditions, qualifying for a bursary is virtually impossible. Is it then surprising that so many students resort to protests in order to keep their dreams of further education alive? It would, however, appear that there is more to the problem than simply a dissatisfaction with study fees, language policy, outsourcing or whatever else the cause is. The youth of South Africa are growing up in a culture of protests – violence, destruction and dissatisfaction.

From infancy we are taught about the “heroes of the struggle” and how freedom was achieved after years of violence and protests. Our leaders are corrupt and seemingly above the law. What else are young South Africans to think, then, but that they are free to do whatever they want to get what they want? While watching videos of the protests, I was struck by how completely unfazed many students look even when confronted by armed police, grenades and bullets. Has our generation become so accustomed to violence that we believe it is a necessary and unavoidable part of change? Here at the NWU-PUK the #FeesMustFall protests were somewhat overshadowed by the ReformPUK movement, but can be placed under the same banner head of “freedom”. Fortunately all marches and protests went smoothly and peacefully. Although PUK students were widely accused on social media of being timid and lacking the intensity of students at other universities in their protest, didn’t they gain more in the end? No

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A N- MA RI F OU C HÉ property was damaged, exams were postponed by merely one week and there was no violence. While some may condemn them, I personally commend PUK students for setting an example of a better way. Even recently, when an illegal protest by ReformPUK was held, PUK students of all races unanimously started cleaning up the rubbish strewn all over campus. Actions like these give me hope for our university. Unfortunately other universities continue to be disrupted by rioting accompanied by blatant racism and vandalism. After only a few weeks of classes, several universities have been forced to shut down, halting the very educational process these same students were so adamant about a few months earlier. Is this the freedom they are fighting for?

These continuous protests beg the question: will it ever end? When they have achieved their goal will they be satisfied or will they simply find something else to protest about? They strive for freedom – but do they know the true meaning of the word? Perhaps it is time to start looking somewhere else for freedom. “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” were Jesus’ words in John 8:32. And just a few verses later: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” The truth is; many of these students don’t know where to find what they are looking for. They are fighting for the wrong kind of freedom. There is only one person who gives true freedom: Jesus Christ. But what freedom does He offer which can truly satisfy?

Before coming to know Christ, we are all slaves to sin. Everyone desperately tries to escape that bondage, not knowing how. As a result, we adamantly stand up against anything that seems to take away what we deem to be freedom. But what is true freedom? It is the personal knowledge of a Heavenly Father who takes care of us and will always provide what we need (Matthew 6:33). There is a better way to attain freedom than by vandalising and destroying the very things needed for the education that we all desire. True freedom is not in tertiary education being free for all. True freedom is using that education to best serve the people around us, no matter their race, trusting that the Holy Spirit will powerfully bring the transformation our nation desperately needs.

NMMU

TAY L A HY N C H

hen asked about the definition of freedom, many people answer along a common thread: the removal of inhibition or restraint - or simply a lack of inhibition or restraint in the first place. “Freedom” was the buzzword in the mouths of South African students towards the end of October 2015. The #FeesMustFall movement rallied students across universities nationwide for one specific cause: freedom.

But is this freedom right in the eyes of God? Romans 13:1-2 says, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.”

When President Zuma announced a 0% increase for 2016 university fees, several aspects of freedom were attained. Firstly, the protestors gained immense political freedom in that the governmental authorities, despite facing numerous obstacles, could not stop them. NMMU protestors stood obstinately for their revolutionary proposal in the face of tear gas, non-lethal ammunition, and the threat of arrest based on treason.

Can it be determined that rising fees is deemed worthy of ungodliness? Well, it makes sense that missionaries in China fall under the banner of this argument when they hand out illegal copies of the Bible, or when Turkish missionary prisoners escape imprisonment in order to continue to speak His word and make disciples. Can the same be said for rioting against the fee increase?

Interestingly, one dictionary’s definition of freedom is: “Absence of subjection to foreign domination or despotic government.” For those enrolled at universities in 2015, that definition was held high in the raised fists of the protesters who took to the streets in defiance of the proposed 2016 fee increase, which varied from 9 to 13%.

Economic freedom, if not secured in the long run, was at least recognised for the following year. Many people can barely afford tertiary education to begin with, so the ‘fees freeze’ for the oncoming year will result in slight financial relief.

There is another aspect of freedom that is often not considered when talking about the #FeesHaveFallen results. For a generation that was born into a time where South Africa’s racial equality had just been birthed, many still feel the effects of racism, discrimination and segregation. Although the political system has changed, many of the mindsets have not. It is important to note that this nationwide movement was the first significant history-making event that we not only experienced, but actively initiated and partook in to bring about positive change. Naturally, there are those who stood on the wrong side of history; these are not the people that will be remembered. What will be remembered is an entire generation living up to their title as the ‘born-frees’ – free of prejudice; free of racial barriers; free of the thought that people are incapable of coming together in solidarity regardless of privilege or wealth or race. This freedom is arguably the most significant that arose from the movement.

For most who read these verses, the case cannot be argued. However, if Matthew 6:33 is considered: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well,” it could very well be argued that if the government is not living up to God’s standards and is sinning against God, then it goes without saying that God comes first and always will.

At face value, it cannot fall into the same league. It makes sense that the government needs to increase fees to maintain the cost of running the universities. But, when the fee increase is indicative of an underlying problem – mismanagement of funds and monetary corruption at the expense of these fees – then I personally believe that protesting is a fair and accurate response. It’s not a problem with NMMU, but I believe a problem with the running of the government. Despite many nationwide protests in 2016, NMMU has been very quiet this year. There was a small protest (less than 100 people) in January, but it was regarding the ‘first come, first serve’ policy of NMMU’s off campus housing. It seems that the students have accepted (whether it be reluctantly or passively) the outcome of the protests of last year, for the time being.

#FeesMustFall didn’t only bring about the economic, political, and social freedom that the media focuses on; it also brought about a much more permanent effect: the beginning of the end of racial discrimination in this generation. This is the lasting freedom that we strive for - the freedom that will be remembered. WWW. S COP EM AG A ZI NE. CO.Z A

ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students?

W I T WAT E R S R A N D UNIVERSITY here is something incredible about a large gathering of people joined together in the battle for the common good, which would be impossible to fight as individuals. This was definitely the case during the recent #WitsFeesMustFall protest during which Wits students joined the greater South African student population and achieved a great deal in just a few weeks.

When encountering anything “political” it is very easy for many to sit back, look on and say, “Well it’s not really my thing,” or, “I’m just one person – how am I supposed to make a meaningful contribution?” This is the place where I think a lot of South African Christians find themselves too. We very easily criticise government and institutions for what they are doing wrong, but rarely get involved. The recent university protests led me to appreciate the huge role that we South Africans (especially as Christians) have to play in the development of our country. Issues of freedom and equality are not going to just solve themselves overnight. They will be solved through a long process with active involvement from all parties, and I think the #FeesMustFall movement is a great example of that.

At first, the protests in October/November seemed to come at a very inappropriate time. Academic programs were winding down and people were beginning to prepare for final exams when, all of a sudden, thousands of students marched against a proposed 10.5% fee increment for 2016. It seemed foolish, and some argued that it was.

Seen from the other angle though, the protests seemed perfectly legitimate. University is expensive enough already. Increasing fees by thousands of rand would prevent thousands of people from completing their degrees, and put tertiary education out of the reach of many others in the future. It also appeared as though students were set to take the fall for government’s mismanagement, and that is clearly wrong. And so for more than two weeks we protested around campus and the surrounding Johannesburg area. In some instances, small groups of students took things a bit too far, but in general the movement was very peaceful. The first week’s protest was directed more towards the university’s council, but as momentum gathered, students around the country were soon asking big

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JA ME S PIT T questions of government at large.

Two great moments from last year was when Wits and UJ joined forces and marched to Luthuli House in the Johannesburg CBD to hand a memorandum to the ANC, and then to the Union Buildings the following day. It was exciting to see young people passionately pressing government for a solution. At that point the protests seemed to have become concerned not only with university fees, but also with holding the government accountable for the unrealised promises it made 21 years ago. Whether the #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom is a question that will have to be answered over time. I think students will need to seek out the meaning of freedom in this specific context and find ways of achieving it. Whether this means free university tuition or lower fees is still to be determined.

Nonetheless, this movement is simply the beginning of the huge process of change that needs to happen in this county. We have realised that the current system is riddled with problems, and it’s now up to this generation to make sure solutions will be seen as we stand united.

Especially from a Christian perspective, the Bible calls us to fight for what is right. Equality and freedom are things that rightly should be afforded to everybody in our population. In a broken world, there will always be varying degrees of freedom and equality but these are ideals that we should be striving towards and building on moving forward. We interact with individuals on a daily basis – individuals from different walks of life, socioeconomic contexts, family backgrounds, and belief systems. A great way of loving God and loving our neighbour as He helps us is to help them live a better life. In a country like South Africa there are many ways to do that, but a critical area is affordable education for all. This is what lasting freedom is about; that university students of all races and backgrounds are afforded the opportunity to study and thrive in our tertiary institutions.

UNIVERSITY OF P R E TO R I A

“Y

ou may choose to look the other way, but you can never say again that you did not know.”

William Wilberforce, well known as the ‘hero of humanity’, was at the forefront of the fight against slavery in 18th century Britain.

Wilberforce accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour at the age of 25. He subsequently faced a gruelling war within: whether to carry on in politics against the slave trade or give up his role as a politician for his spiritual convictions. Unsure of his role in life, Wilberforce sought the wise council of John Newton, who we know as the author of Amazing Grace. Newton’s counsel would affirm Wilberforce in his role both as an ambassador of Christ – unwilling to compromise his faith – and as a politician in parliament seeking the abolishment of slavery. The internal battle Wilberforce faced is one that I certainly related to when the #FeesMustFall campaign began. Simply put: Was it okay for a Christian to take a political stance and be a part of a protest?

The campaign, which began at Wits, quickly spread to the University of Pretoria (UP), where it was called #UPrising. It gained traction in no time at all. Pamphlets went out, WhatsApp messages were spread, and t-shirts were made to gather the support of students. By the 21st of October 2015 we were standing in solidarity with all other campuses across South Africa. In the midst of the protests I had many engagements with fellow Christians on their stance regarding the movement. My opinions on the inequality of our society had seemingly met a crossroads with my convictions as a Christian. I thought about how, daily, I come across the ‘haves and the have nots’ on campus. While some of my friends are more concerned with whether or not they have enough cash for an Uber on a Thursday night, others care more about having enough cash to pay for a second hand textbook. The dichotomy that exists cannot go unnoticed.

E RW Y N D U RMA N had begun, my thoughts on both movements remain.

Does my socio-political view marry with what I believe as a Christian? Well, to be honest it doesn’t exactly. Do I believe the #FeesMustFall campaign could set students free from their bondage of high fees, student loans, and not affording tertiary education? Yes, I do believe so. But the question of whether the protest will bring LASTING FREEDOM for students is answered with a resounding, NO. “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him, will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14). Jesus is clear that quenching my earthly thirst for success, wealth and financial freedom will not give me the joy of eternal life. Only the water that he offers has the power to bring true satisfaction.

But does that mean I have no responsibility to stand for social justice and against class differences? Certainly not. Part of the individuality God has given me means that I cannot look the other way. James 2:17 tells us that faith without works is dead. And the action I am called to take will sometimes be in the context of a protest. My prayer now and always will be that in the expression of my individuality, my words, and my life – the world will see that His glory is far greater than our own.

Fast forward to the start of this year; even though fees had fallen, students at UP had begun protests in favour of transformation. This transformation related to the University’s bilingual language policy in effect since its conception 107 years ago. Although I have already completed my studies, when this second wave of protests

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ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students?

RHODES UNIVERSITY n light of the protests’ main issues, we could ask: Where is the money going to come from? Whose responsibility is it, ultimately? Will similar protests take place this year? Is free education a possibility in our lifetime? In addition to these important questions, I think that we also need to ask ourselves, more broadly: Why did our government listen to protesting students, when it has largely ignored the voices of the poor and working class for so long? Why didn’t Jacob Zuma address students directly, instead of from inside the Union Buildings? Why does our government often use similar ‘crowd control’ tactics to those of the Apartheid government, instead of engaging with protestors as human beings? And has this movement signified a shift in what protest looks like in South Africa, or is it merely a continuation of the past?

These questions are complex, and probably have more than just one simple answer. We live in a country – and a world – with a long, multifaceted history of both brutal exploitation on the one hand, and profound humanity and compassion on the other. We shouldn’t forget this in the search for easy, quick ‘solutions’ to deep-rooted problems. I think that the #FeesMustFall protests were about more than just economic, social, and political justice. The people of this country still carry deep emotional, psychological, and even spiritual scars from our violent past, which continue to play a role in shaping how we see ourselves and each other. When thinking about what the protests could ‘mean’ for us as a nation, then, I think that we need to consider how these scars continue to haunt us and possibly hinder our collective healing.

Protests at Rhodes University in Grahamstown were peaceful. We had the privilege of our Vice Chancellor’s protection from the police on several occasions, and his participation in the nationwide march on 24 October. A few roads away, however, students protesting at Eastcape Midlands FET College (for different but related issues of NSFAS funding) were tear-gassed, shot at with rubber bullets, and sprayed with water cannons as their management refused to engage with them. Even more disturbingly, our protests coincided with a series of xenophobic attacks in the nearby township, which began to spill over into the town centre. These attacks were sparked by unfounded rumours that a foreigner was responsible for the murder and mutilation of six women

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C AT HRY N MO OD L E Y in the township earlier this year. I write about this issue because I think it highlights something unsettling and tragic about our society: some lives are valued more than others in this country. Some bodies are protected from brutality, and some are disregarded or even violated. Some voices are heard when they speak, and some are ignored or silenced. Would the municipality and police have reacted in the same way had it been six Rhodes University students who were murdered? It is under these conditions, I believe, that people turn increasingly to violence and anger in order to voice their concerns and claim their ‘freedom’.

In political philosophy, there is a distinction between what is sometimes called ‘negative freedom’, and ‘substantive freedom’ or ‘autonomy’. Negative freedom means, simply, ‘freedom from’: freedom from oppression, exploitation, bondage. Autonomy, on the other hand, means ‘freedom to’: freedom to dream, speak, act, achieve – in short, freedom to fully be. I think that what the #FeesMustFall protests highlighted, in more ways than one, was the fact that only a small number of people in our country enjoy something of this freedom to be.

As a university student from an economically privileged background, I believe that I am one of a relatively small group of people whose voices are, albeit limitedly, heard. I also believe that the issues around which we – students – have been rallying are actually indicators of a much more disturbing reality. Grahamstown, like countless other South African towns and cities, is a profoundly unequal place. I think that these protests and the issues they have raised offer an opportunity for us as citizens to reflect on the state in which we find ourselves, and be affected by it in a meaningful way. Jeremiah 29:7 says, “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare”. We live in a country where dehumanisation, exploitation, racial division, and emotional pain are stark symptoms of a deeper brokenness. What is our responsibility, as those who have tasted something of freedom, to share this with others?

UNIVERSITY OF C A P E TOW N pattern that has become evident in the previous year’s student protests is perhaps appropriate to highlight from the outset. There seems to be confusion from those further removed from the narrative of students about the objective of protesters. It may, to the the passive observer, seem as if they are shifting the goal posts from the Rhodes statue and the naming of university buildings to the fee structure to outsourcing to student housing to disability justice, SOGIS and LGBTIAPQ+ rights and even to spacial injustice in Cape Town CBD. If this is a cause of frustration or confusion for you then it would be advisable to do some listening, reading and introspection. It’s not within the scope of this article to deal with all of these issues in detail but there are numerous resources available to that effect.

Every single one of these focus areas form part of an overarching decolonial project challenging the current system of oppression, violence and exclusion of Black (Biko Black) bodies. To focus solely on one facet of this complex, intersectional movement in isolation runs the risk of misunderstanding the bigger picture.

That being said, what should the role and response of Christians be in this context? As a Christian, the first place to look for guidance is most certainly the scriptures. What does Jesus have to say on the topics of social justice and oppressive systems? Are there any examples of analogous circumstances in the gospels that may indicate the response that Jesus would take?

Peter makes it clear that it is Jesus’ example that we, as Christians, should be following. He writes in 1 Peter 2:21 that, “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.” So what example is this? In Luke 4:14-30 Jesus makes it clear in His reading of Isaiah that He was sent “to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” Again, in Isaiah 58:6, it is written of the Messiah, “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”

RUA N DE WET shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. It is, however, often forgotten about Jesus’ ministry. The company of those on the fringes of society was seen to be unclean. The lepers, prostitutes, Samaritans, tax collectors and the disabled were all violently rejected by not only the religious elite but by most Jews of the day. Yet it was with them that Jesus shared meals and it was who He focussed His ministry around, subverting the conventional religious structures and status quo.

When confronted with hypocrisy of the Pharisees and Sadducees and the corruption of the temple, Jesus didn’t hesitate in speaking out against coddling their power and position. In Matthew 21:12-13 Jesus’ response to the perversion of the purpose of the temple was violent, “Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.” His address of the middle class religious elite, the Pharisees, in Luke 11:42 was blunt and contemptuous, “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.” This last verse is what I find convicts me the most, as a Christian. How often are we so caught up in the finer details of our behaviour as it effects us alone, issues of tithing, sexual immorality, pride or nights out partying at the expense of the “justice and the love of God?”

It is clear from the example that Jesus sets for His followers that they cannot just passively accept an obvious injustice, highlighted by the #FeesMustFall protests. It is clear from the lack of transformation or sufficient change after 22 years of “freedom” that respectfully working within the system can only get us so far. It is clear from our history as well as Jesus’ example that sometimes radical, subversive action is necessary. Lasting freedom, not only for students but for the entire country, is what is being fought for. What will the church do in bringing this about?

Jesus’ radical opinion of injustice and oppression

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ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students?

UNIVERSITY OF T H E F R E E S TAT E t was a comfortable evening, my roommate and I just chilling in our dorm room, when suddenly a voice boomed over the residence intercom: “Attention, attention, Villa manne! We will be meeting in the Gazellie in five minutes regarding the campus shutdown.” I rushed out of my room to discover people gathered in the foyer in the midst of an overwhelmingly excited atmosphere. Joining the group on its way to the Gazellie, I asked myself: “Why am I feeling so disgusted?”

Please do not get me wrong. Even prior to the #FeesMustFall movement, at that time it seemed to me that the student organisation which led the campus shutdown was fuelled by hatred and I did not want to be a part of it. To my surprise, I learned that some of my fellow students supported the campus shutdown because they saw it as a means to avoid writing tests and, well, because other universities were doing it. Now, while I can make sense of a stand of solidarity with other universities, shutting down the university because you don’t want to write a test isn’t fair on those who have spent many days preparing for it. It was good to see the protests at the University of the Free State being generally peaceful, while there were isolated incidences of facilities at other universities which were vandalised. The #FeesMustFall protests across South Africa seemed successful with the President’s announcement of a “0% fee increment”. Reflecting on it now, though, can we say that these protests will bring lasting freedom for students? Freedom from economic inequality? I remember the day President Jacob Zuma announced the “0% fee increment”. The announcement was followed by a loud roar of victory as people celebrated with #FeesHaveFallen. However, it did not take long for many to realise that the announcement did not satisfy them, and the fall of one Goliath was the rise of more. It seems to me that all the subsequent issues that have been brought up are symptoms of economic inequality, and the protests are just treating the symptoms. If this is true and it’s not really dealing with the heart of the problem, then there will be no lasting change. Freedom from an unfair government? An unfair government affects all the people it governs, from adorable kids at pre-primary, to university students,

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GOMOT SO L ILOKOE and our beloved grandparents. It is without a doubt that the recent protests made students realise the power behind the motto of South Africa’s coat of arms, ’Unity in diversity’; a power that intimidated a government that previously showed no concern for the people that it governs. Freedom as individuals? We, by nature, lean to the side of wrong. I remember the incident when Ms. Zizipho Pae exercised her right to freedom of speech by commenting on the legalisation of gay marriage in all fifty states of the USA. Social media was used to influence her axing from the UCT SRC. Now social media, in that sense, is somewhat a power that can only be used in unity. And when it achieves this purpose, it brings change either for or against freedom of speech. Can God provide lasting freedom? With our hearts naturally inclined towards doing evil (Genesis 6:5), it is clear that our hope for lasting freedom can only be in the God who hardens and melts the heart of man (Exodus 7:3) and works out all things for His name’s sake (Psalm 135:6). God is in control of what is happening, just as He was in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ which He had planned even before the foundations of the earth (Ephesians 1:4-5). History, as it unfolds, is thus His story which He writes for His name’s sake. Psalm 103:6-8 contains this awesome promise: “The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed ... The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” I think maybe God in His sovereignty is showing grace, mercy, and love to all people by dealing with the hearts of all people involved so that righteousness and justice might be seen in South Africa. He wants to use His Church in such a way that all South Africans, including the students, may to some extent have lasting freedom over time. Without God’s intervention, however, we will only lead ourselves into more oppression. The recent student protests, on their own, cannot lead to everlasting freedom. It is only God who sovereignly works out His will to show us that He alone can ultimately solve the deeper issues and offer the freedom that we all desire.

UNIVERSITY OF K WA Z U L U N ATA L

L U KE MAC D ON A L D

t the end of 2015 I was asked if I thought the #FeesMustFall (#FMF) protest would bring lasting freedom for students? My answer was no, in isolation, I didn’t think so, but that I certainly hoped it was the catalyst for something that would. It’s the start of 2016, and I think something of that is beginning to show. It has been chaos. Many things that we’ve left lying under the surface for so long have rapidly come to light.

are not new struggles, but an echoing of the past - and thus it begs the question: has there been change?

Come 1994, and we’re told to simply live together. Two worlds, very different; whites extremely privileged, and non-whites extremely suppressed. Without any true understanding of the ‘other’. Without any compensation (material and immaterial), without white people truly having to change much. Without any actual righting of wrongs - the odd individual ‘healing’, but nothing actually done to dismantle the wider systematic oppression.

I realise this is a tightrope, but hear what I’m saying and not saying. Call me a young radical, but sometimes I believe that when laws in place are unjust they cannot be ‘respected’, and if you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. I know this sounds like anarchy, but that’s not the heart. This is a real fight. It’s messy and it’s imperfect, but it’s real. That needs to be recognised. There are better ways, and those need to be searched for from all sides. This is not to condone everything that’s happened, but it is to say that the sin of omission is equally as bad.

#FMF is about a much wider change that is needed in South Africa, because, if we’re honest, South Africa is still dying inside. We’ve been told to forgive and forget before we’ve actually recognised, confronted, rectified, and understood the act of Apartheid. We haven’t actually addressed a system that plundered black people and their identity for hundreds of years.

Now, a legacy that should have been dealt with in 1994 is still upon us in the present. And we find that #FMF/#RMF/#shackville etc. is actually becoming a larger movement. Why? Because no one is answering the many cries of a hurt and betrayed people.

Recently I found myself sitting at my computer, the closest I’ve been to tears in a while, as I watched the violence at UFS. I sat in absolute disbelief and disgust. There was a part of me that couldn’t believe it, that didn’t want to believe it, but another part that knew all this was a long time coming. As saddened as I was, I knew it was necessary for white South Africans to be exposed. Exposed for our ignorance, our fears, our brutality, our hatred, our misunderstanding, our privilege, our difference, our violence, our brokenness, our racism, our pathetic understanding of humanity. Something has to challenge political, social and economic injustices that have been around for hundreds of years: from Colonialism, to Apartheid, to the ‘Democracy’ of 1994, through to #RhodesMustFall and #FMF today. We must recognise that recent movements

Quite simply, I do not believe that we live in a utopian rainbow nation - we are far from it. Promises of equality and freedom to all have not been met, and racial ideologies of the past remain very strong today. Other than politically, power has not been redistributed socially and economically.

Looking back to the #FMF protest in Durban on the 16th of October 2015, there was a real beauty to it. Young people were saying ‘hang on we’re not happy, you can’t fool us forever’. A line in the sand was drawn saying ‘this far and no further’. Not that I’m behind every single thing that’s happened, but I tend to believe that because of human imperfection, sometimes, and never ideally, things have to be overthrown and torn down.

South Africa has chosen justice as its next destination, and it is a cause young people are willing to die for, even if it is at the expense of economic security. The change offered through bureaucratic politics is too slow for the unhappy masses, and there will be a revolution if something doesn’t give - be it a new radical political wave or an apolitical vigilante movement. We need to recognise this reality in order to avoid potential ‘unnecessary’ violence. Let us be a generation that stands for change. Let us better the #FMF movement, acknowledging it’s strong points and it’s weaknesses. And let us not fail to recognise that such a movement is one of the most important things to have happened in the last twenty-two years of democracy - a faint refrain of the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Let us be encouraged to continue the fight because it is far, far from over…

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ONE VOICE

Do you think the recent #FeesMustFall protests will bring lasting freedom for students?

STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY s with any social movement, the #FeesMustFall movement that has shaken South Africa these last few months is complex and diverse. It is impossible to look at it from only one perspective, we need to consider all view points; all voices need to be heard. As I am a Stellenbosch student I will be focusing on #StelliesFeesMustFall and sharing my experience and what God has shown me through it all.

When I informed my mother about the fee increase she almost started crying and said, “My salary doesn’t even increase that much.” For the most part of my four going onto five years of studying, I have had to pay my way and take out loans. I am now well into R100 000 debt, excluding interest. Working three jobs whilst trying to keep a good academic track record and stay sane at the same time is not fun. However, it sickens me that my condition is far from the worst.

On Monday, 19th October 2015 Stellenbosch students joined in with the #FeesMustFall movement when it was announced that fees would increase by 11.5% at Stellenbosch University. Students occupied Admin B from around 3pm, renaming it ‘Winnie Madikizela Mandela House’. At about 11pm they were served with a court interdict from the University stating that they had to remove themselves from the building. However, the police did not arrest them. The following day, the police and ‘Men In Black’ (a private security company) forcefully removed those students who had decided to stay, hurting some in the process. Students then occupied the Wilcocks building, which was renamed ‘Lillian Ngoyi House’. Protests continued on Wednesday and Thursday, tests were disrupted, and roads were blocked off. Thursday night ended with the group moving from residence to residence, calling students to join. They then made their way to the Rooiplein, where a mass meeting was held. Everyone sang and danced together – it was a truly unifying moment. Friday morning began with students marching through town, trying to meet with management and calling on Helen Zille at her sport day at Coetzenburg Sport grounds to help. Students later met with University management at the intersection of Merriman and Ryneveld Street. Management had been very quiet the entire week, and for the first time they agreed with the movement. Later, when it was announced by President Zuma that fees would be frozen for 2016, supporters of the movement erupted with joy.

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C AT HRIN E O’ RE IL LY 2016 has brought its own box of challenges. With regard to large-scale protesting, Stellenbosch has, however, been quiet. It feels like a ticking time bomb; no one knows what to expect, but everyone is waiting for something to happen. We can honestly only trust in the Lord.

It’s easy to condemn protesters and say, ‘They are not respecting authority, that’s not what God wants,’ or, ‘They need to do the right thing, they must get a permit to occupy’. But how do you justify these thoughts against an unjust system? When is it right to stand up for social injustices? We tend to focus on the externals of the movement and forget about the cause. This makes it easy to judge and step back from responsibility, especially from a privileged background. We forget that the Bible is a political book and that Jesus was a political critic. Jesus openly challenged the political and religious powers of His day. The Pharisees and Sadducees ran Judea, even though the Romans were in control. They left much of the running of the government to local leaders, as long as they paid their taxes. In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus calls the Pharisees hypocrites. In Matthew 21 Jesus confronts the corrupt system as He violently cleanses the temple of those who have turned it into a ‘den of thieves’. The Old Testament is also filled with fighting social injustices; for example, the prophetic books’ condemnation of unjust rulers and lazy citizens, such as in Micah 6:8. That said, we need to search and honour Christ when fighting social injustices. We should not follow every movement, but we should not be too quick to dismiss one either. Privilege is the most dangerous blinder; it prevents us from seeing what is really happening. To really understand someone we need to walk in their shoes. Jesus was an example of this in so many ways.

Through the #FeesMustFall movement, I saw Christ’s love: people willingly donating food, water, blankets, and time. No one ever went hungry or thirsty, everyone always had a place to sleep, and without those that donated huge amounts of their time and energy the movement would not have been so successful. I would like to see more students get involved in fighting for social justice. It’s wonderful to unite with those around us – to be a Christian is to help those who can’t help themselves.

CAMPUS CONNECT

IN RETROSPECT

elieve it or not, there is a bigger issue at stake with the #FeesMustFall student protests than the cost of tuition. Beyond the rands and cents of this particular issue lies a deeper question: what lies at the heart of helping nations, individuals, and communities come out of poverty in a sustainable way?

An excellent resource in tackling this question is the book The Poverty of Nations: A Sustainable Solution by Wayne Grudem (a theologian) and Barry Asmus (an economist). At the core of their thesis is the belief that nations cannot, and historically have not, come out of poverty by redistribution of resources, but only by the production of more goods and services. The former approach emphasises entitlement, the latter emphasises individual initiative with incentives. Renowned pastor, Rick Warren, lends weight to this approach with his wide-ranging experience of poverty alleviation programs, writing the following in the foreword: Having travelled the globe for thirty years and trained leaders in 164 countries, I’ve witnessed firsthand that almost every government and NGO (non-profit) poverty program is actually harmful to the poor, hurting them in the long run rather than helping them. The typical poverty program creates dependency, robs people of dignity, stifles initiative, and can foster a “What have you done for me lately?” sense of entitlement. The biblical way to help people rise out of poverty is through wealth creation, not wealth redistribution. Why is this relevant to the price of student tuition and our nation at large? Because virtually every political party’s manifesto is high on ‘we will give you the world,’ and low on ‘let’s get to work, encourage initiative, and take personal responsibility to uplift ourselves’. (How about that as a manifesto at the next elections?!) Yet what we need are not feel-good, impossible promises, but truth that will liberate. If the state has declared that they will provide free tertiary education and everything else, surely then the students are simply holding them accountable to their promises? The issue, therefore, is not just the student protests, but the ideas that have informed them and every other service delivery

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protest in the first place. These ideas need to be challenged before we can truly prosper. Indeed, government corruption and wasteful expenditure must be given due weight. Tertiary education is no doubt a crucial ‘good’ for our nation. Historically, the church has been at the forefront of providing an excellent education to those who could not afford it. But what is the consequence of expecting government to pay for everything we desire, with no responsibility on our part? How will that affect the quality of tertiary education? What mindset are we perpetuating, and will this lead to lasting prosperity and a virtuous and selfless society? These are the questions we need to ask. J Gresham Machen wrote the following concerning how false ideas need to be uprooted for the gospel to flourish: False ideas are the greatest obstacles to the reception of the gospel. We may preach with all the fervor of a reformer and yet succeed only in winning a straggler here and there, if we permit the whole collective thought of the nation or of the world to be controlled by ideas which, by the resistless force of logic, prevent Christianity from being regarded as anything more than a harmless delusion. Under such circumstances, what God desires us to do is to destroy the obstacle at its root. In a similar way, therefore, we need a clear voice that will speak into the entitlement milieu of our day, before true prosperity can be realised. We see this played out not only in the realm of the modern nation state, but even as far back as the emerging nation of Israel as they came out of Egypt. The wilderness experience in the desert revealed two different groups of people: the majority who longed to go back to Pharaoh’s control, just so they could be provided with food, versus a minority who looked forward to making something happen in the Promised Land. The options before them were slavery with security versus freedom and taking responsibility with faith. Before Israel could proceed, God had to change the dominant mindset of the people. Grumbling and entitlement had to fall, and a new generation with a ‘different spirit’ had to emerge. That took approximately forty years. Then, after having provided for their every need, including

God expected them to milk some cows, chase away some bees, plant their own crops and bake their own bread. Joshua 5:11 records the following: “The next day they began to eat from the gardens and grain fields which they invaded, and they made unleavened bread. The following day no manna fell, and it was never seen again! So from that time on they lived on the crops of Canaan.” The nation of Singapore is in some ways a modern example of this. Having achieved independence in 1965, this tiny island state, like a number of African countries, has recently celebrated 50 years of nationhood. Its founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, was instrumental in winning over the mindset of the people, from one of entitlement to one that emphasises initiative, personal responsibility and work. A documentary on his life revealed that part of this mindset shift occurred after he brought business, unions and the state together, and struck a mutual agreement that labour would not go on strike to demand higher wages, as strikes are not in the long-term economic

TRUE E D U C AT I O N MUST NOT M E R E LY DEVELOP THE I N T E L L E C T, B U T A L S O G R E AT E R C H R I S TL I K E N E S S.

growth of the country. All affected parties thus agreed to seek other ways to redress their problems. Today, the results of such a mindset shift are clearly evident and it’s reckoned as one of the easiest, ‘red-tape less’ places in the world to do business. Does the church have any role to play in all of this? I believe that it is indispensable, yet will largely be unseen and often ignored by the mainstream media. Ephesians 4:28 exhorts believers to discard selfish living and embrace a disciplined and generous lifestyle instead, declaring: “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Christians are thus to take the gospel, and bring selfish individuals to a saving knowledge of God. But it does not end there. It is then about applying the gospel into the spaces and places where we live, work and play, and through the process of discipleship under the grace of God, help to take individuals to a place of wanting to share with those in need. Only such an internal transformation can change a belief system of entitlement which underlies most of our socio-political issues. On the sub-issue of tertiary education, the church must reach out to those in genuine need, not only with financial assistance, but with the full gospel that takes an individual from self-centredness to contributing to society and our fellow man. True education must not merely develop the intellect, but also greater Christ-likeness. Martin Luther King hit the nail on the head when he declared that the 20th century produced guided missiles but unguided men. For this true education to happen, gospelbased disciplines must be imparted along with financial help where needed. And instead of perpetuating a culture of demanding, entitled people (even if they do have keen intellects), we could rather see God-honouring, authorityhonouring, servant leaders with the character to match their brain power, and a nation driven by initiative and not entitlement. TENDAI CHITSIKE arrived in Grahamstown to study law at Rhodes University. After completing his studies he sensed a call to stay in Grahamstown to reach and disciple students with His People Christian Church. He now serves as lead pastor of the church and is happily married to his wife, Keryn, and they have two young children.

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THE MISSION

INSPIRE ACTION

TRANSFORMED PEOPLE TRANSFORM PEOPLE BY A N N I E K I R K E

INSPIRE ACTION

hen I was five years old I met my Uncle Gene, an Irish Catholic priest who was ordained in his early twenties in Ireland and immediately sent by his order, St James the Apostle in Boston, to live with and serve amongst a community in a shanty town on the outskirts of Lima, Peru.

TRANSFORMED PEOPLE ARE SURRENDERED. WHEN CHRISTIANS PRAY: ‘LORD, LET YOUR KINGDOM COME’ THEY ARE ALSO PROFESSING THAT ‘ALL OTHER KINGDOMS MUST GO.’ 45

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I remember his twinkling eyes, his attentiveness to me and my three siblings. I remember the tone of his voice as he described with deep love, compassion, and value the people he served. I remember the fierce sense of injustice he shared as the Peruvian government would regularly bulldoze down their homes and demand they move on. He described the pounding that their dignity would take as they’d return to the rubbish dumps in search of cardboard and other materials to rebuild their homes. Seeking justice, he joined the people on peaceful protests and was arrested and imprisoned for up to twenty eight days at a time. These experiences he recounted calmly. He After his first few months in Lima, he gathered with the community and soon found out what they dreamed of – homes built with bricks and cement which could not be demolished and a church in the centre of their community in which they could worship together. He showed us slides of the whole community taking on the task. Women pushing wheelbarrows filled with bricks, their babies strapped to their backs. Men mixing cement and building the houses one by one. They didn’t stop until everyone had a home, including Uncle Gene, with enough to build the church too..

I remember Uncle Gene’s smiling, tear-filled eyes as he said ‘and that was the end of the bulldozers!’ In Uncle Gene I felt I glimpsed the whole gospel lived and breathed in a human being. I saw a selfgiving love, joy, compassion, humility, prophetic imagination, untameable commitment, countercultural lifestyle, concern for the poor, widows, orphans and refugees.

I remember the way he looked at me as a child; expecting something. His eyes searching for and awakening my true heart; my God-created self and calling. I felt like he was looking at me as if I was already old enough - old enough to know what I had been born for. I remember feeling so alive with such a sense of purpose, of joy, and my own divine sense of vocation jumping up and down inside of me. As I sat on his knee listening to his stories of faith, hope, love and justice, I thought I couldn’t get much closer to Jesus if I tried.

Christian pastors talk a lot about mission and disciple-making in the church and organise courses which teach the spiritual disciplines (prayer, studying scripture, fasting, tithing, service). They encourage members to join small groups where relationships and accountability can grow and as they get involved in ministries which are serving within and beyond the church community. This is summed up as the up-in-out model of discipleship. Up (worship to God)-in (loving community)-

out (serving the world). The problem is that many churches are seeing few people beyond the church walls discover faith in Jesus as a result of discipling Christians this way. When asked, many Christians feel clueless and unsure of how to help others discover faith in Jesus. This despite spending so much time talking about Him, studying Him, and worshiping Him in corporate gatherings and in their personal time. So, what’s going on?

BEHAVIOUR NEVER LIES

I have a friend, David Morin, who is a film director living in Cape Town. Having watched people on and off camera for decades, David says ‘Behaviour never lies.’ I agree with him. It reveals our inner thoughts, feelings and attitudes. In the case of Uncle Gene, behaviour doesn’t lie. I saw and experienced the love, character, and behaviour of Christ shine through. It’s luminous. It is the sign of a transformed person; transforming other people who, together, transform nations. It brings transformation. NO SACRED-SECULAR DIVIDE

Transformed people understand there is no sacred and secular – only sacred and desecrated. How can we enter into every moment each day to transform what is desecrated by blessing the sacredness of every person through our eye contact and prophetic conversations? How can we restore sacredness in our work, rest, and play? How can we seek the restoration and flourishing of poor and marginalised peoples with practical, emotional, and spiritual support whilst working to transform the unjust economic, political, and social systems (education, healthcare, housing, water and sanitation, food scarcity etc.) which oppress them? God commanded Israel in Jeremiah 29:7 – “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Restorative justice requires us to emulate Jesus’ compassionate response to the least among us and commitment to establishing His kingdom rule in every sphere of society. RECIPROCITY AND HOSPITALITY

Richard Rohr once said: ‘Love is an infinite, inclusive flow of giving and receiving.’ Transformed people are dissatisfied with transactional relationships and those which deny the dignity and value of every person’s gift and participation in community. Reimagining our daily rhythms (eating, resting, playing, working, praying) so that we are radically inclusive and embracing of the ‘other’ will have an

impact in God’s eternal Kingdom. SURRENDER

Transformed people are surrendered. When Christians pray: ‘Lord, let your kingdom come’ they are also professing that ‘all other kingdoms must go.’ But where do our loyalties really lie? So many of our anxieties stem from trying to maintain lifestyles our culture values which diametrically opposes the abundant life Jesus offers all who come into His Kingdom. In the words of Elsa from the Disney sensation Frozen; ‘Let it go!’ When you’re fully surrendered to God, you’re free to be all He created you to be – a blessing to the world around you. BE BOLD

Transformed people are empowered. Obeying Jesus and brushing off competing allegiances makes us dangerously powerful because we can’t be bought. As we start taking Jesus at His word we become bold. Bold in our prayers, faith, and actions. Matthew 25:35-40 isn’t just something we should read and move on from, but actually embody:

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in. I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Healing comes through the power of the Spirit; physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing. Spiritual opposition will come, but those who are living for King Jesus have the power to overcome any evil with good. Transformed people possess His character and competencies in a world that is crying out for healing and liberation. How will you answer the call? ANNIE KIRKE moved to Cape Town in July 2015 to take up the post of Assistant Minister at Christ Church Kenilworth. She was ordained a pioneer priest in the Diocese of London in 2010 and developed a new post under the Bishop of London as Pioneer Priest of Missional Communities. With 2 other ordained pioneer ministers, they developed a London wide network of pioneers of missional communities - small organic groups of disciples seeking to share the Christian faith with their local communities, colleagues and social networks – planting new expressions of church in homes, workplaces and third spaces.

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THE MISSION

TODAY

THE SWAN

NEPOELS BY A L I C E C L E G G

TODAY

he missionary life is no picnic – even though it’s easy enough to romanticise. As Elisabeth Elliot once wrote, “We all know that missionaries don’t go, they ‘go forth’, they don’t walk, they ‘tread the burning sands’, they don’t die, they ‘lay down their lives’.” But when it’s your Land Rover that breaks down in the middle of bandit territory, or your child that suffers a febrile seizure when there’s no doctor in the vicinity, it’s very real. And yet, Christians are still obeying the call (Matthew 28:19) to uproot their lives and serve the Lord in a foreign country. Why? Because the Bible speaks of a day when, “All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, O Lord; they will bring glory to your name.” All the nations.

Grant and Loki Swanepoel arrived in Northern Kenya in January of 2004 – which means they have now lived there for more than 10 years. Their vision? To advance the gospel through applied Bible teaching. Considering that Kenya comprises 110 people groups, 31 of which have never heard the gospel (according to the Joshua Project), this is a pretty daunting task. Even in areas where there are now established churches, most of these groups were only exposed to the gospel in recent years. Moreover, very few Kenyans attend an evangelical church which faithfully preaches the gospel of Jesus Christ and is committed to biblical truth. During the 10 years in which the Swanepoels have served in Kenya, their focus has been predominantly with two groups. For the first 6 years, they lived and served amongst the Cushitic Rendille people. Known for their beautiful beads, the Rendille are pastoralists and have their own traditional religion, although an estimated 15% of Rendille people are now Christian (only 4.2% are evangelical). In fact it was Grant’s parents who, while living among the Rendille for 34 years, began the work of translating the New Testament into the Rendille language. For the last four years, Grant and Loki have been working amongst the Nilotic Samburu; nomadic cattle herders whose culture is similar to that of the Maasai. An estimated 30% of Samburu people are Christian (with 12% adhering to evangelicalism). Grant and Loki, now parents to four small children, have faced many challenges and discouragements over the last decade. Like the seedlings in the parable of the sower (Luke 8) which are seized by the birds, wilt away on the dry rocks, or are choked by thorns, so there have been times when the Swanepoels saw what they thought had been progress crumble away into nothing. But it’s also been a journey which included many

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blessings, joys and adventures. Just as in Jesus’ story, when only a quarter of the seed lands in good soil but yields an astounding crop, so the Swanepoels’ have witnessed the Lord work incredible miracles in people’s hearts. And through it all, the Lord has been faithful to protect and provide for them.

Loki recalls a time when God proved His faithfulness to them during a desperate situation. Living and working in rural areas with very little infrastructure, there is no nearby emergency room if one ever has a medical crisis. Once, the family were visiting friends in a remote town near Lake Turkana when one of the girls had a febrile seizure. By God’s amazing grace, a small aircraft carrying important officials was minutes away from landing there. The Swanepoels were flying to a bush hospital within minutes. On another occasion, they were on their way to Nairobi when their Land Rover broke down at the exact spot where a UN vehicle had been attacked the previous week. After some minutes of praying fervently, a convoy of 25 British army vehicles came up the road, on their way to do manoeuvres with the Kenyan Defence Force. Among them were two mechanics and a host of spare Land Rover parts.

Loki believes that this ‘army’ was God’s way of reminding them that He is able to do whatever it takes to look after them. “We live in times of shootings and insecurity on every side. I am not saying that God will, at all times, protect His own. He can, but sometimes He shows His glory in other ways too. For that day, though, I believe He wanted us all to know what can happen if one just prays.” The Swanepoels have seen the Lord do wonderful things through their ministry as well. In the early years, their focus was on discipleship with men and women from the local church. Grant also gave seminars for the pastors of the area. On one of the first youth camps they ran amongst the Rendille, they managed to squash 75 young people into their living room! They spent a few days teaching them the basic truths of the gospel and now one young man who attended the camp is married and serving the Lord with his wife. After a few years, they decided to establish a more formal program. The first year they expected to receive 8 students, but not long before they were due to start Kenya experienced terrible election violence and on opening day only one student came! Loki says, “We were so discouraged at first, but were counselled by godly older missionaries to press on with whom God gave.” For a year, this student (by the name of Lesantan) lived with the Swanepoels while

TO REN GR STI TR CA SCR

ODAY, DESPITE MOVING FROM NDILLE TO SAMBURU COUNTRY, RANT AND LOKI’S MISSION IS ILL THE SAME: TO EQUIP WELLRAINED LOCAL LEADERS WHO AN STUDY AND APPLY THE RIPTURES FOR THEMSELVES.

Grant taught him. Today, he is married to a lovely Christian lady and they have three beautiful girls. He is the evangelist in his church and is standing strong for the Lord Jesus. Today, despite moving from Rendille to Samburu country, Grant and Loki’s mission is still the same: to equip well-trained local leaders who can study and apply the Scriptures for themselves. By God’s grace, 7 men have already completed the intensive oneand-a-half year study program at the ‘Bible Training Centre for Pastors’ (BTCP).

It would seem that 2015 was just as challenging as the previous years. Loki recalls how it was “one of the hardest years we have had on the mission field so far.” They were forced to evacuate the area twice, due to escalations in tribal violence. Sadly one of their leaders from the previous year passed away. And their work with the students hasn’t always reaped gospel fruit. However, God in His goodness has blessed them with two more helpers: former students who have since enrolled in a formal Bible school program and are now preparing for ministry. As Loki says, “Life in Northern Kenya (and in ministry in general) is not a picnic, but it has some amazing moments too.” Long drives across a vast landscape, sipping coffee from a thermos under a thorn tree, and having fellowship with friends who live and work in the same tough conditions – these are the kind of moments when they are very aware of the Sovereign God who reigns over all.

So how can you partner with the Swanepoels? The most significant thing you can do is PRAY. Pray that the Lord would raise up more workers for the harvest field in Kenya (Matthew 9:37). Pray that He would strengthen the Swanepoels for the next 10 years of ministry in Kenya. Pray that the Lord would give them much wisdom, and that He would help them to plan strategically as they continue to train up leaders for the fledgling church in Northern Kenya. Prayerfully consider financially aiding God’s mission in Kenya. There are huge challenges. It’s difficult to establish a solid training program when faced with obstacles like lack of transport, a high illiteracy rate, and tribal fighting. But as Solomon says in Psalm 127:1 – if the Lord is behind the work, it’s never in vain. If you are interested in giving, please email: finance.za@

aimint.org.

ALICE CLEGG is a classical piano student Monday to Friday, and a Christian 24/7. Born in England, her family moved to South Africa in 2002 and now she calls Cape Town home. She loves her church family at St Barnabas Bible Church, Wynberg, where she serves as the music director. She dreams of writing good songs for churches to sing. Her other passions include global missions, coffee dates with friends, Jane Austen, and baking.

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THE MISSION

REMEMBER

JOHN PATON BY R O X A N N E D A N I E L S

magine: one day your brother, sister, mother, father, or someone close to you is on a hike in the Drakensberg. The next thing you hear is: “I need your help, I’m trapped!” In shock, you realise your loved one is desperately holding on after falling down a rocky precipice. You immediately start to work out a plan to rescue them from their nasty predicament. You do everything you can to free them from their life-threatening situation. This is what John Paton experienced, albeit on a much larger scale with people who did not know they were in need of saving.

Paton was a Christian man from Scotland who went to islands in the South Pacific named the New Hebrides. Despite being inhabited by cannibals who had killed and eaten previous missionaries, Paton went to the islands with his wife in 1858 to spread the good news of Christ’s freeing love. He was so convinced by the gospel and the need to share it that after someone attempted to stop him from going, he declared: “Mr. Dickson, you are advanced in years now, and your own prospect is soon to be laid in the grave, there to be eaten by worms; I confess to you, that if I can but live and die serving and honoring the Lord Jesus, it will make no difference to me whether I am eaten by Cannibals or by worms.” Paton knew the dangers and that his life would be in grave peril - many times. He saw past this though, into the truth that to die would in fact be to gain more than life in this world has to offer (Philippians 1:21). Up until his death, he lived for Christ wholeheartedly. This meant reaching out to the people of

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PATON KNEW THE DANGERS AND THAT HIS LIFE WOULD BE IN GRAVE PERIL - MANY TIMES. Aniwa (an island of New Hebrides) who were so convinced that heathen cannibalism and superstition was the way to live. They lived in fear of powers they did not understand and were in bondage to sin until they encountered Jesus and were changed by the power of God’s word. They were freed from their binding lifestyles and ideas and were free to live for Christ, as Paton demonstrated. His reward was not gold or money, worldly acclaim or fame, no. He saw his reward in the fruit of the gospel and that “by the grace of God, Aniwa now worships at the Savior’s feet”.

What a wonderful gospel that freed cannibals over two centuries ago. I wonder what we as 21st century South Africans are in bondage to? The burden of being under a corrupt government? The frustrations of the ongoing racism at our leading institutions? Or perhaps we feel surrounded by the pressures of everyday living, studying to pass an exam, or living in fear of not being liked by the people around us? Jesus is greater. He offers the gift of living water (John 4: 13-14) so that you will be satisfied in Him alone as you live for His glory. You too can experience the same freeing power of the Gospel that the cannibals in New Hebrides did. For more about John Paton and his ministry, you can access this free resource: John Piper, John G. Paton: You will be eaten by cannibals! Available from http://www.desiringgod.org/books/john-g-paton

MUSIC

OVERTONE

JIMMY NEVIS ON MAKING TIMELESS MUSIC, AND HOW GOD HAS BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN THE PROCESS.

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amouflage-rimmed sunglasses; a stylish grey veldt hat; pants so white they would make any cleaning detergent envious; and a classic black t-shirt accenting a striking waistcoat designed by none other than Mr. Jimmy Nevis himself. The instant he walked into our coffee shop of choice, it was unmistakeably clear that someone with a strong creative point of view had entered the building. The melodic magic of his albums Subliminal and The Masses - now made even more sense given the extremely fashionable feast my eyes were treated too! Suddenly my coffee didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look as exciting anymore.

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OVERTONE

JIMMY CREDITS GOD FOR HIS GROUNDED NATURE AMIDST THE FLURRY THAT IS THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY. His cool factor only increased as we broke into an introspective examination of the #FeesMustFall debate and what we thought about it as creative youths concerned about the struggle. Jimmy Nevis is an artist that not only has his hands deeply submerged in the art of music and facets within, but is acutely engaged with the pertinent topics of the world today and what that means for him.

As I find myself on the precipice of the ripe young age of 23, while getting to know the driven individual that is Jimmy Nevis (JN), I immediately began making a checklist in the back of my mind containing all the things I hoped I would have accomplished by this time. Also 23, JN can already say he’s completed a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Cape Town (UCT), released 2 albums, written songs that have charted on Trace Music Television and national radio, worked with local double-platinum selling musical group Mi Casa (my other favourite musical act…besides Jimmy of course), been nominated for two South African Music Awards (SAMAs), a Channel O African Music Video Award, and the KIA Record of the Year. Not only have his musical strides been noted by fellow South Africans, but when Pharrell Williams performed in South Africa, he specifically chose Jimmy

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to open for him at both the Cape Town and Johannesburg shows. I have since stopped making my list…

Despite the numerous accolades JN has received, I found his humility the most palpable and refreshing. Our interview felt like a friendly conversation during meridian on UCT’s Jammie stairs. So much so that I subconsciously began preparing to dodge one of its infamous low-flying pigeons! Jimmy credits God for his grounded nature amidst the flurry that is the creative industry. Having grown up in a Christian household, with his father as the pastor of the church he attended, it was both a blessing and a trial for him. Although he was always taught about the Christian faith, he appreciates the fact that it was not forced on him. Consequently, he has been able to develop a meaningful relationship with God and has been blessed with band members who share the same view. Growing up, he was always told that he couldn’t have one foot in the world and the other in his faith - it should be a full commitment. Things became rather confusing when he finally broke into the secular music scene. It seemed as though he was living the two-footed ideology his parents had warned him against. But as God continued to shape and mould him through

his musical journey, he began to realise that God was, and always has been, instrumental in his singing career. “For me, it’s most important that I maintain a good relationship with God, acknowledging His presence in all that I do.” Jimmy recounted how he always tries to be aware of God in the smallest of things as well as being aware of the great opportunities God provides, especially in his career. Due to the conservative Christian community JN hails from, the announcement of his chosen field of work was initially taken on with some disdain. As an artist, there is consistently judgement stemming from the public and because he is the son of a pastor it was almost expected. But despite this challenge, Jimmy is quite aware of the benefits of being a in a secular environment as musician who is Christian. He recounted a story about an audience member who came up to him after a performance and said, “…that song was so anointed!” Statements like these have, and continue to reveal, a unique and unconventional interpretation of what it is to spread the Gospel. Considering that the theme for this addition of Scope Magazine is freedom, I asked him what comes to mind when he thinks of freedom. “Freedom is having the choice to be whoever you want and do whatever you want but ensuring that you take responsibility for your actions and having the wisdom to know how your actions can affect those around you.” He recalls a seemingly harmless Instagram post that was taken the wrong way. To his surprise, he was inundated with fans and anti-fans assuming the worst of him and thus he had to swiftly remove the post. “[Your freedom]...is never an isolated thing”. If you weren’t aware, ’Jimmy Nevis’ is in fact a pseudonym. The name ‘Jimmy’ belonged to his grandfather and his father’s name, James, is often interchanged for Jimmy, so it only felt right for him to honour them in this way. ‘Nevis’ isn’t real either, unless you’re speaking about a popular

island in the Caribbean Sea! Don’t worry, I was also confused. Jimmy quickly explained that he picked the name up in high school and simply loved how it sounded. All of his friends began calling him Nevis thereafter. When thinking of his identity as a pop star and truly embodying what that meant, the combination of how he was known in a social and familial context fed into his creative self quite nicely. …’Jimmy Nevis’… I get it.

This interview truly left me inspired and excited for the future of South African music. Firstly in a general sense because as Jimmy has observed, South Africans are beginning to invest in locally produced music more and more. Music platforms through the internet, apps, and iTunes South Africa in particular makes it more accessible and easier to purchase. I’m very eager to see where South African music is going when musicians like JN gain such popularity and use their platforms in largely mainstream environments meaningfully, unashamedly proclaiming that Jesus is Lord of their lives and the ultimate producer of their music. “I want to make timeless music,” Jimmy affirms. If the success of Subliminal and The Masses is anything to go by, he is most certainly on the right track. I remember a particular day I decided to clean my little res room when hearing the extremely infectious head-bopping rhythm pouring through my radio speakers. Within two minutes my room was exactly the same – dirty – and the broom which was meant for cleaning was now functioning as my microphone while I passionately sang Elephant Shoes to an audience of decorative teddy bears.

“I live for what I do and I will die for it” is how Jimmy Nevis describes himself. With words as strong as my coffee, I left on a buzz – in more ways than one. PHATHISWA MAGANGANE is a 3rd Year Jazz performance student singing her way through life. She loves Jesus, spending time with her family and going on adventures with her friends. She also enjoys stimulating intellectual discussions and considers herself an enthusiast of baked confectionaries.

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MUSIC

SOUND CHECK

BY R O BY N S M I T H

illy Million is an incredible storyteller, and I felt privileged chatting to and getting to hear her stories. Music aside, Lilly is warm and friendly and has wonderful wisdom to share. Listening to either of her albums – A Traveller’s Rest EP (2014) or Lilly Million On… Love, Truth and Freedom (2012), you’ll hear her clear, rich voice as she sings about life, love, and the struggles we all face. Her music will have you marvelling at the wonderful marriage of a soulful voice and indie/folk music. Her songs are littered with gorgeous harmonies, lyrical pictures, and poignant truths. Dubbed SA’s Tracy Chapman – here is a glimpse into Lilly Million and her journey…

1) Firstly, how would you describe your music style in 5 words? That’s a hard one! I think I’d say Indie, contemporary, soulful, timeless, and honest. Maybe creative too ;)

2) How did the dream start - did you always want to be a musician or did the idea blossom slowly? Doesn’t every kid want to be a singer?! I started off writing poetry and performing poetry. Then I started playing guitar when I was 16, would perform my poetry with my guitar, and by university I realised: “Shuks, this is something I want to do.”

3) What inspires you most, in terms of song writing? The human experience. Think of the things you go through, the decisions you make, purpose, why we’re here, God – all of it! These are the things I struggle with. I think most of my songs have been squeezed out in struggling to understand what life is about and watching others do and experience life. I do believe we’re all searching for God and as a Christian I’ve found real love and I just want everybody to know, you know? In this regard, I’ll never stop being inspired. Sometimes it’s hard writing songs about things that make me uncomfortable, but there is something that compels me to write about certain things. I can’t just write about partying every day, that’s just not who I am or what I believe I’m on this earth to tell people. It’s funny though, I don’t write as often as people think – I can go months without writing. I write when there is something to say.

4) I’m sure all of your songs are special to you, with deep meanings. Are there any with fun stories or one that has a deeply special place in your heart? 57

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There is a song, Sinful Rage, from A Traveller’s Rest EP– (available here). I was upset and angry at God and wanted to vent. I happened to open my Bible to Romans 3 as I was writing, and was just reminded of God’s holiness and how broken I am. He is the Father, I am the child – I need to trust Him. As I wrote it, it became more of a rebuke towards me. The second verse is my favourite: Blinded by my sinful rage I question if You’re kind, you’re good, And real Again So quickly I forget your mercies I live and lie As if you were not there

5) Any exciting events or musical adventures planned for the future? Shuks, tons! So many things that I want to do. Last year I got to tour Africa – Zambia, Uganda, and Swaziland. There is so much here at home. Next year, I just want to solidify my presence here. My new project is releasing in April, I want to record a live DVD at some point, some exciting collaborations are coming. I was very excited to work with Mag44 – a brilliant producer from Zambia. There are also some tours planned! 2016 looks like it’s going to be big and exciting – God willing.

6) Freedom is the theme for this issue of Scope Magazine; is this something you could assimilate with your music? This is a big concept for me. It’s definitely a big part of my music, I’m not sure it’s even a conscious thing. What is freedom? Is freedom being able to do whatever we want to do regardless of how it hurt? Or is it playing within boundaries that are there to protect us? I believe God does that for us. I’m still figuring out as a Christian what my freedom means.

I think there has been freedom in my music in terms of understanding who I am, why I am and realising that I don’t have it all together and that’s ok! I can rely on God through all my shortcomings to help me. Understanding that I’m forgiven through Christ – there is such freedom in knowing that. Lastly, I’ve found freedom in love – real love. Experiencing love from God and being able to love other people. I think it’s something we all want and there is freedom in that for me. I think that’s what it is for everyone else too. Find Lilly Million on Facebook & YouTube.

MUSIC

CRESCEND O

MICHAeL CrOWsteR BY J O N AT H A N J U S T

ichael Crowster, born and bred in Cape Town, is not your typical Christian musician. He is a DJ (but not just a DJ) with a passion for Electronic Dance Music (EDM). Yes, you read correctly – EDM. A genre that one wouldn’t normally associate with ‘gospel music’ is being used for that exact purpose; bringing glory to God. How can EDM magnify God’s name? According to Michael, what he does is distinctly different from many other DJs: “If I look at how other DJs perform, it’s just them on the stage – I don’t like performing alone. For me, the distinctive thing would be that the music I produce is always pointing towards God. If you listen closely to the lyrics, there will always be an encouraging message behind each song that paints a picture for the listener.” And this is where Metronome stems from.

It is what Michael calls his ‘outlet’, but it’s is much more than just that. “Metronome is a platform for Christian artists and churches, and basically anybody in the Kingdom to come together with no agenda but to share the gospel. Whether it be a church band, rapper, someone who can do spoken word – we just put the event together.”

Speaking about the events that he has done, how does he go about preparing for a gig? Interestingly, he first finds out from the church or Christian group where he’ll be performing which songs they like. He then adapts whatever song/s they choose and layers them with a cool dance beat. Sounds pretty rad to me! But, according to Michael, it’s more than just about putting on a bunch of shows.

“I believe that God wants to take us through a journey. It doesn’t matter if we do an event for two people or if we’re in front of a thousand people, either way it’s fantastic. Even if it’s just one person, it’s worth it. And I think that is what God wants to take us through; we shouldn’t base the success of the event on the turn out. If someone gets saved – done. That’s what we’re doing it for.”

The reason why he gets to perform where he performs is largely due to the relationships that he has built with youth pastors. He has connected with quite a few youth pastors from different churches in Cape Town, but has come to the conclusion: “As long as the church is unified, that is mission accomplished and what will win over the youth eventually.” I couldn’t agree with him more. On a personal note, he shares what keeps him motivated to carry on doing what he knows he has been created for: “I believe God has really given me the gift to produce this music. I want to be pushing the boundaries. I don’t just use a song for the sake of the song – I want to know that this is going to achieve something.” As most of you will agree, EDM is not often about the lyrics as much as the beat or tune. Michael agrees, but that’s something he wants to change. “I want to give it more of the human feel with some sort of lyric in it. Even if it’s just a one-liner; something catchy. God can still use that. I also want to make sure that it’s brought out with the right intention. Even if it doesn’t have lyrics, it must have good intentions.” What’s next for Metronome?

“I would like it be a movement, in a sense, where it creates this lifestyle so that when you come to an event, which is called For Love by the way (#ForLove), it just encourages a lifestyle where whatever you’re doing is for the love of Christ. We want to create this culture that is radical about God. We don’t want to put the emphasis on the hype, but at the same time we want to show that this is a cool thing to be a part of where you can be creative no matter what country you’re from or what gift you have. I want Metronome to go international.” Even though Michael Crowster is still relatively new to the local music scene, his musical prowess and vision for Metronome is truly inspiring. I can’t wait to see how God is still going to grow this platform and use it to raise up a generation that is unashamed of the Gospel, “because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). Go and check Michael Crowster out on Soundcloud.

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MUSIC

RECOMMENDED 10

he quality and quantity of Christian Hip Hop (CHH) albums that have already been released in this first quarter of 2016 is amazing. As a huge fan of the genre, this is great because it shows how many new and older artists are really pushing new boundaries. In anticipation, I have compiled a list of my top ten released and soon-to-be released albums of 2016.

KI’SHON FURLOW - VOICES First up is Voices by the new kid on the block and now Collision Records signee Ki’shon Furlow. If you’ve listened to his previous offering (a free album called Keep an Open Mind) you’ll understand his placement on my list. If you haven’t, check out the lead single and video for Golden, which features label mate Alex Faith. As an artist, Ki’shon Furlows’ music is as eclectic as they come; fusing clever wordplay and lyricism (battle rapper type stuff) with a unique trap style.

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DERAJ & B. COOPER - FOR THE PEOPLE Although Deraj is relatively unknown to most CHH fans, B. Cooper has been making noise with features and singles for a while now. Since getting singed by Reflection Music Group, the two have done the posse single Squad which features Derek Minor. This album will be something of a formal introduction to the duo. For the People dropped recently on the 11th of March â&#x20AC;&#x201C; go get it!

DREAM JUNKIES - GOOD RELIGION The Dream Junkies (fka theBREAX) have only ever done solo projects and features in the past and fans have been itching to get their hands on a group album for a minute now. With the recent signing of John Givez, you can expect more talent than ever before. Watch I Got The Juice, which is one of the songs off Good Religion. You can purchase the album on iTunes here.

K-DRAMA - THE 8TH After a three year hiatus, coming back and winning a heated Rapzilla beat battle, K-Drama drops his 8th studio album. He based this album on the Goliath-slaying David of the Bible and that alone had my interests peaking. In an interview with the WadeO radio show, K- Drama raised some concerns on the state of CHH. He also mentioned some disappointing relational issues he had with some of the artists he has worked with. Drama sounded like he has a lot to say and I expect a spill over into the music. The album is available here.

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RECOMMENDED 10

DATIN - THE ROAR Datin is known for raw, hard-hitting rap and I expected nothing less on this album. God Over Money fans had high expectations for this one and the fact that it took him two years before dropping it speaks volumes. What will be interesting to hear is how he has adapted his style and sound in the context of what’s relevant at the moment. Grab the album here.

TEDASHII - THIS TIME AROUND Jumped out the Whip and Be Me are the two singles I’ve heard so far and they are absolute bangers. The Reach Records signing of Gawvi who produced them is already paying off. Tedashii’s music has always had a mainstream appeal which I’ve come to appreciate more and more in recent years. What I am most excited about is how different the sound of this album will be compared to the last one. The album was released on the 4th of March 2016, so get it while it’s fresh.

ESHON BURGUNDY - UNTITLED Eshon has been dropping teasers of a new album since parting with Humble Beast Records. The most telling being the release of a song and video called Guns and Roses. The song and video concept is superb. As an avid listener of Eshon, one is able to sense a lot of maturity in his sound. His previous album was a great work of art (possibly his best work yet) and I look forward to hearing more. No official release date has been announced.

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NF - THERAPY SESSION If Mansion (his first album) is anything to go by, this one promises to be a strong contender for best Christian rap album in 2016/17. With possibly one of the fastest growing fan bases in CHH, the pressure is on. NF has been outspoken about a lot of issues he has experienced after the release of Mansion and Therapy Session will no doubt be as honest and transparent as we hear more about what he has been up against. Look out for it on April 22nd.

DA’ T.R.U.T.H. - IT’S COMPLICATED Da’ T.R.U.T.H. is possibly one of the most consistent artists in CHH. This has led to a good body of work in which he has had an opportunity to experiment and grow as an artist over many years. After his last album was criticized by some fans for being too ‘mainstream’ on the production, I’m curious to find out how this one will sound. Da’ T.R.U.T.H. fans have also come to expect biblical commentary on a lot of different issues and I look forward to hearing what’s on his heart this time around. Go check out Religion – a single from the unreleased It’s Complicated.

CHRISTON GRAY - THE GLORY ALBUM After the well received School of Roses album, fans could not get enough of the high note hitting wonder. When he left his then record label, Collision Records, there was a lot speculation on how signing with Kirk Franklin’s label, For Your Soul Recordings, would impact his sound. I for one think joining an experienced artist like Kirk Franklin is not only a good career move, but might push him towards even greater heights creatively. Go and get The Glory Album and see for yourself.

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MUSIC

ANOTHER LISTEN

BY S TAC Y M ATA

usic speaks to the soul and affects our feelings, thoughts and attitudes. I think this is true, especially when you listen to Adele. This emotional impact of music connects communities, brings revelation, and can even draw us into greater intimacy with God. The capability of songwriting and performing makes it one of the gifts and talents God gives song birds of the world.

Adele is one of those; an obviously gifted musicians that doesn’t just sing at you, but sings into your heart. She knows her gift and on many occasions has opened the flood gates of emotion into the world. That being said, the momentum of emotion can sometimes be overwhelming when listening to her in large quantities frequently.

IT’S QUITE BEAUTIFUL TO SEE A WOMAN COME FULLY INTUNE WITH HER EMOTIONS AND HAVE THE ABILITY TO STIR THOSE EMOTIONS IN OTHERS Prefacing her album, 25, I wanted to know why exactly her music can be overwhelming. I think it is her sheer honesty and her articulation of raw human emotions that the listener has either already experienced feeling, or not yet dealt with personally in their own lives. This obviously resonates with a lot of people,

LOOK ON UP RELIENT K

but it is Adele’s vulnerability and intimate reconciliation with her life experiences that makes me convinced that it is truly Adele who benefits the most from her music.

Her songs lay everything out on the table, from bitterness to passion. Adele expresses these emotions in her lyrics, vocals, and musical composition. The entire process helps her come to terms with these real felt feelings so she can move on with life. It’s quite beautiful to see a woman come fully in-tune with her emotions and have the ability to stir those emotions in others, so much so that she sold 3.38 million copies in just the first week when 25 released last year in November.

In 25, Adele faces the reality of time passing, life moving on, and the consequences of aging. Her songs are nostalgic ballads, goodbyes, overdue apologies, and living in the present. She freely shares missed moments of her past; pain, regret, and hopes associated with remembrance. This motif makes 25 an emotional rollercoaster as we follow the wavelength of Adele’s lifetime. She starts out apologising in Hello, reminisces in songs like When We Were Young and Remedy, and ends with an appreciation for the present in Sweet Devotion. Her style of writing reminds me of the repeated pattern of lamenting shown throughout the Bible. Various biblical characters hash out there emotions, but then declare the victory of Christ over any irrational fear or destructive desire. This is the ancient art of looking at the reality of feelings

STRONG SHAUN JACOBS BAND

in the eye so you can move on with your life unhindered by lingering feelings of regret, unforgiveness, or self hatred. King David does this all the time through many of the psalms and there is even a whole book titled Lamentations written by the prophet Jeremiah.

Adele is reminding the world of this forgotten art of lamenting. There is such a temptation to dismiss feelings because we feel like we cannot allow ourselves to feel. Especially when we think our feelings are wrong or irrational. It seems paradoxical, but having feelings is a reality because they are reactionary to life’s moments and if not dealt with properly, may lead to compulsive behavior. Adele’s music reminds me that I have the ability to express emotion and advance from that expression. Being sensitive is not weakness, but a great strength that can only bring me closer to who God is. If I have a greater understanding of my feelings, I will have a greater understanding of how I was created, how I am broken, and how Christ has reconciled me to Himself. Some have mistaken Adele’s latest album as a regretful moping, because of heartbreak, but she goes deeper than that. She sings her way through letting go of the past, and fully embracing the present.

NOTHING MORE DECYFER DOWN

STACY MATA is a semester abroad student at UCT, studying business management and sustainable architecture. She enjoys Kirstenbosch concerts, picnics and hiking. She is completing Discipleship Training School with Antioch church in hopes of church planting with them around the globe one day.

FREEDOM LECRAE FT. N’DAMBI

BOOKS

ast year I picked up a short collection of essays called Stop What You’re Doing and Read This! The title caught my attention – not to mention the bright cover – because I am passionate about literature and convinced that we should carve time out of our busy lives to read. After reading this anthology, my zeal to see the prioritising literature was heightened. So I hope this article will serve as an appetiser for the collection itself and also create a hunger for reading good books. The best place to start is with Blake Morrison’s essay. For the most part, he argues that books provide readers with hope beyond their circumstances, however dire. Any lover of reading knows this. But the point I want to pick out from his piece touches on the canonical works of literature. Most modern cultures are entertainment obsessed and seemingly resistant to thoughtful engagement. Reading older, and very often larger, works require too much effort. However, Morrison writes, “Some books are simply better than others. Or last the course longer. Or grow richer the more they are reread.” As a product of postmodernism, the chances are you’re unwittingly suspicious of established narratives. This makes Morrison’s point all the more necessary: “If we see the canon not as social-conditioning…imposed from above, but as a collective of writers’ and readers’ enthusiasm, then there’s no reason to resist.” Recognised literature should be added to our reading lists. For, as another contributor, Tim Parks, writes, “Life is

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simply too short for the wrong books.” In his essay, Mark Haddon explores the unique ability of literature to help us experience the human condition. Our addiction to film, tendency to glut on series, and the love of mindless entertainment has caused many to overlook literature. Haddon believes that when you “lay the novel alongside film…its specialness becomes obvious…[Film] can’t tell us what it is like to inhabit a human body. Its eyes are always open. It fails to understand the importance of things we don’t notice.” Haddon is convinced that the novel will endure because it comes closest to revealing

the “texture of life” and “the mystery of what it means to be human.” Anyone who has invested effort and time into exceptional writing and literary works will admit to the screen’s relative poverty and readings’ probing power. Experiencing this can be unnerving but it is always enriching. Jane Davis makes an incisive point about our fear of deep reading. “The plea for lightness may be a natural and entirely understandable fear of getting serious: lots of us spend a great deal of time not thinking, for fear of being brought down.” A little later she adds, “It is easy to see why, when dealing with literature or life stuff, people think it better if we stick to the surface of things and splash around up there, lightly pretending there are no depths.” You might dismiss the dying art of reading as an inevitable outcome of the digital age and modern entertainment. You could claim that I, along with the authors of Stop What You’re Doing and Read This! may be hankering after a bygone time and practice. But hear Davis out: “Despite our desire to amass, consume, and be mindless, the ‘unspeakable desire’ to know ‘our buried life’ is ancient and implacable. If we ignore it, or have no means of knowing it, that desire will come back and hurt us.” Film is a valuable medium but it cannot achieve what literature does. Spend enough time in a good book and you will not only be entertained, but also moved to reflection. Let me close with a final point from Jane Davis. She suggest that religions’ fall from grace in the

public forum, over the last century, has been detrimental to community. According to Davis, religion offers us “inner stuff, scaffolding to help us get around our inner space” and meaningful community; it explores the complexities of our humanity and provides safe groups where such ventures are encouraged. This point interests me partially because I agree with Davis that a “reading revolution” will broadly benefit humanity, as we investigate deeper questions. More personally and specifically, the point interests me because I am a Christian. I believe that the Christian story, the drama of creation and redemption, plumbs the depths of our humanity in a way no other narrative does. Christians have always been gathered by, and organised around, God’s metanarrative – the rich and searching story found in the Bible. Therefore Christians have always been readers, who treasure God’s story of salvation along with the hundreds of other stories that help us grapple with the human condition and consider the meaning of life, the universe, and everything else. The question I leave you with is this: are you ready to engage in them? GRAHAM HESLOP holds an honours in theology from GWC, but more importantly he holds the fastest time in his family for 50m freestyle. Born and bred in Durban, where the air is so humid you can almost drink it, he loves the outdoors, the beach, playing sports, and the first day of school term when Joburg goes back to Gauteng. Presently, Graham works at Christ Church Umhlanga.

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BO OKS

D O G-EAR

ORDINARY BY MICHAEL HORTON BY M AT T O’ K E L LY

“You’re not going to change the world, so don’t try.” A BIT PESSIMISTIC, perhaps? Maybe a bit cynical? I am fairly certain the reason these words from Bill Cosby in 1987 are so jarring is for that very reason. “The best thing you can do is to live each day with integrity and responsibility,” he advised, as laughter turned to nervous chuckles and shifting in seats. “Stop being narcissistic about your dream, getting everyone else to fit into it,” Cosby told Temple University grads in 2012. “You’ve got plenty of time, but don’t dream through it. Wake up!””1 Ordinary – not exactly a compliment. Michael Horton would agree: “We’ve become accustomed to looking around restlessly for something new, the latest and greatest, that idea or product or person or experience that will solve our problems, give us some purpose, and change the world.” These days to be ordinary is, well, not that great. Today to be ordinary, it seems, is synonymous with failure. We see this attitude everywhere. Everyone is trying to go the extra mile, trying to find the next big thing. More problematic, however, is that this attitude has found its way into the church. Continually called to be radical and extraordinary, it seems as if Christians have lost sight of the bigger picture. Horton uses the example of building a cathedral like that of the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The building process began in 1248 by Frederick II, who knew full well that he wouldn’t see the end result of this gargantuan project. Did that stop him from embarking on such a journey? No. Did it stop the builders along the way from working hard at it? No. The question Horton poses from this is: “How do we want to grow?” Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” In our restless pursuit of the radical and extraordinary, however, what kind of disciples are we making? The growth we should be seeking, both in ourselves and in what we pass on to the next generations, is not often achieved by the radical and extraordinary, but normally by

ordinary means. Real growth is found in the ordinary means of grace – faithful teaching of God’s word and the sacraments in the church. By the ordinary means – the things that don’t sell, or catch people’s attention – God has been working, bringing people to Himself for the past 2000 years. Yet now, it seems, more and more people are searching for that something more. Horton writes, “Continuity is the covenental approach to generations; novelty is the decree of our age.”2 He goes on, “So it is time for all of us to grow up. It’s time for gifted communicators and leaders to become pastors, for restless souls to submit to the encouragement and correction of the body, for movements to give way to churches.”3 What we must not read here is that the radical and extraordinary are bad things. In many cases they are necessary in challenging our thinking, helping us to see more of the bigger picture. However, in the long haul it’s not the radical and the extraordinary that will be the main contributors to real and lasting growth. Camps and conferences are great, but if we’re relying on those to grow our faith instead of serving in a local church, we have a problem. Short-term mission trips to Africa are great and important, but let’s not forget that taking care of our families back home is important too – and in many instances, with the day to day challenges of ordinary life, more challenging. I’ll end with some words from Horton in an interview about the book: “Ask the proficient athlete, artist, businessperson, or homemaker what creates excellence and they’ll all agree: a commitment to long-term goals – and with a community of mentors and fellow “disciples”. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. It’s the bursts of enthusiasm that keep us from maturing, deepening, and bearing fruit that lasts. Excellence is being thwarted not only by laziness but by reckless attachment to causes, programs, and in some cases – leaders.”4 Ordinary by Michael Horton is the necessary wake-up call which we all need to remember; the most important things in life will take work. It will be hard. It will take sweat and determination. But in developing the right habits with the right people – the vision God has given you motivating your commitment – there will be real sustainable growth. This is the only thing that matters in the end.

ENDNOTES 1. Page 190 2. Page 53 3. Page 65

UNASHAMED LECRAE

THE COMEBACK LOUIE GIGLIO

4. http://www.patheos.com/ blogs/jesuscreed/2014/11/08/ interview-with-michael-hortonby-david-moore/

THE FREEDOM OF SELF-FORGETFULNESS TIMOTHY KELLER

FINALLY FREE HEATH LAMBERT

RHYME & REASON

FLOW

THE PARADOX OF FREEDOM By Nyathela Mhlongo

reconciliation, claiming and tarnishing the sacred in the name of praise.

Fear, like a baton in the hand of a conductor, sounding a vibrant choral symphony; a code unleashing terrors on nations, sung in the high pitch of screams and in the low bass of groaning broken spirits.

In the labyrinth patterned by moral equities and inequities, the spirit of freedom eludes definitions that attempt to encapsulate it without degrading its essential majesty.

Often talk of freedom tells of fairy-tales set in a wonderland of immediate gratification and adrenalin thrills. Sometimes they are grownup sophisticated dramas, dressed and draped in false movements and organisations. Tales told by fear and its allies, masquerading as freedom.

Akin to terrorist tribes cloaked in religious faces, waging wars and spilling blood. Conceiving and birthing violence in the name of peace, dividing in the name of

You believe the lie, dear, when you think that Love commends the nursing of fears and cradling of insecurities by pronouncing yourself judge and executioner. Love is just and perfectly fearsome, the only authority to pass judgement over life.

Here we are possessed by our possessions, enslaved by the fear of their loss. Gripped and incarcerated by the pleasures meant for delight and entranced by the societal marching-band of the age. The integrity of our essence besmirched as we succumb to the drum beat of that chaotic dance. Alas, bowing and curtsying to the audience of defeat, captives.

Scripture speaks of the Spirit of Power, of Love and of self-discipline bestowed upon us: Freedom.

The discipline that emancipates the soul from impulses of the flesh and fleeting emotion, allowing the soul to pursue purposefulness while not encroaching upon the peace of another soul. Freedom.

The transformation into perfect lawlessness is love; where love governs there is no need for law, no wars waged against oneself or one another. The thread of Love, of peace. The innate longing of man for freedom, like a patch of the cloth we are cut from; the fabric of Love.

Bundled up Majesty was once conducted through the womb of woman and unravelled on Calvary. It is the thread that lives still, untainted and weaving together creation to reconcile it to holy form. The sole power man has is given by God, the power of self-control.

When we embark on the journey to mastery of discipline over self,

yielding our steps to direction by the Spirit of Love within us, then we will understand the paradox of freedom; a freedom beyond this world.

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RHYME & REASON

RECIPES

CHEESE MUFFINS THESE MUFFINS ARE QUICK AND EASY, PERFECT FOR RUSHED MORNINGS OR JUST A LAZY BRUNCH. THEY ARE SO VERSATILE THAT YOU CAN MAKE THESE INTO MINI MUFFINS FOR A HIGH TEA OR AS A CANAPÉ FOR THAT FANCY PARTY. USE THIS RECIPE AS A BASIS AND ADD FLAVOURINGS AS YOU WISH.

COST: R17

METHOD 1

MAKES: 12 MEDIUM MUFFINS PREPARATION TIME: 5 MINUTES BAKING TIME: 20-30 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS Spray ‘n Cook 120g (250ml) Cake Flour 4g (5ml) Baking Powder 1g (2ml) Mustard Powder 1g (2ml) Paprika 1g (2ml) Salt 100g (250ml) Cheddar Cheese, grated 250g (250ml) Milk 1 (60g) Egg

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Preheat oven to 180⁰C and spray a muffin pan with Spray ‘n Cook. Sift the flour, baking powder, mustard powder and paprika together. Mix the milk, cheese and egg (and other flavourings) together and add to the dry ingredients. Fold the mixture just till everything is incorporated and there are no dry ingredients visible (±8 folds). Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, leaving space for the batter to rise. Bake till brown, raised and a tooth pick comes out clean. Best eaten fresh with a dollop of sour cream or butter.

CARAMEL SWIRL ICE-CREAM SUMMER IS STILL HERE AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO IMPRESS AND COOL OFF THAN WITH A CREAMY, DECADENT HOME-MADE ICE-CREAM? THIS MAY TAKE A BIT OF TIME BUT IT IS WORTH EVERY MINUTE. ONCE YOU HAVE MASTERED HOMEMADE ICE-CREAM YOU CAN LET YOUR IMAGINATION RUN WILD, CREATE YOUR OWN FLAVOURS AND ASTOUND ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

METHOD 1

COST: R43 MAKES: ±1 L

Thoroughly chill the Ideal milk (place the tin in the freezer for an hour or leave the tin in the fridge overnight). Pour the milk into a large bowl or a bowl of a stand mixer. Beat the milk till thick and double in volume (about 20 minutes – my mixer is old so it may differ). With the beater on a lower speed add the icing sugar to the milk, one spoonful at a time, beating after every addition. The quantity of sugar may differ to taste. Add the vanilla essence and beat further for 10 minutes on a high speed.

FREEZING TIME: 5-6 HOURS (OVERNIGHT)

PREPARATION TIME: 2 HOURS

INGREDIENTS

380g (1can) Ideal Milk/ Evaporated Milk

Remove the caramel from the tin. Mix to smooth out the caramel and to make it slightly runnier.

Before the ice-cream is fully frozen fold in the caramel and pour extra on top and swirl using a skewer.

130g (250ml) Icing Sugar 2g (5ml) Vanilla Essence 180g (1/2 can) Caramel Treat

Place the bowl into the freezer for an hour. Remove from the freezer and beat for 5 minutes on high. Return to the freezer and repeat three times. Remove the bowl from the freezer and pour into an air tight container and return to the freezer.

Return to the freezer to fully freeze.

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RHYME & REASON

FANTASY

LETTERS IN THE SAND BY L A U R E N K I R K - C O H E N I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y J O S H U A P E A R S E

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t’s not your fault.” The knot of guilt in my stomach clenches tighter each time they say that. “I know,” I lie hollowly. I can see in my mum’s eyes that she knows I don’t believe her. I quickly turn and go to my room before she can say anything else. I feel bad enough as it is. Opening the door, I edge the long way around the bed; over the last few days I’ve learned to avoid the red chair in the corner, the one that Isabelle would always sit in for hours while we talked. I throw myself onto my bed, trying not to think. It was my fault she died. I’m cut up about that enough as it is; everyone insisting I’m not to blame just adds another layer to the cage of guilt and grief around my heart. Sometimes I feel like I can’t breathe. I shift my gaze to the altar on top of the small table next to my bed. My family have worshipped and made sacrifices to the goddess Rensu since I can remember, but I have been more skeptical over the last few years. I haven’t gotten anything from the gods, no matter which one I follow, or what I sacrifice to them. All I’ve heard is silence. Sometimes I wonder if the gods my people worship are real at all, or if they just convince themselves they can hear words in the silence. My hands tingle and I clench them into fists, struggling to control my breathing. My parents don’t know that I’ve refused to do magic since I killed my sister – if they did, they’d quickly find a way to force it out of me. I’ve heard all the talks about allowing your magic to develop into something unique to you, never stifling it as a teenager. I remember the coloured lights that I’d let play above my hands, twisting them into beautiful shapes for Isabelle, just to make her smile. I should never have let her practice

her magic without an adult present, she was too young – only twelve, four years younger than me. When everything went wrong, I didn’t know how to save her. Digging my nails into my hands, I cannot escape the self-hatred I’ve felt ever since she died. Her death hovers in my mind, a sinister guardian to my prison of guilt and shame. It seems I have a life sentence; I can never be free after what happened, the guilt will always shadow me. “Miranda, it’s your appointment with Serenity soon,” my mum calls up the stairs. I stifle a groan. I don’t think I can take another hour of my psychologist telling me that I am not to blame for anything. I react without thinking; jumping up, I open my window and slip out onto the lane behind our house, following the route I know so well. It takes about ten minutes to get to the lake. Isabelle and I used to go here nearly every day, but I haven’t come in over two weeks – not since she died. I had thought it would make me feel better, going to the place where we were so close, where we spent so many hours of joy. I was wrong. I stagger to a halt, willing the pain, guilt, shame and hate to go away, wishing fleetingly that I was like one of the many surrounding birds, able to fly freely wherever they want. Everyone is trying so hard to help me, but nothing they say helps. I don’t know what I need to hear, but whatever it is, no one has given it to me. Unable to muster the energy to take another step, I let my knees buckle and flop down on the sandy shore, near the rock Isabelle and I used to sit on which seemed far away from everyone. I curl up on the sand and close my eyes, half wishing that I was the one who was taken, that it was Isabelle here in my place.

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FANTASY

I STAGGER TO A HALT, WILLING THE PAIN, GUILT, SHAME AND HATE TO GO AWAY, WISHING FLEETINGLY THAT I WAS LIKE ONE OF THE MANY SURROUNDING BIRDS, ABLE TO FLY FREELY WHEREVER THEY WANT. Something catches my eye and I glance at what I was sure was a blank expanse of sand just a few seconds earlier. I sit up and see, quite clearly, letters written in the sand, like a child might do. I forgive you. I look at the letters completely nonplussed. It’s strange to be sure, but I guess someone must have come here earlier and wrote it for some reason. About to lapse back into my misery, I blink and see it yet again. I forgive you, written neatly right under the first one. No way did I imagine that. I glance around, as though expecting to see some kind of spirit. “Who are you?” I whisper. As I speak, a breeze lifts my hair from my neck, and with it, my spirits

D I G ITAL IS S UE 1, 2016

seem to lift slightly. When I look back at the sandy bank, there is another word written: Jesus. “Jesus,” I whisper. I’ve never heard of anyone called Jesus, but right now I don’t care. A shaft of light falls on the sand. I forgive you. I sit there for ages, just looking at the words. I try them out in my mouth, saying them softly to myself. “I forgive you…” Something in my chest seems to loosen slightly, and as I take a deep breath, I realise that for the first time since Isabelle died, I feel like one day I may be free of the pain I’m in now. The tight bands that hold me seem to thin just a little bit. Without thinking, I stretch my arms over the writing, my hands glowing slightly. I know when I get home it will be in my looking glass, like all the other images I’ve preserved with magic. I instantly feel guilty again – who am I to use magic when my sister is dead?

Glancing at my watch, I hadn’t been planning on going home at all, not until long after the appointment I was supposed to have with Serenity. But feeling more willing to talk, I make my way to the house, keeping the words in mind: I forgive you. Is this the key to helping me find closure with what happened to Isabelle? Who is this Jesus? Maybe Serenity will have more answers than I have right now, but one thing’s for sure – I feel this strange modicum of peace over me as I get closer to home. To be continued…

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RHYME & REASON

LIGHTER SIDE

THE SKITGUYS LAZARUS

D IGITAL IS S UE 1, 2016

HOW DO YOU SEE THE WORLD AROUND YOU?

WELCOME TO A NEW VIEW

E N C O M PA S S

DIRECTION FOR ALL OF LIFE’S DECISIONS.

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