Mark Conner's Space

Copenhagen Treaty?

There are a fair few emails flying around at the moment about something called the Copenhagen Treaty. With issues such as this it is always hard to tell whether it's being fueled by the conspiracy theorists (who thrive on stuff like this) or whether there are genuine things we need to be concerned about.

Here's a recent blog article in The Australian. Christopher Monckton, a former adviser to Margaret Thatcher, has recently spoken out about it. You can watch his address here or listen to an interview conducted by Alan Jones on Sydney radio station 2GB. Herald Sun journalist Andrew Bolt has recently written about this too, as has Bill Muehlenberg. 

I'd be interested if anyone knows any more about this ...

Charter of Rights

Today's post includes excerpts from a recent letter to Australian church leaders from Jim Wallace, Managing Director of the Australian Christian Lobby. I encourage you to read it, take appropriate action, and ask others to do the same ...

With the National Human Rights Consultation Panel having reported to Government in favour of a Charter of Rights, we have serious concerns that this might become a reality, and that while doing little if anything to improve human rights for the most vulnerable, it would create a serious threat to religious freedom. Paradoxically it would inhibit the Church in maintaining the Christian character and purpose of its own welfare and outreach to the poor and disadvantaged.

As we have seen in the Victorian churches and Christian Schools fight to retain their right to discriminate in favour of Christians in employment during the last year, a Charter will almost certainly be used by activists to attack the church and religious freedom. Cardinal George Pell’s article in the Australian clearly articulates the real and present danger a Federal charter of rights poses to religious freedom.

This situation has come about because Christians at the grass roots level have largely been absent from the debate, and particularly the public consultation process, allowing proponents of the Charter to claim they have a strong groundswell of popular support.  It is now necessary to reverse this by Church congregations becoming active.

We need as many people as possible emailing, writing and visiting their local members and Senators and voicing their concerns about a charter ... A short brief is attached of points to emphasise ... More information is on the Make a Stand web site.

We also need as many people as possible to sign the electronic petition available on the Make a Stand web site. We are currently sitting at about 15,000 signatures but will need over 30,000! We will have the petition tabled in Parliament during the November sitting weeks (November 16-26th), so we need to sign people up quickly.

The Christian constituency is one of the largest and potentially most influential in the country, but only if it shows commitment. This is a critical issue of religious freedom on which commitment is required ...

Thanks for your help.

Jim Wallace AM

Poverty and Justice Bible

The Bible Society has recently released a 'Poverty and Justice Bible' which highlights what God's Word has to say about these two important current issues. Almost every page of the Bible speaks of God's heart for the poor, his concern for the marginalised, his compassion for the oppressed, and his call for justice. There are over 2000 verses that address these important topics, yet so often they are over-looked or neglected.

This new Bible, in the Contemporary English Version (CEV), includes a unique 32-page study guide, written by best-selling authors Nick and Claire Page. Each of 50 in-depth studies is based on Scripture and challenges us to take practical and passionate action in the battle against poverty and injustice.

You can view additional studies online.

A number of Australian politicians were part of the launch of this unique edition of the Bible (click here for more details).

Visit your local bookstore to get your copy today or order it online.

The Economic Downturn's Affect on Churches

Everyone is aware of and affected in some way by the recent economic downturn. Many analysts believe things have 'bottomed out' and we're on the way up, but only time will tell. Churches aren't immune from the stress and strain that emerges in times of pressure such as this. Tough times affect giving.

In a recent report about the state of the church in America, it was revealed that 19% of churches have recently laid off staff, with many other churches freezing salary levels or reducing ministry costs. This is due to a decrease in church giving. Many non-profit entities have also been hit hard.

Australia has been affected less than America by the current global financial situation. However, there are many churches whose income is down and who have had to lay off staff or downsize ministry activities.

At CityLife, we have been blessed by the continued generosity of our people. However, our giving is considerably lower than we anticipated for this year, though still slightly above last year's giving levels. Over the last month we conducted an entire review of all of our ministries. In addition to our lower than budgeted for income, we discovered that we had an imbalance of resource allocation (staff and budget). Some ministries were being significantly over-resourced in proportion to others who had gradually become significantly under-resourced. As a result, we decided to reduce and realign our staffing budget. This means that there are a number of staff roles that have recently been made redundant, as well as some reduction in hours for other staff, while a number of staff members have taken voluntary redundancy packages. These changes are organisational not personal, although obviously they do affect individuals who we love and appreciate very much. This has not been an easy thing to do. There is nothing worse that having to inform a faithful staff member that their job has been made redundant.

For those staff whose positions have been made redundant, we have given what we consider a generous financial package and the offer of human resources support (such as career counselling, resume creation and interviewing training). Most staff are finishing up fairly soon so as to not prolong this process unnecessarily. One of the reasons we have done this now rather than at the end of the year is to give people ample time to transition into new jobs or situations well before the Christmas and January period where it is much more difficult to look for work. 

In addition to this, we are looking at a number of other cost-saving initiatives including closing our bookshop (underway), moving our audio-visual resources online (free weekly audio messages), closing our CONNECT television program (to be replaced by a possible video podcast), and moving towards more web-based communications (we will shortly cease printing of the bi-monthly glossy coloured magazine and replace it with an interactive e-newsletter with hyperlinks to web, as well as a simple black and white bulletin each month for those without internet access).

This has been a period of uncertainty for all of us as a staff team. Pruning is an unpleasant but necessary activity at certain seasons in all of our lives. I would like to commend all of our staff for their excellent attitude during this time. It is very important that churches and ministries pull together during times like these and move forward with a strong sense of unity. This requires continued prayer and support so that transitions such as these are carefully navigated. We trust that God will work everything out for each person's ultimate good.

Everyday Justice, Everyday Choices

Our church community has recently launched a new initiative called Everyday Justice, Everyday Choices.It's purpose is to encourage people to participate in social action through everyday living. By providing information and resources to the CityLife congregation about ethical and fair trade practices, people will be empowered to make informed and ethical decisions; thus advocating for justice through their everyday choices.

For further details, including a brief video profile, click here.

An information evening will be held on Tuesday, July 21st at 7.30 pm at CityLife Church - Knox in the Visitor's Lounge. Everyone is welcome. Please RSVP to EverydayJustice@CityLifeChurch.com to ensure we have enough space and fair trade coffee for all.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy. [Proverbs 31:8-9. NLT]-

Christians and Homosexuality

In his book ground-breaking research book unChristian, David Kinneman reports that the number one description of Christians by the younger generation today (of those outside the church) is "anti-homosexual," followed not too far by "judgmental" and "hyprocritical." Out of twenty attributes that were assessed, both positive and negative, as they related to  Christianity, the perception of being anti-homosexual was at the top of the list. More than nine out of ten (91%) of outsiders said "anti-homosexual" accurately describes present-day Christians. [This research was done in the USA]

Anti-homosexual, gay-hater, homophobic - is this what Jesus called us to be?

To quote Kinneman (p.96) .... "It is one thing to be against homosexuality, to affirm that the Bible rejects the practice of same-sex lifestyles, but it is another to be against homosexuals, to let your disagreement with their behaviour spill out in your feelings and words towards them as people. It is unChristian to lose your sense that everyone's fallen nature affects all aspects of his or her life, including sexuality, and to forget God's commands to love people in order to point them to Jesus."

He continues ... "It is unChristian to focus our animosity on another human being regardless of what they do or what they look life. Billy Graham, one of the most respected Christian leaders in American history, made this observation about homosexuality during a press conference: 'I'm going to quote the Bible now, not myself, that it (homosexuality) is wrong, it's a sin. But there are other sins. Why do we jump on that sin as though it's the greatest sin? The greatest sin in the Bible is idolatry, worshiping other things besides the true and living God. Jealousy is a sin. Pride is a sin. All of these things are sins. Homosexuality is also a sin and needs to be dealt with and needs to be forgiven, and that's why Christ came and died on the cross.'"

Here is a letter from a young man named Levi that I read in my interview with Deb Hirsch on the weekend (from unChristian, p.117-18).

Interview with Deb Hirsch

Our interview over the weekend with Deb Hirsch on the topic of sexualiuty, and especially homosexuality, went very well. A free podcast of the interview will be available soon on the CityLife Church web site.

For those wanting to contact Deb directly she has kindly offered access to her via email. Her email address is: debhirsch@gmail.com

Thanks again Deb for sharing so openly and honestly with us. I pray that our discussion would be a help to many people ... as we seek to be more and more like Jesus who was "full of grace and truth (John 1:14)." 

P.S. A free copy of the interview is now available on the CityLife Church podcast or via iTunes.

Resources about Homosexuality

Here are a variety of resources that deal with the topic of homosexuality from a Christian perspective:

Sexual Ethics by Stanley Grenz. This book is a good overview of the subject of sexuality and includes an excellent chapter on homosexuality.

Issues Facing Christians Today (4th Edition) by John Stott. This excellent book addresses a variety of global, social and personal issues, including matters relating to sexuality. 

 Moral Choices: An Introduction to Ethics (3rd Edition) by Scott B. Rae. This introduction to Christian ethics also looks at a variety of current issues, including sexual ethics.  

Welcoming but Not Affirming: An Evangelical Response to Homosexuality by Stanley Grenz.

Beyond Stereotypes: Christians and Homosexuality (not yet published) - a compilation by an Australian Evangelical Alliance working group on human sexuality. 

Someone I Love Is Gay by Bob Davies and Anita Worthen. This is a good practical book for parents, friends, or spouses.

God's Grace for the Homosexual Next Door- Reaching the Heart of the Gay Men and Women in our World by Alan Chambers and the Exodus International Leadership Team. This books contains a compilation of chapters by a variety of authors addressing some of the key issues relating to homosexuality from a Christian perspective. At the end of the book, it has an extended list of resources for men, women, parents and pastors. 

Exodus International is one of the largest information and referral ministries in the world addressing homosexual issues. You might want to visit their informative web site. 

The Truth Comes Out by Nancy Heche. I have not read this book but it is recommended by Gene Appel, from Willow Creek Community Church, for parents who have children who are gay. Willow has a support group for parents in this situation called Someone I Love.

Sy Rogers has some very good teaching on the subject of sexuality.

Also, check out the Liberty Christian Ministries web site.

Discussing homosexuality ...

This weekend I will be interviewing Deb Hirsch at our church. Deb and her husband Alan Hirsch led a Christian community in St. Kilda for over fifteen years, reaching out to street people, the poor, and the gay community, of which Deb was a part of before coming to Christ at the age of twenty-one. They now live in the USA where God has opened many doors of influence for them. Deb is currently writing a book on the subject of sexuality, with a specific focus on homosexuality.

I’m sure our conversation will be informative, challenging, and helpful. It won’t answer every question nor will it be the last word on every aspect of sexuality. Not everyone will agree with everything that is said. Some people may even feel a bit uncomfortable even talking about this. However, our desire is to bring some of these important issues about sexuality out into the open ... and hopefully there will be more conversations and discussions that continue as a result.

When it comes to homosexuality, there has been a range of responses from the Christian church. Some people are highly judgmental, placing homosexual behaviour way up there near the top of the imaginary totem pole of 'sins'. Others go in the other direction and affirm homosexual behaviour as 'okay', resulting in the ordination of gay ministers and the establishment of gay churches. Then there are lots of people somewhere between these two extremes.

The topic of homosexuality raises lots of difficult but important questions:

1. What does the Bible say about homosexuality?

2. Where does same-sex attraction come from? Is it genetic or environmentally caused? Are people born gay or do they become gay?

3. Can a person's sexual orientation change and if so, how?

4. If a follower of Christ has feelings of same-sex attraction, what can or should they do about it?

5. How should a parent or family member respond if a son/daughter or family member says, "I'm gay."

6. How should the church community respond and relate to those with same-sex attraction?

7. How should the church community respond and relate to the overall gay community in society, especially the more militant gays pushing for more gay rights, gay marriage, and the adoption of children?

8. What is the future for the church and the matter of sexuality? What attitudes/practices need to change? What does God desire?

We'll be exploring these types of questions in our interview.

Tomorrow: a list of resources related to the topic of homosexuality.

Global Issues

This last weekend we began our annual World Impact week where we take time as a church community to focus on our calling and mission to impact nations.

Have you taken time recently to think about how things are going in our global village?

If we could shrink the earth’s population to a village of exactly 100 people it would look like this:

1 of the villagers would have a college/university education 

1 of the villagers would own a computer

70 villagers would be unable to read

20 of the villagers would earn more than 12,000 AUD a year

80 villagers would live in sub-standard housing

9 of the villagers would possess 50 percent of the wealth

50 of the villagers would suffer from malnutrition

60 villagers would live where torture and ill-treatment by the authorities is common

Only 30 of the villagers would be Christian

28 of the villagers would not have a Christian friend

[Source: Modified from Go Fourth Quarter 2000, Published by Interserve Australia]

As you can clearly see, most of are part of the privileged few and the wealthy minority in our global village. Most of us have a computer, many of us have post-secondary school education, and most of us would earn more than $12,000 AUD a year.  Very few of us have been victims of institutional, legitimised governmental violence. Almost all of us have had the chance to hear the Christian message and respond to it.

The challenge to reach the unreached, the poor, and the persecuted can be overwhelming. However, we must not be lulled into sleep or paralysis. Jesus has given us the power of his Spirit to make a difference in our world. As we demonstrate the values of the kingdom, proclaim the message of the kingdom, and trust in God's power, we will see God's work continue to be an unstoppable force of love, mercy and justice in our generation.

For an excellent web site with up-to-date information on a variety of global issues, click here.

Using the Bible to Justify War

Here is a scary article about the use of Biblical texts to justify a recent war. It clearly illustrates the thinking of extreme right-wing fundamentalism at its worst. It sure doesn't represent the heart of Christ or the message of God's kingdom.

Click here to read.

Australian Federal Charter of Rights

The Commonwealth Government is examining the proposed introduction of a Federal “Charter Of Human Rights” and has appointed Fr. Frank Brennan as Chairperson along with Mary Kostakidis, Mick Palmer and Tammy Williams. They have been tasked with asking the following questions and reporting to the Government.

• Which human rights and responsibilities should be protected and promoted?
• Are human rights sufficiently protected and promoted?
• How could Australia better protect and promote human rights?

Many Christians are concerned that such a Charter could limit Christian freedom. As a service to the Christian community, a special event has been organised for those who live in Melbourne by The Australian Christian Lobby, The Melbourne Archdiocese of the Catholic Church and the Church & Nation Committee, Presbyterian Church of Victoria. This event will include a panel based Q &A session with questions submitted in writing on the night.

Date: Wednesday 27th May 2009
Venue: The Chapel, Crossway Baptist Church, Vision Drive, Burwood East
Time: 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm
Enquires: (03) 9018 1782

For full details click here.

Todd Bentley Update

Last August, the sad news emerged that Todd Bentley, leader of the Lakeland revival meetings in the USA, had separated from his wife, after an inappropriate emotional relationship with one of his female staff members. Since that time, Todd has divorced his wife.

The shocking news now is that Todd has remarried (to the woman he had an extra-marital affair with), and various ministers, including Rick Joyner, are seeking to restore him to ministry. This is causing heated debate. Click here to read a recent Christianity Today article and here for a blog post with quite a lot of detail.

No doubt, there needs to be forgiveness for those who make mistakes but the pace of this so-'called 'restoration process' concerns me greatly. It does nothing to help the overall integrity of the ministry around the world.

Apart from this recent news, Todd's ministry before all of this occurred raised many concerns - his arrogant style, kicking people, erroneous doctrine, and the extreme subjective basis to much of the teaching (visions of heaven, talks with angels, etc). It seems like those Todd was apparently 'accountable' to have done nothing to address this, possibly because of being overly enamored with the apparent 'success' of the ministry at the time.

When will we start to elevate character above charisma?

When will we re-think our understanding of ministry of 'success'? After all, Jesus never said, "I will build my crowd."

Is God a Prosperity Preacher?

Have you heard of the 'prosperity gospel'? At its core, it simply says, "Serve God and get rich."  Is this really the gospel Jesus preached? The topic draws a lot debate (click here for an example from a Time magazine article a few years back entitled "Does God Want You to be Rich?").

Another version of the prosperity gospel says, "Because we are God's children (the King's kids, as some like to put it), we should always go first-class. We should have the biggest and the best, because this alone brings glory to God." This is an interesting belief system, especially given the nature of the Incarnation and the Crucifixion.

How easy it is to read our 21st century Western suburbanised culture back into texts such as:

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." [3 John 2. NKJV]

"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." [John 10:10. NKJV]

What does it mean to 'prosper' and what is 'the abundant life' Jesus came to give us? These are good questions and the answers need to work in every time and every culture from the slums of Bangkok to the high-rise apartments of New York.

Now I'm not here to say that poverty is better or more 'spiritual' than prosperity. There is nothing pretty or desirable about poverty. That's why so many people are working around the globe today to make poverty history. 

If we define 'prosperity' as 'having your own needs met (not 'greeds') and enough extra to give away', then I believe that it is God's will for everyone on the planet. We should all work towards that. However, there are much more important things that money and possessions. The kingdom of God has a different value system. It is made up of love, peace, and joy ... and these things are found in the Holy Spirit, not in material possesions. In fact, Paul tells us that the love of money is at the root of all evil (not money itself, but the love of it). The issue isn't whether we have stuff but whether our stuff has a hold on us. As Rick Warren says, "I don't think it is a sin to be rich. I think it is a sin to die rich."

One of the main problems I have with much of the prosperity teaching going around in some circles today is this 'give to get' mentality. This is so opposite to the very nature of God. He loves and he gives unconditionally - with no strings attached. If we choose to give to God or to the poor in order to gain our own personal prosperity, isn't something wrong with our motives?

I believe that we should live generous lives, giving to the work of God and to those in need - simply because we love God and we love people, full stop. We should NOT give in order to get back for ourselves. Yes, there is often a by-product of personal blessing that comes with generosity but that should not be our motive or our goal.

P.S. For some good balanced biblical and theological reading on this topic, I heartily recommend:

Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger by Ronald Sider (not for the faint of heart).

Neither Poverty Nor Riches by Craig Blomberg (the best book presenting a thorough biblical theology about money and material possessions).

David Wilkerson Prophesies Judgment

David Wilkerson has recently proclaimed that he believes that riots and fires will soon break out in New York and world-wide, all a result of God's wrath on America and the nations. Click here to read his blog post.

Many of you may remember David from his amazing story as told in The Cross and the Switchblade. In 1973, he published a book called The Vision predicting calamity for America.  David also founded Times Square Church in New York.

I have never met David personally but he seems to have a real heart for God and people. However, he has definitely positioned himself as more of a 'hellfire and brimstone' preacher.

A number of people have responded, including John Piper, BeliefNet, and all sorts of bloggers.

What do you think?

Dealing with Grief

Anytime we lose something or someone special to us we experience grief. Grief is our natural emotional response to loss of any kind. Many people are facing this right now through the tragedy of the bush fires here in Victoria - the loss of friends, family members, and loved ones, as well as the loss of homes and possessions.

There are many stages of grief that most people go through. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, in her 1969 book "On Death and Dying", describes five discrete stages that most people go through when dealing with grief or tragedy. They are known as the five stages of grief. 

1. Denial - "I feel fine ... This can't be happening to me!"
2. Anger - "Why me? It's not fair ... How can this happen!"
3. Bargaining - trying to change what has happened in some way.
4. Depression - "I feel so sad, why bother ... I feel like I'm going to die ... What's the point?"
5. Acceptance - "It's going to be okay ... I'm going to make it ..."

These stages apply to the death of a loved one, but also to other losses such as a loss of employment, income, home, or a relationship (such as a marriage ending in divorce). These stages don't necessarily come in order nor are all stages experienced by everyone.

Thankfully, we serve a God who is familiar with grief (Isaiah 53:3), who identifies with us in our pain, and who offers us comfort and strength to make it through (see 1 Corinthians 1:1-7). In addition, the comfort of family and friends is also essential. Let people talk, let them grieve, and help in practical ways.

P.S. Click here for a few of my own thoughts as I had to deal with the grief of losing my mother a number of years back.

"Blessed are those who mourn for they will be comforted" [Jesus - Matthew 5:4]

"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us." [The Apostle Paul - 2 Corinthians 1:1-7. NLT]

Helping Children Process Tragedy

As we continue to sort through all of the various emotions and heartache of the bush fires here in Victoria, lots of questions are raised and all sorts of discussions result. The age-old question of "Why?" emerges once again, a question that people have grappled with for centuries on end. Even as adults, we often find it difficult to understand what has happened and why. Where is God in all of this?

These questions can be especially difficult for children.

Here are a few resources for helping children during this time, referred to me by the Chaplain of Waverley Christian College, Peter Nash. Firstly, there are some thoughts from Michael Grose, a leading child educator in Australia. Secondly, is a document with an extensive list of a variety of resources available.

You also might be interested in a few comments I made just after the Asian tsunami.

Ask God to give you wisdom as you talk with children and young people at this time, as well as to all of those grappling with these current issues.

Are the Bush Fires the Judgment of God (Pt.2)?

First of all, thank you to everyone – for the dialogue, debate, encouragement, and critique. I think it is healthy. 

I also would like to make a few additional comments: 

1. Emotion. I am concerned about a ‘culture of niceness’ that some people seem to think should characterise all Christians. Yes, we are to treat one another with respect and love, but issues and truth need to be contended for. The ’emotion’ many of us feel is about the seriousness of the implications of what has been said and done in this situation. Emotion is not wrong. In fact, God has emotion and is very passionate about lots of things. Jesus himself became very angry when he saw the temple area being used for purposes other than for worship for God. Let’s not shy away from confronting the issues and debating about them. That is healthy and in the process we all can learn and grow.

2. Judgment. I too believe in the judgment(s). All individuals reap consequences for their actions, as do nations. There may be delay, but ultimately everyone reaps what they sow, apart from the mercy of God. The key issue in this situation is the direct link that has been made between abortion laws recently passed in our State and the bush fire tragedies. As Christians, we would like to see no, or at least fewer, abortions in our State. Many of us worked and prayed hard for this to become a reality, but it wasn’t to be – at this time. IF God chose to judge people for this, you think he’d track down the politicians who made those decisions (I think he knows where they live), not punish a whole different group of people through bushfires. The connection is inappropriate ... and it does not serve the cause of Christ in any way whatsoever. Try heading up to one of the destroyed communities right now and say to the local people, "Sorry about this but God is simply judging you for some wrong decisions that others have made." See if God works through that!? ... Yes, the entire world is currently under condemnation because of disobedience to God BUT Jesus did not come to condemn the world but rather to bring salvation (see John 3:16-17). Let’s not forget that “God so loved the world ...”! 

3. Prophets. As a number of people have pointed out, we no longer live in the theocratic nation of Old Testament Israel, where prophets challenge kings about keeping God’s covenant. We are in a new dispensation and this requires new paradigms and behaviour. We are very much in a missional and sometimes even antagonist environment much like the first century church. Our words and actions need to reflect this. Also, if you actually believe that God stills speaks today through prophecy (which I do), you will notice that all prophecy since the time of Christ exists primarily for the strengthening, encouragement, and comfort of other people (1 Corinthians 14:1-3) AND all prophecy needs to be tested and discerned as to whether it aligns with the infallible Scriptures (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22). That which is wrong or harmful is to be rejected and exposed as false.

4. Danny Nalliah. Danny has chosen to make statements in the public arena at a national level, presuming to speak for God and on behalf of the Christian church. [As far I am aware, he has no accountability and does not seek guidance or feedback from any other senior Christian leaders in the nation before taking such bold and unwise steps - something which he has a pattern of doing. But we won’t start talking about one of his other prophecies - that John Howard was going to win the last election] ... I, along with many other pastors and Christians leaders are appalled by his actions and comments. I have written to him directly, as have others, expressing concern. I have received no response to this date. I have also posted a comment on his blog but it was deleted (as are most other comments from people who are seen as expressing any form criticism). When you make statements in the public arena, you need to expect to be critiqued in the public arena. My desire is not to attack Danny personally but to address his view point, which, in my opinion, demonstrates poor theology, as well as a lack of wisdom and compassion. Unfortunately, it is hard to separate a person's actions/words from who they are ... By the way, when the apostle Peter was inappropriate in his relationships with Gentiles, Paul boldly confronted and rebuked him personally - then even wrote about it in a letter to the churches in Galatia ... If I felt that I had a message to deliver to the nation via the national media, I would not do so without first receiving some confirmation and feedback from some wiser and more experienced Christian leaders. I only wish Danny had done something such as that. Also, if I did do or say something unwise, then I hope that other leaders would challenge me about it. That’s how God’s kingdom works. Jesus told his followers to discern ministries and their fruit.

[Someone just brought to my attention that Danny Nalliah has defended his recent actions and comments via a recent post on his blog. Click here to read it]

Finally, and most importantly, let’s continue to focus our efforts as followers of Christ on reaching out to the needs of those affected by these tragic bush fires. We are to be His hands and feet, and especially at times such as these. Jesus said that the world would know that we are his followers by our love – by how we treat other people. This tragedy may be a significant opportunity in disguise - for the church to arise and make a more positive difference in our world. Let’s pray and believe that as we do so, many will turn to God and come to know his saving grace and love.

P.S. For those interested, click here to read an article on this topic from Christian Today, here for an article by Nils Von Kalm, here for an article by Barney Zwartz (religious editor for The Age newspaper), here for a statement from Brian Houston, here for a Uniting Church statement, and here for an article by the Rev. Tim Anderson in the Herald Sun. 

Responding to the Bush Fire Tragedy

Tragedies such as the current bush fires, often bring out the best and worst of humanity. To hear of people looting, vandalising, setting up fraudulent fund-raising schemes, and even committing arson, is so shocking and sad. In contrast, to see how most people rise to the challenge to support and help each other with genuine love, service, and goodwill is a tribute to humanity. After all, we were all made in the image of God our Creator, even if that image has been marred. 

Let's continue to do all we can to help those affected by the fires. I have spoken to a number of people this week who have lost their homes, as well as friends and loved ones in the fires. This is such a difficult time for them but as we come alongside them with encouragement and support, I believe that they can make it through. 

Let's keep praying, offering practical help where possible, and giving financially. Our church has already made a $10,000 donation to the bush fire appeal and we will take up special offerings in all of our church gatherings this coming weekend, as well as encourage people to continue to give via the various bush fire appeals taking place. 

Our community ministry is also providing accommodation, clothes, and food for bush fire victims. 

Finally, be sure to take some time to write or contact our fire-fighters, emergency service workers, as well as many of the other individuals and organisations involved in this crisis. We took a minute or so in one of our church gatherings last weekend to record a brief video message to the firefighters. 

Thanks everyone!

P.S. For information on how you can volunteer your services, click here or call the Information Victoria Bushfire Volunteer Hotline on 1300 366 356.

Are the Bush Fires the Judgment of God? (Pt.1)

Have you noticed that any time there is a tragedy or disaster in our world, some self-appointed prophet(s) starts to speak out and talk about the judgment of God? Someone suddenly remembers a vision or a dream they had. They start to cast stones and place all sorts of guilt on people.

[Danny Nahlia from 'Catch the Fire' Ministries is a classic example of this. Click here to read his public statement and here for a recent Sydney Morning Herald article where he is quoted. At times like this, Danny is an embarassment to the Christian church, as he does not speak on behalf of the majority of Christians and churches, let alone God]

I think we need to be very cautious in how we approach this. Who are we to say that these bush fires are the judgment of God? What about that person who died in a car accident last week, that person who died of sickness yesterday, or that couple who haven’t been able to have children? Are they too under the judgment of God because something bad has happened to them? Is any negative experience of human suffering an indication of the judgment of God? I think we are unwise to make such arrogant statements, as if we have God’s full perspective on life’s uncertainties. 

In Jesus’ time, there were a number of tragedies that took place (see Luke 13:1-5). Pilate killed a some Galileans and mixed their blood with sacrifices (“human evil”) and then a tower (the Tower of Siloam) collapsed and killed eighteen people (“natural evil”). Jesus addressed these two current issues but he didn’t explain ‘why’ they had happened. What he did say, however, was insightful. He said, "Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them-do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish." 

Jesus makes it clear that when something bad happens it doesn’t mean that the person(s) affected by suffering are necessarily sinful or evil. Good and evil does not fall on people in some sort of vindictive manner. Jesus doesn’t say that these people are ‘under the judgment of God’ either. If he didn’t, why are we so quick to? 

Bush Fires

Our State of Victoria is caught up in the worst round of bush fires in our history. Over 200 people have died as a result of the fires and over 1850 homes have been destroyed. 

This is a tragic situation and it is so sad to think that a number of the fires may have been the work of arsonists. 

Scorching heat has not helped. Melbourne had a record high of 46.4 degrees Celsius - that's over 115 degrees Fahrenheit. 

What can we do?

1. Pray for those who have lost loved ones because of the fires. This is an incredible time of grief, sorrow, and even anger, for many people. It will not be easy for them to rebuild their lives after such horrendous loss. Pray for God's grace and comfort. Pray for the fire-fighters and emergency services as they continue to try to get multiple bush fires under control around the state. Pray for more rain and for favorable weather conditions.   

2. Where possible, offer emotional support and practical help to any families or neighbours directly affected by the fires.  

3. Consider making a financial donation. The federal government has set up a $10 million dollar bush fire relief fund but more will be needed. Donations to the Victorian Bushfire Relief Fund can be made at any NAB branch or via internet banking.  BSB: 082-001.  Account number: 860 046 797. Victoria Police have urged those wishing to donate not to tie up 000 and other emergency hot-lines and instead to call the Red Cross Information Line on 1800 727 077.  You can also donate online at www.redcross.org.au, by phoning 1800 811 700, or at any Bunnings store. 

4. Send a note of encouragement to the fire fighters by clicking here. 

5. Donate blood. Extra blood is especially important for burns victims who are receiving treatment in hospital. Appointments can be made by calling the Red Cross on 13 14 95.

For the latest online news updates, check out the Herald Sun and The Age. 

Concerned about loved ones? Call 1800 727 077. The bushfire hot-line number is: 1800 240 667.

Abolitionist Sunday

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is held on December 2nd each year. Many churches around the country recognise this important day by holding an Abolitionist Sunday on November 23rd. Although the fight to end slavery is a year round activity, Abolitionist Sunday provides an annual focus for churches to unite in action against this injustice.

Tim Costello from World Vision says, "Whilst legal slavery has been abolished, tragically there are far more slaves in the world today than when William Wilberforce was campaigning for the abolition of slavery in the first part of the 19th century. Today churches are challenged to work for the abolition of this modern evil."

At CityLife, we will be taking time before each weekend church meeting to pray for this issue. Of course, there is much more we can do than just pray, as powerful as that is. Click here to visit the World Vision Don't Trade Lives web site and find out more about some practical ways you can help.

Thank you for your passion and support in taking action on this important issue. Together, let's continue to fight to end global injustice.

Billy Graham turns 90

Last week, on November 7th, Billy Graham turned 90 years of age. He is one of the most well-known Christians in the world today and through his evangelistic ministry he has preached to over 215 million people. Through many decades of ministry he has remained humble and he has lived with utmost integrity, a shining example to all.

Click here to read a recent article in the USA Today newspaper about Billy Graham.

Click here if you would like to post a belated personal birthday greeting to Billy. Tens of thousands of people have already done so.

His autobiography Just As I Am is one of the most inspiring stories I have read. It is a long read but well worth it. His life reveals so many excellent principles for us to emulate as we seek to live lives worth following.

Happy birthday Billy and thanks for serving God so faithfully!

God's Heart for the Poor and the Needy

This last weekend I shared a message with our church on "God's Heart for the Poor and needy" (click here for a summary).

The prophet Isaiah challenged the people of his time that God was more interested in their works of love for the poor and needy than he was in their worship (see Isaiah 58). This is a message strongly echoed by other prophets (see Amos 5:21-24). Jesus reinforced this strongly in the parable of the sheep and the goats where he paints a picture of the nations being divided not by doctrine, personal ethics, or religious activities but by how they had treated the poor and needy (Matthew 25:31-46).

Poverty is not a 'left-wing' political issue; it is a Christian issue.

Just under half of the world's population (2.8 billion) lives on US $2 a day or less. It is hard to imagine that kind of poverty (click here for a description of what that would be like). Recently, Australia was ranked as the most prosperous nation in the world. We are the affluent minority.

How should we then live?

The Abortion Bill - Update

Very sadly, Victoria's Upper House voted last Friday to pass the Abortion Law Reform Bill 2008 by 23 votes to 17. This means that the move to decriminalise abortion in our State has essentially been passed. Attention now turns to the 70 amendments which are to be debated in the Upper House, which could, if passed, could lessen some of the damage inherent in the bill.

Thank you to all those who made an effort to let your voice be heard and to pray about this important issue. So many people and groups have worked hard to make a stand on behalf of the unborn. I do not think that this result is an indication of a lack of prayer or of effort on behalf of pro-life people. The bottom line is that that majority of current MPs do not see the value of preserving the lives of the unborn. This is very sad.

Let's continue to do all we can. Please continue to pray and I also encourage you to contact your local member of Parliament. Commend them if they voted against this bill. Respectfully express your concern if they voted for it. You can find all of the email details of the Victorian MPs here.

You can also let your voice be heard through an online petition expressing your opposition to the abortion law reform. If you are Victorian, you can sign the petition here. There is also an international petition open to everyone. Click here to sign it. [November 1st, 2008]

The Abortion Issue (Continued)

Next week the Legislative Council (Upper House) in the Victorian Parliament will be considering the Abortion Law Reform Bill. This bill, if passed, will legalise abortion here in our state - that's abortion for any reason up to 24 weeks, and legal with 2 doctor's approval up to 9 months. Debate begins on Tuesday, October 7th.

This Abortion Law Reform Bill passed the Victorian Legislative Assembly (lower house) on September 11th, 49 votes to 32, with six MPs abstaining. [See blog poston September 10th for further details]

There are a number of things we can do about this:

1. Write to your representative of the Legislative Council and express your concerns.

2. Pray fervently that this bill will not be passed.

There is a one hour prayer rally this coming Sunday, October 5th, from 1.45 - 2.45 pm on the steps of Parliament on Spring Street, Melbourne. For full details, click here. [Don't forget that daylight savings time starts this Sunday, so remember to put your clocks forward one hour!]

Catholic Archbishop Denis Hart has declared Sunday, October 5th a day of prayer for this bill. To read his pastoral letter concerning this issue and its ramifications, click here, along with contact details for each of the representatives of the Legislative Council.

Check out the Australian Christian's Lobby's Make a Stand web site for further details.

Together we can make a difference for the rights of the unborn.

Very sadly, Victoria's Upper House voted today to pass the Abortion Law Reform Bill 2008 by 23 votes to 17. This means that the move to decriminalise abortion in our State has essentially been passed. Attention now turns to the 70 amendments which are to be debated in the Upper House, which could, if passed, could lessen some of the damage inherent in the bill.

Thank you to all those who made an effort to let your voice be heard and to pray about this important issue. So many people and groups have worked hard to make a stand on behalf of the unborn. Let's continue to do all we can. [October 10th, 2008]

A Voice into the Political Arena

The Australian Christian Lobby is without doubt the most effective Christian group speaking into the political arena in Australia today. Jim Wallace, the managing director, is a person of vast experience, credibility, and integrity.

I urge you to make yourself aware of political issues and to do what you can to be an influence into this important sphere of public life. The ACL exists to serve you. I encourage you to support them in any way you can - through prayer, as well as financial donations. Why not subscribe to their weekly newsletter now.

When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan. [Proverbs 29:2. NLT]

Developing Personal Integrity

Integrity is one of the most important character qualities to develop in your personal life. For leaders, it is vital, as it is part of the foundation of all credibility and influence. Integrity means that there is an integration between who we really are (when no one is looking) and who we appear to be to others. Other similar concepts to integrity are ... honesty, truthfulness, and authenticity.

How do you develop personal integrity? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Value integrity. Unless you place a high value on this quality you will be unlikely to pay the price to develop it and preserve it over the long haul.

2. Establish personal boundaries between what is right and wrong, acceptable and unacceptable, and then stay as far away from the edge as possible. Don't see how close you can get to the edge. That's like a deep sea diver seeing how long they can last on a tank of oxygen.

3. Sweat the small things. Jesus said that faithfulness in small matters is the foundation of faithfulness in large matters. In the same way, dishonesty in small matters often leads the way to dishonesty in large matters. Tell the truth, don't exaggerate, pay for personal expenses at the office, don't cheat on your taxes, etc, etc.

4. Adopt an early warning system. Significant loss of integrity is never a fall, it is more often a gradual slide. Take decisive action early ... before it's too late.

5. Repent quickly. Admit it when you are wrong, ask forgiveness, stop doing the wrong thing.

6. Ask others to help you. I have a number of people outside of my world who I meet with regularly who are able to ask me any question they want about anything in my life. Accountability is important.
7. Ask God to help you. The human heart is prone to self-deception (see Jeremiah 17:9). Ask God to search you and show you any crooked way in your life (see King David's prayer in Psalm 139:23-24).

Integrity - it's well worth the effort!

The Abortion Issue

 Abortion has been a controversial issue within our society for many decades now. There are strong opinions and emotions on both sides of the debate. Personally, I believe that life begins at conception and that efforts should be made to stop abortions or at least significantly reduce them. In Australia, over 100,000 babies are aborted each year.

Personally, I'm not for picketing or for petitions but I do think we should do our part to influence the law-makers about issues such as this. We also need to move beyond mere protest by getting on the solution-side. We need to provide alternatives. I, along with many others, have been involved in communication with key politicians about how we can reduce the number of abortions in Australia. Suggestions have included things such as: (1) making the adoption process easier for those desiring children, (2) requiring counseling for all women seeking an abortion, and at least (3) stopping late-term abortions. These three things alone would make a huge impact and would be a step in the right direction.

I also believe that we need to be compassionate towards women who have had abortions, helping them find a place of forgiveness, healing, and hope, as appropriate.

Debate on the issue of abortion is taking place this week in the Victorian Parliament. Please pray that the proposed legislation will be defeated and if you haven’t yet done so, please consider joining the Australian Christian Lobby's Alive and Kicking campaign by clicking here and sending an email to your local member of Parliament. Your ongoing support on this issue makes a big difference.

Here are a few other relevant links on the abortion issue:

• Recent comments by Peter Costello in The Australian.
• Gianna Jessen has an amazing story. She was meant to be burned alive by a saline abortion but the abortion failed and she now presents a dynamic message of God’s grace and the value of human life. Click here and here to see her on You Tube.
• Bill Muehlenberg has some insightful articles on the issue of abortion here and here (also see related posts on his web).

"I always wondered why somebody doesen't do something about that. Then I realised I was somebody." Lily Tomlin

The abortion bill that would decriminalise abortion here in our state of Victoria just passed through the Lower House. It now must go to the Upper House for debate and votes. So please keep acting and praying about this important issue.

Latest News on Mike Guglielmucci

Click here to view the Today Tonight show on Mike Guglielmucci.

Also, a few other newspaper articles from today ... 

• News.com.au article
• Nine MSN article 

Recent comments from Brian Houston, Senior Pastor of Hillsong Church ...

• Brian's video blogand blog post about the Mike Guglielmucci situation.

Needed: Grace and Truth

More details about the Mike Guglielmucci story continue to unfold. This tragic event may end up being just a minor blip on the radar as far as the media goes but the effects within the church world may continue to build momentum for quite a while yet. After all, he's one us - a follower of Christ.

Having read the myriad of comments on my and other blogs, it is clear that there is a diversity of thoughts and feelings on this issue. I think the challenge for us all at this time is to seek to find a balance of Grace AND Truth, two things that Jesus was filled with (John 1:14).

The danger is when we go to either extreme - Truth only without Grace OR Grace only without reference to Truth. Jesus modeled these two important aspects in perfect balance. His response to the woman caught in adultery was radical Grace - 'neither do I condemn you' - AND radical Truth - 'go and leave your life of sin'. 

Mike needs both Grace and Truth now. Grace comes in response to a repentant heart. Truth means that there will still be consequences for his actions and reconciliation to be worked towards, especially for those he has hurt through his actions. Mike, and the leaders he is accountable to, will need to work these things through appropriately. Because Mike was a leader given a platform of influence, the consequences are much greater. With great power comes great responsibility.