This afternoon the Anglican Church of Noosa (Rector, The Rev’d Mark Calder) had the great delight of hosting the annual Commissioning Service of SU Chaplains and RE Teachers. It was a great opportunity for the churches of Noosa to come together in support and prayer for these vital ministries. Pastor Mark Nitschke (Good Shepherd, Lutheran) led us in the commissioning, whilst we also had the opportunity to hear of the joys and challenges of RE Teaching and Chaplaincy by the Rev’d Simon Keith (Children’s Ministry Leader, Anglican Church of Noosa), Warren Evans (Secretary, Local Chaplaincy Committee, SU), and Shane Briggs (Chaplain, Noosaville District High School). Pastor Paul Holden (Noosa Baptist) led us in prayer and the Rev’d Simon Keith preached from Philippians 2:1-11 (you can listen to the sermon here). Please continue to pray for the RE Teachers and Chaplains in our region and consider supporting them financially.
The Rev Mark Calder had opportunity to lead in prayer, read the Bible and share a short reflection at the Dawn and mid-morning services at Tewantin on Anzac Day. Below is the Bible reading he used from Matthew 5 and the text of his reflection.
1 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Here ends the reading.
I have a question for you: have we learnt anything in 97 years since the first landing…?
I don’t mean about war strategy… I certainly hope we have since the disaster of that terrible day.
I mean more broadly – has the world at large learnt anything?
Have we learnt for example that no one wins wars?
Have we learnt not to sacrifice our youngest men and women in war?
Have we learnt that war rarely achieves its aims?
Have we learnt to stop killing one another as human beings?
Let me ask then, what will change the world in which we live?
Pursuing all the attitudes Jesus described in Matthew 5.
- Being poor in spirit – humility
- Mourning for what we lack, rather than arrogance in what we’ve gained
- Meekness – strength under control
- A hunger and thirst for everything that is right
- Showing mercy
- Seeking purity
- Pursuing peace
- And radically – blessing those who are persecuting us.
It is those traits which will not only bring change in the world at large – but will bring change in YOUR world… your corner too!
Those traits which can only be pursued in relationship with Jesus who first set them out.
God grant us all that we need
To be humble
To seek what we lack
To have strength under control
To hunger and thirst for what is right
To show mercy
Seek purity
Pursue peace
And bless those who persecute us.
Notes and readings (for the week commencing 23rd April, 2012) are shown below, with a PDF version available here. The sermon passage for this Sunday (22/04/2012) will be Colossians 2:24-2:5.
Day 1: Read Colossians 1:24-2:5
Because of the length of this week’s passage, we will have a greater opportunity to dig deeper into each verse. To begin the week, first read the entire passage and then come back to verse 24.
Having just written with great eloquence regarding the supremacy of Jesus and the need for the Church in Colossae to continue in their faith (by remaining established and firm in the gospel), Paul now comes to speak of his own suffering as a source of rejoicing. Paul of course endured many forms of affliction (e.g., 2 Corinthians 11:23-27) but here is probably referring to his imprisonment. But how can these sufferings be a matter for rejoicing and in what way can they be for the body of Christ? Simply because Paul has continued to understand the supremacy of Jesus and the critical message of the gospel. In a bigger way, Paul understands that as he is in Jesus, his suffering is part of Jesus’ suffering for the entire church. He rejoices because he is part of Jesus’ body, has received the benefits of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and therefore knows that any suffering on his behalf should not be counted as loss. What an inspiration and encouragement for us, to always maintain a perspective of Jesus’ supremacy and the security of the grace we have received – despite the difficulty of our circumstances. Furthermore, as we seek for Jesus to be known and loved throughout all of Noosa, we are challenged here to be willing to carry the gospel whatever the cost. That’s the type of servant that Paul was for the gospel – let’s pray that we too might be willing to serve Jesus in this way.
Day 2: Read Colossians 1:25-27
Continuing on from the suffering endured for his labour for the church, Paul now addresses the nature of his servanthood more precisely. First, Paul sets out that his task – to present the word of God in fullness – is one that is commissioned by God. He seems to be indicating that such a commission can only be fulfilled (i.e., in fullness) by the word of God being proclaimed. That is, the word of God must be spoken and taken everywhere for people to hear and respond. This concept of the word going out echoes Isaiah 55:10-11: As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Paul did not of course have a copy of the New Testament, so this reference will be to explaining the Scriptures (the Old Testament) and recounting the many stories, sayings, and death and resurrection of Jesus. When he speaks of mystery in verse 26, Paul is saying that whilst in the past humans did not know how they could be in relationship with God, God has now made it known to (and through) all who follow Jesus. The result is extremely good news: Jesus is alive in his followers, bringing them hope through salvation. We too as a church carry the same commission that the whole of Noosa may come to know the word of God concerning Jesus.
Day 3: Read Colossians 2:1-5
In today’s passage we now see some of Paul’s concern for the Colossians emerging – in fact, we see the depth of his concern by reference to his struggling for them. Accordingly, Paul writes to them with the purpose that they might be encouraged in heart and united in love – in order that they might have complete understanding and fuller knowledge of Jesus. Like the church in Colossae, Paul had never been to Laodicea (which was less than 20km from Colossae) but he still wants them to be blessed in a similar way (what a great image of the broader body of Christ working together!). However, Paul is all too aware that others may seek to persuade them that there are other mysteries that must be discovered in order to receive salvation. Some groups, such as the Gnostics, emphasised that particular knowledge held by some individuals and groups was the key. For Paul, it is clear that the only knowledge necessary for salvation was Jesus Christ. In fact Paul is so emphatic about this, that he refutes the other groups or individuals who may be teaching differently (i.e., “I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments”). He encourages them by his fellowship and takes delight in the good reports he has heard – particularly the orderly Christian life they are living and the stability of their trust in Christ.
Just as Paul encouraged his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to stay true to Christ alone, we too must seek to hold fast to Jesus. We can often be easily persuaded by worldly values or arguments, but we must keep turning our lives to Christ. There are no secrets to salvation! Unlike religious groups who hold knowledge back from their followers, the Christian message – of Jesus crucified and resurrected – is completely transparent for all to hear and respond. Let’s continue to pray that we might be strengthened through God’s Spirit to remain focused on Jesus individually and as the Anglican Church of Noosa as a whole. Remember our mission: to love and serve Noosa, because of Jesus. There’s no other name or reason that can compel us more.
Day 4: Read Colossians 1:24-2:5
Today I’m encouraging you to read this entire week’s passage again – you may in fact like to read from the beginning of the chapter in order to gain a fuller perspective of the ground we have covered so far. My hope is that you can see the way in which Paul models what it means to be in partnership as the body of Christ. As we read the opening words of the letter, Paul’s deep love and concern for these people – whom he has not even met – is clearly evident. We see this expressed in his words of encouragement, thanks, and also his assurance of prayer. What a vision Paul must have had for the gospel working all over the world! I wonder if we too can catch a larger glimpse of this vision, in order that our mission to Noosa might be further expanded and invigorated? I truly give thanks for the way in which our whole church works together, in such a diversity of ways to be growing in Christ and taking the gospel throughout our region. I also give great thanks for the amazing fruit that we have seen and the many blessings that God has poured upon us.
Throughout Paul’s letter so far, it has also been evident that his love for the gospel is matched by a willingness to suffer and make sacrifices. This of course, if we apply it seriously to our own lives, is extremely challenging. But, if we keep in mind the greatness of Jesus and what he has done, it always ensures that we have a proper perspective of the mission we participate in. For Paul, it’s clear that being joined to Christ and participating in mission is the greatest privilege imaginable. I wonder if sometimes, in the mundane or hectic moments of life we can lose sight of this privilege?
Finally, it is overwhelmingly clear that above everything we must remain focused on Jesus (and Jesus alone). This is not an easy task – as our lives are full of distractions and all manner of persuasive alternatives! Let’s be an intentional source of encouragement and prayer to each other – ensuring that we as a whole church stay focused on Jesus and delight in his mission to the world.
Simon Manchester reflects with such great insight on this disaster which still fascinates. He says “Part of the fascination is the shock that something so big and powerful and magnificent should meet its end on its maiden journey. The famous comment of the deckhand to a nervous lady (a Christian missionary called Sylvia Caldwell who lived to tell the tale) — “yes lady, God himself could not sink this ship” — highlights the bravado.“ Read in full here.
Watoto Children’s Choirs have travelled internationally since 1994 as advocates for the estimated 50 million children in Africa, orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war, poverty and disease. Accompanied by a team of adults, the choir presents Watoto’s vision and mission through their stories, music and dance. They are coming to the Anglican Church of Noosa (Tewantin) on Friday 4th May at 7pm. Entry is free with donations welcome. Click read more to watch the promotional video.
Promo – Beautiful Africa: A New Generation from Watoto on Vimeo.
…our link missionaries serving with the Church Missionary Society in southern Africa. Read and pray here. LovellND – Prayer Points Apil 2012
Notes and readings (for the week commencing 16th April, 2012) are shown below, with a PDF version available here. The sermon passage for this Sunday (22/04/2012) will be Colossians 1:15-23.
Day 1: Read Colossians 1:15-23
This week we will be looking at one of the absolute jewels of the New Testament, Colossians 1:15-23. It’s generally agreed by scholars that verses 15-20 are a very early, ‘pre-Pauline’ (i.e., not written by Paul) hymn. We’re not necessarily talking about words set to melody, but more likely a creedal statement that may have been recited aloud. As we’ll discover, this is extremely significant not least because it means that within decades (in this particular case, elsewhere it is earlier) of Jesus’ crucifixion, ascribing the highest honours to Jesus (as God, creator and redeemer) was deemed as perfectly normal. This may seem obvious to us in the 21st century, but it’s significant to note that Jesus’ divinity is not a modern invention. Whilst it’s a little dangerous to break such a statement into components, we’ll do that in order to take a deeper dive over the coming days – just try to keep the entire passage in mind (and keep reading over it).
Today, I simply want you to read the passage as a whole and note anything that stands out for you. These nine verses paint a vivid cosmic picture of Jesus, yet simultaneously delve into the amazing realities of Christ’s supremacy and sufficiency. How ‘big’ and ‘deep’ is your view of Jesus? In verses 15-20, Paul uses phrases like “all creation”, “all things”, and “everything” seven times! Just as we get a sense that Christ stands at the centre of all creation, drawing us to himself through his reconciling death and resurrection, we must never lose sight that our absolute focus must be on him. The smaller our view of Jesus, the less we will be able fathom what he has done for us.
Day 2: Read Colossians 1:15-18
In these first four verses, we read of the supremacy of Christ both in creation and the church. We’re reminded of both the personal and cosmic realities of Jesus. That is, he is both the perfect manifestation of God (in the ‘flesh’) yet pre-existent from creation itself. Take note that there is no limit to his authority – all other thrones, powers, rulers, and authorities (this is shorthand for saying all ‘beings’ who are perceived by humans – rightly and wrongly – to ‘rule’ human life) are irrelevant in comparison to Christ. Even more, we see in verse 17 that not only was Christ the agent of God’s creation, but he also brings full coherence to the universe (compare this with Colossians 2:19). There is no meaning or existence apart from Jesus.
By using the hymn in this way – so early in the letter – Paul is urging the Church of Colossae to remember who Jesus is and the authority he should have in their lives. As a young church endanger of misconstruing the truth, Paul is reminding them that their focus must be upon the supremacy of Christ and accordingly his sufficiency as Saviour. The church must constantly strive to remember that Jesus is the right and true head of creation and the church. We of course groan for the time in which this will reach full fruition, but do so recalling that his resurrection is the prelude to the final resurrection (see 1 Corinthians 15:23 and Acts 26:23). There’s only to be one focus for us: Jesus.
Day 3: Read Colossians 1:19-20
How incredible that two verses can contain such incredible richness and beauty! So much of the Gospel is summed up in these two verses, with two critical points to reflect on. First, we take note that in Jesus the fullness of God is pleased to dwell. This simply means that Christ is everything that God is. Believe it or not, this was a radical concept in the first century. Paul is rejecting the Greek idea that Jesus couldn’t possibly be both human and divine at the same time. Whilst it may seem so simple, that Christ has always been God and will always be God, it is so easy to fall into a trap that denies (or diminishes) Jesus’ humanity or divinity (people of course still struggle with this today, and it can continue to perplex those who are willing to accept this truth). The reality for us is that we must always hold the two in tension. Accordingly, if you want to see God, look to Jesus. If you want to know God, know Jesus. If you want to understand God’s will for your life, read Jesus’ words.
The second point to reflect on is that it is only through Jesus (who is supreme) that we might be reconciled with God. The creedal statement reinforces the relationship between Jesus’ death (“making peace through his blood, shed on the cross”) and our salvation. Having just celebrated Easter, the idea of a blood sacrifice (an offering for sins, and a guarantee of the new covenant) is no doubt still fresh in your mind. Can you see how it is only because of the supremacy of Jesus, that his death might have such a cosmic effect? That is, it is only through his death that the entire world has the opportunity to be reconciled and brought back into harmony with God. There is no other source of salvation, except for Jesus – because of both WHO he is (v.19) and WHAT he’s done (v.20). Praise God that in Jesus we might realise the amazing news that God is both with us, and for us. May God strengthen us through his Spirit, that we might be better enabled to share this news in order that many more might come to know him and be saved.
Day 4: Read Colossians 1:21-23
We are reminded today that we were part of that creation that was alienated from God. That alienation was the effect of our sins, but the death of Christ makes us able to appear before God as holy, blameless, and irreproachable (i.e., beyond criticism and without fault!). Whilst some came close (e.g., Moses on Mt Sinai), the sinfulness of humanity has always ensured that a great chasm between humanity and God exists. That chasm was so wide that just the sheer presence of God was enough to kill (see Exodus 33). But we live in an exciting age in which because of Jesus, we no longer need to approach God from a distance (like those in the Temple). No longer are offerings needed, or priests required to mediate between the people and God’s presence – no, because Jesus became the perfect sacrifice he is now the only mediator between us and God. We’re once again reminded that Jesus’ death was a real bodily death, because he was a real bodily person (note Paul’s careful description of our reconciliation is possible “by Christ’s physical body through death”). The result: we can stand before God as holy and blameless – not because of anything that we have done, but because of everything that Jesus has done and is.
But note in verse 23 that Paul’s words contain a dire warning – once we trust in Jesus, we must constantly strive to ‘continue in faith’, foremost by being grounded in the truth of the gospel. Just as this section of Colossians is extremely reminiscent of John 1 in its grandeur, we too ought to be reminded of Jesus’ command in John 15 that we are to remain in him. Healthy relationships do not exist with passive participants. Paul is urging the Church of Colossae to remain and hold fast to their faith grounded in Jesus. We too must heed this warning and work individually and corporately to grow in the gospel. That’s why our relationship with Jesus should be ever-growing. We can do this by striving to become more like Jesus. That’s what discipleship is all about – imitating and growing in Christ’s likeness through the Bible, evangelism, prayer, relationships, service, and worship. Let’s keep striving to grow in our vision of Jesus, that we might continue in our faith that has already begun.
