Gundagai Baptist Church

Peace of heart and mind

2012-02-13T18:26:00.002+11:00

I read recently of a survey a Christian doctor asked his patients to fill in while they were waiting to see him.
One question asked "What is your number one wish?"
When he tallied up the responses, he was surprised to find that the number one response was "Peace of mind."
We all want peace don't we, peace of mind, peace that we feel in our hearts, peace in our relationships, peace in our country, the list goes on.
Christians understand peace to begin with God, & come from God.
When we read Romans chapter 5 verse 1, we see how to have peace with God.
"Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Then, once we have peace with God, He gives us His peace. Jesus said:
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
But we need to be on guard, because there are things that would rob us of that peace we all desire.
The old English meaning of our word "Worry" means "To strangle."
Apart from worry, what things try to strangle peace in your life?
I listed six things.
1. Worry.
2. Busyness.
3. A lack of trust in God & His Word.
4. Disobedience and deliberate sin.
5. Relational conflict.
6. Bitterness & unforgiveness.
As you look at that list, is there anything that seems relevant to your life at the moment?
You can do something about it!
Bring it to God in prayer, & ask Him to replace it with His peace!

Peace of heart and mind MP3

http://www.box.com/s/jvt4ruttm7a5sbtg344k

Church leadership

2012-02-08T13:47:00.001+11:00

Does church leadership matter?
Leadership does matter, & it's important that the right people are chosen, with the right character, maturity & ability!
Why do we need leaders in the church?
Without good leadership, the church can so easily stray away from the path that God has laid out for us, in His Word. There are far too many examples where that has happened, bringing conflict, confusion & chaos into the church. People leave, disillusioned, disappointed, & hurt. All this can be avoided if we chose our leaders well.
Does the Bible say anything about leadership?
Well, yes, the Bible clearly lays out for us God's design, His plan for the church. In 1 Timothy 3:1-7, we read about the qualifications of Elders. In 1 Peter 5:1-4 we read about their important role in the life of the church. And in ACTS 20:28-30 we read a stark warning to those Elders, what to watch out for!
Listen along to "The what, who & why of Church Elders."http://www.box.com/s/c5jkf7oyaz39dnr6virf

Trusting God in the storms of life. Podcast

2011-07-26T14:30:00.010+10:00

Have you ever seen a storm approaching, a storm that you cannot avoid, it's going to envelope you & there's nothing you can do about it.
In ACTS chapter 27 we read about a terrible storm that Paul, Luke & 274 other people were sailing through. A storm that would eventually rip the ship apart!
In that storm, those aboard that ship had given up all hope, fear had overtaken them, all except one man, Paul.
Paul had the confidence to speak God's hope into that storm, "Take heart,..for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told." The previous night, an angel had told Paul that God would save them, even though the ship would go down.
Life brings us many storms apart from those like the photo above.
Storms that come in the shape of illness & grief, financial crisis, depression & anxiety, relationships that fall into conflict, sadly the list goes on.
But if we know Christ as Lord, we can stand on God's Word & say, along with Paul "I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told."
God tells us that He "loves us with an everlasting love." Jeremiah 31:3
I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong & courageous," Joshua 1:5
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9
We can trust God in any & all situations in life, even when those dark storms come upon us.
God will make a way, even when there seems to be no way!
May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Easter. A celebration of hope!

2011-04-11T14:52:00.007+10:00

Easter is about so much more than chocolate eggs, fishing, camping trips with the family, days off work etc. Easter is the time to remember just what Jesus Christ has done for us. Good Friday focuses on his death on the cross, where he suffered & died so that we could live!
Easter Sunday is a joyful celebration of hope. Hope given to us because Christ rose from the dead!
If you find yourself in Gundagai for Easter this year, I invite you to join us as we remember & celebrate Christ's death & resurrection.
Good Friday 9.30am "5 reasons Christ came to die."
Easter Sunday 9.30am "Hope in troubled times."

Hay floats away!

2010-12-04T13:08:00.003+11:00

The recent good weather has produced a Spring for making hay.
But when the river breaks it's banks, everything on the river flats either goes under or floats away.
Must be heartbreaking for farmers to see scenes like this, hay floating down the river :-(
Hopefully, someone down river will rescue these runaway bales!

2010 flood.

2010-12-04T12:59:00.000+11:00

Yesterday the water was at the level of the 1984 flood mark, today it's level with 1952.
Still some way off 1974 which was the highest in recent living memory anyway.
12 year old at the time, I can remember riding my pushbike into water in the main street at the bottom of Otway street. So, still some way to go before that happens again!

Gundagai in flood!

2010-12-04T12:52:00.002+11:00

Well it's been an interesting time over the last few days, as the recent rain has filled the Snowy dams to capacity, meaning that the overflow comes down the Murrumbidgee.
After 10 years of drought it's great to see so much water, spare a thought for the farmers who have lost crops & hay. (Hay bales seen floating downstream :-( sadly)
But on the positive side of things, we are thankful for the way this shall replenish ground water supplies & saturate the ground.

4 characteristics of a healthy church. MP3

2010-11-10T12:16:00.003+11:00

What does a healthy church look like?
Well , thats a big question, & depending upon who you asked you could get a whole range of answers.
After all, we live in different places with different cultures, so are there any common characteristics?
Yes I believe there are!
As we read through the book of ACTS we see the early church being established, coming to life. And as we see from ACTS chapter 11, there are at least 4 characteristics that we should see in any healthy church!
1. A healthy church reaches out with the Gospel.
2. A healthy church is encouraging.
3. A healthy church teaches the Word of God.
4. A healthy church cares for people.

Is your church a healthy one?

Willing to be used by God? MP3

2010-09-27T10:54:00.003+10:00

In ACTS chapter 9 we read about a man named Ananias. Not one of the most well known men of the Bible, but what we learn about him is important!
He was obedient to the call of God on his life!
He was willing to be used by God!
And because he did what God asked him to do, someones life was impacted, changed for the better, someone was empowered to get out there & talk about Jesus!

If we follow his example & say to God "Here I am Lord, use me"
what a difference that would make!
Listen along as we think about being used by God.

Saul's conversion MP3

2010-09-27T10:28:00.003+10:00

The conversion of Saul is one of the most profound, complete, dramatic & powerful of all conversions recorded in the Bible!
Saul was a zealous, passionate, deeply committed religious man, with a single purpose, to wipe these Christians off the face of the earth!
But when he came face to face with Jesus of Nazareth, that all changed.
His encounter with the Risen Christ totally broke Saul of pride & self righteousness.
Saul had been trying to live a religious life, keeping laws, rules & regulations.
Saul had been trying to please God by all the good works he did.
Saul had been blind to the truth!
The truth is, God doesn't want us to be religious, He wants us to be in relationship with Him!
Have you had an encounter with Jesus Christ?
I guarantee it will change your life!

Marriage week in Australia

2010-09-13T15:25:00.005+10:00

Welcome to Marriage Week in Australia

Marriage Week is a great time to reassess marriage. A time to see that it is more than a piece of paper, a word, or a contract. Marriage is a relational institution that makes two people one entity - a great team.

Our marriages are not private matters. Our children, gain emotional security and a myriad of benefits from our marriage, our love and union. Our marriages matter to our extended family. They matter to our employers.
They matter to society. They are the fabric that holds families together.
On average married people live longer and have good relationships with their children; families enjoy better physical health, married men earn more money.
Wow, that puts a lot of weight on marriage!

So, do something for your marriage in this week in September.
Write a letter of thanks or praise to show your love for your spouse. Buy them a special gift, it does not have to be large or expensive. Go out on a date, share a picnic, just do something romantic! Celebrate your married life together.

Marriage Week 12th - 19th September 2010

Father's Day message MP3

2010-09-06T16:27:00.005+10:00

Well happy Fathers day!
I recently did one of those huge things Dad's get to do, when I walked my daughter down the isle!
It all went really well, although I must admit to feeling bittersweet, I wore a black shirt which represented mourning, (sort of anyway) & a bright orange tie to express my joy!
Now, I firmly believe that fatherhood is under attack in Australia.
At a time when we need men to stand up & be counted, our Government is undermining societies view of fatherhood by moving towards giving same sex couples adoption rights. It's not that I'm being 'homophobic' in saying this, but the fact is every child deserves to grow up with a Mum & a Dad!
We just need to look at the growing statistics that point to the increasing vandalism, drug & alcohol abuse, violent crime, rape etc that teenage boys in particular are involved in.
Much of this is because these boys don't have a strong godly male role model in their lives to give them the discipline & direction they desperately need!
So as a father myself, I need to ask myself, "What sort of role model am I?"
Ephesians chapter 5 verse 1 calls us to "Imitate God" or "Grow up like Dad."
I hope you'll listen along as we think about what that means.
Happy Fathers Day!

The Reconciling Gospel. MP3

2010-08-13T15:27:00.003+10:00

We read in ACTS 8 about the Gospel going out of Jerusalem into Judea & Samaria.
As the church suffered persecution, God used that to spread the Good News about Jesus Christ to those who needed to hear it!
A huge barrier to that happening was the relationship, or the lack of it, between Jews & Samaritans. To say that they disliked each other would be to put it lightly!
No wonder Jesus upset people when he told the parable of the good Samaritan! (Luke 10:25-37)
How would this barrier be broken?
With the Gospel!
The Gospel is all about reconciliation, firstly between God & mankind, & then between each of us! No longer Jew or Samaritan, Greek or anything else. (Galatians 3:28) And God has given us the Gospel to bring about that reconciliation!
"All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself & gave us the ministry of reconciliation;" (2 Corinthians 5:18)
We all need Christ working in our lives, reconciling us to God, & to others!
What a joy to be able to view each other as brothers & sisters, no matter the colour of our skin or the nationality of our birth!
That's the Gospel of Jesus Christ at work!

NSW Government to vote on private bill.

2010-08-08T16:59:00.005+10:00

Religious agencies seek gay adoption bill exemption

Independent MP Clover Moore introduced a bill in June that seeks to legalise adoption for gay couples.
But Anglicare has written to MPs urging them to vote against the bill and is threatening to withdraw its adoption services if the laws are introduced.
Community Services Minister Linda Burney says Cabinet will this week discuss amending the bill so Anglicare and Catholic Agency, Centacare, can refuse gay couples adoption rights.
Ms Burney says the agencies have a right to voice their views but it will come down to a conscience vote in Parliament.
"Anglicare and Centacare not only are adoption agencies, they also work very closely and are important partners in our fostering endeavours in NSW," she said.
"I think the exemption is sensible and I think it's important that it's there."
Anglicare is one of the three accredited non-government adoption agencies in the state.
Its chief executive Peter Kell wrote to MPs outlining 11 reasons why the bill should be rejected, including that children need the opportunity to have both a mother and a father.
He says adoption is not a gay rights issue but needs to be carried out in the interests of the child.
Mr Kell says MPs should take a conservative approach when it comes to a conscience vote on the issue.
"Our understanding of how families are best constructed is that children need the opportunity to have both a mother and a father," he said. "Men and women complement each other and the optimal care for children really consists of being in a family for both a mother and a father."
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/08/08/2976698.htm

The Persecuted Church MP3

2010-08-08T16:29:00.005+10:00

In the book of ACTS we read about the beginning of the Christian church, & we also read about how those early believers were persecuted for their faith in Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ.
In chapter 8 of ACTS we see Jesus followers scattered out of Jerusalem into Judea & Sameria, taking the Good News of the Gospel with them, just as Christ had told them (ACTS 1:8) Ever since that time, Christians have suffered persecution for their beliefs, right up to this very day.
A simple internet search for "Persecuted Christians" will reveal accounts from many places around the globe, such as China, Nigeria, India, Indonesia, North Korea, Iran, Iraq & the list goes on!
So, can we see anything good in all of this?
I believe we can!
We can see God using bad things that happen to the church for His good.
Through persecution the Gospel spread out of Jerusalem & around the world!
Why not listen along as we see 4 points of encouragement from ACTS 8:1-8

It's our choice!

2010-08-04T11:46:00.006+10:00

Now, I'm about to get controversial so hang on!
With the Federal election approaching we need to consider a whole range of things as we decide who to vote for, which party we won't to see in Government, & who they are putting forward as their party leader, thus the next Prime Minister.
A really important fact to remember is this;
I can't vote for either Julia or Tony, as I don't live in either of their electorates.
This is one of the huge misunderstandings, & something all parties are playing on.
I can only vote for my local member, & regardless of which party they are in, I'll be voting for who I think will be the best representative for my local area!
My Senate vote will be directed to the party which I feel best represents godly values & achievable, good policies.
Now the controversial bit.
As a country are we ready to have our Prime Minister residing in the Lodge, living in a de-facto relationship?
Are we truly ready for the leader of this country, who represents us all around the world, to be "living in sin"?
Are we ready for our Prime Minister to publicly declare "There is no God."
(Read Psalm 14:1)
These are, I think, valid questions that we should be asking ourselves.
What do you think?

Who said it would be easy? MP3

2010-07-18T16:52:00.004+10:00

One thing that the book of ACTS makes crystal clear is that the Christian life brings with it 'trouble'.
Jesus spoke again & again to His followers about suffering, cross carrying, trials & persecution. He also spoke often about the peace, comfort, hope & strength that God would give His followers as they went through these tough times.
Chapter 6 of ACTS reveals Stephen, a man full of God's grace & power, being dragged into a dangerous & confronting situation, full of lies & accusations.
The temptation to back down, to deny Christ, to say or do whatever those accusing him would find acceptable, would have been huge!
Would he give in? NO!
What about us?
When the pressures on how do we respond?
Do we stand firm, or give up?
The hard road is littered with those who have given up as they let the pressure get to them, but there are countless thousands who have kept their eyes on Jesus & have successfully completed the journey!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face.
And the things of this earth will grow strangely dim,
in the light of His glory & grace!

Problem solved by serving. MP3

2010-07-18T16:37:00.004+10:00

The Church had a problem, some widows were missing out, being overlooked.
They relied upon the Church for enough food to get through each day & it wasn't forthcoming!
What would the leaders of the Church do to solve this problem?
How would they stop this becoming more of a problem than it should be?
Would it grow into something that could split the young Church?
The way they overcome this issue teaches us much about handling any problems that come our way 2000 years later!
listen along to "Problem solved by serving."

Praying for boldness! MP3

2010-06-21T13:53:00.005+10:00

Are you a bold Christian?
What a question to ask you, but one that needs to be asked!
As we read through the book of ACTS we see the early church, full of young Christians who are passionate, courageous & bold in the face of opposition & even full on persecution!
They didn't let a little mocking, pain or difficulty stop them talking about Jesus Christ & the power of His name!
Today, we see the church in the West losing this courage, this passion, this conviction.
We need to pray as the early Christians did, for the ability to "speak the word of God with great boldness" in our communities, because they desperately need to hear it & see it being lived out in our lives!
I'm 100% certain that if we genuinely pray that prayer, God will give us what we ask for, He will make us bold!
But are you ready & willing to be a bold Christian?

5, 4, 3, 2, 1! ACTS 3:1-20 MP3

2010-06-07T10:46:00.006+10:00

ACTS chapter 3 brings us face to face with yet another miracle performed in Jesus' name, & another opportunity to hear why & how this man was healed.
Anything we can learn from this?
You bet we can!
5 things about Jesus.
4 things about the people's sin.
3 things about the Good News.
2 things about the lame man.
and then finally,
the 1 thing that really matters!

Listen along & find what they are.

Blessings
Pastor Steve

Pentecost. The Gift is given! MP3

2010-05-16T17:28:00.000+10:00

The festival of Pentecost (formally known as the Feast of Weeks) brought God fearing people from all around the known world to Jerusalem, a perfect opportunity for God to do something incredible before them, & that's exactly what happened!
In God's perfect timing, he sent His Holy Spirit to empower Jesus' disciples so they could be His witnesses (ACTS 1:8) in Judea, Samaria, in fact, everywhere around the world!
What an incredible experience they shared that day as the Holy Spirit came upon them!
The wonderful news is that everyone who puts their trust in & believes on the name of Jesus receives this awesome gift of God, the Holy Spirit, so that we also can be His witnesses!
Listen along to "The Gift is given!"

Making Godly decisions. MP3

2010-05-11T15:27:00.004+10:00

Everyday each of us has to make heaps of decisions don't we?
Some of them are small & trivial, while others are a lot bigger & bring with them huge ramifications!
Every decision we make can go in different ways. Basically we need help!
So how do we make the right decisions, how do we make godly decisions?
Well, as we take a look at the early church in the book of ACTS we find the answer!
In ACTS chapter 1 the followers of Jesus were faced with a situation that needed to be resolved. Judas, (the one who had betrayed Jesus) was dead & his position needed to be filled.
How would they make this decision? Who would they chose?
Listen along as we see from God's word "How to make Godly decisions."

ACTS The beginning of the church! MP3

2010-05-06T14:21:00.004+10:00

As we start a series on the book of ACTS, a truly exciting book, we see in the very 1st few verses, a number of things.
We see the ascension of Jesus, (His rising back into heaven) we see the promise to the disciples of the Holy Spirit, we see the challenge they face to understand & obey, & we see reminders for us, in the church today.
What a great book ACTS is!
I hope you can follow along with us as we work through it to see all that God was doing in the early church, & what He still desires to do in our time as well!

Suffering.

2010-04-22T11:08:00.004+10:00

Hi everyone, just back from the States. I attended "Together for the Gospel" conference in Louisville Kentucky & wanted to share this talk with you all.
It's vital that we understand that suffering is a reality of life, & just because we suffer it doesn't mean that God doesn't care, or that He isn't still at work in our lives.
I was vividly reminded of that by listening to Matt Chandler's story.
It's powerful!
"In this (our Living Hope) you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials." 1 Peter 1:6

T4G 2010 -- Session 8 -- Matt Chandler from Together for the Gospel (T4G) on Vimeo.

Being part of the body of Christ. MP3

2010-03-15T10:09:00.003+11:00

The New Testament again & again describes Christians as a body.
A body with Jesus Christ as the head, & then each of us being all the seperate parts that make up a body.
So just as our physical bodies are made up of arms, legs, hands, feet, ears, eyes, mouth etc, so to the body of Christ, the Church.
How we fit into that body, & what our role is within the body is what we all need to look at & learn.
And just as a physical body can get sick, so too the body of Christ, if we are not on guard for things like pride & selfishness!
Listen along to "Being part of the body">

The Church part 4 MP3

2010-03-04T16:46:00.003+11:00

One of the great things about being involved in a local church is seeing & experiencing those around you discovering & using their God given gifts!
It's an eye opening, joyful time for the church, when the congregation realises their full potential, & starts to use the 'tools' that God has given them, when they start to serve, start to minister to each other & to the community around them.
But, we need to be careful that we are using God's gifts as He has planned for us, as He wants us to, not as others may suggest, or our pride may dictate!
listen along as we start to discover our call to serve!

The church part 2. We are living stones! MP3

2010-01-25T13:09:00.008+11:00

As we come to the realization that the church isn't the building, but instead it's the people meeting in the building, we come to understand so much more about Christ's church on earth.
We start to see how we fit into Jesus church, how we are placed together as 'living stones' that make up the spiritual building.
How that process takes place is important.
Not everyone who sits on a pew or attends a worship service is a 'living stone.'
Peter reminds us we need to be "born again" (1 Peter 1:23)
Jesus is our 'precious cornerstone', the 'Living Stone' upon which His church is built, & each born again Christian is a living stone in the building of His spiritual house.
"Everytime someone trusts Christ,another stone is quarried out of the pit of sin and cemented by grace into the building." Warren Wiersbe
Listen along to learn more about these 'living stones.'

The church part 1. Built on the rock. MP3

2010-01-25T13:00:00.004+11:00

What is the church?
What's it's purpose?
Just what did Jesus mean when He said "I will build my church on this rock"? Matthew 16:18
There's much misunderstanding about this passage of Scripture, & much has been implemented into the life of many churches that really needs to be addressed.
So as we start to look at "The church" lets come once again to God's word with an open mind & see!

Jesus. There's no substitute! MP3

2010-01-10T13:58:00.005+11:00

Late December in Australia saw many getting excited over the pronouncement that Mary MacKillop will be declared "Australia's first Saint" this year.
Is this a correct understanding of Scripture?
Or is this a misleading & false teaching that the church has taken hold of?
Whenever there is controversy in the church we need to examine the teaching carefully against God's Word, the Bible.
We read in 1 Timothy chapter 2 verse 5 that "For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,"
As we gain a correct understanding of Christ's role in our relationship with God, we see no need for anyone or anything else!
listen along as we look at "Jesus. There is no substitute!"

2009-12-19T10:19:00.005+11:00

"For God so loved the world that He gave His one & only Son," (John 3:16) As you celebrate Christmas this year, with family & friends, & as you exchange gifts with each other, don't lose sight of the greatest gift of all, God's only begotten Son Jesus Christ. Don't lose sight of the love God has shown us. Don't lose sight of what you're actually celebrating!

"Jesus is the gift that perfectly fits every heart and it is with His love that all celebration starts. We rejoice in Him as we remember His birth and thank God for sending His only Son to earth. His life led from a manger to a cross on a hill where He faithfully followed His Father’s perfect will. He freely laid down everything so that we could live, and there is no greater treasure anyone could give. Like a scarlet ribbon His love wrapped around the cross and He offered it to us all at the greatest cost. So each time that we give we remember what He’s done and honor the perfect Gift —God’s one and only Son." Holley Gerth

Wishing you a peaceful & joyous Christmas, & every blessing for the new year! "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" 2 Cor 9:15

Your words have power!

2009-12-09T14:30:00.003+11:00

Nature

Never underestimate the power your words have.

Never underestimate how deep they can go into peoples lives.

Never underestimate the potential for your words to hurt or to heal!

Every time you open your mouth to speak, quickly think;

"Is what I'm about to say going to hurt or heal?"

Proverbs 12:18 "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."

Sadly, Christmas often seems to be a time when family get together's turn sour, & hurtful things are said in the heat of the moment.

So be aware of what you are saying & how you are saying it!

You have the potential to calm & heal, or to enrage & hurt!

May God grant each of us the wisdom we need as we speak.

Pastor Steve

Remember those who suffer!

2009-12-03T17:25:00.009+11:00

As we prepare to celebrate this Christmas season in peace, & with freedom, we need to remember that many Christians around the world do not have that luxury.

Recently Franklin Graham wrote this as part of a regular article.

Remember Those Who Are Persecuted
The Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is under attack. Around the world, in dozens of countries, believers are being relentlessly oppressed, beaten and even martyred for their Christian faith. The World Evangelical Alliance estimates that more than 200 million believers suffer some form of ongoing persecution. Of course, we know that followers of our Lord Jesus Christ should expect opposition. Jesus said: “‘No servant is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:20, NIV). Whether the source of persecution is false religions, godless societies or hostile cultures, the Church has long been the target of vilification and violence.
( Franklin Graham)

Can I encourage you to pray for our brothers & sisters around the world,
who are suffering for the name of Christ this Christmas.
Pray that God will strengthen them to stand strong,
& that He will grant them his peace that passes all human understanding!

"and his name shall be called
Wonderful Counsellor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father,
Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6b

Get your attitude right for Christmas!

2009-11-29T14:10:00.004+11:00

What's your attitude going to be this Christmas?
An interesting question isn't it?
A fairly recent phenomenon is the 'self gift buying'
that seems to be growing each year in our culture.
What's that I hear you ask?
More & more people are buying Christmas presents, not to give others,
but to give themselves!
This selfish attitude is fed by all the adds, & brochures that we are bombarded with at this time of year.
All telling us that we need their stuff, we deserve their stuff,
we can't enjoy Christmas without their stuff!
All of this feeds into a selfish, greedy attitude, which is the exact opposite of the attitude we should have!
The Apostle Paul wrote these words in Philippians chapter 2 verses 4 & 5.
"Each of you should look not only to your own interests
but also to the interests of others.
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:"
A Christ like attitude displays compassion, selflessness, humility & service.
After all, Christmas is all about Christ & His attitude should be displayed to the world
in abundance, especially at this time of year!
So, I ask you again, "What's your attitude going to be this Christmas?"

Tough times.

2009-11-21T17:51:00.003+11:00

Are you, or anyone you know, going through a really tough time at the moment?

Do you feel that you are literally ‘wasting away’ under all the pressure?

If you do, take heart from these encouraging words written by the Apostle Paul.

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

As Paul reminds us, our troubles are momentary, they will pass!

So fix your eyes on Jesus the Saviour, not on the troubles going on around you.

Trust in Christ to help you through this time in your life, & let Him renew you daily from the inside out!

Remember, He is Lord of all things!

Pastor Steve

How deep is your love?

2009-09-17T12:05:00.011+10:00

September 13th was the beginning of marriage week in Australia,
a time to celebrate the God given gift of marriage.
We need to remember what marriage is, what it's not,
who set it in place, & how we are called to love & live together as wife & husband.
That word "LOVE" seems to mean so many different things to people doesn't it?
I mean, ask 10 different people & you'll probably get 10 different answers!
So we need to go back to God's Word to find a good, practical description of love.
What it is & just as importantly, what it isn't!
1 Corinthians chapter 13 gives us this description.
"Love is patient & kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.
Love does not demand its own way. Love is not irritable,
& it keeps no record of when it has been wronged.
It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.
Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, & endues every circumstance.
Love will last forever."
How committed are you to your marriage?
How faithful are you?
How forgiving are you?
How do you express love to your spouse?
Can I encourage you to spend some time reviewing your marriage
& recommitting yourselves to each other!
Listen along to "How deep is your love?"

Jesus is all about life!

2009-09-07T21:21:00.022+10:00

Very soon we will see this logo right across NSW, on Churches, Christian schools, book shops, bus stops & billboards.
So what's it all about? Why "Jesus. All about life?"
Jesus said "I have come that they may have life,
and have it to the full." (John's gospel, chapter 10 verse 10)
Now that's a big claim isn't it?
Well over the next few weeks we'll investigate this claim to see if it stacks up to scrutiny.
So make sure you stay tuned!

World Vision morning tea

2009-08-29T19:48:00.007+10:00

Wednesday 26th saw our Church ladies doing an incredible job of running our annual m/tea to raise funds & awareness of World Visions work among the poor of the world.
Each year they help over 20 million people with short & long term needs, food, water, health & education. So it's great we are able to do something to help them reach out with hands of compassion.
Often when we think about the huge problem of poverty around the world, we come to the conclusion that "it's just too hard!"
But when we get together with a shared passion, a shared vision of what can be, we can & do make a difference!
Well done everybody, we raised over $700 & that will help 90 kids for a whole month!

Steve the bird man!!

2009-08-24T11:52:00.009+10:00

Home again after a couple of weeks away travelling up the coast to Coolangatta in Queensland.
Leonie & I got to catch up with some good friends & both my sisters as well!
God blessed us with some great weather as we travelled around checking out some truly beautiful parts of His creation, Diamond Beach, Coffs Harbour, Lake Macquarie, Lamington National Park, Tugan, & Forster.
Got to feed parrots, & rosellas at Lamington, an interesting experience having them landing on your arms, shoulders & head!
Anyway, it was a great time away from home responsibilities for a while!

2009-08-24T11:51:00.008+10:00

Hi everyone!
Sorry it's been so long since I updated, but things have been just so busy!
We live in a fast paced world don't we?
Each day seems to bring so many things that can consume our every waking moment & still demand even more of our time!
But, we all need to spend time relaxing, resting our over active minds!
We need to spend time quietly reflecting on our God & His Word, the Bible.
In Psalm 46 verse 10 it says "Be still, and know that I am God."
Thankfully I was able to do that while we were away on hols, but this must continue now we're back!
We must make a conscience decision to set time aside to be still, to relax, to reflect on God's goodness & grace. I pray you'll make whatever changes in your life that you need to to make this possible!

Love one another! part 2 MP3

2009-05-24T18:04:00.008+10:00

Love one another as Christ loved you.
These words should resound through the very being of the Christian Church, here in Australia & all around the world!
With all the tragedy, brokenness, violence & relational breakdown that is rappidly increasing in society, there is a great need for people to see true Christian love being lived out in Christ's body, the Church.
Jesus said to his followers these words "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John chapter 13 verse 35
Just what would happen if each of Christ's Churches started living that way, loving that way?
If each & every Christian loved their brothers & sisters authentically, compassionately, patiently, sacrificially. Don't tell me that the world would not notice. Don't tell me broken people wouldn't find that attractive.
Don't tell me that lives would not be changed, transformed, saved.
What an incredible impact the Church would have if we all followed Jesus' command to "Love one another."
What do you think?

Love one another! MP3

2009-05-18T19:19:00.009+10:00

Gidday everyone!
In this weeks message we read about the Apostle John blasting out this message "Love one another!"
I wonder how many times we have heard those words? But hearing & doing are two different things aren't they?
Type "Church conflict' into your search engine & see how many pages come up! (I got 3,620,000!!!)
As Christians we have an obligation to show true genuine love towards our brothers & sister. Even more than that, we are commanded to love each other.
Love that is sacrificial, love that is kind, love that is forgiving, love that's generous. the list goes on.
John list 4 different heart attitudes we can have toward each other.
1. Murder
2. Hate
3. Indifference
4 True Christian love.
So, what's your attitude?

The great love of God! MP3

2009-03-29T16:33:00.006+11:00

How great is God's love?
That's a big question isn't it?
This week we look at a passage of Scripture which says;
"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God." 1 john 3:1

As we consider this statement, we need to see who John is refering to as the "children of God."
Isn't that everyone on earth? Aren't we all the children of God?
Well, no we aren't!
Why do I say that?
Look at the previous verses. "And now, dear children, continue in him (Jesus) so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming...you know that everyone who does what is right has been born of him."
John reminds us of Jesus words to Nicodemus (John chapter3) when He told Nic that he needed to be born again, not in a physical sense, but born again spiritually.
When we call on Jesus Christ to save us from a lost and hopeless existence, when we surrender our will to His will, we are born again into the family of God!
Then we can claim the title of "children of God."
Then we can start to understand the greatness of God's love for us.
A love that sent Jesus to the cross, to die there for your sins and mine.
"Amazing love, how can it be? That You my God should die for me! (Charles Wesley)
As God's children, we are not only saved, but we have the hope of heaven place securely in our hearts. How should this change us?
How should this impact how we live our lives on this earth?
Listen along as we look at "The greatness of God!"

"Destruction. Why does it happen?" MP3

2009-02-25T15:34:00.004+11:00

As we all come to grips with the tragic loss of both life & property brought about by the horrific bushfires in Victoria, we need to reflect upon God's Word.
For it is in God's Word that we can find comfort & hope, even in the most desperate of times.
In it we read "I consider that the present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us."
No matter what we find ourselves facing, or what terrible burden we have thrust upon us, we can rest securely in the promises of God.

Our hearts go out to everyone who has suffered due to the fires, & we pray you are granted the strength you need to face another day.

In today's talk, Ian Willersdorf shares some thoughts about the destruction, & the solid hope we can hold onto no matter what.
Grace & peace to you all.

"Jesus is the Word of Life." MP3

2009-02-02T17:34:00.007+11:00

Does it really matter what we believe about Jesus?
Isn't it more important that we just accept each others beliefs so that we can get along with each other?
After all, isn't it intolerant not to accept all points of view?
Shouldn't the "Church" embrace everyone, no matter what they believe?
The simple answer is no!
The Christian Church must stand firm on the apostolic teachings of the Bible.
The Apostle John wrote 3 short letters that we find near the end of the New Testament,
& in them he clearly states again & again that Jesus is the Christ, the living Word of God,
the Eternal Life of God, God in human flesh.
John reminds us that this is at the very core of the Christian faith, & when we stray away from that truth, we find ourselves in deep trouble!
Today, the Church is under constant attack from those who see the exclusive claims of Jesus Christ as offensive & intolerant.
But Jesus clearly stated that "I am the way, the truth & the life.
No one comes to the Father (God) except through me."
(John chapter 14 verse 6)
While we are to respect everyone's right to believe something different, we cannot allow false teachings & beliefs to become part of the Church.
Is that intolerant? Offensive?
Read 1 John to find out!

Saved to Grow and Go! MP3

2009-01-11T15:43:00.007+11:00

Hi everyone!
Happy new year to you all as well!
Last year flew by didn't it?
As we start into this new year we need to remind ourselves of our purpose as Christians.
Here at Gundagai Baptist Church we display the statement
"We are Saved to Grow & Go!"
on our bulletins & on our big screen.
So I thought it was timely to once again
explain the truths behind this statement.
Through God's amazing grace we are saved,
then we are called to grow in our knowledge of Jesus Christ,
so we can go into the world around us & live our lives in such a way
that others will come to know Jesus as their Saviour!
So as we start this new year, let's live our lives as God planned!
Blessings.

The gifts of Christmas. Peace. MP3

2008-12-15T11:03:00.003+11:00

Christmas is nearly upon us once again, & as we prepare, we need to be careful our focus is actually on the "Reason for the season."

There are so many things that pull our focus away from Christ's birth & all that means for us!

Christmas is a time to celebrate, a time to give & recieve gifts, but I'd like to remind you of the great gifts that God wants to give each of us this Christmas.

Today we look at the incredible gift of PEACE.

We all recieve cards that wish us "may the peace of Christmas be yours"

Well, we need to understand what the peace of Christmas actually is before we can recieve it.

Listen along as I talk about;

"The peace of Christmas."

"Are you ready for Christmas?" MP3

2008-11-30T14:59:00.008+11:00

Can you believe it's nearly Christmas again?
And where did this year go?
So, it's time to prepare for Christmas,
the question is 'how will you prepare?'
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah lived
700 years before Jesus Christ was born.
But in his book of the Bible, Isaiah speaks volumes about Jesus.
His birth, his life & his death on the cross.
In chapter 40 we read "prepare the way for the Lord.
...And the glory of the Lord will be revealed,
& all mankind together will see it."
Here in these words we see the call for us to prepare this Christmas.
Prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord, Jesus Christ the Messiah.
Don't get caught up in all the decorations, food, presents & parties
& all the preparation that goes into them.
Get yourself caught up in the true meaning of Christmas,
celebrate the birth of Jesus, God in flesh!
Listen along as I ask the question;
"Are you ready for Christmas?"

"The man who ran." MP3

2008-11-23T14:31:00.003+11:00

In the gospels of Matthew, Mark & Luke,
Jesus comes face to face with a man who seems to have it all.
He's young.
He's rich.
He's influential.
Yet there's something he doesn't have,
something that he knows he needs.
We read how this man ran to Jesus, fell on his knees & asks
"What must I do to inherit eternal life?"
Great question isn't it.
But Jesus' answer leaves him sad & discouraged.
Why?
Listen along to find out!
(Mark 10:17-27)

"Why Baptism?" MP3

2008-11-09T16:59:00.005+11:00

In this weeks talk we look fairly & squarely at the topic of Baptism.

Depending on which denomination you're involved in,

baptism will bring different thoughts & images to your mind.

So to understand what baptism is, & what it's purpose is,

we need to understand what the word means & what the Bible says about it!

Sadly some of our Church practices have more to do with man made tradition than clear Biblical teaching.

So why not listen along as we answer the question "Why Baptism."

Blessings.

The need to keep sowing! MP3

2008-11-04T18:25:00.006+11:00

It was great to have the President of the Baptist Union of NSW, Rev Norm Nix & his lovely wife Marjorie visit Gundagai as part of their tour of the Riverina.

Norm has been in ministry for many years.

In fact he 1st started in 1962, the year I was born!

It was good to spend some time with both of them.

Norm shared an inspiring message with us as a Church, speaking from the parable of the sower, chapter 13 of Matthews gospel.

A message of persistence & endurance as we spread the seed of the good news around.

Listen along to Norms message, & keep on sowing!

"Trusting the Word of God." MP3

2008-10-26T15:50:00.010+11:00

Is there a difference between reading & trusting the Word of God?
Can the Bible truly be 'God's Word for man'? (Mankind)
Or, as some like to think, is the Bible only
'Words about God written by man'?
Can we believe what the Bible says?

Can we really trust what it says?
Psalm 119 reminds us over & over again that God's Word is eternal,
faithful, righteous, trustworthy & true!
Why not start each day by reading a passage of the Bible,
then meditate on it throughout the day, (mull it over, dwell on it)
God will speak to you through the pages of His Word!

"May my tongue sing of your word,
for all your commands are righteous!" Psalm 119:172

2008-10-26T15:50:00.001+11:00

"Hope in the Resurrection." MP3

2008-10-12T18:14:00.008+11:00

With all that's going on in the world financial system,
it's good to be reminded of what's important.
When we think about what we place importance in,
or what we place our trust in, our hope in,
we should come back to God's Word for guidance & direction.
The Apostle Paul wrote a great letter to the Christians at Philippi
instructing them where their hope is found & what was important.
All the riches of this world, gold, silver, stock markets & bank deposits just don't come close to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ!
As the last couple of weeks have reminded us so clearly,
we can't trust the riches of this world to remain constant & sure.
We can't build our faith on them.
So listen along as Steve Wilton explains why.

"Lessons we learn from Moses." Prt 2 MP3

2008-10-05T21:44:00.004+11:00

Exodus chapter 15

After Moses leads God's people through the Red Sea, they stop & praise God for His incredible power displayed right in front of them.

They certainly had plenty to praise Him for!

And so do we!

But as we read the book of Exodus we see God's people turn from praising God, to grumbling, complaining & quarreling amongst themselves! They had let their imediate circumstances control their attitude, their disposition & their thinking.

Whenever we let our circumstances control us, our emotions take a dive don't they?

Suddenly everywhere we turn there are reasons to complain, things to grumble about.

But if we lift our eyes up toward heaven & think once again about the Mighty God who was & is & is to come, we once again have reason to sing out in praise!

Lessons we learn from Moses. MP3

2008-10-02T14:50:00.005+10:00

For a number of weeks, our Kid's Ministry has been learning heaps from the life of Moses & how God used him to free the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt.

So, the kids stayed in this week, to help the grown ups learn some lessons from Moses life as well. From his birth, his life as an Egyptian, his encounter with the burning bush, his return to Pharoah, & leading God's people through the Red Sea.

A simple man used in a mighty way for God's purpose! Listen along to hear more.

True wealth

2008-09-24T09:17:00.018+10:00

With all the up's & down's happening on the worlds stock markets,
many people are really, really worried about their assets, their wealth.
None of us want to lose what we have,

but is that what truly defines you?
If you lost it all today, what would you be like?

What would be left?
"The real measure of our wealth
is how much we'd be worth if we lost all our money."
J. H. Howett
"you can't be the slave of two masters!

You will like one more than the other

or be more loyal to one than the other.

You can't serve both God & money."

Jesus Christ

It's worth thinking about isn't it?

Suffering.

2008-09-22T10:40:00.006+10:00

None of us like to suffer & that's a pretty solid fact isn't it?
But, suffering is also a fact, a fact of life.
Whilever we're in this world we will face troubles & situations that bring suffering fairly & squarley into the path we walk along.
Here's a couple of points about suffering we all need to remember.
1. Suffering is actually good for us.
What! that can't be right can it?
Look at what the Apostle Peter wrote: "These (sufferings) have come so that your faith - of greater worth than gold, .... may be proved genuine & may result in praise, glory & honour when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:7
The Apostle Paul wrote: "..suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; & character, hope.
And hope does not disapoint us.." Romans 5:3
2. You don't suffer alone.
Jesus told his disciples this: "And I will ask the Father, & he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever - the Spirit of truth." John 14:16
God is with you no matter what you're facing or what you're going through! He won't leave you, so hold onto that truth.
And if you are part of a loving Church, you also have a family around you who care what you're going through!
May God grant you the strength to face today,
& bright hope for tomorrow.

"Don't receive God's grace in vain!" MP3

2008-09-21T13:28:00.003+10:00

What do you think of when you think of grace?
The saving grace, the action of grace, that allows us to be saved?
Or maybe you think of the ongoing grace, the daily grace
that as Christians we receive from God.
Well, it's both isn't it.
Look at the old hymn 'Amazing Grace"
"Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
that saved a wretch like me."

""Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home."
Grace saves & grace leads us on.
Listen along to Luke Padgett from CSU in Wagga
as he shares some thoughts from 2 Corinthians chapter 6

"Sampson, man of faith." MP3

2008-09-14T14:44:00.001+10:00

There are some great characters in the Old Testament
& today we have a look at Sampson, from the book of Judges.
Sampson was given incredible strength by God,
strength that stayed with him while he was in God's will.
But that strength left him when he staryed away from God.
"Sin saps strength" the headline could say!
Listen as Ron Blyth shares the story of "Sampson, man of faith."

"Lessons from the history of Joseph" MP3

2008-09-14T14:31:00.000+10:00

The Word of God (the Bible) is given to us for encouragement, correction, guidance & teaching.
Every part of the Bible is there for us to
learn & apply to our own lives.
Joseph's story, in the book of Genesis, can teach us so much can't it?
So today we look at six points
each of us need to take hold of & apply.
Listen along to Allen Crooks, as he shares
"Lessons from Joseph's life."

Justified? What's that?

2008-08-26T19:33:00.000+10:00

'Justified' is one of those big religious words that you sometimes hear at church.
Well, what is it?
Look at the word itself.
Justified.
Now split it up.
Just-as-if-I'd-never sinned!
When we are declared 'justified' our slate is wiped clean.
Sin no longer has any hold over us,
there is no longer a 'sin barrier' between us & our God.
So, the big question is;
"How am I declared 'Justified'?
By faith in Jesus Christ alone!

Morning tea for World Vision

2008-08-15T18:20:00.001+10:00

What a great day it was!
Around 60 people turned up at Church to have a cuppa & support World Vision's child labour campaign.
The Gundagai community pulled together again for this great cause.
Gundagai Lions Club donated $120,
Uralba staff & residents came along,
as well as the Garden Club & Mirrabooka Friendship Group.
Because of their generosity we will be forwarding $956 on to World Vision.
A big thankyou to everyone involved!

World Vision appeal.

2008-08-11T09:38:00.000+10:00

This Wednesday 13th August, we are hosting a special morning tea
on behalf of World Vision Australia.
Each August World Vision run their annual 40 hour Famine campain
but we chose something a bit different this year.
A $5 donation will get you a great morning tea, & you'll be doing something really worthwhile at the same time!
Did you know that there are as many as 100 million child labourers in India? Kids as young as 5 years old are forced to work up to 14 hours a day, 7 days a week!
World Vision is currently working in India offering education & rehabilitation, running refuges & training, as well as speaking out for these kids. Every $40 we raise will help 8 children break out of this poverty driven cycle.
I'll let you know how the morning goes shortly.

"Be a doer of the Word!" MP3

2008-08-10T16:51:00.000+10:00

This week we hear some great instruction from the Bible,
God's word to us.
The little book of James really packs a punch,
and is very, very practical.
After all, God didn't give us the Bible to fill our heads
with intellectual knowledge,
He gave it to us to personally apply to our daily lives.
God doesn't want us to just listen to His word, or just read His word,
He wants us to live His word!
Listen along as Calvin Martin shares this truth from James chapter 1.

"Real faith works!" MP3

2008-07-27T19:47:00.000+10:00

This week we look at the call on every Christians life to be about the work of God.
What a privilege!
But, we don't do anything to earn our salvation.
We don't & can't do anything to earn the favour of God.
We don't & can't do anything to recieve grace, for it's a gift from God!
We work for God out of a sense of gratitude for the love He has given us through His Son Jesus.
Works don't save us, but they show others that we have been saved!
There's so much that needs doing in this world.
So many people who need to see Christianity in action.
Are you ready?

"We must stay connected!" MP3

2008-07-13T13:37:00.000+10:00

How do we live the Christian life?
How do we experience peace, love & joy in our lives?
How do we live fruitful lives?

Jesus answered these quetions for us in ch 15 of John's gospel,
when He said these words.
"I am the vine, you are the branches. Remain in me.."

Listen along as we discover what Jesus was sharing with His disciples,
a message so relevant to us today!

"The prodigal son." Part 1 MP3

2008-06-29T16:15:00.000+10:00

The parable of the prodigal son must be one
of the most well know stories in the Bible.
But, while it's so well known,
it probably isn't understood as clearly as it should be.
This parable could well be called "God's outrageous love for us!"
Listen along & find out why.

"Are you willing?"

2008-06-15T13:55:00.000+10:00

Jesus often challenged people's opinions & beliefs with His teaching.
It's good for us to be challenged as well,
even though often we don't like it much!
In Lukes gospel we read about a situation where Jesus
laid out a huge challenge to everyone gathered.
"Are you willing to carry your cross?" He asked them.
He's asking us that same question today.
"Are you willing?"
Listen along to learn more.

"Together as the family of God" prt 4 MP3

2008-06-08T18:22:00.000+10:00

Together we make up the family of God.
But just like any family, conflicts can arise.
In his letter to the Colossian church, Paul stresses to them
how we are to live with each other.
We are to "take off the old self"
just as we would take off a dirty old coat,
& then we are to "put on the new self"
which will enable us to live as members of God's family.
Listen along as we close out this series
"Together as the family of God."

"Together as the family of God" prt 3 MP3

2008-06-01T13:51:00.000+10:00

For 3 weeks now we've seen how God draws us together from diverse backgrounds to become part of His family, the church.
2 great gifts that God gives us, His church, are diversity & unity.
So today's talk from Romans chapter 12, reveals how God wants us to see His church, as a body.
Just as your body has many different parts, so does the church.
And if you are a part of God's church, He has given you a gift to use in the life of that church.
Listen along to hear more!

"Together as the family of God" prt 2 MP3

2008-05-25T14:06:00.000+10:00

Isn't it wonderful that no matter our background,
no matter where we have come from, what culture, race, or language we call our own,
once we trust in Jesus Christ as our Saviour, we become a member in God's family!
In this weeks message we see how & why we can find unity in that family.
We look at the "ones" listed in Paul's letter to the Ephesian church.
Ephesians chapter 4 verses 1-6

"Fusion" desend on Gundagai!

2008-05-11T15:45:00.000+10:00

About 70 "Fusion" youth stopped in Sunday morning for a quick cuppa & sausage sandwich before hitting the road once again on their way back to Melbourne after spending time in Canberra for the 20th aniversary of the opening of Parliament house. 20 years ago, around 50,000 Christians from all around Australia gathered in Canberra to pray for the Parliament & the country.
This time around there were youth concerts & prayer meetings all through the night! No wonder they looked tired!

It was great to catch up with our daughter Kylie, even if it was only flying visit!

"Lessons from a Mum of faith" MP3

2008-05-11T15:38:00.000+10:00

Happy Mothers Day to all the Mums out there!
In this Mothers Day message I share some of the lessons
we can learn from Sarah (Abrahams wife).
Found in chapters 18 & 21 of Genesis.
So listen along to "Lessons from a Mum of faith."

"Does it matter how we live?" MP3

2008-05-04T18:24:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!
Does it really matter how we live as Christians?
If Jesus has paid the price for us,
if we've truly been forgiven, why can't I just do what ever I like?
Listen to guest speaker Jon Blyth as he reveals God's truth to us.

"Prayer, your Hotline to God." MP3

2008-04-27T15:24:00.000+10:00

Prayer is something that can seem
a bit of a mystery for many people.
What is it?
How do we pray?
What do we pray?
Why do we pray?
All good questions that deserve an answer.
So why not listen along to;
"Prayer, your Hotline to God."

P.S It's raining in Gundagai!
Like so many areas of NSW we need it badly.
Thankyou God!

"Are you willing to forgive?" MP3

2008-04-20T15:12:00.000+10:00

Forgiving someone who has hurt us deeply can be really, really tough can't it?
And because we live in a fallen world,
people will hurt us, no question about it.
Can I encourage you to read the story of Joseph
in the 1st book of the Bible, Genesis.
Start at chapter 37 and take a note of all the betrayal, slander, hurt, false accusations & false imprisonment that he has to suffer,
all because his brothers wanted to harm him!
How does Joseph deal with it all?
Listen along to "Are you willing to forgive?" to find out.

The importance of forgiveness.

2008-04-20T15:01:00.000+10:00

"..forgive whatever grievances you may have against each other." Colossians 3:13b

Forgive and forget they say.
Well, it's a lot easier said than done isn't it?
But, studies are showing forgiveness isn't just good Bible teaching,
but it's good for our health as well.
According to recent medical and psychological research, forgiveness is great for our wellbeing.
Studies show that people who forgive:
"benefit from better immune functioning and lower blood pressure have better mental health than people who do not forgive.
They feel better physically; have lower amounts of anger and fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression,
and maintain more satisfying and long-lasting relationships. When we allow ourselves to feel like victims or sit around dreaming up how to retaliate against people who have hurt us,
these thought patterns take a toll on our minds and bodies."
(Michael McCullough. 'To Forgive is Human: How to Put Your Past in the Past').

So, there you are.
Be forgiving. It's good for you!

Jesus is our New & Living Way! MP3

2008-04-06T14:30:00.000+10:00

Have you ever wondered why some Churches
still have altars & Priests?
Is there still a need for them in the 21st century?
And just what did Jesus do for us when He assended into Heaven?

Listen along to my message "Jesus is our New & Living Way!"
as I look at what Hebrews 10 :19-25 tells us.

I am a friend of God.

2008-04-04T15:08:00.000+11:00

One of my favourite songs at the moment is "I am a friend of God." by Israel Houghton.
Based on James 2:23 "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God's friend."
What an incredible thing, to be called God's friend!
You see, Abraham believed God.
He believed what God told him & he did what God told him to do.
Because Abraham did that, he was "right" in the eyes of God, & could be called a friend of God.
Just like Abraham, we are called to believe all that God tells us through His word, the Bible.
And we are made "right" with God by receiving Jesus Christ as our Saviour & Lord.
Then & only then can we say with absolute confidence that "I am a friend of God."

Just think about it for a moment.
That the Creator of the universe, the Lord God Almighty would look at you & call you 'friend'!

April fools day.

2008-04-01T19:46:00.000+11:00

It's the 1st day of April, which most people refer to as
"April fools day".
The Bible reveals who a fool is.
“ The fool says in his heart, "There is no God."
Psalm 14 verse 1
That's the sad reality for anyone who doesn't acknowlegde that there is a God.
Now nobody likes the idea of being called a fool do they?
Just compare how the Bible decribes someone who believes in God & follows His ways.
"Blessed is he who fears the Lord (God) and finds delight in His commands." Psalm 112 verse 1

So, which are you?

"Yes, Jesus is alive!" MP3

2008-03-30T14:39:00.000+11:00

In Lukes gospel (chapter 24) we read about 2 of His followers who were downcast, depressed, discouraged, & disillusioned.
(Now there's a mouthful!)
Why did they feel that why?
How could they have hope again?

Listen along & find out what happened to them as they took a life changing walk.

Baptism

2008-03-28T13:40:00.000+11:00

Stephen C. being baptized Thursday 27/3/2008

"Why be baptized?" I hear you ask.
Well, for one thing to follow Jesus' example.

He was baptized in the Jordon river at the very start of His earthly ministry.

Then He commanded His followers to make disciples & baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, & the Holy Spirit.

(Matthews gospel chapter 28)

And, being baptized is a public declaration

"I'm a follower of Jesus Christ!"

The word "Baptism" literally means "to immerse or dip under water",

and every person baptized in the Bible, including Jesus himself, was baptized by going down under the water.

If you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord & Saviour,

can I encourage you to take this next step & be baptized yourself!

"From Tragedy to Triumph!" MP3

2008-03-24T12:48:00.000+11:00

The message of Jesus Resurrection is an awesome one!
After Jesus death on the cross, His followers felt the situation was tragic, & totally hopeless.
But when they discovered the empty tomb, & then saw the Risen Jesus, their lives were drastically changed forever!
Listen along to "From Tragedy to Triumph" to learn how!

Sunday services.

2008-03-18T14:39:00.000+11:00

If you are looking for somewhere to hear the wonderful good news of the Christian message, then why not join us in Gundagai
@ 9.30 am every Sunday morning.
We are located on the corner of Punch & Otway streets in Gundagai.
(P.O. Box 101 Gundagai NSW 2722)
Just come as you are.
We'd love to see you!

Easter.

2008-03-18T13:00:00.000+11:00

Why should He die for such as I?”

“In everything both great and small,
we see the hand of God in all….
When everywhere in everything
His handiwork is all around,
and every lovely sight and sound,
proclaims the God of earth and sky,
I ask myself ‘Just who am I?’
that God should send His only Son,
that my salvation would be won.
Upon a cross by a sinless man,
to bring fulfilment to God’s plan?
For Jesus suffered, bled and died
that sinners might be sanctified,
and to grant God’s children such as I,
eternal life in that home on high.”
Helen Steiner Rice

“God gave Jesus to die for our sins,
and he raised him to life,
so that we would be made acceptable to God.” Romans 4:25 CEV