Down-under round-up: 5 August 2015

Issue of the week

Much general Australian media discussion has been dominated by debate over the booing of Aboriginal AFL footballer Adam Goodes, and how far racism permeates our society. In 'Adam Goodes, Jesus and Ephesians 2', Steve McAlpine gave one useful reflection for Christians, highlighting Ephesians 2:14.

He also made me think of advice I heard elsewhere recently, that one of the best things we can do for reconciliation between groups such as indigenous and non-indigenous is grab opportunities to get to know each other.

Making disciples of Jesus

Vinegrowers’ Col Marshall (co-author of The Trellis & the Vine) provides 'Four reasons to expect fruitfulness' springing from John 15. There’s both encouragement and challenge in his four points:

1. Jesus’ mission is to bear fruit—by making more disciples.
2. The disciples are not themselves commanded to bear fruit—that can only happen as they remain in the vine.
3. The method that accomplishes the fruit-bearing mission is the Word of God, teaching the truth in Jesus.
4. The prayers of the disciples in the context of this mission will be productive (and here Col thinks about the greater things that Jesus did).

“Read a few verses and pray. Then, the next day, read and pray. And the day after that.” Tim Challies gives really good, simple advice on how to make progress in 'Why we fail family devotions'. Please share with your church friends with kids.

John McLean shares conditions under which the recently launched The Gospel Coalition Australia (TGCA) will or won't be a blessing in our nation. I don’t think he’s making predictions, but encouraging good roads to drive down and byways to avoid.

Simone Richardson also reports on a night out with friends, selflessness and evangelism that occured during the TGCA launch. Names were changed, and I can understand the various reactions of all present. But in our better moments let's aim for Tom's reaction! His example is one good illustration of being prepared to preach the word in season and out (2 Tim 4:2), and that it doesn’t just mean being ready with a good sermon or argument.

The Marriage Redefinition resources from the Sydney Anglicans Social Issues Committee include letter writing tips and a reading list (disclosure: I serve on the committee and contributed to the resources).

Just to add a reminder resource: here’s Kevin DeYoung’s fairly recent summary (not a detailed argument) of what the Bible says in this area.

'An Australian medical perspective on Transgender' by GP Jereth Kok. Well worth reading.

Image of the week

Someone is turning Matthias Media founder, Phillip Jensen’s wisdom on gospel ministry and church growth into memes! For example…