Table of Contents
Empowered Witnesses
Wednesday 1st May 2024
As Christians, we’re called to share the transformative power of Christ’s work in our lives, fulfilling the commandment in Romans 10:14-15:
“How can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”
We live in a world where everyone holds their “own truth”…! The assumption is that truth is subjective. As Followers of Christ, we see Him as The Truth…while we acknowledge we all face different realities. Distinguishing between Christ as the ultimate Truth and our circumstantial realities is essential to witness Christ truthfully. It is so easy to get into theological arguments on this distinguishing perspective that we ambush opportunities to be effective witnesses. Here are some tips on effectively witnessing when an opportunity comes your way:
- Authenticity: Share your own experiences genuinely. People are drawn to real stories of transformation and redemption.
- Listen first: Understand the other person’s perspective and concerns. Effective witnessing often starts with empathetic listening.
- Know your audience: Tailor your message to resonate with the person you’re speaking to. What aspects of your testimony will they find most compelling?
- Use scripture wisely: While it’s essential to be familiar with relevant Bible verses like Romans 10:14-15, don’t overwhelm others with too many scriptures or use them as a battering ram. Let the verses naturally flow within your conversation.
- Relate to everyday experiences: Connect your story to universal human experiences—struggles, doubts, fears, and hopes. This helps create a bridge between your experience and theirs.
- Emphasise grace: Highlight the unconditional love and grace of God; the truth that they are accepted and loved just as they, even before they consider embracing the transformative power of Christ. Pray for guidance, wisdom, and openness before, during, and after your interaction. Recognise that, ultimately, it’s the Holy Spirit who convicts hearts.
- Lifestyle witness: Let your life reflect the change Christ has made in you. Your actions can sometimes speak louder than your words.
- Invite and follow up: Extend invitations to church events, life groups, or some of our brilliant courses, such as Alpha, GTM, Marriage, etc. Follow up with those you’ve shared with, showing continued support and care.
- Be patient and persistent: Evangelism is rarely a one-time event. It often takes time for people to process and respond to the message of Christ.
Remember, effective witnessing isn’t about winning arguments or imposing beliefs. It’s about sharing the love of Christ in a way that respects the other person’s journey and autonomy, trusting that God is at work in their lives.
Writers Group | Saturday 4th May | 9:00 am
Aspiring writers, are you looking for a creative outlet to showcase your writing talents and connect with fellow literary enthusiasts? We are thrilled to invite you to join our Writers Group, where your words will come to life in a community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you write poetry, short stories, essays, or anything in between, we welcome all writing styles and genres. So come join us and ignite your passion for writing! Together, we will inspire each other to reach new heights and unlock our full potential as writers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be a part of something truly special.
Join us today and let your creativity soar!
FUEL – Empowered for witness | Sunday 5th May | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Join us as we continue our series through the New Testament and uncover the profound work of the Holy Spirit as demonstrated by the empowering presence of God in the Gospels, the dynamic agent of mission in Acts, and the transformative role in Paul’s letters. Come and discover how the Holy Spirit empowers and unites believers in God’s redemptive plan for humanity.
Kids Church | Sunday 5th May | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | I can hear from God | King Josiah | 2 Chronicles 34
5 to 12-year-olds | God’s Word is a Light | Psalm 119:105
Men's Prayer Group BBQ | Sunday 5th May | 5:00 pm
Get ready for an evening of fellowship, food, and faith at our Men’s Prayer Group BBQ! Join us for an exciting evening of grilling, fellowship, and live music with your fellow brothers in Christ.
Bring your appetite and a heart ready to connect with God and one another. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your faith and build lasting friendships. See you there!
“God inhabits the praises of His people” Psalm 22:3
Boys Brigade | Monday 6th May | 6:00 pm
For over 20 years, the Boys’ Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys. We provide a Christian community that supports boys and young men and assists in their Christian growth, physical development, and leadership training while teaching life skills. Come along and be part of the action!
ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7:15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8:30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.15pm
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 8th May | 1:30 pm
Lloyd Poole will present us with an afternoon of musical treats! Come along-singalong – and tap your toes!
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 14th May | 7:30 pm
Mental Health Support Gatherings cater for people who may benefit from mental health support. This may be personally or to assist a friend, family member or carer. This is a safe place to be heard and to share life’s challenges, make friendships and have hope restored. Remember, you are not alone.
In addition, the Gatherings also provide tools to assist people in dealing with life challenges and, on occasion, have specialist speakers addressing relevant topics. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are held on Tuesdays fortnightly during the School Terms from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. If you’re interested in coming along please click the ‘Book Now’ link below and choose: Special Interest Group: Mental Health Support Gatherings. For more information please contact the Church Office 03 9702 1011. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are a ministry of the Berwick Church of Christ.
Y&Y Service | Sunday 19th May | 7:30 pm
Hey, Youth and Young Adults! Our next Y&Y service is on the 19th of May!!! Our special guest speaker is Ernie Laskaris who will share what’s on his heart regarding the YA space. Make sure you are there and bring your friends!
Ernie Laskaris is the pastor of Strong Tower Church, a small church in Balwyn composed mostly of young adults. He is at the tail end of his doctoral studies, having spent the past four years doing a philosophical study on meme culture (in the hope of being conferred the title “doctor of memes”). This is just a side quest, though, as Ernie is set to become either a full-time minister of the gospel or a future WWE Champion—whatever the Lord wills.
Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. SEE YOU THERE!
Future Now CCVT Summit | Wednesday 22nd - Thursday 23rd May 2024
The ‘Future Now’ CCVT Summit will be hosted by our church on 22-23 May, 2024. Summit is the peak annual gathering of CCVT churches, agencies, and members to be inspired and trained, to participate in the AGM, and to connect with each other.
FREE SESSION
We invite you to attend the 7:00 pm Wednesday session which is a free event.
FUTURE NOW SUMMIT 2024
Register for the entire two-day summit here.
HELPERS REQUIRED
As part of this event we need your assistance in set-up and pack-up during the following times and dates.
- Tuesday, 21st May at 2:00 pm
- Wednesday, 22nd May at 9:00 pm
- Thursday, 23rd May at 4:00 pm
Please register your availability for set-up and pack-up below.
State Youth Games | Friday 7th June | 4:30 pm
SYG is a significant annual event that unites thousands of youth & young adults from across Victoria. We compete against each other in sport, eat (lots), make new friends, build community and get together for night rallies where we see young people come to Jesus. It’s Epic. Learn more.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
