Moral Compass and Ethical Framework
Scripture acts as a moral compass and ethical framework for Christ followers. Proverbs 3:5-6 states:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

This verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's wisdom and submitting to His will, rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Furthermore, the Ten Commandments, found in Exodus 20:1-17, lay out clear ethical guidelines for Christians. These commandments, including “You shall not murder" and “You shall not steal," provide a solid foundation for ethical decision-making. These commandments are transformed into convictions as the Holy Spirit transforms our hearts through the new birth.

 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.

Ezek 36:24 NIV

Seeking Wisdom and Discernment
Scripture encourages Christ followers to seek wisdom and discernment in their decision-making processes. James 1:5 states, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." This verse underscores the importance of seeking divine wisdom through prayer and meditation on Scripture when faced with difficult choices.

Moreover, the book of Proverbs is replete with verses that extol the value of wisdom and understanding. Proverbs 2:6 states,

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

Proverbs serve as a practical guide for daily decision making, offering advice on various aspects of life, including relationships, finances, and work.

Love, Compassion, and Servanthood
Scripture emphasizes the importance of love, compassion, and servanthood in decision making. In the New Testament, Jesus instructs His followers in Matthew 22:39, saying,

 “Love your neighbour as yourself."

This commandment underscores the need to consider the well-being and welfare of others when making decisions.

Furthermore, the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37 illustrates the concept of compassion and selfless service. The Samaritan's actions in helping a wounded stranger serve as a powerful example of how scripture guides Christians to prioritize love and compassion in their decision-making process.

Trusting in God's Providence
Scripture teaches Christ followers to trust in God's providence and sovereignty, even when uncertain. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us,

 “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."

This verse encourages believers to make plans and decisions while acknowledging that God ultimately directs their paths.

The Apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians offers insights into trusting God's providence. Philippians 4:6-7 states,

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

This passage reassures Christians that God's peace will guide their hearts and minds as they seek His guidance in decision making.

Scripture plays a central role in guiding the decision-making process of Christ followers. It provides a moral compass, encourages the pursuit of wisdom and discernment, emphasizes love and compassion, and fosters trust in God's providence. Through passages such as Proverbs 3:5-6, James 1:5, Matthew 22:39, and Proverbs 16:9, believers are equipped with timeless principles that illuminate the path of righteous decision making. By grounding their choices in these biblical teachings, Christ followers are empowered to navigate life's challenges with faith and obedience to God's will. In doing so, they find a steadfast source of guidance and strength in their journey of faith.

It's just 6 easy steps!

1. Go to The Desk and purchase a box for $1.00
2. Fill the box with the gifts
3. Label your box
4. Bring the box back by 1st October 2023
5. Make a $12.50 donation for shipping and gospel materials
6. Pray for the child who will receive your box

Bring joy and Jesus to a child's life this Christmas by participating in Operation Christmas Child. Find out more by going to The Desk before or after the Sunday worship service.

The Grade 6 Graduation Ceremony is also on Sunday 10th December before the End of Year celebration festivities begin. Each of our Kids Church Rooms will finish the year in prayer – thanking God for all that He has done in 2023!

Your kids will not want to miss out on this fun day – please add the date to your calendar.

NB: Grade 6 kids will soon be transitioning from Kids Church to Fuse Youth. We strongly encourage them to continue attending Kids Church until the end of the year aka their Graduation and Celebration Day. Grade 6 kids bring a valuable contribution to Kids Church through worship, prayer, and group discussions which has a very positive impact on the younger kids in the room. We also believe it is important to finish seasons well and end their time in Kids Church in a fun celebration.

9am Service

Sign-in desk opens at 8:50am – closes at 9:15am (usual place in the foyer)

Pick-up at 10:15am is ONLY via the external side glass sliding doors of the Family Life Centre via the side verandah (this is for Child Safety to avoid congestion in the foyer between services).

NB: Access to the Family Life Centre via the foyer will be restricted from 9:15 – 10:50am

NB: Please be prompt in picking up your children straight after the conclusion of the 9am service to allow time for Kids Ministry Team to prepare for the next service.

11am Service

Sign-in desk opens at 10:50am – closes at 11:15am (usual place in the foyer)

Pick-up at 12:15pm is ONLY via the external side glass sliding doors of the Family Life Centre via the side verandah.

NB: Access to the Family Life Centre via the foyer doors will be restricted from 11:15 – 12:30pm

NB: Please be prompt in picking up your children straight after the conclusion of the 11am service.

Many thanks for your cooperation during this trial service period. We welcome any feedback you can provide based on your experience from these days that will help us improve and streamline our delivery.

Come and join this fun and dynamic team and help us raise up the next generation to be strong and anchored in their faith. All training is happily provided.

If you feel called to serve in this valuable ministry, simply complete the Kids Ministry Volunteer Application Form via this link.

Need more info? Please contact Glennie: [email protected]

Term 4 could be a great time for a visit to decide if it’s something you would like to do in 2024 (either as a participant with your child or grandchild or to join our wonderful team of child-free helpers).

To arrange a time to visit (or to join for this term) please get in touch with Sue (0403 822 324) or visit our website.  It’s lots of fun!!

Join us as we spend time together in prayer, worship, and fellowship as we seek the face of God for our families, community and nation.

>>>MEN'S PRAYER GROUP<<<

There’s no obligation to say anything and there’s nothing you can’t share (seriously). It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.

Details

• Date: Wednesday 4th October 2023
• Time: 7.00pm – 9.30pm
• Address: 446 Centre Road, Berwick
• Booking fee: $10 (includes a free introduction night 2 course dinner)

The God’s Squad Christian Motorcycle Club (GSCMC), it was founded in 1971. In 1972, God’s Squad began in Melbourne under the leadership of John Smith. God’s Squad spread from Australia and now has multiple chapters throughout Europe, New Zealand, and the USA. God’s Squad has continued for over five decades to devote its efforts to those on the fringes of society. It has maintained a long commitment to supporting the poor, advocating for the rights of first nation people, and active ministry in prisons, schools, and the public space. All of this has been built on a foundation of radical discipleship in Christ and the truth of the Gospel.

The Club continues to exist primarily to minister among motorcycle clubs and associated groups, where it is seen as an accepted and relevant expression of the Christian Church.

So, why wait? Gather your mates and come along for a great evening! We look forward to seeing you there!

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

Details:

• Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
• Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
• Bring: Please bring a plate for everyone to share

>>>SENIORS MINISTRY<<<

The Next Steps Lunch is a 3-Sunday Lunch event (Sunday 15th, 22nd, and 29th October 2023) where you will get the opportunity to get connected, learn more about the movement, and discover your potential whilst enjoying a delicious meal.

The lunches are especially relevant to Newcomers but if you’ve been an attendee, a volunteer, or a partner and have not been to a Next Step Lunch before, we also encourage you to register.

The expectation is that people who book will attend all 3 lunches as each lunch has a different focus. And did I mention that it’s free?

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

If you would like to be contacted about being baptised, complete the Expression of Interest form below by clicking “Book Now".

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

NB: This will be the last Child Dedication Service for 2023.

If you would like to participate, please fill in the Child Dedication Application Form on the BCOC website here.