Table of Contents
No more distance… but intimacy!
Wednesday 17th September 2025
One of the deepest desires of the human heart is to be known and loved. Psychologists remind us that intimacy—whether in friendships, marriage, or family—is built on trust, openness, and security. Spiritually, this longing is no different. We were created to walk in close fellowship with God, yet many wrestle with the question: Can I really draw near to Him?
To answer this, we must understand how intimacy with God looked under the Old Covenant and how it has been transformed under the New Covenant in Christ.
The Old Covenant: Intimacy with Barriers
Under the Law, intimacy with God was real but limited. N.T. Wright notes that Israel’s covenant at Sinai placed God at the very centre of their life through the tabernacle and temple. Yet access to His presence was mediated and restricted. The high priest could only enter the Holy of Holies once a year, and ordinary people remained at a distance.
This arrangement constantly reminded Israel both of God’s holiness and of human sinfulness. Sacrifices were needed again and again. The system communicated God’s nearness, but also His unapproachable majesty. Psychologically, this could foster a relationship with God shaped by fear and formality—a sense of “God is with us, but I must stay back.”
The New Covenant: Intimacy with Confidence
In Christ, everything changes. The gospel secures not only our forgiveness but also our adoption as sons and daughters. Through Jesus’ once-for-all sacrifice, the veil in the temple was torn, symbolising direct access to God’s presence (Matthew 27:51). No longer are we kept at arm’s length; we are invited to approach the throne of grace with confidence (Hebrews 4:16).
At the arrival of God’s new creation, the Spirit now dwells within believers, making our very bodies temples of His presence (1 Corinthians 6:19). David Pawson adds that intimacy is no longer centred on a building, ritual, or priest—but on the indwelling Spirit who whispers to our hearts, “Abba, Father” (Romans 8:15).
Psychologically, this is transformative. Instead of relating to God through anxiety, distance, or performance, we can experience intimacy rooted in security and belonging. Modern psychology tells us that healthy intimacy flows when we know we are fully accepted. The New Covenant offers just that; we are loved, therefore we draw near.
Living in New Covenant Intimacy
For the Christ follower, intimacy with God today is both a gift and a practice. In Christ:
- We enjoy bold access to God’s presence through prayer and worship.
- We are empowered by the Spirit to experience God’s love daily.
- We are invited into a secure attachment to the Father, not based on fear, but on grace.
The Old Covenant said: “Come near, but not too close.” The New Covenant declares: “Draw near, for you are Mine.”
As we embrace this truth, may our lives reflect the joy of sons and daughters who walk not in fear, but in the confident intimacy of God’s perfect love.
Operation Christmas Child
Would you like to bring joy and the love of Jesus to the lives of children? How about 200 children? How about 300 children? You have the opportunity to do this by taking part in Operation Christmas Child.
And you can do it in 6 easy steps!
- Purchase a box at the Desk for $1.00
- Fill the box with the gifts
- Label your box
- Bring the box back by Sunday, 19th October 2025
- Make a $12.50 donation for shipping and gospel materials
- Pray for the child who will receive your box
Bring joy and Jesus to the life of a child this Christmas by taking part in Operation Christmas Child.
Any questions? Come to the table set up in the foyer after the service, and the team will be happy to assist and respond to your queries.
School Holiday Break
Kid Church
Kids Church is taking a small break on Sunday 21st & 28th September 2025.
Activity and colouring-in sheets and pencils will be available on a table in the foyer for kids to enjoy. Please return all pencils borrowed.
Term 4 starts back with ALL the fun on Sunday 5th October 2025!
Fuse Youth
Fuse Youth is hitting pause!
No meet-ups 26th September & 3rd October.
But don’t worry… the fun returns 10th October 2025!
International Justice Mission (IJM) | Sunday Service | 9:00am & 11:00am
Three years ago, BCOC partnered with International Justice Mission (IJM) — a powerful force for good working to rescue children from the horrors of OSEC (Online Sexual Exploitation of Children). IJM will join us during the service and share the accomplishments we have made together and how your support has enabled BCOC to contribute to this life-saving work.
For those who would like to engage more deeply, we will host a special luncheon at 1pm in Room 1. This will enable a more detailed discussion about the work and opportunities for involvement. Due to the sensitive nature of the content and the fact that the church will be sponsoring the meal, we kindly request that you book in advance for the luncheon. BOOK HERE. Bookings close 12 noon Thursday 18th September 2025.
Our Sunday services remain open to all — and we encourage you to invite friends and family, especially those with a heart for Minors, one of BCOC’s four missional focus areas.
Kids Church | Sunday 21st September 2025 | ONLINE ONLY
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds |King Josiah | 2 Chronicles 34
5 to 12-year-olds | Rahab helps the Spies| Joshua 2 (Supporting: Joshua 6:22-25)
## NO onsite kids church this week – online only
Y&Y Service | Sunday 21st September 2025 | 5:30pm
WELCOME Y&Y!
Join us as we continue to explore the Psalms of Ascent. We will be having a panel that will discuss what Worship can look like in our everyday lives.
Make sure you stick around afterwards for some food and fellowship.
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 21st September | 5:45 pm
Calling all men! At our weekly gatherings, we come together to pray, support one another in our faith journey, and grow deeper in our relationship with God.
Whether you are a seasoned prayer warrior or new, we welcome you with open arms. Our group is a safe space where men can come together to share their hearts, struggles, and victories.
Join us as we seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength in our lives and for our families. Together, we can uplift each other, grow in faith, and make a real difference in our community.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land”. (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Come and join our Men’s Prayer Group where together we seek the Lord for our families, community and nation.
Prayer & Fellowship Walk | Tuesday 23rd September | 6:30am
The Tuesday morning Prayer and Fellowship Walk is around the church property and is a powerful time of seeking the Lord together in prayer.
We pray for our church, community and nation. So come and join us at 6:30 am in the Berwick Church of Christ Car Park.
This is a wonderful way to start the day and you are most welcome to join us. If you haven’t joined us before please message 0419 277 500 by 8.00pm on Monday evening so we can keep you updated of any changes to the plans.
Seniors Ministry | Wednesday 24th September 2025 | 1:30pm
We will be watching the amazing & inspiring story of Dr. Ben Carson, a neurosurgeon who successfully operated on twins joined at the head. Popcorn & lollies provided! Come early! Cost $2.
Details:
- Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
- Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
- Bring: Please bring a packet of food for everyone to share
Writers Group | Saturday 27th September 2025 | 9:00am
Aspiring writers, published authors, and everyone in between—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 supportive community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you write poetry, short stories, essays, blog posts, 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 one another to reach new heights and unlock our full potential as storytellers.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something special. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a few publications under your belt, we’d love to have you with us.
Join us today and let your creativity soar!
Child Dedication | Sunday 19th October 2025 | 9:00am & 11:00am
“Children are a gift from God; they are His reward” (Psalm 124:3).
Child Dedication is the acknowledgment that not only are children a gift from God, but they are His children. You place your child into God’s hands and trust that He will guide you in parenting. Essentially, dedicating your child to God is to declare that you will train your child in the ways of the Lord.
Child Dedication is part of our regular service and requires the parents to bring their child to the front of the church at the appropriate time. We encourage siblings of the child to join in and we like to display a photo of your child on the monitor so everyone can see.
If you are interested in your child being dedicated, please complete the Child Dedication Application Form by October 5, and we will be in touch to make arrangements and to explain the details of the service.
For more details, please email sue@bcoc.com.au or phone 0403 822 324.
Baptism Class | Monday 13th October 2025 | 7:00pm
Baptism is the complete water immersion of those who have confessed their faith in Jesus Christ as God’s Son and their Saviour.
However, it is more than just immersion in water. It has a number of significant meanings and spiritual implications. Book now if you want to find out more.
Men's Camp | Xtreme Character Challenge | Thursday 6th - Sunday 9th November 2025
Men, are you ready for a great challenge from Thursday, 6th to Sunday, 9th November 2025, at the Snowy Mountains, NSW? An XCC is a mind, body, and soul adventure – an active and challenging endurance event for men out in the wild.
The XCC is set up like an endless adventure; men are confronted with significant physical challenges, deep camaraderie, and profound moral and spiritual moments. Through the XCC process, men find perspective; they evaluate who they are and find a purpose worth living for.
Early bird pricing
- Book on or before 14-Sep-25: $360
- Book from 15-Sep-25: $450
*Note: This event is run independently from Berwick Church of Christ.
Family Camping Weekend or Day Out | 20 February 2026 @ 2:00 pm - 22 February 2026 @ 12:00 pm
It’s on again! Calling all camping families – kids of any age are welcome!
We invite you to join us from Friday February 20th to Sunday February 22nd 2026, for the Family Camping Weekend at Warburton. Our main priority is to strengthen the bonds between your family and others.
We’ll enjoy being surrounded by stunning nature and a sense of freedom as we watch children play, enjoy the fantastic free water park and paddle in the Yarra River. The nearby town has plenty of cafes and a Redwood Forest with walking and cycling trails; a great place for fun photos.
At night, get ready for cosy campfires, where we’ll swap stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy fellowship (please note that campfires and the water park are not available if a Total Fire Ban is declared)
We are staying at the Warburton Holiday Park. Camping is always loads of fun, and even better in a group, but you are welcome to book a cabin if you prefer.
Engage your adventurous spirit, pack a sense of humour, and book a site or cabin for this fantastic weekend. Come and embrace the great outdoors with us! We do advise booking soon if possible as cabins and good sites go quickly!
If the whole weekend isn’t an option for you, you are very welcome to bring food etc and join us on Saturday (provided it is not Total Fire Ban), just let one of the organisers know to expect you, and use the ‘Book Now’ button so we have your details and can keep you updated.
When and where is this all happening?
CAMPING Option:
- Date: Friday 20th – Sunday 22nd February 2026
- Time: Arrive from 2.00 pm Friday, leave by 12.00 pm Sunday, or time of your choosing on Saturday
- Address: Warburton Holiday Park, 30 Woods Point Rd, Warburton, VIC, 3799
DAY Option:
- Date: 21st February
- Time: From 9:00am to 9:00pm or whatever time suits your family
Here’s what to do next!
- Choose your site from the “L”, “F” and “C” sites. You can see where others are camped here, so please add your family to this list after booking.
- Call and book a campsite 5966 2277 or visit the Warburton Holiday Park website or use this interactive map to book. A powered site costs $59 per night for two people, plus extra for children (book for Friday and Saturday nights unless you want to stay longer than the rest of us). You can also book a cabin or lodge if that suits you better. Advise the caravan park office or note in the comments section that you are with Berwick Church of Christ. Note that a laptop is easier than a phone when navigating the online booking system.
- Importantly, we need to know that you are coming so we can send communication updates. After booking with Warburton Holiday Park and obtaining a site or cabin number, please REGISTER HERE.
- If you plan to come for the day, please also REGISTER so we can update you and look out for you. We will add campers and day visitors to the WhatsApp chat group for easy communication before and during the weekend.
Shout out if you have any questions
Sue 0403 822 324 or sue@bcoc.com.au
Mikayla 0431 317 332
James 0449 662 512
Amie 0448 762 314
Sarah 0490 016 122
We look forward to seeing you in Warburton whether for the weekend or the day!
Have a safety concern?
We are serious about keeping our faith community safe. We encourage all staff, volunteers, partners and congregation to report any concerns they have about safety and wellbeing. We are committed to handling all concerns seriously, legally and in a child-focused way (if concerning children).
If you have any concerns about safety at the Church, we strongly encourage you to share your concern with one of our Pastors or the Safety Contact Person, Karen Fletcher and fill in our Reporting Concerns Form.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
