Table of Contents
Pursuing Justice as a Reflection of God’s Kingdom
Wednesday 6th November 2024
Justice is not merely a human construct; it is deeply rooted in God’s very nature and His plan for creation. The pursuit of justice is woven through Scripture, reflecting God’s desire for a world in which righteousness, mercy, and fairness prevail. Scripture reminds us that justice is a core aspect of God’s kingdom, one that goes beyond legal systems and reaches the depths of restoring relationships and communities. When we seek justice, we are not simply striving for fairness, but for a world that mirrors God’s intended order and goodness.
Scripture calls us to this pursuit. Micah 6:8 lays it plainly:
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In this verse, justice, mercy, and humility are bound together, forming the foundation of a life aligned with God’s heart. Justice is not just about retribution or punitive measures; it is about embodying God’s love in action—a love that restores and redeems. When we seek justice, we work to bring God’s peace (shalom) into our communities, creating spaces where all people can flourish.
Jesus’ ministry was steeped in the pursuit of justice, especially for the marginalised and oppressed. In Luke 4:18-19, Jesus declares His mission:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”
Here, we see that justice is not an abstract idea but a tangible, life-changing force that Jesus brings through the gospel.
The Apostle Paul echoes this call in Romans 12:17-18:
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Our role as followers of Christ is to be agents of justice by reconciling relationships and promoting peace wherever we go.
Justice is not a passive endeavour. It is a call to action rooted in our faith, urging us to live out the reality of God’s kingdom in a broken world. May we commit ourselves to this pursuit, trusting that as we act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, we will bear witness to His kingdom and bring healing to our world.
Join our Fantastic Volunteer Team!
Fulfilling the vision and mission of Berwick Church of Christ is only made possible through the dedication and service of our wonderful volunteers. As we have grown, the need for more volunteers has increased. Volunteering is partnering with Jesus to touch lives with his love. Serving as a volunteer is hugely rewarding, and a fun way to meet new friends and help our church community to flourish. We need your support in the following areas…
- Worship – Musicians and Sound Technicians
- Kids Church – Sign-in, Safety, and Room Team
- Playgroup
- Food Pantry – Set up Team
Ready to jump on board? Click the link and complete the Volunteers Application Form.
Thank you for being a part of our community. We can’t wait to see you make an impact!
Kids Church | Sunday 10th November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | Pillars of Cloud and Fire (Exodus 13:3-4, 21-22)
5 to 12-year-olds | Widow of Zarephath | 1 Kings 17:7-16
Sunday Service | 10th November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Join us for an inspiring morning as we welcome International Justice Mission (IJM) representatives. Together, we’ll explore their vital work in 16 countries around the world alongside local justice officials, community partners, advocates, survivors and people like you to stop slavery and violence. Millions of people around the world are at risk of everyday violence – crimes like slavery, trafficking, violence against women and children and police abuse of power. IJM is on a mission to partner with local communities to build a more just world where everyone can expect to be safe and protected. See you there!
NB: Parents – due to the sensitive content of this message we strongly suggest that children aged 2-12 years NOT be in the service. We recommend you sign your children into Kids Church which is running for both services.
Pastor Mat Daniel's Farewell | Sunday 10th November | 12:45pm
As many of you know, our beloved Pastor Mat will soon be embarking on a new chapter in his ministry journey. We are incredibly grateful for his 19 years of dedication and ministry to our congregation. In honour of Mat’s service we are having a special farewell in the auditorium at 12:45pm this Sunday 10th November.
We want to honour Mat with a financial gift to assist in the transition to the next season. If you would like to contribute to this gift, please use the following bank account details, and you can use this link until the 10th of November, 2024. Should you prefer to give in person to Mat, please do so!
- Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
- BSB: 033 609
- Account number: 434168
- Reference: Mat love offering
Note that the deadline for contributing to the financial gift is Sunday, 10th of November 2024, at 5 pm to ensure it goes into Pastor’s Mat’s last pay.
Thank you for joining us in honouring Pastor Mat!
International Justice Mission Australia Freedom Sunday | Sunday 10th November | 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Millions of people around the world are at risk every day of violence – crimes like slavery, trafficking, violence against women and children and police abuse of power. Join us for a critical awareness evening as we welcome International Justice Mission (IJM) representatives. Together, we’ll explore their vital mission in 16 countries working alongside local justice officials, community partners, advocates, survivors and inviting people like you to help us stop slavery and violence. IJM is on a mission to partner with local communities to build a more just world where everyone can expect to be safe and protected. Join us for this significant event. NB: This event is only suitable for people aged 16+.
Boys Brigade | Monday 11th November | From 6:00 pm
Be part of the action.
For over 20 years the Boys’ Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys.
ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7.15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8.30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.30pm
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 12th November | 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, 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 Tuesday evening 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.
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 13th November | 1:30 pm
John McCleary is a Christian singer who will share his testimony with us. Come and be blessed as we hear about the change that Jesus has brought to his life.
Child Dedication | Sunday 17th November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Child Dedication is the acknowledgment that not only are children a gift from God, but they are His children. It is essentially placing your child into God’s hands, trusting his guidance in parenting and declaring you will endeavour to raise 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 on the 17th, please contact Sue Nicolls ASAP. Email: sue@bcoc.com.au. Please also complete the Child Dedication Application Form and we will be in touch to make arrangements.
Baptism Class | Sunday 17th November | 12:45 pm
Baptism is the complete immersion into water 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.
Book now if you want to be contacted about attending the Baptism Class.
Y&Y Service | Gabby Conlon | Sunday 17th November | 5:30 pm
Gabby Conlon is a passionate lover of Jesus, who walks intimately with the Holy Spirit. For many years Gabby has consistently pursued knowing more of who God is and has a strong passion to enable others to do the same. She is part of the leadership team of The School of Faith where she equips believers all over the world to walk with the Holy Spirit and know the word. Gabby enjoys providing opportunities for people to put into practice what they are learning through creative activations. Her own radical encounters are what propelled her to help others grow in their faith and go after `more of God’ that is so readily available. Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. SEE YOU THERE!
Baptism Celebration | Sunday 24th November | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Baptism is the complete immersion into water 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.
Complete the expression of interest form if you would like to be contacted about being Baptised.
Exploring Partnership | Sunday 24th November | 1:00 pm
Exploring Partnership is an important step in taking up co-ownership of the vision, mission, and purpose of our Church. This meeting is an opportunity to understand the role of partnership in the broader functioning of the Church. You will meet leadership and we will talk about how you can partner with us to make our vision a reality.
If you regularly attend Berwick Church of Christ and are not yet a partner, we would like to invite you to attend our next meeting and enjoy lunch together.
Writers Group | Saturday 30th November | 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!
Young Families | Camping Weekend | Friday 21st February 2025
Calling all camping families – kids of any age are welcome!
Get ready for a weekend of making unforgettable memories! We invite you to join us from February 21st (Friday) to February 23rd (Sunday) 2025, for the Young Families Camping Weekend at Warburton. Strengthening the bonds between your family and others is our main priority!
Enjoy crisp, fresh air, surrounded by stunning nature and a sense of freedom, watch children play around the campsite, enjoy the fantastic free Water Park and paddle in the Warburton River. Warburton has plenty of cafes, and Redwood Forest has fantastic walking and cycling trails and is great fun for photos.
At night, get ready for cosy campfires, where we’ll swap stories, roast marshmallows, and enjoy fellowship.
We are staying at the Warburton Holiday Park. Camping is loads of fun (and much easier with a group), but you are welcome to book a cabin if you prefer.
So gather your adventurous spirit, pack your sense of humour, and join us for this amazing weekend. Come and embrace the great outdoors with us!
Please mark your calendars and book soon because our Young Families Camping Weekend awaits and the good sites and cabins go quickly!
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
