Reconsidering the resurrection

Senior Pastor Braam Botha Communique
Table of Contents
Reconsidering the resurrection

Wednesday 9th October 2024

Jesus Christ didn’t die as a popular influencer of his day. Through the eyes of politicians, religious leaders, and the legal system of the day, he was probably just seen as an unnecessary nuisance who had been humiliated and removed. That was until some of his followers started to spread around an unusual, shocking and nonsensical three-word claim:

He is risen!

Whether you believe or don’t believe in Jesus Christ, like or dislike his teachings, approve or disapprove of the movement that follows him as their supreme leader, you cannot discard the impact of those three words on history.

We are bound to acknowledge the pivotal effect of those three powerful words on human history. In the modern world, the ages are split into two: before Christ and after Christ! The modern Western legal system is built on his perspective on morality. His validation of women has transformed the way cultures posture themselves towards females. The prioritising of the value of children and their unhindered access to him, sparked movements against child slavery. We can go on and on to highlight how his resurrection distinguishes him from other political, societal, and even military leaders.

 

His resurrection caused his followers and more than 500 people he interacted with after his resurrection to really upset the applecart regarding whether he was the real deal!

‘For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters simultaneously, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all, he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. ‘

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 NIV

Surely, if this were merely 500 lunatics coerced into believing, then two thousand years of opposition would have been able to squash this rumour! But alas…his movement is still growing…

No wonder his followers believed that his triumphant victory over death was far more significant than just another crucifixion of a zealous Jew in an obscure corner of Jerusalem. No, they believed that a new way of living was introduced. It modelled a new reign breaking through into this world after the tyrannical rule of sin and death:

‘For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!’

Romans 5:17 NIV

As Christ’s followers, we can engage with life from this perspective! How impoverished would we be if we lost sight of this hope in our daily walk? Let’s be a people of hope in these times when the conflict in the Middle East, fluctuating global political landscape, and economic uncertainty rule over people’s minds. Indeed…he has come to make all things new!

Pastoral Care & Life Groups

Pastoral Care

Are you in need of pastoral care? Sue Nicholls is available. Pastoral care is about connection, compassion, and understanding. Sue is dedicated to providing a safe space for you to express your feelings and be encouraged.

Feel free to reach out and contact Sue via email at care@bcoc.com.au.

Life Groups

Do life together and stay connected. No matter what stage of life you’re in, we have a Life Group for you. Life Groups provide the environment where you will build healthy relationships that aid your personal growth, feelings of acceptance, support, and connection within our church and the community.

If you would like to join a Life Group, speak to Arlo van Rhyn, Life Groups Ministry Leader. You can contact Arlo via email at transformed@bcoc.com.au.

Photo so Sue who runs pastrol care. Photo of Arlo who runs life groups.
Food Pantry | Our city needs your help

In 2023, the Food Pantry supported 96 families (231 visits) who required crisis support. 96 families! Imagine, they could be your friends or neighbours; local families who are doing it tough. Last year the City of Casey Council recognised the generous support the Food Pantry and volunteers give to our local community by presenting us with the ‘Community Group of the Year Award’.

Let’s reach out and continue supporting this great cause by purchasing something from our list below in your next shopping trip. Then simply drop it in the Food Pantry Trolley located in the foyer, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or Sundays 9am -12 noon.

Needed items:

  • Biscuits (e.g. Arnott’s)
  • Jam Spreads
  • Pasta sauces
  • Olive oil
  • Muesli bars
  • Tinned tuna
  • Soup (e.g. tinned, powdered)
  • Long life milk
  • Toothpaste & toothbrushes
  • Shampoo & conditioner
  • Blankets
  • Reusable shopping bags

We also accept cash, card, and online donations. Payment via cash or card can be made during the above times or you can donate online.

  • Account name: Berwick Church of Christ Inc.
  • BSB: 033 609
  • Account number: 434168
  • Reference: FOOD PANTRY

This is one way we can Love People, be His presence and Serve our City of Casey! Many thanks!

Alpha Course | Wednesday 9th October 2024 | 7:00pm

Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that create a safe and honest space, where people can explore the meaning of life and faith.

Connect

Connecting with others is important; friends gather around the kitchen table, meeting for coffee or catching up online. It’s no different at Alpha. All sessions start with a time to connect, relax and build friendships – whether in person or virtually.

Watch

The Alpha talks are designed to engage and inspire conversation. Each video talk is around thirty minutes long and explores important issues around faith and the basics of Christianity.

We address questions such as;

“Who is Jesus?”
“How can we have faith?”
“Why and how do I pray?”
“How does God guide us?”

Discuss

One of the most important parts of any Alpha Course is sharing thoughts and ideas in small groups. 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 respectful environment.

Come along and enjoy a meal with others, watch an Alpha Talk video and have an open discussion in a friendly and non-judgemental environment where everyone’s opinion and experiences are validated.

Kids Church | Sunday 13th October | 9:00 am & 11:00 am

2 to 4-year-olds | Hagar and Ishmael | Genesis 21: 14-20
5 to 12-year-olds | Choose your words carefully | Proverbs 12:18

Sunday Service | Karl Faase | 13th October | 9:00 am & 11:00 am

We have a special guest, Karl Faase!
Karl Faase is a well-known Australian Christian communicator, media presenter, leader and social commentator. He is the CEO of Olive Tree Media, the organisation through which he produces programs of excellence for Christian media and local church use internationally. He is also widely known as the presenter of the Daily Nudge – which are short, thought-provoking devotionals heard on radio and landing in inboxes right across Australia for over 10 years.

Join us as Karl unpacks the myth that Australia despises Christianity.

Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 13th October | 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.

Boys Brigade | Monday 14th October | 7:30 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 15th October | 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.

Baptism Class | Sunday 20th October | 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 | Pastor Dave Edgar | Sunday 20th October | 5:30 pm

Pastor Dave and his wife, Ailen, are the State Directors of Youth Alive Victoria and have been leading YA Vic since 2016. Dave and Ailen were youth pastors at Faith Church for the better part of a decade and saw incredible fruit from their ministry. Dave brings the skills he learned as a youth pastor into the Youth Alive network and is wholeheartedly committed to equipping, empowering, and encouraging youth pastors to be as effective as possible in their local settings.

Dave is a passionate evangelist. He is articulate and has a powerful testimony of loss, tragedy, and the power of God to bring good from moments of despair. He has a degree in ministry, sound Bible knowledge, and a strong anointing to impart breakthrough faith.

Be sure to join us in food and fellowship after the service. SEE YOU THERE!

Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 23rd October | 1:30 pm

Russell John is a Christian illusionist who will dazzle us with his sleight of hand. There will also be a cameo performance from our own Robert Davis! Come along and be amazed!

Writers Group | Saturday 26th October | 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!

Child Dedication Q&A | Briefing | Sunday 27th October | 1:00 pm

If you are interested in your child(ren) being dedicated on Sunday November 17th at our 9.00am or 11.00am service, there is a brief but important Q&A and briefing session.

Importantly, please complete the Child Dedication Application Form as soon as possible and upload a photo of your child(ren) being dedicated.

Men's Camp | Xtreme Character Challenge | Thursday 31st October 2024

Men, are you ready for a challenge on 31 Oct – 3 Nov 2024 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. 

NB: This is NOT a Church Men’s Camp. The XCC is set up like an endless adventure; men are confronted with significant physical challenges, deep camaraderie, and profound moral and spiritual input moments. Through the XCC process, men find perspective; they evaluate who they are and find a purpose worth living for.

Cost: $450:00

*Note: This event is run independently from Berwick Church of Christ.

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