Going through a long line of prophets, God has been addressing our ancestors in different ways for centuries. Recently he spoke to us directly through his Son. By his Son, God created the world in the beginning, and it will all belong to the Son at the end. This Son perfectly mirrors God, and is stamped with God’s nature. He holds everything together by what he says—powerful words!

Heb1:1-3 MSG

God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him.

Rom 8:29 MSG

In Christian theology, Sonship refers to the believers' adoption as children of God through their faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism plays a crucial role in illustrating and solidifying this spiritual relationship.

First and foremost, baptism symbolizes the initiation of a believer into the family of God. Just as a biological birth marks the beginning of a child's earthly life, baptism marks the beginning of a believer's spiritual journey as a child of God. It is a tangible act that signifies the washing away of sins and the renewal of one's life in Christ. This cleansing and rebirth are essential components of Sonship, as they highlight the restoration of a right relationship with God, who is the Father.

Furthermore, baptism closely parallels the example of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist, it symbolised His identification with humanity and His divine mission as the Son of God. In a similar way, when Christians are baptised in response to their own faith by full water immersion, they identify with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection; signifying their union with Him and their adoption into God's family. Just as Jesus is the ultimate Son of God, Christians become sons and daughters of God through their faith and baptism.

Baptism is a public declaration of one's faith, and this declaration is intrinsically connected to the concept of Sonship. It is through baptism that a believer publicly acknowledges their identity as a child of God and their commitment to living in obedience to the teachings of Jesus, who is the Son of God. This act of obedience and commitment strengthens the believer's connection to the Father and emphasises the familial bond that exists in the Christian faith.

In conclusion, Water Baptism is intimately related to the concept of “Sonship" for a Christian. It symbolises the believer's initiation into the family of God, their identification with Jesus Christ, and their public declaration of faith and commitment. Through baptism, Christians celebrate their adoption as sons and daughters of God, affirming their unique and cherished relationship with the heavenly Father.

As Christ-followers it is imperative that we are able to convey the inheritance stored up for us in baptism. Do you know a Christ-follower who hasn’t followed him through the waters of baptism? When is a good time to have the conversation… let’s do it!

Be a blessing by sponsoring 

• a Christmas hamper for $55 and/or
• a food voucher/gift for a child for $30

Bring Christmas to Life by purchasing your gift tags at The Desk on Sundays between 9.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m., at 446 Centre Road, Berwick.

As part of this event, we are looking for people who can help in setting up on Friday (1st December) during the day and packing up on Saturday (2nd December) at 2 p.m.  Let us know ASAP at [email protected] or 97021011 if you can assist.

If you are interested in participating with a child or in helping make these communities thrive in 2024, this is a great time to begin the process!

Check out what is involved in volunteering in playgroup HERE.

Or express interest in joining a group HERE.

Or of course, you can get in touch with Sue Nicholls at 0403 822 324.

In Christianity, Sonship refers to the believers’ adoption as children of God through their faith in Jesus Christ. Water Baptism plays a crucial role in illustrating and solidifying this spiritual relationship.

Please join us on Sunday at 10 am for a transformative church service where we will discuss why baptism plays such a critical role in the lives of children of God and look forward to welcoming you with open arms.

Ramon Raux is a husband, Youth & Young Adults Pastor, and small business owner based in Melbourne, Australia. Ramon is deeply passionate about God, people and fostering a strong community. He is a compassionate and strong leader.

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

Details:

• Date: Sunday 19th November 2023
• Time: 5.30pm – 7.30pm
• Address: 446 Centre Road, Berwick
• BYO: Meal

ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6 pm – 7.15 pm|
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7 pm – 8.30 pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7 pm – 9.15 pm

Details:

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

>>>SENIORS MINISTRY<<<

Please complete the Expression of Interest form if you would like to be contacted about being Baptised.

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You are cordially invited to join us for a gathering where we will rejoice in the triumphs of the past year, share exciting stories of impact, and unveil the thrilling prospects awaiting us in 2024.

Event Details:

• Date: 26 November 2023
• Time: 12:30pm – 2-pm
• Venue: Auditorium

What to expect:

• Welcoming Reception: Mingle, connect, and share your success stories with fellow partners and volunteers.
• Celebrating Breakthroughs: A heart-warming journey through the remarkable achievements of the past year.
• Looking Ahead to 2024: An exclusive preview of the exciting initiatives and projects on the horizon.
• Interactive Sessions: Engage in fun and interactive activities that showcase the impact of our collective efforts.
• Delicious Refreshments: Indulge in delightful treats and refreshments that will keep the energy high and the smiles wide.

This gathering is not just a reflection on the past; it's a celebration of the incredible community we've built together. Your dedication has played a pivotal role in making a difference, and we want to honour and appreciate you for being an essential part of the BCOC family.

Attending requires little effort – just bring your positive vibes and enthusiasm! Let's come together for a time of joy, laughter, and shared inspiration.

Kindly RSVP by 20 November 2023 to ensure we have enough sparkle and joy for everyone!

We can't wait to celebrate with you and set the stage for an even more extraordinary 2024. Get ready for a time of fun, motivation, and shared triumphs!

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Exploring Partnership is an important step in taking up co-ownership of the vision, mission and purpose of our Church. It 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.

Date: Sunday 10th December 2023
Time: 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm

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Key Details:

• Date: 17th December 2023
• Location: Berwick Bowling Club, Edwin Flack Reserve, Berwick 3806
• Time: 5:30pm
• Cost: $20
• What to wear: Your best bowls attire!

All YA invited (including VCE). Drinks are not included but there is a cafe where you can buy drinks. Please note this is an alcohol-free event.

We are so looking forward to our next Young Families Camp in 2024. This is an awesome opportunity to invite camping friends who don't attend church and give them a chance to connect with other Christian young families in a relaxed environment.

Please check out next year's event by clicking on the link below and booking as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a campsite.

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