A Bible-based family church in Elizabeth, South Australia

The urgent call to bold and compassionate evangelism. Will we respond, like Isaiah did? "Here Am I, Send Me".

Brother Vince Wall from "Herald of Hope", located in Newcastle, New South Wales, issues a call to awaken the church, and to step out of the walls, and evangelise.

Brother Wall shares his own journey of faith and dedication to spreading the Gospel through various forms of evangelism. His sermon, from 2 Timothy 3 and 4, emphasises the role of scripture in guiding believers toward spiritual maturity and ministry. He speaks on the importance of enduring hardships and remaining committed to preaching God’s Word even amid persecution, highlighting how all scripture, inspired by God, serves as a tool for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.

Brother Wall recounts his own conversion experience, sharing how he was raised in the Roman Catholic Church but felt moved to accept Jesus as his Saviour during a service at a Uniting Church. This decision led him on a path to discovering his calling as an evangelist, a journey significantly shaped by others' dedication to sharing the Gospel.

It was the influence of individuals willing to share their faith that led to his own salvation and his passion for reaching others. Through personal anecdotes, and his creative responses to interesting situations, Brother Wall tells of the amazing influence of gospel tracts and explains how simple acts of sharing one’s faith can impact lives for years to come.

Brother Wall tells of diverse approaches to evangelism, through creative street ministry, where he uses props, like a Titanic-themed boarding pass and model boats, as conversation starters. These help him to engage people in discussions about faith in a non-intimidating way. He shares a heartwarming story about men from his church who contribute by creating handcrafted gospel tracts and models, turning their woodworking skills into tools for evangelism.

Brother Wall relates how he uses different approaches, handing out gospel tracts on the streets of Sydney, or sharing his message at church services, agricultural shows, and even on a cruise to Tasmania. He encourages pastors to identify and nurture the unique gifts of their congregation folk, explaining that each person's talents, whether in art, craftsmanship, or public speaking, can play a crucial role in spreading the message of Jesus.

Reflecting on Ephesians 2:10, Brother Wall underscores that God prepares good works for each believer, just as He prepared the fish for Jonah. God can prepare unique evangelistic opportunities, even on a cruise ship. Believers ought to stay attentive and respond when God opens doors for ministry, and be ready to endure trials.

It is important to be prepared to share one's faith (1 Peter 3:15). All believers can be "every day evangelists".

Sadly, many churches are complacent, content to stay within their walls rather than reach the lost. Our Lord had compassion for the multitudes and acted on it. We need to move from "pews to pavements."

Brother Wall exhorts believers of their identity as vessels of God’s glory, emphasising that God often uses unlikely people to reach others.

Citing Romans 13:11, he calls Christians to “wake out of sleep” as Christ’s return approaches.

In a stirring finale, he lists the many names and titles of Jesus, celebrating the anticipation of Christ's coming. The message crescendos with a vision of Jesus returning to take His church home, promising a glorious reunion with the Saviour.

Brother Wall challenges all believers to heed the call of Isaiah 6:8, where Isaiah responds to God’s question, “Whom shall I send?” with “Here am I; send me.”

Evangelism is not only for those with official ministry roles but is a calling for every believer, as we are called to live lives that reflect our faith and we are willing to share the hope of the Gospel with others.

Through his testimony, Brother Wall inspires his listeners to take personal responsibility for evangelism, recognising that small acts of faithfulness can have a far-reaching impact for the Kingdom of God.

This is a message of readiness, endurance, and courage in sharing faith. Brother Wall challenges the church to step beyond their comfort zones, embracing every opportunity to reach the lost in creative ways.

By prioritising compassion and willingness to be used, Brother Wall believes each Christian can fulfill the calling to evangelise.

Through personal testimony and biblical encouragement, he exhorts his audience to live out the Great Commission daily, prepared for any door that God might open.

Ruth demonstrates the virtues of a "Virtuous Woman". As a Gentile, Ruth marries into an Israelite family. She faces a life-altering decision when her husband and father-in-law pass away. Ruth chooses to accompany her mother-in-law, Naomi, to Israel, a foreign land to her. Ruth 1:16: “Where you go, I will go; and where you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.” Ruth’s committed to Naomi trusted in Naomi’s God.

Ruth’s loyalty shows her selflessness and faith-driven character. Despite uncertainties, she “clings” to Naomi, pledging to follow her into unfamiliar territory. She places her trust in God’s plan, even at the cost of her comfort and security. Ruth showed humility, adaptability, and dedication to family.

Ruth demonstrates humility, taking on the lowly task of gleaning leftover grain in the fields—a provision for the poor. Ruth’s willingness to work tirelessly for their sustenance reflects her selfless commitment to Naomi’s well-being. Her hard work and determination show her noble character, as the “virtuous woman” of Proverbs 31. Ruth “girds herself with strength,” embodying inner beauty, resilience, and a dedication to family that Boaz, the man she later marries, recognises and admires.

We see God’s providence for those willing to follow Him. Although Ruth is a Moabite from a nation often at odds with Israel, her faith in God allows her to find acceptance among His people. This inclusion foreshadows the redemption Christ would bring to all people. Ruth’s place in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, shows God’s grace and the wide reach of His redemptive plan.

Ruth’s faith is evident not only in her words but in her actions. Her choice to accompany Naomi and accept God as her own reveals complete commitment, offering a powerful model of dedication for believers. She does not just join Naomi physically; she adopts her faith and puts her faith into action.

We see God’s character and providence. When Ruth and Naomi return to Bethlehem, destitute, God’s provision is evident through Boaz. His kindness and protective role as her “kinsman-redeemer” reflect God’s care for those who trust in Him. Boaz’s role points toward the redemptive work of Christ, who would later fulfill the ultimate role of Redeemer for humanity.

Ruth’s courage, humility, and faith shine through in every part of her story, inspiring believers to trust God’s faithfulness and provision amid uncertainty. Leaving her homeland, Ruth entrusts her future to God, demonstrating the bold steps faith often requires. Her actions encourage believers to remain steadfast, embodying qualities that honour God even in challenging circumstances.

Ruth’s story is a timeless reminder of the values God cherishes: loyalty, humility, and faithfulness. Her inclusion among Israel and her role in the lineage of Christ affirm the transformative power of faith and God’s willingness to extend grace to all who seek Him. Her life encourages believers to commit to living out their faith, inspiring loyalty that perseveres through trials.

Ruth’s story celebrates a life lived with faith, loyalty, and humility. It shows the value of trusting in God’s providence, showing how He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Ruth’s story continues to inspire believers today - testimony to the beauty of a faithful life.

Ruth and Naomi are two widows living in poverty. Ruth goes to glean leftover grain in the fields, a common provision for the poor. She begins working in a field belonging to Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s late husband. While it may seem coincidental, Ruth’s encounter with Boaz reveals God’s providence, showing that what may appear as chance can often be part of God’s plan.

Boaz, a man of integrity, notices Ruth’s diligence and humility, which draw him to her. He sees her faithfulness and perseverance. Her dedication and resilience mirror the attributes of the “virtuous woman” in Proverbs 31, working “as unto the Lord” rather than for human approval alone. Boaz blesses Ruth, recognising her decision to seek refuge under God’s “wings” and trust in God’s care.

We see God’s redemptive plan in action. Ruth’s humble service leads to God’s blessing in her life, as she finds community, security, and a future through her relationship with Boaz. Together, they have a son, Obed, who becomes part of King David’s lineage, establishing Ruth in the line leading to Christ. Ruth’s faithfulness, humility, and perseverance yield profound blessings, as she plays a vital role in God’s redemptive plan.

Ruth’s story illustrates the interconnection of faith, faithfulness, and fruit. Through her trust in God, diligent work, and patience, Ruth’s life is transformed, demonstrating that sincere faith and service bring blessings that extend beyond one’s life.

Ruth’s life serves as a powerful example of godly character and faithfulness, encouraging us to trust in God’s timing and to live in a way that brings honour to Him.

Details to be added.

Brief devotional about the thief at the cross...

Luke 23:39-43  And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.  (40)  But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation?  (41)  And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss.  (42)  And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.  (43)  And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

The Book of Esther: timeless lessons of faith, courage, and purpose.

"For such a time as this" - Esther 4:14 - serves as our anchor verse, reminding us of the courage, wisdom, and faith Esther displayed amidst peril and uncertainty. We can find strength in God’s plan—even when it isn’t immediately clear.

The Jewish people lived as exiles under pagan rule. Yet God was quietly at work. Despite His name never being explicitly mentioned in the book, His hand orchestrated Esther’s journey from orphaned exile to queen of Persia. We meet Esther, and also her cousin Mordecai, a man of conviction who serves as an unwavering example of faith. Their responses to the crisis before them — fueled by the pride and hatred of Haman, the king’s adviser—demonstrate how God’s people can rise above fear, uphold their values, and stand strong.

The king's extravagant feasts highlight the excess and self-centered rule of the time. When Queen Vashti defies the king’s command, she’s deposed, setting the stage for Esther’s rise to royalty. Through a divine series of events, Esther—a Jewish orphan raised by her faithful cousin Mordecai—finds herself chosen as queen. Though unaware at first, Esther’s ascent to this role is not mere coincidence. Mordecai sees it as God’s providence: she has been placed in this position for a purpose.

Mordecai refuses to bow to Hamann — a reflection of his unyielding devotion to God. Haman is an egotistical and vengeful man. He devises a plot to exterminate all Jews across the empire.

Haman’s wrath leads him to orchestrate a decree for the massacre of the Jewish people. Mordecai, aware of the urgency, urges Esther to intercede on behalf of her people. He challenges her to recognise the significance of her position: “Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

Esther’s response is a testament to her faith. She calls for a time of fasting, signaling her reliance on God’s strength and guidance as she prepares to risk her life by approaching the king without an invitation—a move punishable by death.

We note Esther and Mordecai’s resilience, courage, and faith. As Esther steps into her role, risking her own safety, she becomes an instrument of deliverance for her people. God’s unseen hand is working behind each decision, each risk, and each act of faith.

The story of Esther speaks to us today. We, too, face moments in our lives when we’re challenged to stand firm, act with conviction, and place our trust in God. Just as Esther was placed in the palace for her time, we’re each placed where we are for a reason. In our own “such a time as this,” we can draw strength from Esther’s example, seeking God’s will and trusting His purpose in our lives.

In Esther 4:15-16, we find Esther facing a life-changing decision: to courageously approach the King, risking her life, or remain silent, leaving her people vulnerable to destruction. She instructs Mordecai to have the Jews of Shushan fast for her, as she prepares to break royal protocol by entering the king's presence uninvited—a dangerous, unlawful act that could lead to her death. Esther’s faith, courage, and dependence on God stand out as she declares, “If I perish, I perish.”

We see the theme of divine providence at work in her life. Esther didn’t act impulsively; she waited, prayed, and fasted, involving her community in spiritual preparation. Esther demonstrates courage, patience, and trust in God during times of trial.

Esther’s courage inspires us today. She didn’t take the easy path; rather, she faced her fears and advocated for her people. In a world that often rewards complacency and conformity, Esther’s example calls us to step out in faith, even at great personal risk.

Are we willing to be courageous, standing up for what’s right and godly, despite fear? Esther’s life reminds us that courage isn’t the absence of fear but choosing to trust God and act faithfully in the face of it.

Through this story, we also witness a remarkable turn of events. Esther’s boldness and the fasting prayers of the Jewish people change the course of their fate.

God’s providence is evident as Haman’s plot unravels, ultimately leading to his downfall. Ironically, Haman faces the same gallows he had prepared for Mordecai, demonstrating the Biblical principle that “Pride goes before destruction.”

God’s unseen hand is guiding events for His glory and the good of His people.

In Esther’s life, we find lessons of humility, wisdom, and faithfulness. Esther listened to wise counsel, displayed patience, and trusted God’s timing. Her story encourages us to seek guidance, wait on the Lord, and act when He calls. Mordecai’s consistency and faithfulness also inspire us to stand firm in our convictions, no matter how difficult.

Are we ready to live courageously, obediently, and faithfully in our “such a time as this”?

Great is thy faithfulness cries the prophet Jeremiah.

Lamentations 3:22-23 - 22 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

The book of the Lamentations is one of the more intricately written book of the Bible. It follows an acrostic pattern after the Hebrew. It was written in the worst of times in Judean History.

1. God is Faithful Despite our Sinfulness
V. 22 - It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed...

Punishment of God to his people. Whatever was happening in this time of the history Israel is caused by dvine punishment. They have sinned against Yahweh. They rejected God's Word. They are recipients of God's wrath. They have been unfaithful to their covenant to God. God still punishes the wicked for their sins. He is still the same God who by no means will clear the guilty.

Patience of God to his people - They could have been destroyed, yet we see God's patience and forbearance. As shown with Adam and Job as examples. God's faithfulness is not dependent upon man's faithfulness. He is faithful because that is who he is.

2. God is Faithful Due to His Steadfastness
Why the Lord has kept his people? What is it that brings hope? It is the Lord himself - He is a faithful God...

The Unfailing Compassions of God - his compassions fail not. Alike to the love of a mother to her babies (Isaiah 49:15).

The Innumerable Mercies of God - note: compassions, plural: mercies and compassions... Such mercies as: 1. The Word of God - it has been proclaimed to us over 88 times. 2. Through many trials and sufferings, he is refining us. 3. The Lord has added many blessings to us 4. The Lord has taken away something / someone from us.

The Unwithering Truth of the Promises of God - They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. There is no expiration date for the promises of God, they are always new because God never changes.

The Immutable Faithfulness of God: Great is thy faithfulness . It is his character. Because of the covenant love of God to his people. He bound himself to his promises. He is a God that will not change.

As he is great, so is his faithfulness. While everything else in life withers and fades, He remains. Each day this year, He has been steadfast in mercy, never failing. Our comfort lies in knowing that, in all our days, His faithfulness endures, for “He cannot deny Himself.”

Joshua’s life showcases steadfast faith, courageous leadership, and unwavering trust in God. His name means “God is salvation,” and he is filled with God’s Spirit. Appointed by God and anointed by Moses, Joshua is ready to lead the Israelites from slavery in Egypt to freedom in the Promised Land. As Israel’s military leader, Joshua displays valor against the Amalekites, with faith, unity, and a prayerful spirit contributing to victory.

Joshua is one of the twelve spies sent to scout Canaan, the land promised by God. Ten spies bring a discouraging report filled with fear, yet Joshua and Caleb trust in God’s promise, standing firm in their conviction that God can help them conquer the land. Their faith sets them apart, allowing them to be the only two from their generation permitted to enter the Promised Land. Our faith or fear impacts on our decisions and on others.

After Moses’s death, God calls Joshua to leadership, commanding him to be strong and courageous and promising His presence, just as He was with Moses. Joshua’s success is tied to his meditation on God’s Word, ensuring God’s commandments shape his actions. Joshua demonstrates this faith during the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River. As priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant step into the overflowing river, the waters stop, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This powerful moment highlights how God operates through faith, even in seemingly impossible circumstances.

Next, Joshua confronts the fortified city of Jericho. God gives him an unconventional battle plan: march around the city for six days, and on the seventh day, march seven times, then shout in unison. By trusting and following this plan, the walls of Jericho fall, showcasing that God’s power often works in ways beyond human logic. This victory reminds us that, through faith and obedience, we too can see “walls” fall in our lives.

Joshua’s life provides a model of faith, perseverance, and obedience, inspiring believers to trust in God’s promises, meditate on His Word, and act courageously. His story shows that success and courage come from relying on God, especially when we face our own “Giants” and “Jerichos.” Joshua’s faith inspires us to trust that God’s presence will guide and support us in our own challenges.

In a challenge to Israel, Joshua gathers the people and urges them to “choose this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). His declaration that he and his household “will serve the Lord” embodies a life of purpose, integrity, and steadfast faith. Joshua’s example shows that our actions and choices impact others to also live by godly principles. Who will we serve? Are we committed to a legacy that honours God?

Joshua’s call to serve the Lord wholeheartedly is not a one-time act but a continual choice, renewing our commitment daily. This steadfastness mirrors his courage as a young leader, standing firm in faith even when others doubted. This courage enabled him to witness God’s power firsthand, both in entering the Promised Land and in conquering challenges like Jericho.

As a leader, Joshua encouraged the Israelites to trust in God’s strength. He assured them that “One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the Lord your God, He it is that fighteth for you” (Joshua 23:10). God’s presence is our real strength.

Joshua’s reliance on God extended beyond his public leadership to his personal life. When the Israelites sinned, he humbly sought God’s guidance, emphasizing the role of prayer in staying close to God’s will. Joshua’s prayer life shows that maintaining an intimate relationship with God is crucial in both triumph and trial.

For those with responsibilities to lead and encourage others, whether in families, workplaces, or communities, Joshua’s story offers valuable lessons. We too can set examples for others by choosing to serve the Lord and standing firm in our faith, impacting future generations.

Joshua’s story shows that when we step forward in faith, as the priests did at the Jordan River, God meets us there. The life of Joshua offers a testimony to God’s faithfulness, showing us that consistent faith speaks louder than words and leaves a lasting legacy. Our daily decisions, even small ones, contribute to the testimony we leave behind.

As Joshua led Israel into the Promised Land, so Christ leads believers into the promise of eternal life, offering rest from striving. God’s presence with Joshua is paralleled in Christ’s promise to be with us always, empowering us to live courageously.

Joshua’s unwavering commitment, courageous faith, and dedication to serving God offer an inspiring model for us today. His declaration, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” challenges us to live faithfully, leave a legacy that honours God, and trust that He is with us in every trial and triumph. May we be inspired to choose God daily, to stand firm in faith, and to walk with courage, knowing that God goes with us.

Congregational worship at Australia's Natonal Baptist Fellowship.

How Great Thou Art
1. O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy pow'r throughout the universe displayed!

Chorus:
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee;
How great Thou art! How great Thou art!

2. When through the woods,
And forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees,
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur,
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze.

3. And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in,
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

4. When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation,
and take me home, what joy shall fill my heart,
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God how great Thou art!

"Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there?" (Jeremiah 8:22). It's a yearning for healing amid a troubled world. It points us to a true healing that only God can provide.

Jeremiah speaks to Judah, a nation estranged from God, spiritually blinded, in sin. Judah's people could no longer “blush”, while true righteousness is forgotten. In this environment of apostasy and moral decay, judgment looms. Yet, the people remain unhealed. Their hearts are hardened, and healing lies beyond their reach because they have forsaken God.

Jeremiah tells of a spiritual balm — an ointment from Gilead meant to heal wounds deeper than the flesh. Gilead, known for its medicinal resins, symbolises God’s power to restore the soul. This balm reaches to the soul’s very core, addressing our deepest hurts, brokenness, and sins.

Jeremiah’s society mirrors much of our own. People turn from God, seeking satisfaction in temporary pleasures. Society suffers from a spiritual sickness that no human innovation can cure. Our greatest need isn’t simply for more health care or technology; it’s a need for God’s healing touch upon our hearts.

Sin ias likened to a fatal disease, a deep wound that permeates every part of our being - “wounds, bruises, and putrefying sores” (Isaiah 1:6). Sin affects our thoughts, actions, and desires, leaving us spiritually crippled and separated from God. It creates spiritual blindness, hardens hearts, and brings death. Like an infection, sin festers, spreads, and takes root in our lives. Jeremiah laments that the heart is “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9) — a sickness that seems beyond human remedy.

Jeremiah points to a divine remedy — this healing balm is Christ, the ultimate physician. He is the healing we long for, providing forgiveness, mercy, and grace to cover our sins and mend our brokenness.

The balm of Gilead is drawn from a rare resin found in the trees of that region, known for its potency and ability to heal.

By His wounds, we are healed (1 Peter 2:24). Christ’s sacrifice on the cross — a tree that offered salvation to the world — serves as the ultimate balm, a healing for humanity’s deepest wounds.
By His cross we can know healing and reconciliation with God. Just as a balm is applied to a wound, we must apply Christ’s sacrifice to our hearts, accepting His grace and mercy.

Healing doesn’t happen simply by knowing about the balm; it requires personal application. We must come to God in humility, and trust in Jesus. Christ is the “Great Physician” who heals our souls.

God’s Word itself is a source of healing; medicine for the soul. Psalm 107:20 reminds us, “He sent his word, and healed them.” The Bible offers life-giving truths that bring peace and strength to our hearts. It's a spiritual medicine that nourishes and strengthens us daily.

Some are not healed. God’s balm is available to all, yet many refuse it. Like the people in Jeremiah’s day who rejected his message, people today often close their hearts to God’s love. They turn away from the gospel, missing the healing that Christ freely offers.

The message of the balm in Gilead is still relevant now. The brokenness we witness — the despair, addiction, pain, and lost hope — all point to our need for a Saviour. Jesus is the answer, the balm that can heal this hurting world.

Jesus knows every wound, every sin, and every hidden pain. He is ready to heal, restore, and renew us. Let us apply the balm of Gilead to our hearts, trust in God’s promises, and find peace and wholeness in Him.

Christ’s sacrifice provides profound healing for our spiritual afflictions; forgiveness, and grace for humankind.

Christ’s suffering is not just a historical event but an ongoing source of healing, both for our souls and our inner pains. Through His wounds, we receive healing for our own brokenness.

May we actively “apply the balm”—to continually seek and trust in Jesus for this deep, renewing healing, just as one would apply a balm to heal physical wounds.

The fragrance of this ancient balm is also a symbol of Christ’s comforting and life-giving presence. The “fragrance” of His love and healing grace can permeate our lives, bringing comfort to our emotional and mental struggles.

Faith in His sacrifice can heal even the deepest wounds, from emotional scars to spiritual blindness, weakness, and grief.

We can also share this healing with others. We carry His message to a hurting world. Just as the balm of Gilead was a precious and valued substance in biblical times, so too is the gospel message a precious gift that we’re called to share.

Only He can truly heal a “sin-sick” soul. Christ, our great physician, continually offers us the healing balm of His grace. Know His healing touch and then to carry that balm, that message of hope, to a world in desperate need.
The balm of Gilead is Jesus Himself—ever available, ever sufficient, and ever powerful to heal and restore all who come to Him in faith.