The Montifiore Manse

I'm very sorry we've not posted in so long. The best way to summarize Dad & Mom's trip here in pictures is to link you to their blog (run by my younger siblings, actually). Here's the link. Our pictures from their time here are currently being organized by Terry.

Since they've gone, we've had the usual period of feeling blue, and then gotten back to normal life. It's lovely to have summer here (some days, at least). The sweet peas are in bloom, and some raspberries are already ripe! The garden is coming along; I will eventually get a picture for you, Dad.

Last weekend, we had the very first Launceston SPC Weekend up in Liffey. It was a wonderful time of fellowship with lots of food and a warm extended family atmosphere. This was especially enhanced by the pouring rain we enjoyed on Friday evening and Saturday. Being cooped up indoors meant lots of games and conversation were enjoyed by all. The talks Terry gave about Challenging Unbelievers' Worldviews seemed to be stimulating and helpful for all present. They certainly were thought-provoking and encouraging for me. They were based on Acts 17, with some reference to 2 Corinthians 10:5 as well.

To summarize, we learned that one's worldview, or understanding of life, is either based on the Word of the Creator or the word of the creature. Thus, all unbelieving or creature-focused worldviews are in essence the same and are refuted in the same basic manner. We challenge unbelievers' worldviews from the same motive Paul had, that is, the stirring of the Spirit. Our hearts are grieved and angered as we see the idolatry and unbelief of those we work with daily. Therefore, we use the method Paul did: we verbally engage them with dialogue. Although these discussions are part of a spiritual war, the war is not to be waged out of a desire to prove ourselves right or dominate. Rather, we war after the Spirit, with weapons that are only powerful through God to pull down their strongholds of false philosophies and high things which they exalt against God. We are to seek to bring every reasoning of theirs captive to the obedience of Christ, the Word. Our message in doing so is also like Paul's: They show clearly their ignorance of the true God who created all things. We are not needed by God, but are ruled by Him and obligated to seek Him. We also must repent because God has sent the gospel command to everyone and will judge us all. The coming of judgment is sure and imminent since Christ was appointed Judge and has risen from the dead to show that all power and authority is given to Him (cf. Mt. 28:18, Acts 2:24-36, Acts 10:40-42). Thankfully, we, like Paul, are messengers whom God uses to bring some to belief, though others should mock or put off the truth.

It's rather a different emphasis than that of most modern evangelicals, isn't it? Nothing about how God is waiting to give you His love if only you will accept it. Nothing about how Jesus loves you and is ready to be your BFF (best friend forever) no matter what. Nothing about how you need the Spirit to give you joy in the Lord because that's what's missing in your life. "Ignorance? Obligation? Judgment? How can such a lot of ugly concepts draw in the people?" one might ask. Only because they are the truth of God, and His Word will convict and draw as all the smooth sales pitches in the world cannnot.