Fresh Air: A Season of Prayer & Fasting 2024
DAY 1: Australia for Christ: Exploring the Depth of ''For'' in our Shared Vision
Our movement has embraced with fresh vigour our vision, filled with hope and direction of seeing Australia for Christ. This phrase, while succinct, carries immense depth. In this blog, we explore the ''for'' of our vision to better grasp and live out this calling in 2024.
''For'' as Representation
As ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), the term ''for'' calls us to represent Him in our streets, suburbs, schools, workplaces, towns and cities and our nation. It's about living in a way, individually and collectively, about the Missio Dei, the mission of the Trinity. We are part of God's mission to reconcile our family, friends, and neighbours back to Him by representation. This representation should reflect the life and teachings of Jesus, demonstrating love, compassion, and justice as He did (Micah 6:8).
''For'' as Benefit
In this context, ''for'' signifies the benefit that the gospel brings to individuals and communities. We see in Jeremiah 29:11 that God has plans to prosper and not harm us, to give us hope and a future. Our mission, therefore, involves sharing this hope and healing with our fellow Australians. Our salvation and spiritual transformation are not just for our own prosperous and flourishing purposes. It is for Australia! The fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 are for the benefit of those around us AND ourselves. It is a benefit to all to have an abundance of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. What a country we would look like with these fruits as our signature societal attitudes!
''For'' as Advocacy
When we view ''for'' as advocacy, it aligns with Proverbs 31:8-9, which urges us to "speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves". Our mission includes advocating and being a voice for the values of the kingdom of God in a world that often lacks moral direction. We need to speak for the voiceless. We need to act for those who cannot protect themselves.
''For'' as Dedication
Finally, ''for'' implies dedication – a call echoed in Romans 12:1, to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. This dedication means we are not creating social clubs. We are about Matthew 6:33 – seeking first God's kingdom and what He wants. Our 2024 goals and Vision Sundays are about this dedication to His purposes and His mission as His instruments and service agents. We are using our God-given(!) talents and time for our dedication to Christ. There is no other reason than for Christ. We stand united through Australia for Christ, dedicated to Him in all we do.
Embracing Australia for Christ
Reflecting on the ''for'' of our vision Australia for Christ drives us to be Christ-centred in 2024. I encourage you to reflect on these scriptures and thoughts on our shared vision to see Australia for Christ. Matthew 28:18-20 is never far from my mind when I hear or see the words Australia for Christ. Let this be, again, our commissioning for 2024.
DAY 2: Faith with Stewardship
A shared vision as courageous as Australia for Christ requires deep faith and diligent stewardship. One of INC's core values is faith with stewardship: we value INC's foundations in the supernatural power of God and are committed to being diligent stewards of these gifts to see the kingdom of God established.
(Visit inc.org.au/about for our values and definitions)
It's essential to remind ourselves that this vision is not just a sound bite; it's a commitment to transform our great nation through the power of Christ. It's a commitment – a deep commitment.
Faith: The Fuel of Our Vision
At the heart of our movement is faith – unwavering, unshakable faith in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. I was recently shown an extract from an international dictionary written in 2002 regarding Pentecostal & Charismatic movements that describes Christian Outreach Centre (the original name for INC). 'The movement strongly emphasises faith, evangelism, and church planting, with a prophetic slant directed at the conquest of Australia for Christ. The churches have a strong emphasis on contemporary music and worship.' That stirs me.
This is our DNA. Faith is in our DNA.
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." This is the kind of faith that fuels our vision. We believe in the unseen yet powerful hand of God working in Australia, bringing revival, healing, and transformation. This is revival to our own hearts, revival to our families, revival to our schools, revival to our workplaces, revival to our towns and cities.
Our faith is not passive; it's active and vibrant. It propels us to dream big, to envision an Australia where Christ is at the centre of our homes, communities, and nation. Faith is our motivator, beckoning the adventurous and pushing us beyond our comfort zones, inspiring us to reach out to our neighbours with the message of hope found in the Gospel.
Stewardship: Our Faith in Action
While faith is our foundation, stewardship is how we build upon it. Stewardship is our responsibility to manage what God has entrusted to us. They don't work against each other but with each other for that long-term continual pursuit of the Great Commission. In 1 Peter 4:10 it says, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." This scripture beautifully encapsulates the essence of stewardship – using our gifts, resources, and time to serve others and advance God's kingdom. The gifts are not solely for our bios or prosperity, but for a greater purpose to serve others.
In 2024, stewardship means being guardians of the vision Australia for Christ. We need to steward this vision. It involves us conscientiously using our (individually or your local church's) resources: time, team, treasure or tents (ok it was the closest alliteration for assets I could get!) to further this cause. Intentionality around this vision.
Integrating Faith and Stewardship
Integrating faith and stewardship in our vision is like weaving two strands into a strong cord. Faith inspires us to believe in the supernatural transformation of our nation, while stewardship is the practical outworking of that faith. James 2:26 reminds us that "faith without works is dead." Our faith is made complete by our actions – actions that stem from a place of stewardship. It is about the supernatural power of God. Do not doubt this. Become competent in 2024 to steward and call on that supernatural power of God.
The Impact of Our Vision
As we thread faith with stewardship in our pursuit of Australia for Christ, we're not just dreaming of change; we're calling it out. We become a force for good, impacting lives, transforming communities, and shaping the moral and spiritual landscape of our nation. Let 2024 be a powerful testimony to what can be achieved when we align our human service with divine mission. Let us, therefore, walk in faith, serve with diligence, and watch as God works wonders in our beloved Australia. Together, let's be a beacon of hope, showing the world the transformative power of a life lived in faith and stewardship.
DAY 3: Growing Relationships with Results
In this blog, I unpack our second core value of Growing Relationships with Results and how that aligns with our shared vision of Australia for Christ.
Growing Relationships with Results:
We value our 'one vision through many churches' ethic and are therefore committed to God and one another through growing relationships where all are accepted yet challenged to pursue our personal and corporate destinies.
(Visit inc.org.au/about for our values and definitions)
I sense purpose as I write about our shared vision – a vision that encompasses not just our individual faith journeys but our collective mission as a community of believers in Australia. This vision, Australia for Christ, is our motivation, and I want to delve into a crucial aspect of it: ‘Growing Relationships with Results’.
What Does Growing Relationships with Results Mean?
In our journey of faith, we must remember that we are not lone travellers. We are a family – diverse in our backgrounds and experiences, united in our purpose. Growing Relationships with Results is all about nurturing our connections with one another for a shared vision. We are a connectional movement. The original descriptor was 'one church in many locations'. While we have matured into more leadership expressions for this to singularly apply, there is no doubt that we are still intimately connected and strong in our desire and need for relationship under our shared vision of Australia for Christ. This vision is not just about growing numerically but spiritually and relationally. Under this vision, we are united but not for relationship alone – it requires us to be productive.
A Vision Shared Across Many Churches
Our movement stands on the principle of "one vision through many churches." This principle beautifully captures the essence of 1 Corinthians 12:12 (NET), which says, "For just as the body is one and yet has many members, and all the members of the body—though many—are one body, so too is Christ." We are many churches, but we are one in Christ. Our diversity is our testimonial expression, and our unity is our strength. Let that sink in: our unity, not our uniformness, is our strength. The body of Christ flourishes when the many members align as one, doing their individual parts.
Committed to God and Each Other
Our commitment is two-fold: to God and each other. Remember, the greatest commandment, when Jesus said in Mark 12:30-31, is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbour as yourself." In loving God, we find the strength to love and commit to each other.
Our commitment to each other means we see the best in each other. We don't attribute motives to what we hear or see. We engage authentically with each other and inspire each other towards our individual and corporate destinies. We draw out the best in each other, not through shame or coerciveness, but through exhortation, coming alongside and honest conversations in love. This cuts both ways: if I want permission to speak into someone's world, I need to also be open to them (and others) speaking into my world. From strong relationships, we engage in mutual submission. This is our commitment to God and each other (Galatians 5:32).
A Place of Acceptance and Challenge
In a world of cancel culture, let's be a movement that is resilient in its relationships with each other. We follow the example of Jesus, who welcomed all (Matthew 11:28). Yet, acceptance is not complacency. We are also called to challenge each other to grow. Proverbs 27:17 says, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." We grow together, sending each other towards our personal and corporate destinies in Christ. Let's be each other's greatest coaches and cheerleaders – and know when to be in those different roles.
Pursuing Personal and Corporate Destinies
Each of us has a unique calling and destiny. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God has plans for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future. Our personal spiritual transformation journeys are significant, but they are intertwined with our collective mission. As we pursue our destinies, we contribute to the overarching story of Australia for Christ.
Results That Matter
What are the results we seek? It's not just about numbers or statistics. The results we desire are transformed lives, stronger communities, and a nation that reflects the love and grace of Jesus Christ. These results are not overnight phenomena. We have been co-labouring for fifty years alongside other faithful movements and churches. Results require intentionality, patience, persistence, and faith, as Galatians 6:9 encourages us, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
The Role of Prayer
In all of this, prayer is crucial. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us to "not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Our vision is nurtured and sustained through our devotion to prayer and the Word of God. Every revival starts with prayer (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Moving Forward Together
Our journey is not just about an individual or a single church; it's about all of us, together, working towards Australia for Christ. In 2024, I invite each one of you to embrace this vision. Live this vision. Engage in building relationships, invest in others, and let's witness the power of God moving in our nation. Together, we can see a transformed Australia.
DAY 4: Winning Souls and Influencing Communities
This must be one of my own personal core values: Winning Souls and Influencing Communities: We value the gospel and its power and remain committed to seeing our movement effective in bringing people to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ and influencing our communities through transformation.
(Visit inc.org.au/about for our values and definitions)
My personal ministry leadership has always been driven by a deep desire to see people find salvation in Christ – hear the gospel message through our church's word and action. Whether it has been the refurbishment of a special school playground, provision of school shoes to those special needs students and their families, vibrant youth nights and conferences, disaster recovery work, seasons of prayer and fasting for souls, providing housing for pregnant mums in a housing crisis, pursuing altar calls fervently – the list is not as important as the human connection in each of these.
Australia for Christ isn't just a catchphrase; it's a calling that energises us to action. It's about bringing the love and truth of Jesus to every corner of Australia and seeing our communities transformed by His power. Matthew 28:19-20 commands us, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…" This isn't a passive suggestion; it's a call to action. We are to go, to reach out, to connect. This is the great co-mission – a mission with our God and each other. Winning souls is about sharing the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. It's about helping people find a saving relationship with Him, the greatest journey anyone can embark on.
Evangelism is in our DNA. We are the messengers, bringing the good news to those who haven't heard it. At every Holy Spirit prompt and at every service, let us be about giving people the opportunity to hear the gospel. Romans 10:14 (NET) urges us, "How are they to call on one they have not believed in? And how are they to believe in one they have not heard of? And how are they to hear without someone preaching to them?" Believe and expect salvations in 2024. Give those altars calls, have your follow-up processes refreshed and ready, and have the team activated to assist those finding Christ. Run Alpha, run Growth Track, however your church engages in this space, be encouraged, and stirred to prepare people for the inflow with faith. Let us steward the ripe harvest.
Our vision of Australia for Christ is also about influencing communities. This part of our vision echoes the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16, where He calls us the light of the world, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. Our faith is not meant to be a private affair but to shine brightly, influencing those around us. We are commissioned to be evangelists to our communities.
Influencing communities means being actively involved in the places where we live. It's about being agents of change, bringing the principles of the Kingdom of God into our neighbourhoods, workplaces, and social circles. It's about showing compassion, seeking justice, and loving our neighbours. We strive to live in such a way that people can see the difference Christ makes in our lives, drawing them to Him. I love that our movement has Global Care and Red Frogs as vehicles to influence our communities. These ministries open doors to parts of our communities where general church activities will never go.
Let me remind you: the gospel is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). It's this power that transforms lives and communities. As we share the gospel, we're not just sharing words; we're sharing the life-changing power of God.
Remaining committed to this vision means constantly aligning our actions with these values. It means prayerfully seeking opportunities to share Christ, being ready to give an answer for the hope that we have (1 Peter 3:15). It means being intentional in our relationships, showing Christ's love in practical ways.
It's also about discipleship. Winning souls is just the beginning. We are called to make disciples, teaching them to observe all that Jesus commanded us. This means investing in people, helping them grow in their faith, seeing spiritual transformation and equipping them to share the gospel with others. It's a beautiful cycle of growth and multiplication.
Moreover, influencing communities requires us to be culturally relevant while remaining biblically sound. We must understand the issues facing our communities and address them with the wisdom and truth of Scripture – and many times practically. This might mean getting involved in community projects, supporting local causes, or simply being a good neighbour.
In all of this, our focus remains on Jesus. He is our model, our strength, and our guide. As we work towards our shared vision of Australia for Christ, we do so with our eyes fixed on Him, the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). We trust in His power to change lives and transform communities.
So, as we journey together in this vision of 'Winning Souls and Influencing Communities', let's encourage one another, pray for each other, and keep sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Let's be bold, loving, and faithful, trusting that God will use us to significantly impact Australia and beyond.
Australia for Christ is more than a vision; it's a lifestyle. It's about embodying the gospel in every aspect of our lives, being Jesus' hands and feet to those around us.
DAY 5: Learning with Equipping
Learning with Equipping: We value personal growth and will therefore strive to provide pathways and resources for all INC members to be equipped for multiplication.
(Visit inc.org.au/about for our values and definitions)
This blog is about something at the heart of our movement - our vision of Australia for Christ and how it beautifully knits with the value of ‘Learning with Equipping’. This value is about growing personally and spiritually while equipping others to do the same. We have always been a practical movement that wants to continually apply new knowledge to building the Kingdom. This is why we have a School of Ministries, not just a School of Theology. Ministry is the best of both – theology and action!
1. The Seed of Growth: Personal Development
First, let's talk about personal growth. For us to bear fruit and make a difference in seeing Australia for Christ, we need to be good soil, fertile and ready. (See Matthew 13 – the parable of the sower). This means constantly learning, growing, and being open to God's directions and callings.
2. Equipping: More Than Just Knowledge
But here's the kicker – it's not just about what we learn. James 2:26 reminds us, "Faith without works is dead." We will never be the ones that are pontificating with no action. Learning with equipping means taking that knowledge and putting it into action. We're not just filling our heads; we're preparing our hands and hearts for God's work.
3. Multiplication: The Ripple Effect
Think about the feeding of the 5,000 in Mark 6. Jesus didn't just provide; He multiplied. That's our goal, too. We learn, we grow, and then we multiply. Every person we equip becomes a multiplier, spreading the good news and our shared vision of Australia for Christ, like ripples across a pond. Multiplication is church planting, developing ministry-ready pastors and leaders, and equipping them with knowledge, systems and practice so that the new and next are not recreating. We are sharing all knowledge and all practice for the learning benefit of the whole, not just the one church.
4. Pathways and Resources: Our Toolbox
So, how do we do this? By providing pathways and resources. This isn't a solo or localised gig - we're a team, in this together. Whether through networks, conferences, courses, coaching, INC Women, regional gatherings, webinars, workshops, or new future programs, we're committed to giving every INC member the necessary tools. Think of Ephesians 4:12 - "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."
We are working harder and harder to provide new avenues for learning, equipping, and resourcing. But the smorgasbord only nourishes if you partake. Our commitment to CHC is founded in the deep conviction that learning with equipping is part of our mandate in making disciples to reach all the world – through pastors, counsellors, teachers, and business professionals. What are God's thoughts for you in areas to learn in 2024?
Check out https://chc.edu.au/study for more information on CHC’s many study options.
5. Unity in Diversity: Many Parts, One Body
Remember, 1 Corinthians 12 talks about one body with many parts, highlighting that there is no one ideal part or member. I know practically I do not have all the spiritual gifts – shock! The Chair is only partially spiritually gifted (by design!). We are not designed to be alone, only communing with the perfect God. We are created in His likeness who has perfect unity within the Trinity – perfectly functioning together. So, I am meant to have some gifts that others don't, and they have gifts that work together with mine. This is how the body of Christ is created.
Diversity means we need all of us to step up to keep learning and equipping others FOR OUR PARTS. I can't equip and train the Business Managers or the Creative Pastors alone. There are elements I can do, but the best equipping is from learning where the action is to implement with appropriate care and supervision until they are proficient on their own. This is why we are working hard at giving avenues for localised and regional learning options. The abundance of key resources that can be downloaded directly for your team (now accessible in the Collective!) leaves little room for a cry that budget is a barrier. Talk to your Network Leader if you are looking for people in our movement who are a few steps ahead of your team members and can come alongside and help equip them.
Matthew 25:14-30 – read it fresh through the lens of our value - learning with equipping. What is our duty as disciples, leaders, and pastors? Our talents and gifts are for others, for the body, not for ourselves. So how are we investing and reinvesting to maximise our learning and then most importantly application, through to equipping and multiplication.
6. The Shared Vision: Australia for Christ
Finally, let's discuss our shared vision - Australia for Christ. This isn't just about numbers or conversions; it's about transformation. It's about seeing Australia through the lens of Christ's love and grace and doing our part to make that vision a reality. You, yes you, have a crucial role in this. Whether you're a seasoned pastor or new to the faith, your journey of learning and equipping is vital. You're a piece of the puzzle, a stroke in the masterpiece God is painting across our nation.
So, let's do this together. Let's learn, let's grow, and let's equip each other. Let's see Australia for Christ not just as a vision, but as a movement, calling, and reality we're creating daily. And above all, let's remember, we're in this together, with God leading the way.
DAY 6: A Shared Vision for Every Local Church
As we gather in our churches, from the busy streets of Sydney to the port of Hobart, and across to the waves of Margaret River to the falls of Kununurra, sweeping through to the rainforest of Cairns, and everywhere in between, there's a stirring vision that connects us: Australia for Christ. Today, I will explore how this relates to our local communities.
The Heart of the Matter
Matthew 5:14 (NIV) "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden." That's us, our towns and cities throughout Australia! Each local church, no matter how big or small, is like a bright town on a hill, shining the light across Australia. Our movement's DNA expresses our vision in many towns and cities across Australia. We don't just go where the crowds and great wifi is.
Let me talk about one of our most recent church plants. This church plant came out of Noosa Church and is in a smaller community called Mary Valley. Ps Kristian and Eliza MacFarlane are pastoring an earthy, organic and uncomplicated expression of an INC location. When Kath & I visited, the sense of community and impact was clear. To give you some perspective, Ps Josh Usher recently commented to our team that there were 60 kids at the Sunday service and only 35 students in the local public school! That's impact. That's INC.
The Power of Local Impact
Think about it – every local church is unique, yet we all strive for the same goal. It's like a footy team; each player has a different role, but everyone's working together to win the game. Similarly, each church, in its distinct way, contributes to seeing Australia for Christ and beyond!
Some of the local impact stories are the old school stories of churches that were sending churches – think Taree, Gilgandra, Innisfail. These churches punched way above their weight for impact. Nowra, at one point, was a church of 1,000 in a community of less than 30,000. I can't turn around in the INC Office team without someone having a significant connection back to Toowoomba.
Some of our Network75 churches have the biggest overseas missions giving. Recently Ps Geoff Woodward was in Vietnam welcoming 70 churches into INC. How did this come about? From the hard, faithful and long-term consistent relationship and investment by Ps Bruce and Terri Connell from Kununurra. Travel isn't simple or cheap from the remote area of WA. This is the power of Australia for Christ. Making impact.
Embracing Diversity
In INC, we embrace shared vision and values and celebrate local expression of that vision. We don't all look the same or have the same programs or activities. Our DNA of faith, prayer and the supernatural power of God is where we are unified.
Tailoring to Local Needs
Each community has its own challenges and opportunities. A church in Perth might focus on supporting indigenous families, while one in Melbourne might reach out to the homeless or students. By addressing local needs, churches embody the practical side of Australia for Christ. This is how we influence our communities through prayerfully engaging what God wants us to be about for the community we are in.
The Ripple Effect
The ripple effect is incredible when each church focuses on impacting its local area. Imagine the transformation, if every INC in Australia took to heart the mission of Australia for Christ, followed by the specific vision for their local church. We would see lives changed, communities transformed, and a nation turning towards God.
"I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples."
- Mother Teresa
Encouraging One Another
We're reminded in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Let's celebrate our successes, learn from our challenges, and continuously encourage each other in our journey. We are in this together – a connectional movement! Let's connect. Don't wait until the next INC event or gathering; reach out to someone down the road, in your network or in a ministry similar to yours. Don't have their number? Find a way to get connected – through mutual friends, social media – find a way! You are as connected as you want, and our shared vision is too great to waste time not being in deep fellowship with each other.
I see this stirring as I talk with pastors and leaders across Australia and the world – we are craving to continue in genuine, authentic relationships aligned towards a common vision.
INC is a living, breathing, energetic movement of local churches and its ministries impacting communities. As we embrace our unique roles and unite in our common goal, we're part of something much bigger than ourselves – a nationwide movement of God's love and grace.
DAY 7: Embracing the Global INC family
Within INC, our shared vision must be about weaving our local vision into a global narrative, understanding how our corner of the world in Australia can resonate with the heartbeat of our international INC family.
Our vision for Australia is not just an isolated goal; it's a piece of the larger puzzle of God's kingdom. God has a plan and purpose for every country. INC is committed to being part of the plan in many nations. Being part of an international network of churches is like having a big, diverse, and supportive family. We get to learn from each other, draw inspiration, and sometimes, even get to meet in person or better yet – reunite!
I get the privilege to visit some of our international INC family – and the apostolic connection is palpable. Ps Geoff Woodward has been coordinating an international magazine that helps bring updates on what is happening around the globe. We have the benefit of impacting locally and internationally.
Never underestimate the power of prayer for international impact. We create spiritual bonds that defy geography when we pray for each other across oceans and time zones. In Ephesians 6:18, Paul urges us to "pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests." Imagine the impact of a united prayer movement spanning from Melbourne to Mexico! The team has dreamed of a 24/7 prayer network around the world – where every hour, someone in the world is praying for the movement of INC.
In an interconnected world, a challenge one church faces can ripple across the network. But so can encouragement and support. Galatians 6:2 instructs us to "carry each other's burdens," which is precisely what we do. When a church in another country faces persecution, natural disasters, or any other challenge, we stand with them.
Our vision of Australia for Christ isn't just about Australia; it's about participating in God's global mission. Matthew 28:19 commands us to "go and make disciples of all nations." Being part of an international network allows us to support missions more effectively. Whether sending missions teams, providing financial support, or offering prayers, we do it as a global family. Embracing a country outside your local church and community is a powerful way to create vision and intentionality that enlarges the borders of our tents. This focus can activate our teams and congregations to new dimensions of their discipleship and spiritual transformation. We know it – nothing like the rubbing off sharp corners and the highs of a mission trip followed by the lows of normality in regular life, to fast track a believer in their discipleship journey. It does as much for the missionary as the community they minister to.
So, Australia for Christ, is it possible? Absolutely. It is courageous, but let's not even stop there. It's about Australia contributing to and being enriched by the global body of Christ. Our vision for Australia is more vibrant and impactful when it's interwoven with the dreams and visions of our global church family, seeing each of their countries for Christ.