MST Ambassador Magazine

Convergence, Continuity and Christ A ‘rich tapestry’ is a good way to describe the breadth of cultural, generational, missional and denominational backgrounds present for the induction of Rev Timothy Meyers as our new Principal. Over 300 people from all parts of the MST community gathered together on 15 February to celebrate this event.

The audience was treated to a thought-provoking presentation by guest speaker Rev David Cook, former Principal of Sydney Missionary and Bible College, followed by our Council President Rev Ian Cathie’s formal induction of Tim as the eighth Principal of MST, with words of affirmation and encouragement.

Tim shared some of his upbringing on the mission field and his passion for, and commitment to, fostering and developing courses at MST that are both

academically rigorous and practically relevant to the proclamation of Christ throughout the world.

Though he is a seasoned leader, Tim said candidly, “Every new leadership position makes me feel new to leadership … and taking on this role in light of the remarkable and quite unique story of this college is deeply humbling.”

Tim reflected on the impact that MST has had, formerly as MBI and BCV, on the face of evangelicalism globally: “Over and over again, throughout my international travels, I’ve bumped into people – from highland villages to rainforest and desert, from towering cities of Europe and America to suburbs of Melbourne or Adelaide, or country towns of Queensland or central NSW – whose lives and ministries, passion for the gospel, love of God and view of

the Bible and mission were formed and forged directly as a result of studying at MBI or BCV, now MST,” he said.

It is this legacy that will help guide MST into its future; “we are a result of many ministries, people, and callings converging to form the heart of MST. At our core, we are “Biblically focused, community-minded, and carry deep in our heart the importance of mission for God’s glory…we will honour our past, by building the future with the same level commitment to Christ and His cause as when we started,” Tim said.

MST’s long-held commitment to Bible and Mission, wherever Christ’s workers are called, was also reinforced by the span of evangelicalism represented by the audience who gathered to show their support for the direction of MST and Tim’s new appointment.

ambassadorMST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012

Melbourne School of Theology

MAGAZINE

Council President Rev Ian Cathie on stage with Rev Timothy and Kathryn Meyers

For more information about studying at or supporting the ministry of MST, visit us online at www.mst.edu.au1

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012Melbourne School of Theology

Tim’s Induction Address

I think you can probably guess that being asked to take on a role such as this, especially in light of the remarkable and quite unique story of this College is nothing if it’s not humbling.

I’m not new to leadership – and yet it seems that every time I think about my leadership ministry; and certainly every time I find myself invited into a new leadership position, I feel new to leadership.

And never more so than now. Right here, tonight. Because the story of this College is the story of men and women of faith and courage, of commitment to mission and to the work of God that stretch back over generations.

And that is humbling.

Humbling not only because it represents a fresh challenge, but because it speaks of a precious and unique stewardship that has been entrusted to us, and handed down over many, many years; generations in fact.

Some of you know I grew up in PNG. My Dad, Max, and my mum, Jo – who are here tonight – were with MAF. So I’m an MK. Missionary Kid.

From time to time as a young boy, I’d find myself in the seat of a little MAF Cessna, flying somewhere – here or there – almost always with my Dad – looking down over the stunning scenery that is PNG: vast towering mountain ranges; spectacular escarpments; dense, endless

jungles and rainforests; and great mighty rivers, like the Fly River, and the Sepik River.

One of the things I noticed and was intrigued by, even as a boy, was that as we flew down from the highlands toward the coast – usually toward Wewak, the place of my birth – each river, or creek, or waterfall would invariably run into another … and then another – and another again, in this endless beautiful tapestry of multi-coloured streams and creeks – until they were all flowing together in the great Sepik river, emptying itself out into the ocean a thousand miles away.

When I think about where we are now; here at MST – and I look out at the faces of some of you that are here; I know that behind so many of your faces, are stories of involvement in this ministry that go a long, long way back into the history of this school; countless streams of church and mission and outreach of gospel ministry; stories of faith and courage and vision.

I’m not sure there has every been a time in my own life, or quite frankly, a dimension of my life, that has not been somehow shaped, or influenced, or nuanced, by the work and ministry of MBI – or BCV – or what is now Melbourne School of Theology.

For more information about studying at or supporting the ministry of MST, visit us online at www.mst.edu.au

I know that behind so many of your faces, are stories of involvement in this ministry that go a long, long way back into the history of this school…

Many people at the Induction Service passed on messages of encouragement and support so we have included a few select quotes alongside this address.

Rev Peter Corney, Vicar Emeritus of St Hilary’s Anglican Church, Kew, who has known Tim for 17 years said, “Tim brings great leadership gifts, a proven track record in bringing constructive and creative change, a passion for the Gospel and the ability to inspire people.”

The names of those who founded and led this school have been names that have profoundly shaped the world I’ve known. The world of missions; the world of Mission Aviation; the world the MAF, and the Asia Pacific Christian mission, and the South Seas Evangelical Mission, and the Chinese Inland Mission.

Names like Len Buck, Allan Ker, J. Oswald Sanders, Will Renshaw, Bill Clack … Arthur Cundal, John Cundall, David Price … Lee Neil, the Chairman of Myer, Ralph David, Chairman of Maine Nickless; Harold McCracken, Charles Sandland.

One or two of those men are here tonight; and there are the sons and daughters, or nephews and nieces of these men and women …

I heard these names often in my life, and in my home as a boy. I had no idea who they were until many years later when I came to realise that these names were not only of unique significance in the shaping and work of the gospel and the church and mission here in Melbourne; but tremendously significant in the shaping of the Australian church. They were way up in the headwaters

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…Continued from previous

from where countless streams in global missions, and local church, and worldwide gospel ministry have come … whose legacy continues in a thousand ways and in countless expressions around the world. And each one of these names, and a whole procession of others, were united by at least one common theme – their commitment to, and involvement in, this college.

The number of times I have been somewhere in the world, in a remote village of Central Asia, or the sandy deserts of north Africa; or the stunning highland villages of PNG, or the vast rainforests of the amazons; or the towering cities of Europe, and America, or the simple suburbs of Melbourne, or Adelaide – or the country towns of Western Queensland and the plains for central NSW …

Over and over and over again, here, there; bumping into people whose lives and ministries, whose passion for the gospel, whose love of God and whose view on mission and Bible, were formed and forged directly as a result of studying at MBI, or BCV, and now MST.

I hear from them from time to time. Even this week, letters of affirmation; letters of encouragement; letters of reflection have come in; sometimes emails, sometimes they are letters written in the shaky script of hands that have written much over many years – wishing us well; promising us prayers;

and always, always, reminding me of this one thing:

That the work we do is important, because it is the work of Christ.

So my sense of humility comes as much as anything, from the sheer scope and nature of the MST story. The history. The men and women who have been part of this School – who have studied here, supported the work financially, prayed for the work passionately, and stood by the work loyally.

We stand downstream of these men and women; we are recipients and beneficiaries of their courage and their faith; and we find ourselves at a point in history where, perhaps as never before, we must with creativity and renewed vision move forward under the leading of God, but ever mindful of what He has done in His great mercy and grace, and never, ever presume that it begins and ends with us.

I see faces here whose parents, and grandparents were part of the MBI/BCV story, and I want to say thank you. Thank you for coming. Thank you for supporting this work.

It won’t surprise you to hear that in recent months, I’ve read a book that was written a few years back now, called “Failure is not Final.”

Failure is not Final is a compelling book; not only because it gives a fascinating insight into the man whose energy, whose vision, whose love for God, whose passion for mission, and whose convictions about the fundamental truth and relevance of the Bible, gave birth the Melbourne Bible Institute; But it is also a sobering reminder, and quite a profound insight into something that I have already come to know: often very personally, and often painfully; that leadership, spiritual leadership; God-honouring, relevant and effective spiritual leadership, is profoundly complex, often painful; occasionally even traumatic; on the odd occasions exhilarating, but almost always, humbling.

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“I am thrilled that Tim Meyers has taken up the role of Principal at MST. His mission zeal, pastoral heart and Spirit filled leadership will serve the church in Melbourne and the cause of Christ around the world.”

Alan Demond, Senior Pastor New Hope Baptist Church

“[Tim] appears to have experience in dealing with people, engaging with God’s word and showing leadership.

I was impressed by the new students enrolling, their opportunity to study with people of

different denominations and the Chinese-speaking students.

The induction was a happy time of hope for the future of MST. “

Bishop Barbara Darling Eastern Region BishopAnglican Diocese of Melbourne

“I’ve had the privilege of journeying with Tim and his family for the past 10 years.

I think Tim will bring incredible insight into the leadership of MST, empowering staff and students to become the servants of Jesus they have been called to be.

The Induction Service was a great night of celebration and the unity

in the room, given people’s different backgrounds, was strong – a sign of God’s blessing and presence.”

Ross Grace Principal, Donvale Christian College

Helen Chu, Dean and Assistant Pastor, North Balwyn Living Stone (Mandarin) Congregation:

“I have been involved in MST Chinese for more than 5 years and treat MST as part of my family. I welcome Tim to this family and believe he will lead MST to be a healthy and culturally diverse college, based on God’s word.”

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Especially when what is involved is the responsibility to steward something that began long before you were around, but now requires fresh vision; new and creative thinking; relevant and sustainable strategies; standards of excellence in management, rigorous scholarship of the highest level, but never at the expense of genuine spiritual formation and Godly character; strategic partnerships with church and mission, locally and globally; and an ongoing and unashamed pursuit of applicable and relevant biblical truth.

How do I feel? Immensely privileged. Sometimes, on occasions like this, even fearful.

It’s probably why my Dad said to me a couple of months ago, “If you weren’t scared of leadership, then I’d be scared of you.”

So it is with a tremendous sense of honour, and an even deeper sense of dependency, that I step into this role – because those of us who are now given the responsibility to lead, and to shape, and to nurture, and to reposition this School really do stand on the shoulders of giants.

“Tim is an exceptional leader – insightful, Biblical, prayerful, visionary and practical. He has boundless energy, is fiercely loyal, and is committed to disciplemaking.”

Simon Longden Director, Pioneers Australia

“Tim’s Kingdom experience as a Bible teacher and Mission leader provides ideal characteristics for MST.”

Ray Walker Christian Management Australia

I am impressed with three things about Tim. One, his up-front commitment to a very high view of the nature and authority of the Bible, because of his commitment to Christ. Two, his commitment to integrating discipleship of the mind with every other aspect of a believer’s discipleship. And three, his commitment to grace-impelled mission to an apathetic and rebellious world.

Rev John Payne Minister, St Andrew’s Uniting Church Berwick

Well, I’m going to let the words of C.H. Nash express it.

Thy changeless word, Firm, unshaken, in unabated strength, Has met the shocks of storm and floodThrough two millennium.

Psalm 19 says:

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul; The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.

More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults.

Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.

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Update your view of global missionAs seen in the March edition of Eternity 2012 Newspaper

Tim Meyers, the newly installed Principal of Melbourne School of Theology, shares his views on world mission, and the new breed of missionary.

The interview began with a rather cheekily posed question: “Many in the western church have been thinking for years that mission is a 19th and 20th Century paradigm ... but it is all but dead, isn’t it?”

Tim Meyers looked at me for a second and replied sharply, “You’re kidding, aren’t you?”

“Global mission is currently on one of its steepest growth curves in 100 years,” he went on to say. “In the eight years that I served as Director of Pioneers Australia I saw tremendous growth in the number of missionaries being trained and sent; from a handful of missionaries in the Asia Pacific in 1999 to more than 150 missionaries across the globe, when I left in 2008.”

Meyers concedes that many churches may think mission is “dead”, or at least is not “appropriate” any more. He suggests that there are many reasons why Christians have lost interest in God’s heart for mission.

“If you were to run a standard word association game in many evangelical churches in Australia, what comes to mind for the average person when they think of ‘intercultural mission’ or ‘mission agency’, would invariably be imagery and terminology of a bygone era.”

In addition, people may say “Why send missionaries when people can evangelise their own cultures now?”

Yet Tim points out that from a biblical perspective, “Mission can never be shackled to any geographical reference point. Mission ought not be a see-saw debate between local and global. It is unavoidably eschatological in its perspective, a vision beautifully encapsulated in Revelation 5:9.”

Meyers also suspects that most believers have a pretty narrow view of

life, and the world. “Most of us are pretty parochial, we’re fairly self-centred, and if not self-centred, we’re ethnocentric. Sure we read the paper, watch the news, but we don’t think all that often about the multi-national, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual cause of God,” he says.

“We don’t find ourselves thinking about God’s enthusiasm for the Berbers of Algeria, or the Kurds of northern Turkey, or the Uhygers of Central Asia, or the Kazakhs, or Uzbekis or the Tajiks.”

“We’re familiar with, but not very mindful, for example, of Old Testament promises, such as Psalm 22:27-28: ‘All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations will worship before You, for the kingdom is the LORD’s and He rules over the nations.’

“The same can be said of New Testament commitments, such as

Matthew 28:18-20, or the picture of the great final moment in human history, described in Revelation 5:9-10.”

Another reason for the church’s move away from global mission, he observes, is its growing comfort and affluence. “Local churches, now wealthy beyond historical precedent, are given over to pouring greater and greater proportions of that wealth into ‘attractional’ strategies and not into the ongoing mandate to reach the world for Christ.”

On the whole, Tim recognises that far from being at an end, global missions are looking to increase in the next decade. Some mission agencies may be dead, or may die, but mission is far from dead. However, it has changed significantly, he admits.

“There is now a Christian presence worldwide that could hardly have been

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imagined a century or two ago. The number of Christians living in countries which used to be referred to as ‘mission fields’ now outnumbers those in countries from which missionaries were traditionally sent.”

“More missionaries are now sent from non-Western churches than the traditional mission sending bases of North America, Europe, England and, of course, Australia.”

The good news is that there is a new generation, who are ethnically savvy, culturally sensitive, well-travelled and world-aware, and fired up about Jesus and mission,” he says.

“The young people going into missions these days are different from their parents or grandparents,” Meyers says. “They are used to buying their books from London, their music from America, their shoes from China, their

clothes from Europe, their technology from Korea.”

“Walk onto any secular university campus of any university in Australia, the UK or USA, and you will find an unprecedented tapestry of colour, culture and convictions. These are not people who want to impose western forms of Christianity.

“They have a much richer cultural exposure than their parents did. They have seen more in their travels, watched more movies on their iPhones, and have more international friends from uni. These are people hard-wired to live life with an ethnically-aware worldview and, on that score, they will make wonderful cross-cultural workers.”

Almost no country allows people in on a “missionary” or “religious worker” visa.

“As a result, vast numbers of professional people these days are working and living cross-culturally

“ More missionaries are now sent from non-Western churches than the traditional mission sending bases of North America, Europe, England and, of course, Australia.”

with a missional purpose. People are doing all sorts of work, while also being missionaries. Young technology-savvy and adventure-ready missionaries can be seen managing a surf shop in France; serving coffee at a Turkish bookstore; designing web pages with Hindus; cooking in a restaurant in Eastern Europe; and running adventure travel in Morocco. They can also be found broadcasting radio programs in Uganda; helping HIV victims in Lesotho or children in a Bolivian prison; the list goes on.”

They are passionate for Jesus, ethnically aware and driven by a hunger to make a difference. They are ready to hear of new, creative ways God might use them to fulfil his purposes. “Mission is far from dead, but it has changed, a lot,” Meyers concludes.

Student Profiles

It’s never too late!Ian Milne, 92, and son Douglas, 62, who are studying together at MST this year, both say, “it is never too late to learn more and more about God and the Bible.”

Learning by Internship Dr Kim Hwee Toh, a qualified doctor (MBBS) who was born in Malaysia, is one of MST’s first MinistryTrax Interns from CityLife church. Since coming to know Christ five years ago, she has developed a heart for local and global missions. Kim chose MST for her two year internship, which combines accredited theological study, practical hands-on ministry and structured coaching. Kim believes MST is best able to equip her with the knowledge of God and His Word as she grows in faith and develops her spiritual gifts and skills to serve the Kingdom of God.

Insight for Living at MST Peter Tyrrell is enrolled in a Graduate Divinity program at MST. He leads the development of the radio Bible teaching ministry of Chuck Swindoll in Australia and the South Pacific and says, “I was attracted to MST by its conservative yet balanced view of Scripture that encourages discussion within an evangelical Christian context.”

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Meeting Mrs M:“We are all in this together”

Kathryn Meyers was welcomed and clearly visible on stage, at the Induction of the MST’s new Principal Tim Meyers in February. She really appreciates the community feel of MST, as well as its gender balance and focus on families.

The Ambassador Editor, Dean Troth caught up with Kathryn at the recent ‘Welcome Brunch’ on a Saturday morning at the start of Semester. He thanked her for being up so early on a Saturday morning and began by questioning why she was there.

“We are all in this together,” she replied.

“I believe that in any Christian marriage, a union is made that should in every way possible, reflect mutual support, loving interest and be God honouring.

“Our home is settled when he is happy in his role, and feels supported by his family. This means giving him space and time to plan and implement whatever he needs to do effectively. This is extremely important to Tim.

“I encourage him to invest in people’s lives. He’s been gifted with a way with words and a passion to impact people of all ages and circumstances for Christ. I love to see him free to do what he does best and bless others,” she said.

This was not always the case, she admits. In a beautiful moment of honesty, Kathryn reflects on the early years of ministry, when she felt resistance

building as they sought to serve Christ independently. After Tim pursued formal training overseas and later, ended up working and living in different States, she remembers often feeling left behind in their spiritual journey together.

“I had cried out to Christ for a sense of worth and value, unique to me, before the realising that we are meant to be in this ministry together, no matter what training we had,” Kathryn said.

“Our heartbeat, when we met, was one. We knew we were going to serve Christ with our life whatever that looked like but we knew it would not end in mediocrity, that our journey could very well be different to that of our family and friends,” she said.

Kathryn currently teaches at a Kindergarten and says she has always adored children and babies and never tires of being with them. She grew up in an Italian family, one of four children, in Blackburn and trained as a Mothercraft Nurse, later graduating with a Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood.

She had an incredible role model in her mother, who she describes as an incredible woman. Every weekend when she was young, Kathryn remembers helping others in hospitals, orphanages, old people’s homes and the homeless. Her family was also a host family for African and Indian nurses, a foster family for children with special needs and her mother was always pioneering new

ways to reach the unreached in their neighbourhood.

“Although I have lost my mother, her passion and zest for serving Christ lives on in me,” she said.

Apart from working full-time, being a devoted mother of five growing children and a supportive wife to Tim, Kathryn says she loves being creative, dancing and singing, cooking and being out in the garden. She also loves family holidays, where she can explore other beautiful places.

When asked about her role at MST she is quick to clarify that it is still early days with MST but she is keen to wait on the Lord for what He wants of her, rather than jumping in to fill gaps.

“I will continue to pray for his wellbeing, safety in every sphere, knowing that we have an enemy that will target Tim and his family as they seek to serve Christ.

“We’re all in this together and God has given talents to all who serve him. I’m not sure of my specific role but I will be present rather than absent...and I think it’s all very exciting,” she says.

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New Academic Vice-Principal

Dr Peter Riddell has taken up the new position of Vice-Principal (Academic). This newly created role will be of tremendous benefit to the advancement of MST academically and to us as a staff and faculty; “Peter is a great source of encouragement and models a genuine passion for doing things well,” Principal Tim Meyers said.

Peter has teaching and research experience in universities and theological colleges in Australia, Indonesia, Israel, UK and the USA, and so brings strong academic background to this position.

Peter says priorities for this new appointment include: a review of all academic structures and procedures, the enhancing of research activities and publications, and the building of relationships and partnerships with external individuals and institutions.

Peter continues to be active in publishing, teaching and supervision for the Centre for the Study of Islam and other Faiths.

New ‘Liberty’ Library System Helps Mine Treasure

Students, Faculty, Pastors and Alumni will have easier and more user-friendly access to the ‘treasure trove’ of resources in the Library by using our the new library management system called ‘Liberty’.

Our Senior Librarian Rosslyn Devenish says Liberty will go live at the end of March and will offer greater flexibility, efficiency and better access to the 45,000 English titles and 16,000 Chinese titles currently in the Library.

Projects of this size are incredibly complex but to add to the complexity, the Library is also amalgamating the English and Chinese collections in the new catalogue, which will mean students can search across the whole collection, both Chinese and English, at the same time.

“Such an important upgrade takes not only time but significant investment,” Ros says, “and we couldn’t have done it without the significant support by the MST Council and a generous $10,000 grant from the Collier Charitable Fund.”

Alumni, friends and supporters are welcome to come and use the library for reading or photocopying, though there are some limits on borrowing. We are also looking to extend the library hours this year with the help of some dedicated student volunteers.

“As students learn to mine this great treasures in the library more efficiently, they will grow in wisdom and understanding; with the ultimate goal of being better equipped to love and serve the Lord wherever their ministry calling takes them” Ros said.

PRAY. TELL. BRING. MST & MST Chinese OPEN DAYNew week day/night format Tuesday 15 May 9.30–4.30pm ; 5.30–10.00pm

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012

ambassadorMST Chinese

Centre for Chinese Christianity Launched by Borneo Evangelical Convert

The MST Centre for the Study of Chinese Christianity (CSCC) was launched on 28 February to a large crowd of English and Chinese speaking academics, scholars and pastors.

Rev Dr Justin Tan, the founder and Director of the Centre, said he felt called to establish this vital work: “The need to do advance research into the life of the Chinese Church is important for its wellbeing and growth.”

The CSCC is a specialised postgraduate research arm of MST, and will serve as a unique place to undertake research and exchange scholarship in a Western setting. It will also help MST Chinese, after 17 years of operation, to foster deeper investigation into more mature theology and practice.

“The contextual reflection locally is important, because each area is unique in its mission for the spread of the Gospel. But Chinese Christianity is part of the Global Church of Christ, so by researching the life and theology of the Chinese Church, the Centre will make

a unique contribution to the spread of Christianity as a whole,” he said.

Keynote speaker for the Launch, Professor K.K.Yeo, who holds the Harry R. Kendall Chair of New Testament Interpretation at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago USA, spoke to an enthusiastic crowd of over 100 Chinese and English speaking Christian scholars and leaders.

Professor Yeo also lectures as a visiting Professor along with Dr Tan at Peking University in China. Having experienced lecturing in Biblical Studies in various universities in China, Professor Yeo spoke with authority and great insight on the current state of theological and Biblical studies in China.

Melbourne Director or Overseas Council Australia, Nicola Templeton, who was a guest at the launch, said afterwards she found Dr K. K. Yeo’s summation that ‘to be truly Chinese one needs to be Christian’ very thought provoking.

Dr Justin Tan with Professor K.K.Yeo at the Launch

“As an English woman, if I were to say this about my country, it would sound rather shocking. But as Dr Yeo explained, Taoist and Confucianist schools of thought provide fertile ground for the Word of God in the hearts of the Chinese people – i.e. Christian theology fulfils the ideals of the Chinese cultures,” she said.

His passion for cross-cultural communication of the Gospel message in global context meant he was encouraged by Centres outside China, like MST’s CSCC.

Professor Yeo also revealed that he first came to know Christ through the church in Borneo, which had its roots in the Borneo Evangelical Mission, founded by MBI graduates Frank Davidson and Hudson Southwell (1926) and Carey Tolley (1927).

Dr Tan said MST Chinese had been doubly blessed to be opened by his close colleague K.K.Yeo, who came to the Lord as a result of the work of MBI graduates from the 1920s. Praise God!

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Chinese

Roots of China Inland Mission MST’s new Centre for the Study of Chinese Christianity was honoured to host visiting scholar, Sylvia Yuan. Sylvia, based in New Zealand, is currently completing two PhDs: One from Messey University, New Zealand, on CIM Missionaries from New Zealand, and the second currently being undertaken at Fudan University, Shanghai, on post-CIM Missions of OMF.

Sylvia says MST is an excellent place for research with very helpful library staff and MST Chinese faculty and she made extensive use of the Archives in the MST library. “The rich and invaluable archives are a joy to behold. The Centre for the Study of Chinese Christianity has opened up a whole new avenue for scholars interested in research in this area and Dr Justin Tan has become mentor and friend during my short stay.”

Originally from China, Sylvia resettled in New Zealand with her family and is an award-winning author of a novel on the Catholic missionary activities in China, during the 17th Century Qing Dynasty.

Sylvia Yuan with Dr Justin Tan at MST

Shu-Ying, on right in photo, with Rev Kian Gee LIM, Pastor of the Chinese Church of Victoria, who hosted Shu-Ying while he was visiting Australia

Chinese Scholar at MST to Compare Holy Wars

Shu-Ying Peng’s interest in the Muslim world began very early in life, as he accompanied his parents on their Student Campus Ministry in various locations around the world, spending a summer vacation in the Middle East. When it came time for him to choose a topic for his PhD thesis at Peking University, he combined his Christian heritage with his passion for Muslim outreach.

Studying Old Testament under Dr Justin Tan at Peking University opened the way for him to continue his studies in Australia. Shu-Ying recently spent six weeks at MST researching the concepts of ‘Jihad’ in Islam and ‘Holy War’ in Christianity, under the supervision of Dr Tan (MST Chinese), and Dr Peter Riddell

and Dr Bernie Power (MST Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths).

“It was a wonderful time of learning and fellowship. The CSIOF is unique, not only for its resources but the very helpful scholars who served as my supervisors,” he said.

Shu-Ying also praised Justin Tan for being both a mentor and supervisor and thanked the Chinese Churches in Melbourne, who welcomed him and provided hospitality and accommodation.

It is this wonderful potential for collaboration that sets MST at the forefront of Christian theological research, illuminating the truth to inform life and practice in the Church.

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Chinese

MST Welcomes Dr Peter Tie

For years, MST Chinese has been searching for a suitable full-time Chinese and English-speaking Systematic Theologian and Dr Peter Tie, who began at the start of the academic year, is the answer to much prayer.

“The importance and benefit of Peter joining our faculty cannot be overstated,” said Rev Dr Y.C. Liong, Dean of MST Chinese. “He brings to us a profound evangelical theology which fuses and synergizes with our Biblical, historical, missiological and pastoral disciplines of studies.”

Married to Ruth for 15 years, with three children, Anastasia, Timothy and Annabelle, Peter was born and raised in a Chinese family in Malaysia. He later undertook most of his study in the USA and has served in pastoral ministry among Chinese and English speaking congregations, both in Malaysia and the USA. He has also authored the book ‘Restore Unity, Recover Identity, Refine Orthopraxy’, published by Wipf and Stock (USA).

He holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Central Arkansas; a Master of Divinity in Christian Thought from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary; a

Master of Sacred Theology (STM) in Systematic Theology with Honours from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. with a Major in Systematic Theology and Minor in Historical Theology from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Peter will teach theology courses and supervise student ministry internships at MST Chinese.

“ He brings to us a profound evangelical theology which fuses and synergizes with our Biblical, historical, missiological and pastoral disciplines of studies.”

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Alumni

Ambassador Family Roundup

MBI 50th Anniversary ReunionBrian and Bev Wall report that, along with Gordon and Margaret Summerson, they organised a 50th anniversary reunion in November. ‘Held at MST’s beautiful Wantirna campus, over 30 graduates and partners attended, sharing fellowship, swapping stories and enjoying refreshments together,” they wrote.

Brian and Bev continue to lead an SIM prayer group and are active at Murrumbeena Baptist Church.

LEFT: Dr Cliff Wilson with Dick and Dorothy Hawthorn (nee Neilsen) at the 1961 MBI Reunion

TOP: Alumni, current students and Faculty at the 1961 MBI Reunion at Murrumbeena Baptist Church on Sunday of Reunion

40th Reunion for 2013John Ullyatt, now a farmer in the Warrnambool region, would like to organise a 40th reunion in 2013. He’s asking for expressions of interest and can be contacted (after 5pm) on 03 5591 8227 or [email protected]

Alumni and Friends News(Formerly ‘Hatches, Matches and Dispatches’) Edited by MBI Alumnus, Graeme Rule

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Alumni

If you would like to provide updated news for Family Roundup, please send in your news via email to: [email protected] or send via post to: P O Box 6257, Vermont South VIC 3133

From MST Chinese • Congratulations to Rev Jia-Xin

Huang who has been ordained an Anglican minister and is now serving at St Thomas’ Anglican Church in Burwood Victoria.

• Pastor Zhi-Ming is now serving at Balwyn Wesleyan Methodist Church.

• Pastor Joseph Chen is on the staff of the Glory City Church in the Melbourne CBD. The church is located close to RMIT and Melbourne University at 488 Swanston Street.

• Rev Geng-Hua Zhang, a 2001 graduate, retired from the Northcote Baptist Chinese congregation after 11 years. Along with his wife Su Yu, they are planning to serve with the Europe Chinese Seminary in Spain. Please pray for their Visa application and upcoming ministry.

• Rev Jun Tan has been appointed as Rev Zhang’s replacement. Jun Tan is an MST Chinese graduate from 2005.

From Melbourne School of Theology • Reg Worthy, a 1941 graduate, was seen recently on ABC TV News expressing his

delight during the colourful celebration of his granddaughter Kathryn’s wedding to Nyok from the Sudanese community.

• Recent graduates and third-generation missionaries, ‘Paul’ and ‘Christie’, are currently serving with Pioneers in a sensitive area of the world. They would appreciate your prayers for the interdenominational work that has begun in recent years: a Bible school has been established; a parent-run Christian school has been a blessing to the community; and contacts with new believers have been encouraging.

• Daniel Bullock, who graduated with a B.Min in 1994, has been appointed Director of Ministries for the Baptist Union of Victoria.

• Ross and Sarah O’Neill celebrated the safe arrival or their son Thomas on 6 October 2011.

• Michael and Ruth Tinley celebrated the birth of their daughter Gretel on 14 October 2011.

• Peter Luu was engaged to Julie McKerrell last December. They will be married on 12 May 2012 in Queensland.

• Janet Reeve’s mother, Barbara McKay, passed on to be at home with Jesus on 15 February. Her life was celebrated with a large thanksgiving service in Dapto on 21 February.

Dr Cliff Wilson views the Codex in the MST Library, at 1961 MBI Reunion

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ambassadorMST Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths

Introducing our New MissiologistIn early December 2011, MST’s Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths held a successful fundraising dinner to raise finance for a missiologist, an academic specialist in missions. Following great generosity from a number of supporters, MST’s new Principal, Timothy Meyers, has announced the appointment of Dr Bernie Power as MST’s dedicated ‘Missiologist’.

“MST has always had a strong emphasis on mission,” said Tim, “but we felt it was time to raise the profile of mission in the Christian community by this appointment. Bernie, with his experience and gifting, is the right person for the job.”

Bernie comes with a rich background in mission, having served for over 20 years in Pakistan, Jordan, Oman and Yemen with Interserve. In recent years, he has led short-term trips to Sudan, Egypt, Iraq and Israel.

“I am excited by what God is doing around the world,” he said. “With the exception of some Western countries, the church is growing worldwide, often at unprecedented rates. With its long tradition of sending missionaries to all parts of the globe, MST is well placed to contribute to the changing face of

mission. The role of mission and missions is central to the whole Gospel and therefore is paramount in everything we teach at MST.”

In 1986, Bernie with his wife Catherine and their eight-month-old son Joshua set off for Pakistan. Their second son, Nathan, was born there two years later. Bernie taught English to Muslim students and was involved in outreach in the community.

“The government was apparently not happy with our extracurricular activities, and told us to leave,” Bernie says.

This was not the only time he found himself at odds with the authorities. In later years they were ordered out of another Muslim country, detained by the courts in a different one, removed from a plane by police in the Arabian Gulf and a short-term team Bernie was leading was arrested in Sudan. “I hope that MST is comfortable with having an international criminal on its faculty,” says Bernie, smiling.

Bernie has recently completed a Doctorate in Theology. His thesis looked at the relationship between the Bible and the Hadith, which recounts the early traditions about Islam’s prophet Muhammad. “I was looking for links

Bernie with local children in Iraq

and connections so that those working with Muslims could share the good news of Jesus starting from the life of Muhammad. There is a lot of material that we could use. I hope to get the thesis published soon.”

Bernie’s experience is not just overseas. Last year he addressed an Islamic conference in Melbourne on the topic: ‘The Christian understanding of God.’ Over 200 Muslims attended, and a rowdy Q & A session followed. Bernie commented: “It is important that we engage Muslims and those of other faiths, and those of none, here in Australia as well as overseas. With our multicultural population, Melbourne is an ideal training ground for missionaries. MST students must know how to both proclaim Jesus and defend the Christian faith.”

This semester, Bernie is teaching ‘Christian Apologetics to Islam’ and ‘Reading Arabic Texts.’ Regarding the latter course, he claims: “Unless we understand the thought forms and the language of those we are planning to reach, we will not know how to share Christ with them appropriately.”

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths

Shedding Light at RPAChaplain at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Ian Schoonwater, talks about how studying Islam and other faiths has helped him engage meaningfully with people and how his research helps shed Christian light on how we care for people at the end of life.

When asked why he chose to study at the MST Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths, he said he wanted to be equipped to engage intelligently with the Muslims he works with, patients he cares for and neighbours he lives around, rather than simply ‘eating’ the stereotypes fed him by the popular media.

A former Presbyterian Minister, Ian, 46, is now Chaplain to both Royal Prince Alfred and Royal North Shore Hospitals and lives with his wife Narelle and two sons in Quakers Hill, a suburb of Western Sydney with a fast growing Muslim population. He is also enrolled in a postgraduate Master of Arts degree in Ministry at MST.

RPA is but a microcosm of wider society, he says, where you encounter people of all faiths and no faith.

“While we have other Chaplains who cater for patients of other faiths, including a Buddhist and Muslim chaplain, we still encounter patients of those faiths,” Ian said.

Ian said he greatly enjoyed studying ‘Religions of the world in contemporary society’ through the MST Centre for the Study of Islam and Other Faiths, which gave him a solid overview of the four other major faiths of the world and how

each interacts and differs from another. He says it also gave him the tools for how he as a Christian can interact with them.

“Although I visit many patients who identify themselves as Christian, I also visit people who claim to have no faith and it is with those of no faith, or with a distorted view of the gospel, that are the most challenging,” he said.

“The idea that all religions are essentially the same is often raised, so being able to engage about other faiths from an informed perspective has been of great benefit, rather than being seen as ‘just another Christian bashing other faiths’.”

Ian says he is always encouraged at how many people want to talk about how God fits into their lives when in hospital. He also has opportunities to talk about the gospel with chaplains of other faiths, which he finds really exciting.

Before moving to Sydney to take on the appointment of Hospital Chaplain, Ian spent 17 years in Presbyterian parish ministry in rural NSW, and has an Arts Degree, as well as a Bachelor of Theology and a Diploma of Theological Studies.

He says his passion for Chaplaincy arose from the many ministry opportunities “to get alongside people who would normally have no contact with a church”, that chaplaincy to the local Rural Fire Service provided.

According to Ian, the growing view in the hospital environment is that the hospital should provide ‘holistic care’, which includes matters of faith.

Being able to share the gospel in a sensitive way with patients and families as they approach death is possibly his greatest challenge.

As well as completing his coursework at MST, Ian is currently undertaking a research project into palliative care from a Christian perspective, as well as how other faiths view care for the terminally ill and the dying.

“In a secular hospital context it is great to be able to shed a Christian light in how we care for people at the end of life,” he said.

“I am often asked what other faiths have to say on things like organ donation and withdrawal of treatment, so consideration also needs to be made about other faiths,” he said.

On reflection, Ian says his interactions with patients and staff of other faiths is a constant reminder of the importance of good training for those engaged in gospel ministry, whether in a church context; or in school, prison or hospital chaplaincy, or on the mission field.

2012 Leonard Buck Lecture in Missiology Saturday 5 May 2012 7.30pm

Do Muslims and Christians worship the same God? An African perspective.

Dr John Azumah Professor of World Christianity & Islam, Columbia Theological Seminary

Donations invited

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ambassadorMST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012

MST Postgraduate Institute

Critical Plank in Floor of Pakistani ChurchPostgraduate research, being conducted here by Langham Scholar and Pakistani national, Qaiser Julius, will form “a critical plank in the ground floor of indigenous Pakistani theology,” according to Dean of MST Postgraduate Institute, Rev Dr Jeff Pugh.

Qaiser Julius, 41, commenced this year as a candidate in the Master of Theology research program, with a view to expanding it into a PhD in ecclesiology after 12 months.

His research is a study of the experience of Punjabi Christians in Pakistan as a minority religious group, living within a hostile socio-political environment. He will also examine the impact of this situation on their understanding of God, Church and their self-identity.

Qaiser, who has already completed degrees in Economics and Divinity in Pakistan as well as a Master of Arts from Trinity College Bristol in the UK, is here in Australia thanks to the support and sponsorship of Langham Partnership Australia, MST Postgraduate Fund and CMS Australia.

Qaiser said this is not research for research’s sake, but will pave the way

for the growing Church that both reflects a Punjabi way of living, without compromising the transcultural aspects of the faith.

Langham Partnership, founded by John Stott, works alongside the Majority World Church, to equip them with skills and tools for growing the Church with depth and maturity, according to Executive Officer, Wendy Toulmin.

Wendy has been dialoguing with Qaiser, who has also been a part of Langham’s preaching ministry in Pakistan, since 2005, when an Australian CMS Missionary in Pakistan asked if Langham might be able to support Qaiser in his postgraduate studies.

Qaiser has been heavily involved in theological education in Pakistan, through the ministry of the interdenominational Open Theological Seminary and plans to return to Pakistan, once his PhD is completed, to serve the Church in Pakistan through the ministry of Open Theological Seminary in more effective way.

“MST is a great place to study,” Qaiser says. “ I heard from many good friends in Australia who spoke highly about MST’s

Qaiser Julius, pictured with Dr Jeff Pugh and Wendy Toulmin

academic standards, and everything I heard I’ve found to be true.”

“Without such critical work, the church will, as many do, accept various cultural patterns as if sanctioned by the Gospel. Even more devastating to a missional future, the church in Pakistan could uncritically adopt Western approaches to church politics, life and decision-making that would make the church appear unnecessarily ‘alien’ within their own society,” Dr Pugh said.

“It is one thing to have opposition from the society around a church due to the offence of the Gospel. It is entirely another to face opposition due to misunderstanding, flawed practice especially through the importing of untested patterns and structures from the Western church,” he said.

MST Postgraduate Institute exists to foster these types of investigation into today’s cultural discourses that will serve the communication of the Gospel and the strengthening of the church, or shed new light on critical theological issues where the deposit of the faith requires fresh articulation.

For more information about studying at or supporting the ministry of MST, visit us online at www.mst.edu.au1616



MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Postgraduate Institute


Embracing New Models of LeadershipDavid Nicholls is currently looking after training and development for SIL in the Asia Pacific region and was recently admitted as a PhD candidate at MST Postgraduate Institute.

David believes multicultural organisations should have the capacity to embrace, not just accommodate, expressions of leadership that are significantly different from traditional Western models. His research will focus on cross-cultural tensions in organisational leadership and he is concentrating on features and functions of leadership as it is enacted in a large multicultural Christian organisation.

David ‘s research focus is cross-cultural tensions in organisational leadership, exploring features and functions of leadership as it is enacted in a large multicultural Christian organisation.

David, along with his wife Wendy and two boys, has worked with Wycliffe Bible Translators for over 30 years. David and Wendy served together in a number of countries in the Pacific including Papua New Guinea, New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Through this time, they had the rich experience of learning a number of languages and cultures, working with local church organisations, serving in a large multicultural team, and working together with local Christians to translate the Scriptures.

They were involved in leadership in several of these assignments, and from these experiences, and those of colleagues in the organisation, David’s interest in organisational leadership grew.

“Working with other languages in translation often gives surprising insights,” David said.

David and Wendy worked among the South Efate language group in Vanuatu. Seeking to express in that language some Biblical key terms such as ‘disciple’, ‘elder’ and ‘priest’, they discovered much about how the people view organisation, leadership and community dynamics.

“There is no question that engaging with other cultures impacts our theology and our values,” David said.

“We gain an appreciation for the diversity and richness of human life and God’s creation and it seems appropriate that appreciation for this richness should be expressed through our leadership concepts.”

‘I am grateful for the opportunity to engage in studies like this, and for the support of the postgrad Faculty and staff at MST,’ David said. ‘I particularly value the approach to research that expects significant theological reflection.’

Dean of MST Postgraduate Institute, Dr Jeff Pugh, believes David’s research has the capacity to vitalise the

organisational cultures of many similar large international NGO and missionary organisations.

“Large international organisation are often unaware how their cultural and theological assumptions blind them to the marginalisation of non-Western voices in their structures,” Dr Pugh said, “which leads to a loss of organisational learning and deskilling.”

Dr Pugh said he is looking forward to other experienced candidates tackling the issues that must be resolved at the frontline of ministry and missional organisational life.

Home from Syria for third degreeNewly enrolled ThD candidate, Andrew Lake, who recently returned with his wife Pam from Syria, shares how his experience in the Middle East led to uncovering the history of the first protestants in the Middle East and a doctoral thesis at MST.

“It all began back in May 2010 when, six months after arriving in Syria to serve as the pastor of the All Saints International Church, I applied for a twelve-month residence visa at

the Immigration Office in Damascus,” Andrew recalls.

Much to his dismay, he was told that it would not be granted. The Government had issued a decree, just six months previously, that protestant churches could no longer have foreign workers, and that the Anglican Church was classified as a protestant church.

“The Bishop of Jerusalem then asked the Archbishop of Canterbury’s office, Lambeth Palace, to assist in this case and

Lambeth Palace put the case before the Syrian Government that the Anglican church was not, in any way, a threat to the religious stability of the country and that it was an historic, traditional church in good relationships with the other historic, traditional churches in Syria,” Andrew said.

He was then tasked with helping to document the Anglican presence in the northern city of Aleppo with the hope of

Continued over…

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MST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012MST Postgraduate Institute



finding concrete evidence like the graves of chaplains who had served the English Levant Merchant Company in previous centuries.

“Thus began a hunt which unearthed twenty-two Church of England clergy who served as chaplains between 1597 and 1782. One became the first Professor of Arabic at Oxford and produced the first Protestant literature in Arabic.

“Others made significant archaeological discoveries and contributed their insights into Middle Eastern geography and culture to Biblical scholarship. A number supported the translation and distribution of the Scriptures in Arabic,” he said.

Andrew remembers his wife, Pam, commenting on his excitement at the discoveries, “I feel there’s another thesis coming on!”

He approached his Alma Mater, MST, and is now working on a doctoral thesis titled “The First Protestants in the Middle East: the contribution of the English Aleppo chaplains to Christian Mission”.

Dean of MST Postgraduate Institute, Dr Jeff Pugh, said Andrew’s ThD Thesis was the first of its kind at MST and that Andrew was the first student or candidate, to his knowledge, to undertake not one or two but three degrees at MST.

Andrew says MST was his first choice because he had such a positive experience when he undertook his Master of Theology with the thesis ‘From Mission Station to International Church: All Saints Church Jakarta 1819 to 2002.’ He says he has a continuous link through retired lecturer, Dr Darrell Paproth, who lectured him in New Testament while studying for his BTh, supervised his MTh and is now supervising his ThD.

Alumni Update: Since finishing his studies at BCV in 1988, Andrew and his young family lived and ministered in Tamworth, Uralla, Jakarta, Sorell, Damascus, Hobart and now Devonport. “We are delighted whenever we bump into MST/BCV/MBI Alumni, whether in Australia or Indonesia, and have found the sharp Bible and Missions focus of the college makes for adaptable, resilient and effective servants of Christ,” he said.

A Few Words From Jeff…The MST Graduation Service, held on 16 March, saw the largest graduating class of postgraduate candidates in MST’s history.

We had some truly brilliant people graduating who have delivered some truly exceptional and ground-breaking research; it is both a pleasure and an honour to commence the year with an array of new faces and some familiar ones who’ve travelled with us over many years finally graduating, having their research received, passed and published.

It was also satisfying to note how their research had opened doors for new ministry responsibilities, especially in the field of theological education and denominational leadership, as well as having directly served the church through advancing the knowledge of theology and culture. This reflects the heart of our tagline ‘Research for the Church today, that will Transform the World Tomorrow’.

MA candidates, included Rob Reside, Cung Hnin, and Eric Maefonea are graduating in missiological areas, related to business as mission; the Burmese church and the leadership culture of the Solomon Islands church, respectively. Bruce Blythe also completed a project connecting preachers’ attitudes and their spirituality.

MTh candidates included Murray Hogg with a thesis on the Knowledge of God in John’s Gospel, Janice Newham with a thesis on the history of Crossway Baptist Church, Johannes de Hoog on the canonical shape of Psalm 119

Doctor of Ministry completed theses include Peter Downes on the Worship Culture in Vineyard Churches; Philip Brown’s on the Disciple-making potential of Emerging Churches; and Drew Mellor, whose project addressed the understanding of the local Anglican Evangelical is in the process of final acceptance.

Dr Bernie Power, who’s broadened his involvement on Faculty as MST’s new Missiologist, completed a highly commended ThD, involving the translation of significant portions of the Hadith and, in the process, discovering its pertinence to evangelistic communication with Muslims.

It is our prayer that, as this research is enacted and disseminated in the church, that it will indeed refine organisations and thereby transform the world.

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Current MST student, Michael Harrison hopes to make a global and eternal impact when he boards a plane bound for the USA in early April.

Michael describes himself as a ‘Technissionary’ (or Technology Missionary) and will be the first Australian to join the New Media Labs department of Campus Crusade for Christ. He will be working with a team pioneering new and innovative ways to use smart phone technology to share the Gospel.

Michael, who was led to the Lord by his father seven years ago, says he wants to develop smart-phone technology, not just to bring people to faith, but also to disciple and build them up in their faith.

Michael was studying Science and Computer Science at Monash University when he first got the idea for an App to replace paper tracts.

“I started sharing the Gospel using a paper tract and was laughed at by a group of uni students, but I observed how often they were using their smart phones. I realised that paper tracts simply didn’t work as well as they used to, but students were starting to use smart phones for almost any purpose at almost any hour of the day,” he said.

Even though Michael is very tech savvy, he wasn’t prepared for the response the App got. On the day it was released, over 300 users in countries all over the world downloaded his App – Knowing God Personally. Just over a year later, the number of users hovers at over 10,000 for both iPhone and Android platforms.

“There are so many people with connected devices in their pocket with whom we can potentially communicate. Half of those mobiles now are smart phones, so they don’t just have Internet access but have the ability to install applications,” he said.

When challenged about how effective technology is when compared to personal evangelism, Michael is very quick to rebut, “We’re not trying to detract from a personal sharing of faith, rather we’re aiming to build a system that complements and facilitates this.

“The Apps we release mimic the way people share other aspects of their lives,” he says.

“Primarily we are trying to aid a face-to-face relationship. Many people already sit down with a friends and show them photos from their phone and every now and then might show a video... so we’ve copied that and are trying to tap into that mindset,” Michael shares.

He says they have already had many thousands of Apps downloaded by people in nations closed to Christian workers or missionaries.

“At CCCA, our main focus is students, but we don’t just want to leave it there. Our focus it the Kingdom of God so we never leave it with students. We are also doing this so other countries, and other ministries can be blessed,” he said.

“For example, the App technology gives someone in France the capacity to create and use the local content that is most effective for communicating the gospel in France.” Michael says he has done everything because he has felt God calling him. “I felt God challenging me

that I needed to study his Word more, so I enrolled in a Master of Divinity course at MST.”

Michael has asked people to cover him in prayer as he deals with the changes and pressures associated with his move to the USA, and “specifically for the opportunity to share the Gospel with millions around the world,” he said.

“The best way you can support me is to pray for me,” Michael says. “Please pray that my relationship with God will be strengthened.”

If you want to hear more about Michael’s mission work, you can follow his blog: www.prayformichael.wordpress.com

MST Missions in Focus

New Ways to Share the Message: Gospel Apps

Michael holding the iPhone App he helped develop called ‘Knowing God Personally’.


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Please continue your support of God’s life-changing and world-changing work through MST• Credit Card. Donations can be made by calling Susanne on 03 9881 7800 or emailing [email protected] • Cheque. Donations via cheque can be posted to MST at PO Box 6257, Vermont South 3133• Online. You can now donate online via our website www.mst.edu.au • Transfer. Donations can be transferred directly to BSB 033107 Account 384 543

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MST Missions in FocusMST Ambassador · Issue 213 · Autumn 2012

Scott’s New Book: TRINITARIAN SELF AND SALVATION

One of the academic highlights of the recent Graduation Service was the much-anticipated launch by Dr Mark Durie of a new book by our own Dr Scott Harrower.

In 1967 Karl Rahner, considered one of the most influential Catholic theologians of the 20th Century, famously wrote: “The economic Trinity is the immanent Trinity, and vice versa,” which became known as ‘Rahner’s Rule’.

Ever since, Rahner’s Rule has become the norm for conceiving the relationship between the Trinity in the economy of salvation and God’s eternal inner

life. Evangelical theologians employ Rahner’s Rule in a variety of ways and one of the most popular is the ‘Strict Realist Reading’, whereby Trinitarian relationships in salvation history are taken to mirror eternal relationships within God.

Titled ‘Trinitarian Self and Salvation’, Dr Harrower’s book is based on his PhD Dissertation, and highlights troubling issues that arise from the application of the Strict Realist Reading to the narrative of Luke-Acts. By bringing it into conversation with the witness of Scripture, Dr Harrower suggests that the Strict Realist Reading is a questionable basis for our doctrine of God’s inner life.

Dr Fred Sanders, Associate Professor from Biola University, in the foreword, writes: “The book leverages its investigation of Luke-Acts to lodge a protest against a widespread, highly influential, but seldom critically examined movement in modern

Trinitarian methodology … I commend this book as an excellent piece of research theology, the kind of solid work that captures the theological moment, advances the next few steps into new territory, and indicates where future progress lies.”

Scott’s book is available for purchase in Koorong Bookstores or online at Koorong.com. Please direct enquiries or speaking invitations to Scott on [email protected]

“ …I commend this book as an excellent piece of research theology, the kind of solid work that captures the theological moment…”

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MST Ambassador Magazine

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