Articles
Assembly Council update
This is the May 2022 update from Assembly Council. These will become regular updates letting you know what we're up to, the things we are…
Easter Sunday in the megachurch
Before I started to pray, I made a silly mistake: I looked at the Stuff newsfeed. The fourth headline down depicted the demise of another…
Glen Eden and Visionwest Waka Whakakitenga
Visionwest Community Housing addresses the issue of homeless in New Zealand by providing safe, warm, and quality, rental accommodation for low-income families who cannot access…
Red-orange-green light: a pastor, a church and unity in Christ
Tim Palmer, Senior Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church shares his journey in a local church as they seek to navigate the vaccination discussion, as they listen…
What’s next? Church on the other side of Omicron
The last two years of COVID-19 have been deeply disruptive, both for society and for the church. Many Christians have drifted away from regular engagement…
Imagining a gender equal world: our experience of Women’s History Sunday
Imagining a gender equal world: our experience of Women's History Sunday
Has the time come to act?
In this opinion piece Andrew Clark-Howard continues the dialogue on mandates, vaccinations, protests and theology.
The other half of what we owe each other
Andrew Clark-Howard’s assessment of the anti mandate protest (What we owe each other: freedom, protest, and responsibility) draws upon excellent resources from Bonhoeffer on freedom.
Biblical principles for churches wrestling with vaccine mandates
Recently, John Tucker, Principal of our theological college (Carey Baptist College) received an email from one of the leaders in our movement of churches, asking…
Women’s History Sunday, 6th March 2022
Featuring two remarkable New Zealand Women: Elinor Thornton and Merrilyn Withers
What we owe each other: freedom, protest, and responsibility
We’ve all seen it; the images and videos on our screen of people gathering to protest at parliament with a rather bewildering array of placards…
Re-imagining registration
“Managing change” and “learning to pivot” are phrases we’ve become familiar with over the last year. Probably more than we would actually have liked! While…
The End of Life Choice Act: the practicalities
What actually happens in the process of assisted dying? In this article we hear from GP Rebekah Kilpatrick who unpacks the approximately 40 hours of work…
The End of Life Choice Act: being a carer
The caring of a person who has made the choice to end their life through physician assisted dying is now a possibility in New Zealand.…
The End of Life Choice Act: what does faithful Christianity look like?
Assisted dying became legally available on 7 November 2021. Continuing on in this series of articles to resource and support our churches at this time, pastor and scholar Jonathan…
Local church made a cheesy Covid safety video (And we love it!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media: “Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to…
Caring for each other helps in many ways: churches respond to the pandemic
Human beings need many things to survive and to thrive. In addition to our obvious physical needs, self-determination theorists point to three things that are…
Caring for each other helps in many ways: churches respond to the pandemic
An earlier version of this article was published in the Otago Daily Times on 15 October 2021. Reproduced with permission. Lynne Taylor is Researcher for…
Not vaccinated: a pastor’s personal opinion
Simon Williams is a pastor at Kaiapoi Baptist Church. The opinions expressed here are his own. View more opinion on Baptist magazine.
Responding to the #MeToo movement—with a message from Jesus and the Samaritan woman
Is sexual abuse an issue for the church in 21st Century Aotearoa New Zealand? In this long-form article Daphne Marsden, one of our pastor/scholar/authors shares…
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Articles
What’s next? Church on the other side of Omicron
The last two years of COVID-19 have been deeply disruptive, both for society and for the church. Many Christians have drifted away from regular engagement…
Biblical principles for churches wrestling with vaccine mandates
Recently, John Tucker, Principal of our theological college (Carey Baptist College) received an email from one of the leaders in our movement of churches, asking…
Caring for each other helps in many ways: churches respond to the pandemic
An earlier version of this article was published in the Otago Daily Times on 15 October 2021. Reproduced with permission. Lynne Taylor is Researcher for…
Taking responsibility for health is not at odds with worship
This article was first published in the Otago Daily Times on 25 October 2021. Reproduced with permission.
We need much more time to talk on Sunday
Living through this pandemic, what are we most looking forward to about getting back to in-person church services on Sunday morning?
Coming out of crisis
In 2020 after coping with COVID restrictions for some time, Paul Askin shared these words of encouragement in living through crisis.
Baptist churches sharing lockdown resources
With Aotearoa New Zealand in COVID-19 lockdowns again, one of our Regional Leaders, Reti Ah-Voa was quick to seek Sunday online gathering resources from within…
Celebrating eight years of Multicultural Response Ministry
We thank the Lord God Almighty for giving us the Multicultural Response Ministry and sustaining us in the past eight years.
Battered, bruised, beautiful feet
For the modern, western Christian, the picture of running is often a positive one. Perhaps it is a few kilometres on a Saturday morning to…
Stories worth celebrating
A chance to celebrate past women leaders will come in March 2021. Historians recognise that often women’s history was not written or recognised, so this…
Following Jesus into the future
Our world is a profoundly different place from what we imagined it would be 12 short months ago. In the midst of this context of…
Navigating Tough Texts
Navigating Tough Texts is Harris taking 57 texts from the Gospels and Acts, and a further 66 from the Epistles and Revelation, and using his…
Kingdom come
Each time we say the Lord’s Prayer, we ask for God’s Kingdom to come. This is not just a prayer of hope for the future,…
The church & racial justice
Jennie Ekigbo explains what she believes the church can learn from the current movement for racial justice.
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Articles
Easter Sunday in the megachurch
Before I started to pray, I made a silly mistake: I looked at the Stuff newsfeed. The fourth headline down depicted the demise of another…
Glen Eden and Visionwest Waka Whakakitenga
Visionwest Community Housing addresses the issue of homeless in New Zealand by providing safe, warm, and quality, rental accommodation for low-income families who cannot access…
Imagining a gender equal world: our experience of Women’s History Sunday
Imagining a gender equal world: our experience of Women's History Sunday
Local church made a cheesy Covid safety video (And we love it!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media: “Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to…
God’s hands and feet—Community Chaplaincy
“I value every opportunity to be God’s hands and feet where possible” says Beryl Diack, Community Chaplain of Eastside Baptist Church in Invercargill.
Wrapping women in aroha: Still Water Scarves
Two years ago, a small group of women from Palmerston North Central Baptist Church, inspired by a message by Tearfund during missions month, set up…
Justice like a river: immigration and prayer
Deborah Makarios of Epuni Baptist Church asks “Who is my neighbour?”
An open letter to the unvaccinated in the Christian community
Gareth Jones attends Dunedin City Baptist Church and is Emeritus Professor in Anatomy at the University of Otago. He has written this letter to Christians…
Understanding your Neighbourhood: Conversations with Charles Hewlett
This is the webinar recording of the final in this 3-episode series (22 September 2021) where Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talked with Lynne Taylor…
The future of ministry and mission—Mike Crudge
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Christine Saywell
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Richardson Lau
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Donna Denmead
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Dave Tims
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Jamie Li
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Cliff Thompson
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Jonathan Edmeades
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Helen Geddes
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Chris Chamberlain
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
The future of ministry and mission—Kate Dunstan-Brown
What is God saying to you and to others? What will future ministry and mission look like? What things need to remain the same? What…
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Articles
Assembly Council update
This is the May 2022 update from Assembly Council. These will become regular updates letting you know what we're up to, the things we are…
Red-orange-green light: a pastor, a church and unity in Christ
Tim Palmer, Senior Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church shares his journey in a local church as they seek to navigate the vaccination discussion, as they listen…
Has the time come to act?
In this opinion piece Andrew Clark-Howard continues the dialogue on mandates, vaccinations, protests and theology.
The other half of what we owe each other
Andrew Clark-Howard’s assessment of the anti mandate protest (What we owe each other: freedom, protest, and responsibility) draws upon excellent resources from Bonhoeffer on freedom.
What we owe each other: freedom, protest, and responsibility
We’ve all seen it; the images and videos on our screen of people gathering to protest at parliament with a rather bewildering array of placards…
Re-imagining registration
“Managing change” and “learning to pivot” are phrases we’ve become familiar with over the last year. Probably more than we would actually have liked! While…
The End of Life Choice Act: the practicalities
What actually happens in the process of assisted dying? In this article we hear from GP Rebekah Kilpatrick who unpacks the approximately 40 hours of work…
The End of Life Choice Act: being a carer
The caring of a person who has made the choice to end their life through physician assisted dying is now a possibility in New Zealand.…
The End of Life Choice Act: what does faithful Christianity look like?
Assisted dying became legally available on 7 November 2021. Continuing on in this series of articles to resource and support our churches at this time, pastor and scholar Jonathan…
Caring for each other helps in many ways: churches respond to the pandemic
Human beings need many things to survive and to thrive. In addition to our obvious physical needs, self-determination theorists point to three things that are…
Not vaccinated: a pastor’s personal opinion
Simon Williams is a pastor at Kaiapoi Baptist Church. The opinions expressed here are his own. View more opinion on Baptist magazine.
Responding to the #MeToo movement—with a message from Jesus and the Samaritan woman
Is sexual abuse an issue for the church in 21st Century Aotearoa New Zealand? In this long-form article Daphne Marsden, one of our pastor/scholar/authors shares…
An individual’s Christian response to a vaccine mandate in the workplace
Vaccination mandates and the workplace: Are Christians in the firing line? Gareth Jones attends Dunedin City Baptist Church and is Emeritus Professor in Anatomy at…
Emerging from a lockdown response to a global pandemic
Rick Pierce, works for the Northern Baptist Association as a Network Pastor, Health & Development. Here he shares some ways local churches can respond as we…
Cross-shaped unity for church through the COVID-19 Protection Framework
Since the Government’s announcement about the COVID-19 Protection Framework, my mind, like that of many pastors, has been occupied by what this will mean for…
666 and the COVID-19 pandemic
A Baptist pastor asked last week if we would provide something on why the COVID-19 vaccine should not be considered the ‘Mark of the Beast’. Our very own retired Carey Baptist…
Time for action—what comes after staying at home and rolling my sleeve up?
As a follow on from last week's opinion piece: Vaccinations and the local church: Seven views on the current situation, Alan Jamieson, General Director of…
Vaccinations and the local church: Seven views on the current situation
What we have done is seek a variety of perspectives at this time on the vaccinated/not-vaccinated discussion as New Zealand soon ends lockdowns in favour…
COVID, government and individual soul liberty—a pastor’s question answered by the Principal
One of our Baptist pastors had a theological question. Our college Principal, Dr John Tucker answers this below.
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Articles
Being the (well-washed) hands & feet of Jesus
This is the most exciting time, as we are part of a movement responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in a positive life‑giving way. The history…
Church insurance
Mark Davie explains the aims and benefits of the Baptist Insurance Fund and Brian Brannigan of Trinity Baptist Church shares a cautionary tale about the…
4 benefits of a good accounting system
During this time of economic uncertainty, a modern accounting system is important to provide key and timely information to church leaders. Cameron Fisher of CATAS…
4 benefits of a good accounting system
During this time of economic uncertainty, a modern accounting system is important to provide key and timely information to church leaders. Cameron Fisher of CATAS…
Christian Savings
This year Christian Savings (previously Baptist Savings and Development Society) is celebrating 58 years of partnering with churches.
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Articles
Women’s History Sunday, 6th March 2022
Featuring two remarkable New Zealand Women: Elinor Thornton and Merrilyn Withers
Lockdown from the perspective of a working Mum
This story was first shared in April 2020.
It’s still good news
Maybe you prefer old-fashioned face-to-face interaction... but you still love getting out your phone or tablet to scroll through social media, video chat, send emails…
The Word made flesh
Christmas means different things to different people. Wendy Joyes explores how artwork has variously portrayed Jesus and his coming as a baby, and what the…
Podcasts
Sarah from The Loyal Workshop
In this episode Charles talks to Sarah, who along with her husband Paul founded The Loyal Workshop, a business that brings freedom to women in the red light area of Kolkata,…
Introduction
We are Charles Hewlett, and Kathryn Heslop. In our roles as National Leader, and Executive Advisor within the Baptist Churches of New Zealand, we daily…
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…
Videos
Bonus Kid's Talk: Good vs very good
A kids talk for the featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist.
God: The One who is faithful when we are not
Matthew 1:1-6Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology
Good vs very good: Living a life that makes a difference
Luke 18:18-30 (and it’s not about the money!)A featured sermon by Alastair Hall, Pastor, Manukau City Baptist
Jesus: The Saviour who makes all things new
John 2:1-11John Tucker, Principal, Carey Baptist College
Bagels, boats and 'being' the Church: The ingredients that shape the church
A featured sermon Acts 2:42-47by Tim Palmer, Pastor, Franklin Baptist Church
Spirit: The Gift-Giver who enables the impossible
1 Corinthians 12:1-5Mick Duncan, Adjunct Lecturer, Carey Baptist College
Discipleship: Rediscovering our identity and calling as disciples of Jesus
1 John 3:1-3Michael Rhodes, Lecturer in Old Testament, Carey Baptist College
A particular set of skills: Vengeance, justice and mercy
A featured sermon on 1 Samuel 24, 25, 26 by Odele Habets, Pastor, Albany Baptist
Mission: Reimagining the church and mission in a time of disruption
Acts 1:1-12George Weiland, Director of the Carey Centre for Mission Research and Formation
I don’t always 'connect with' God over Zoom: Spiritual pathways
A featured sermon on Luke 10:27 by Rachel Roche, Carey Baptist College
LOCAL CHURCH MADE A CHEESY COVID SAFETY VIDEO (AND WE LOVE IT!)
Pastor Albert Tang at Pakuranga Chinese Baptist Church mentioned on social media:“Just sharing the video we produced for information and clarification for returning to church…
Episode 2: Local neighbourhoods and the future of the church: Brook Turner and Duane Major
Charles Hewlett talks with Brook Turner (Vision West Community Trust, Auckland) and Duane Major (South West Baptist Church, Christchurch), asking them what local neighbourhoods are like…
Episode 1: Defining gospel renewal and local neighbourhood: Duane Major and George Wieland
If you’re wondering how to become aware of the needs in your local community, or how the mission of your church will continue to be…
Episode 3: Understanding your neighbourhood—where is God at work?: Lynne Taylor and Dave Tims
Lynne Taylor (Baptist Researcher, Dunedin) and Dave Tims (Urban Neighbours of Hope, Auckland), with Charles Hewlett talk about practical tools that can help us understand our neighbourhoods,…
Episode 1: The Bible and Eldership
What does the Bible have to say about our function as elders? What is it that we are meant to be and do?In this video…
Episode 2: Eldership and Governance
What is it that makes good governance? What do governors actually do?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks to Mel Wilson about eldership…
Episode 3: Models of Eldership
Big, medium or small – does one eldership model fit all churches? What are some of the options? Where does the pastor fit in to…
Episode 4: Bringing the Bible into decision making
How does the Bible remain the foundational guide for our belief and behaviour as a church? What practical things can we do to keep the…
Episode 5: Maintaining Healthy Eldership Relationships
What things contribute to healthy relationships? What are some of the pitfalls we must try and avoid?In this video Charles Hewlett (Baptist National Leader) talks…
Episode 6: Strengthening our Eldership Team
Where do we find new elders? What training will make us even better? How can we support our pastor and staff more?In this video Charles…