Articles by Rev Smith

The articles below are intended to stimulate and challenge the reader and to aid her/his faith journey. To discuss the issues raised in these articles, you are very welcome to contact the St Andrew's minister or to come along to a service!

Is Jesus undermining the church?

Submitted by admin on Mon, 27/08/2012 - 11:23pm

The progressive Christian movement in Australia is made up of people from numerous denominations, although many are from within the Uniting Church in Australia. It is interesting to note that Christians are not alone in having members who are seeking a progressive approach to an understanding of the sacred. There are a number of prominent Jewish Rabbis such as Jonathon Kieren Black and Aviva Kippen who are articulating a progressive approach to Judaism. These are people who have turned their backs on a strict orthodox approach to religion.

Embracing the Joy of New Discovery

Submitted by admin on Mon, 27/08/2012 - 11:16pm

I am always fascinated by the verse in the second chapter of the gospel of Matthew where the writer is referring to the response of the wise men. He says that on seeing the star of Bethlehem they were, “Beside themselves with joy.” How often do we become so excited by a revelation or discovery that we are beside ourselves with joy. What is it that excites the blood and sends the pulse racing for us?

Give to God what is God’s

Submitted by admin on Mon, 27/08/2012 - 10:46pm

In this current global economic situation I am reminded of the story in Matthew’s gospel (Matthew 22: 20-21), of Jesus being questioned about the right to pay or not to pay tax. Remember he is given a coin, which is an indication that he did not have one on him, and he asks whose head is on the coin when those present reply the emperor’s Jesus says, “Give to the emperor what is his and to God what is God’s.”

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