culture| Baptist Magazine New Zealand

The bicultural Baptist journey

In 2014, during the conclusion of our annual Baptist gathering at Waitangi, we committed ourselves to an incarnational engagement within biculturalism. Here JOHN DOUGLAS gives an update on our progress.

Grace shared

David Moko and Steve Davis reflect upon one of the five strategic priorities Baptist churches are being encouraged to explore—'share'. Specifically they ask, what does it mean to share grace?

Let's reclaim justice

Last year, the Government announced they would be spending another $1 billion to increase the number of prison beds, including a new prison in Waikato. But will this really bring justice? JustSpeak’s KATIE BRUCE considers the issue here.

Is there a secret to contentment?

I find it ironic that I am writing about the secret to contentment at a time when I feel most discontent. How then do I find the strength to truly say, “This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24)?

Virtues to die for

For many, if not most of us, our dreams centre on our achievements. We aim for that ideal job, outstanding qualification, or standout accomplishment, and we work very, very hard to achieve it. But the simple truth is that we were not put on this planet to build a resume. And, as Greg Liston explains, this prioritising of achievement that our society increasingly demands leads somewhere very destructive.

Te Aroha Noa o Te Atua

On my father’s side I am Scottish, from the Isle of Barra in the Hebrides. On my mother’s side I am Māori, from the small settlement of Waitangi just south of Te Puke. This story concerns my mother’s family.

I Believe in the Church

It’s no secret that church attendance is falling. Arguments rage about what we should do to regain the size and status we once had. But in the midst of all these debates and challenges, hope has not failed us, as Greg Liston explains.

What Are We Fighting For? Part II

This is the second article in this series which considers our response to war and conflict. Having reflected on some gut-wrenching statistics, asked why war happens in the light of this knowledge, and looked briefly at what Scripture shows us, Mick Duncan turns to examine three stances towards war.

What Are We Fighting For? Part I

We are presented almost daily with stories of war and conflict, with inevitable associated tragedy. For some, war is a valid response to atrocities in our world. For others, there can never be anything that justifies war. Is there a correct Christian response to war and conflict in our world? Can Scripture help us out? Mick Duncan begins our exploration with the first of a series of articles on this issue.