The Faith and Belief in Australia Report has been released by McCrindle and it shows that religion is not dead
Two in three identify with a religion or spirituality
More than two in three Australians (68%) follow a religion or have spiritual beliefs. Of those that do, almost half (47%) remain committed to the religion of their upbringing. The number of Australians who do not identify with a religion or spiritual belief, however, is on the rise with almost one in three (32%) not identifying with a religion. This study replicated the ABS Census question, but added in an option for ‘spiritual but not religious’. This had a response rate of 14% among Australians nationally, and the Christianity grouping was 45% (down from 61% in the 2011 Census).
More than half of Australians (52%) are open to changing their religious views given the right circumstances and evidence. Younger Australians are more open to changing their current religious views than older generations.
Religion and spirituality a popular topic of conversation
When gathering with friends, more than half of Australians (55%) often or occasionally talk about religion or spirituality. Generation Z (65%) are the most comfortable talking the topic, while the Baby Boomers are the least with 51% never talking about it with their friends.
A genuine faith the greatest attraction to a religion or spirituality
Observing people with genuine faith is the greatest attraction to investigating spirituality. Second is experiencing personal trauma or a significant life change. On the inverse, the top repellent to Australians investigating is public figures or celebrities who are examples of that faith. This is followed by miraculous stories of healings or supernatural occurrences.
Perceptions of Christianity
Australians most value Christian organisations for their work with those in need, specifically looking after people who are homeless, offering financial assistance/food relief programs and providing disaster relief (74%, 72% and 69% respectively). 8% of Australian adults (1.5 million) do not know any Christians, while for Generation Y this is almost one in ten. One in 29 Australians have never heard of Jesus.
To download the entire report visit http://mccrindle.com.au/the-mccrindle-blog/faith-and-belief-in-australia
Showing posts with label faith formation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label faith formation. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
Wednesday, April 05, 2017
Video Sermon series: Faith Foundations
The Faith Foundations sermon series is a video sermon series covering the basics of faith based on Luther's Small Catechism.
Just as the catechism is this is an introductory sermon series to the Christian faith, so it does not cover every aspect of each topic, but instead introduces each topic encouraging people to explore more.
Entire Series
Individual sermons can be viewed by clicking on the sermon title
Sermon 1: The foundation - God's love
Sermon 2: God's values - Ten Commandments
Sermon 3: Who is God? - The Apostles Creed
Sermon 4: Talking with God - The Lord's Prayer
Sermon 5: God connects to us - Baptism
Sermon 6: God's forgiveness - Confession and Absolution
Sermon 7: Intimate Communion with God - Holy Communion
Personal reflection journals and Digging deeper bible studies are available from Pastor Richard Schwedes, email: richardschwedes@gmail.com
Just as the catechism is this is an introductory sermon series to the Christian faith, so it does not cover every aspect of each topic, but instead introduces each topic encouraging people to explore more.
Entire Series
Individual sermons can be viewed by clicking on the sermon title
Sermon 1: The foundation - God's love
Sermon 2: God's values - Ten Commandments
Sermon 3: Who is God? - The Apostles Creed
Sermon 4: Talking with God - The Lord's Prayer
Sermon 5: God connects to us - Baptism
Sermon 6: God's forgiveness - Confession and Absolution
Sermon 7: Intimate Communion with God - Holy Communion
Personal reflection journals and Digging deeper bible studies are available from Pastor Richard Schwedes, email: richardschwedes@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Book: Rooted - the hidden places where God develops you
You were born to make an impact in this world and you know it. You feel it deep down in your bones. Apathy is your nemesis and your hunger to change the world keeps you up at night. But no matter how deep this hunger growls, we can only make a meaningful impact if we are rooted in Jesus. And here’s the thing:
God is not interested in developing your vision first.
He is interested in developing you.
In Rooted, Banning Liebscher takes us to the life of David to show how God expands our root system in the hidden places before leading us to where we all desire to go, the visible world. It was in a field of prayerful devotion, a season of serving, and a cave of community that God prepared David for his crown, the same way God prepares us. Take a look at your own life. Are you embracing God’s process, the sometimes painstaking and maddening process? When we can release ourselves to God we will find that we can thrive while He develops us, rather than succumb to discouragement.
Endorsements
“So often our culture encourages us toward the quick-fix solution or shortcut to whatever it is we have our hearts set upon. But with the deep things of God, there’s likely no drive-through version or fast-track approach. His ways are higher than ours—and they are often slower too. My friend Banning’s brilliant book is such a timely reminder of how over time we can develop deep roots in Christ, and how these various roots then become the foundation for a life of lasting impact.” —Matt Redman, songwriter, UK
“So it’s about time we have a book from Banning Liebscher, after his years of leading the Jesus Culture movement and gatherings of hundreds of thousands of young leaders around the world! Banning hits the jackpot with this new book on identity, purpose, and calling—a much-needed and timely message and a challenge for all leaders. Rooted reminds us that leaders must not only embrace the process of becoming who God has called us to be but actually love it too!” —Brad Lomenick, past president of Catalyst and author of The Catalyst Leader and H3 Leadership
“Banning takes us back to the basics in this brilliant, simple book. Rooted is a gift to an entire generation that could otherwise easily forget or, worse yet, never hear the foundations for a distinctive Christian life.” —Gabe Lyons, Q founder and author of Good Faith
“This foundational concept of being rooted is so timely for our culture. Strong winds will come at us and want to take us in every direction, but only the trees that have deep roots will stand when these winds blow. It’s our unseen self that truly is our strength. I highly recommend anyone to dig deep into these pages. Thank you, Banning, for such an important book for our days.” —Chris Tomlin, singer and songwriter
“I’ve been doing life and ministry with Banning Liebscher for more than fifteen years. I’ve watched him live out the message that is his new book, Rooted. I’ve watched as Banning has continuously surrendered his life to God, devoted himself to prayer, served the Church, and intentionally moved toward relationships and challenges within community. He is certainly a leader who has stepped out in faith, allowing God to develop deep roots in his life. I have personally been challenged by Banning’s uncompromising trust in God and commitment to being strongly rooted in Him. The message of Rooted is a timely and prophetic message this generation needs to hear. In an age where everything is so attainable and we are all encouraged to dream big, it is so important to understand the cost of what God calls us to. It’s easy to dream and have vision, but to surrender our lives in trust to God and to allow Him to develop us from the inside out takes tremendous courage and strength. But it is possible and so incredibly important! If you are in it for the long haul, if you want to be able to sustain the dreams God has put in your heart, if you want to bear fruit that will last, this is the book for you!” —Kim Walker-Smith, president of Jesus Culture Music and Jesus Culture Publishing
“This book connects with my soul! Amidst the highs and lows of life, my heart longs to be grounded in Christ. To be rooted in His truths. To be reminded that before God can work through us, He must do a work in us.” —Kyle Korver, professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks
“Few men in our generation have shaped the songs we sing, the places we gather, and the spiritual atmospheres we encounter, like Banning. In his book Rooted, it’s easy to see his gift for practical lifestyle leadership. Banning’s words have a profound undercurrent to push you into developing spiritual integrity. Many of us are looking for a front-row seat to an honest and real conversation about what it’s going to take to go the distance. Rooted is a resource you want to have close throughout the years. It’s a must-read book!”
—Havilah Cunnington, director of Moral Revolution and founder of Truth to Table Ministries
“Few voices of this generation are qualified to both biblically and practically detail the process through which God roots us into our purposes. One of those voices is undoubtedly Banning’s. In his new book Rooted, Banning expertly engages the slow-motion button and give us powerful step-by-step insight into how God develops us to be who He has willed for us to be! Great read!” —Chris Hill, senior pastor of the Potter’s House of Denver
“Banning is a general to the modern generation. He has great insight into discipleship and raising up a generation. This book will impact and empower you to live a life of greatness. I thoroughly recommend this book to you.” —Russell Evans, founder and director of Planetshakers
“In every generation a heart comes along that beats so loudly for God, the sound is heard around the world. Banning Liebscher possesses this kind of heart—a heart whose soil continues to be tilled, watered, tended, and tested by fire—producing lasting fruit that nourishes the nations. In his book Rooted, Banning takes the enormous fruit of his own life and puts it directly into the hands of each reader, practically walking you into a life so rooted in intimacy and wisdom, it can thrive in every season.” —Christa Black Gifford, speaker, songwriter, and author of God Loves Ugly and Heart Made Whole
“Rooted, the latest book by Banning Liebscher, is both intensely practical and wonderfully profound. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Banning become what he has written about—a man deeply rooted, who bears much fruit. His life in God is rich and real. For this reason, God is using him to transform the lives of countless people around the world. Learning to embrace God’s process in our lives brings us to a place of rest, where trust becomes a natural expression of our relationship with God. Rooted is sure to have great impact on all who read it.” —Bill Johnson, Bethel Church, Redding, California, and author of When Heaven Invades Earth and Defining Moments
“Finding your identity in Christ is so important in today’s world. Rooted gives you the fundamental skills to guide you into being fully grounded and established in Christ, producing fruit that lasts. This book shows us that when we are fully rooted in Christ, we are positioned to influence the world around us.” —Luke Ridnour, thirteen-year NBA veteran
“Everyone champions accomplishments, but not many people champion the journey. I love Banning’s take on how to embrace the journey and trust God on your way to enduring fruit. This book will help you redefine what success looks like in your life. It will give you keys to help you lean into the Lord when you are in process or feel far from your destination. And you will find yourself getting built up and learn how to enjoy the different seasons of life.”
—Kelly Clark, Olympic gold and two-time bronze medalist in snowboarding halfpipe
“In order to fully achieve all that God has called us to do in our life, we must know our God-viewed identity! I believe Banning does that in Rooted by taking us through David’s life and showing us how engaging in high-trust intimate relationships with God and community will allow us to truly serve others in a way that people will see Jesus and be impacted by Him.”
—Jeremy Affeldt, retired Major League Baseball pitcher, three-time World Series champion, and author of To Stir a Movement
“Many Christians struggle with the illusion of choice, believing there are multiple paths to purpose and passion. In Rooted, Banning invites us on a journey down the narrow path that defines the process of becoming fruitful in our service to Christ. You will find this path to be both practical and biblical, one that defines terms like serving, humility, and community. A legacy is a history worth repeating; Rooted equips and encourages us to embrace our true calling, following Jesus and living a legacy that produces everlasting fruit.” —Lyle Wells, author and speaker
God is not interested in developing your vision first.
He is interested in developing you.
In Rooted, Banning Liebscher takes us to the life of David to show how God expands our root system in the hidden places before leading us to where we all desire to go, the visible world. It was in a field of prayerful devotion, a season of serving, and a cave of community that God prepared David for his crown, the same way God prepares us. Take a look at your own life. Are you embracing God’s process, the sometimes painstaking and maddening process? When we can release ourselves to God we will find that we can thrive while He develops us, rather than succumb to discouragement.
Whatever your age or season of life, it takes immense courage to slow down enough to let God grow a root system in your life so that you can bear fruit that remains. You are where you are because God has planted you there. Discover what it looks like to embrace His process so you can do what He has called you to, change the world.
“So often our culture encourages us toward the quick-fix solution or shortcut to whatever it is we have our hearts set upon. But with the deep things of God, there’s likely no drive-through version or fast-track approach. His ways are higher than ours—and they are often slower too. My friend Banning’s brilliant book is such a timely reminder of how over time we can develop deep roots in Christ, and how these various roots then become the foundation for a life of lasting impact.” —Matt Redman, songwriter, UK
“So it’s about time we have a book from Banning Liebscher, after his years of leading the Jesus Culture movement and gatherings of hundreds of thousands of young leaders around the world! Banning hits the jackpot with this new book on identity, purpose, and calling—a much-needed and timely message and a challenge for all leaders. Rooted reminds us that leaders must not only embrace the process of becoming who God has called us to be but actually love it too!” —Brad Lomenick, past president of Catalyst and author of The Catalyst Leader and H3 Leadership
“Banning takes us back to the basics in this brilliant, simple book. Rooted is a gift to an entire generation that could otherwise easily forget or, worse yet, never hear the foundations for a distinctive Christian life.” —Gabe Lyons, Q founder and author of Good Faith
“This foundational concept of being rooted is so timely for our culture. Strong winds will come at us and want to take us in every direction, but only the trees that have deep roots will stand when these winds blow. It’s our unseen self that truly is our strength. I highly recommend anyone to dig deep into these pages. Thank you, Banning, for such an important book for our days.” —Chris Tomlin, singer and songwriter
“I’ve been doing life and ministry with Banning Liebscher for more than fifteen years. I’ve watched him live out the message that is his new book, Rooted. I’ve watched as Banning has continuously surrendered his life to God, devoted himself to prayer, served the Church, and intentionally moved toward relationships and challenges within community. He is certainly a leader who has stepped out in faith, allowing God to develop deep roots in his life. I have personally been challenged by Banning’s uncompromising trust in God and commitment to being strongly rooted in Him. The message of Rooted is a timely and prophetic message this generation needs to hear. In an age where everything is so attainable and we are all encouraged to dream big, it is so important to understand the cost of what God calls us to. It’s easy to dream and have vision, but to surrender our lives in trust to God and to allow Him to develop us from the inside out takes tremendous courage and strength. But it is possible and so incredibly important! If you are in it for the long haul, if you want to be able to sustain the dreams God has put in your heart, if you want to bear fruit that will last, this is the book for you!” —Kim Walker-Smith, president of Jesus Culture Music and Jesus Culture Publishing
“This book connects with my soul! Amidst the highs and lows of life, my heart longs to be grounded in Christ. To be rooted in His truths. To be reminded that before God can work through us, He must do a work in us.” —Kyle Korver, professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks
“Few men in our generation have shaped the songs we sing, the places we gather, and the spiritual atmospheres we encounter, like Banning. In his book Rooted, it’s easy to see his gift for practical lifestyle leadership. Banning’s words have a profound undercurrent to push you into developing spiritual integrity. Many of us are looking for a front-row seat to an honest and real conversation about what it’s going to take to go the distance. Rooted is a resource you want to have close throughout the years. It’s a must-read book!”
—Havilah Cunnington, director of Moral Revolution and founder of Truth to Table Ministries
“Few voices of this generation are qualified to both biblically and practically detail the process through which God roots us into our purposes. One of those voices is undoubtedly Banning’s. In his new book Rooted, Banning expertly engages the slow-motion button and give us powerful step-by-step insight into how God develops us to be who He has willed for us to be! Great read!” —Chris Hill, senior pastor of the Potter’s House of Denver
“Banning is a general to the modern generation. He has great insight into discipleship and raising up a generation. This book will impact and empower you to live a life of greatness. I thoroughly recommend this book to you.” —Russell Evans, founder and director of Planetshakers
“In every generation a heart comes along that beats so loudly for God, the sound is heard around the world. Banning Liebscher possesses this kind of heart—a heart whose soil continues to be tilled, watered, tended, and tested by fire—producing lasting fruit that nourishes the nations. In his book Rooted, Banning takes the enormous fruit of his own life and puts it directly into the hands of each reader, practically walking you into a life so rooted in intimacy and wisdom, it can thrive in every season.” —Christa Black Gifford, speaker, songwriter, and author of God Loves Ugly and Heart Made Whole
“Rooted, the latest book by Banning Liebscher, is both intensely practical and wonderfully profound. I’ve had the pleasure of watching Banning become what he has written about—a man deeply rooted, who bears much fruit. His life in God is rich and real. For this reason, God is using him to transform the lives of countless people around the world. Learning to embrace God’s process in our lives brings us to a place of rest, where trust becomes a natural expression of our relationship with God. Rooted is sure to have great impact on all who read it.” —Bill Johnson, Bethel Church, Redding, California, and author of When Heaven Invades Earth and Defining Moments
“Finding your identity in Christ is so important in today’s world. Rooted gives you the fundamental skills to guide you into being fully grounded and established in Christ, producing fruit that lasts. This book shows us that when we are fully rooted in Christ, we are positioned to influence the world around us.” —Luke Ridnour, thirteen-year NBA veteran
“Everyone champions accomplishments, but not many people champion the journey. I love Banning’s take on how to embrace the journey and trust God on your way to enduring fruit. This book will help you redefine what success looks like in your life. It will give you keys to help you lean into the Lord when you are in process or feel far from your destination. And you will find yourself getting built up and learn how to enjoy the different seasons of life.”
—Kelly Clark, Olympic gold and two-time bronze medalist in snowboarding halfpipe
“In order to fully achieve all that God has called us to do in our life, we must know our God-viewed identity! I believe Banning does that in Rooted by taking us through David’s life and showing us how engaging in high-trust intimate relationships with God and community will allow us to truly serve others in a way that people will see Jesus and be impacted by Him.”
—Jeremy Affeldt, retired Major League Baseball pitcher, three-time World Series champion, and author of To Stir a Movement
“Many Christians struggle with the illusion of choice, believing there are multiple paths to purpose and passion. In Rooted, Banning invites us on a journey down the narrow path that defines the process of becoming fruitful in our service to Christ. You will find this path to be both practical and biblical, one that defines terms like serving, humility, and community. A legacy is a history worth repeating; Rooted equips and encourages us to embrace our true calling, following Jesus and living a legacy that produces everlasting fruit.” —Lyle Wells, author and speaker
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Small Group Study: Grandparents passing on the faith
Many members in our churches today feel a deep hurt that their grandchildren do not have faith in Jesus and have a deep desire to more effectively share their faith with their grandchildren.
The aim of this study guide is to support grandparents in passing on the faith to their grandchildren.
This study is not exhaustive and it doesn’t offer easy answers to the complex issues of cross generational faith sharing. Rather, it is designed to be a beginning point, a place to begin exploring some of the issues and arriving at some solutions. It is a study for groups recognizing the benefit and necessity for mutual sharing and encouragement.
Study One: ‘God loves my grandchildren even more than I do” (Part 1)
This first study is split into two sessions. It explores God’s love for our grandchildren, for us and for our world.
Study Two: ‘God loves my grandchildren even more than I do” (Part 2)
This study continues the exploration of God’s love for our grandchildren, for us and for our world.
Study Three: ‘Always Learning’
This study helps us to recognize the importance of being life-long learners in Christ. It challenges us to see ourselves growing in new ways which will help us to more effectively the share the faith with our grandchildren.
Study Four: ‘The Grandparents Advantage’
This study looks at the many advantages that are inherent in being a grandparent and the opportunities this special relationship with grandchildren has in sharing faith.
Study Five: ‘The Nitty-Gritty’
Our final study explores practical ways of sharing faith with your grandchildren that can be integrated into your everyday life.
Cost $6 or $5 for 10 or more
Available from Australian Church Resources
The aim of this study guide is to support grandparents in passing on the faith to their grandchildren.
This study is not exhaustive and it doesn’t offer easy answers to the complex issues of cross generational faith sharing. Rather, it is designed to be a beginning point, a place to begin exploring some of the issues and arriving at some solutions. It is a study for groups recognizing the benefit and necessity for mutual sharing and encouragement.
Study One: ‘God loves my grandchildren even more than I do” (Part 1)
This first study is split into two sessions. It explores God’s love for our grandchildren, for us and for our world.
Study Two: ‘God loves my grandchildren even more than I do” (Part 2)
This study continues the exploration of God’s love for our grandchildren, for us and for our world.
Study Three: ‘Always Learning’
This study helps us to recognize the importance of being life-long learners in Christ. It challenges us to see ourselves growing in new ways which will help us to more effectively the share the faith with our grandchildren.
Study Four: ‘The Grandparents Advantage’
This study looks at the many advantages that are inherent in being a grandparent and the opportunities this special relationship with grandchildren has in sharing faith.
Study Five: ‘The Nitty-Gritty’
Our final study explores practical ways of sharing faith with your grandchildren that can be integrated into your everyday life.
Cost $6 or $5 for 10 or more
Available from Australian Church Resources
Monday, May 27, 2013
Lifelong Faith
Lifelong faith is committed to helping congregations develop lifelong faith formation for all ages and generations, increasing the capacity of leaders and communities to nurture faith growth.
Lifelong faith offers:
Free faith formation journal
Presentations from their conferences (2013 conferences included Living as God's people in the 21st century; Growing disciples in the 21st century; Reading the signs of the times; Faith formation in a missional age; Men's ministry)
21st Century Faith formation
Faith formation 2020
Intergenerational faith formation
Christian Practices Resources
Lifelong faith store
visit http://www.lifelongfaith.com/index.html to discover more resources to help you in forming faith in your community
Lifelong faith offers:
Free faith formation journal
Presentations from their conferences (2013 conferences included Living as God's people in the 21st century; Growing disciples in the 21st century; Reading the signs of the times; Faith formation in a missional age; Men's ministry)
21st Century Faith formation
Faith formation 2020
Intergenerational faith formation
Christian Practices Resources
Lifelong faith store
visit http://www.lifelongfaith.com/index.html to discover more resources to help you in forming faith in your community
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