Opinion

Once the stuff of science-fiction cinema like Terminator or 2001: A Space Odyssey, there’s no escaping the reality that artificial intelligence (AI) is deeply embedded in our lives, from the way we use the Internet to the medical industry using it to predict illnesses based on large quantities of historical patient data. All technological advances come with a degree of ...

Regularly reading to children has been scientifically-linked to positive effects for reading skills and cognitive skills later in life so why not use this Father’s Day as a way to spend some quality time with your child reading. Here’s five suggestions to get you turning the page. Children’s Bible Children who grow up with the stories and teachings from the ...

There’s no denying that patriarchal bias has existed in Christianity throughout the ages but as feminist theory gathered pace in the 20th century so did feminist theology. Rev Dr Anita Monro explores the movement and how it links to the Basis of Union. Feminist theology is now well over 50-years-old. What has it contributed to the Christian faith? Feminist theology ...

In secular society the term “evangelism” can carry negative associations with heavy-handed preaching at others but how do we boldly share the faith when it could lead to a hostile reception? Rev Shane Kammermann offers his thoughts. My answer to this “how” question is pretty simple, but also complex! I have become wary of “isms” which tend to make ideals ...

Not just the stuff of academic discussion papers, we are increasingly confronted in society with the need to distinguish between ethical and legal behaviour and explore the tension between ethics and law. It is true that the space between ethical behaviour expected in our interactions and the law has narrowed but the law has extended its authority into more and ...

Rev Dr Dean Drayton explores why “Kingdom of God” still has a place in Christian understanding and worship. My own personal discovery 40 years ago of the importance of Jesus’ announcement of the good news of the Kingdom of God, and his teaching about the importance of “entering the kingdom” has had me emphasising this term as vital for the ...

If you look around your congregation you might notice a lack of young faces lining the pews but is regular church attendance really necessary for a child’s faith and what can we do to make it a more welcoming atmosphere? Rev Linda Hanson offers her thoughts. Yes, but … regular church attendance for children, as it is for people of ...

A concern for social justice lies at the heart of Christianity and there are plenty of causes to get behind to show you care about our world. But sometimes starting off can be the toughest challenge. Sue Hutchinson, Queensland Synod research officer, offers five ways to get started. Stay informed Join the Reach Out Speak Out Synod Facebook group, where ...

The news can seem awash with story after story of terrorism and warfare but how can today’s Christians respond to the carnage in the spirit of Jesus’ teachings and other passages in the Bible? Rev Dr Peter Hobson explores how the church and its followers can respond to violence and terror. In the years that have passed since the September ...

My June column was about the opportunities and challenges presented by reflection on the church turning 40. If it is a time to give up that which no longer helps us live life in all its fullness, and to take with us that which still provides such a life, what should we take forward? What should we let go? There ...