Wilderness Conversations: Recent Episodes
Stephen Dodson
www.wildernessconversations.com Conversations for believers in the wilderness on a journey to the good land. Conversations that clarity and inform with glorifying God as our ultimate goal. Interviews and discussions with real people about ideas that matter.
Paul Wearne attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Eastern Suburbs in Perth Australia.
Recently Paul has been doing some investigation into different Bible translations and he seeks to answer some basic questions such as:
Can we trust modern translations? Are translations biased? Is there a particular translation that we should use? Are all modern translations equal?
Paul joins Wildernessconversations.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Mark Allfree attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Nottingham Forest Road and he lives in Mansfield about 20 kms north of Nottingham.
In 2022 Mark wrote a commentary on the Epistle of Jude and we had a couple of great conversations with Mark.
Conversations 69 and 70 if you want to listen to those.
It was his study of Jude that alerted him to the prevalence of the work of Michael the Archangel more broadly throughout the scripture. Mark argues that much of the work of Yahweh was carried out by his agent who bore His, that is Yahweh’s name. Details can be found in the book “Michael the Archangel”.
“Behold, I am going to send an angel before you to guard you along the way and to bring you into the place which I have prepared. Be on your guard before him and obey his voice; do not be rebellious toward him, for he will not pardon your transgression, since My name is in him” (Exodus 23:20–21).
Jude wrote his epistle to encourage the faithful to contend earnestly for the faith in the face of developing ecclesial apostasy. He illustrated his exhortation by drawing upon examples of men from Old Testament history who failed to uphold God’s truth in their day. Jude demonstrates that all these examples of failure had one thing in common – a personal interaction with Michael the archangel, who so often has been involved in the execution of God’s judgments in the earth.
The book is available for purchase at: https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/BibleStudyPublications
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Kel Hammond lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Yagoona.
Kel is an avid writer on interesting issues and publishes his papers on ‘Academia’ as a way to engage in private gospel extension work. His papers can be read at:
https://independent.academia.edu/KDH4
He introduces himself as a “Bible student and believer in the efficacy of the word of God .. to make one ‘wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Tim.3:15-17), a member of the Christadelphian faith community, from Sydney, Australia.”
Kel joins Wilderness Conversations to discuss one of his papers – The Atonement – 6 Popular Theories.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
On Christmas Eve in 1974 a severe tropical cyclone named Tracy devastated the city of Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia, one of the residents was Cynthia Gillis who lost everything on that day. Years later circumstances would have her move to Adelaide where she settled in the Adelaide Hills, just west of the city centre in a township called Lobethal. In what seems like an extraordinary and indeed cruel coincidence, Cynthia once again lost everything in a bush fire in 2019 that took her house along with 86 other homes and one life. The date was Christmas Eve 2019 exactly 45 years later to the day.
In the intervening time, Cynthia was introduced to the gospel message, and she joins Wilderness Conversations to share her story.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Dev Ramcharan lives in Ontario Canada and is a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Toronto West Ecclesia.
In the May and June 2024 Christadelphian Magazine Dev wrote an article entitled:
Choosing a Good Death
and he seeks to explore our obligations to die well. Death, particularly our own death isn’t a subject we really want to talk about but for a good deal of us death will not be instant and whether as a result of a particular disease or old age in general and we will have the opportunity to die well.
Dev joins us on Wilderness Conversations.
The Christadelphian Magazine
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Damien Schifferli, his wife Keren with their three children Tessa, Clare and Tom attend the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Busselton, 200kms south of Perth, Western Australia.
Damien’s parents are Christadelphians who were founding members of the Gosnells ecclesia in Perth. Damien married Keren Edgecombe and together they decided to make a sea-change and moved to Busselton, and there they started the Busselton ecclesia. The ecclesia is small with about ten members, but like many holiday destinations it hosts many visitors during those periods. Damien is passionate about, of all things, the Trinity. He’s done a lot of research on it, spoken to several Unitarians about their beliefs, and has had many conversations with local Busselton pastors. Damien joins WildernessConversations and shares his story.
References:
- The Case for Christ: Lee Strobel;
- Who Moved the Stone?: Frank Morison
- Unitarian Christian Alliance https://www.unitarianchristianalliance.org/
- Christ Before Creeds – Rediscovering the Jesus of History: Jeff Deuble
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Jeff Deuble of the Churches of Christ in Sydney, Australia shares his journey to uncover the genuine Jesus from scripture alone. After his brother Greg challenged him to understand Christ from a Jewish perspective, Jeff set out on a quest, reading through all of scripture to see what it really said about the Messiah. What he found upended his life, bringing both delight at his clearer understanding of Christ and heartbreak over losing the church he planted and pastored for 19 years.
He pens the book – Christ Before Creeds.
The book cover says:
Just when you thought you knew who Jesus was, along comes a book like this to profoundly challenge and wonderfully inspire. Most Christians are unaware of how different their Western worldview is from those who wrote the original accounts of Jesus’ life. Pastor Jeff Deuble issues a clarion call to prioritize biblical testimony over the later church creeds that were influenced by Greek philosophical thinking, so as to rediscover simple, uncluttered Christianity.
Meticulously presenting information from biblical, historical, Jewish, and Christian sources about how the early followers of Christ thought about him, this book promises new insight and an enriched understanding of Christ’s identity. More than informative, Christ Before Creeds is an invitation to examine the identity of Jesus the Messiah, engaging with respect and grace.
The full name of the book is “Christ Before Creeds: Rediscovering the Jesus of History”
The book is available from Amazon and other bookshops such as Dymocks.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
In the chapter called “Why Question”, Jeff has 3 subsections:It (the trinity) was a post Apostolic Development
Here in is some very good detail digging below the surface of the story that of often told – Constantine wanted the troublesome few to go way’ – in fact the events were very different indeed.
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A few of the writings of the church fathers indicate that they did not believe in anything like the trinity.
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The process for its acceptance as orthodox was flawed
It was, as we might have surmised – all politics.
- It contains inherent rational and theological discrepancies.
These are well known and are often dismissed with the “it’s a mystery” claim but to expect an answer is not unreasonable:
- The Judeo-Christian faith is thoroughly and ardently monotheistic. Jesus himself affirmed its foundational statement of faith, recited daily by the Jews: “Hear, O Israel: the LORD our God, the LORD is one” (Deut. 6:4; Mark 12:29). How can you have a singular God who is also plural?
- How can you explain three “persons”, who constitute one “being”?
- How can Jesus be both “fully human” and “fully God”?
- How can you combine that which is inherently limited with that which is intrinsically unlimited? What is the interplay between these two natures, and how does such a composite person operate?
- How can Jesus be eternal, yet begotten by God? “Begotten” contradicts any notion of an uncreated, eternal being.
- Trinitarians try to address this conundrum by speaking of him being “eternally begotten.” But not only is this an oxymoron, it runs counter to the scriptural witness, which speaks of Jesus being begotten at a point in time: “You are my Son, today I have become your father” (Ps. 2:7; Heb. 1:5; emphasis added).
- The Bible says that “God cannot be tempted” (James 1:13), but Jesus was tempted (Matt. 11:1-4)-in fact, he was tempted “in every way, just as we are” (Heb. 4:15). Some Trinitarians even assert that Jesus’ sinlessness is proof that he must have been God. But if that is the case, how can he have been completed or “made perfect” through his resisting temptation (Heb. 5:9; 7:19)? And how can he be an example for us to follow in obedience and Christian living (1 Pet.2:21; 1 John 4:17)?
- We know that God “alone is immortal” and therefore unable to die (1 Tim. 6:16; see also Rom. 1:23), yet Jesus was killed. And “God..brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus” (Heb. 13:20).
- We read that “no one has seen or can see” God (1 Tim. 6:16), and that “no one has ever seen God” (John 1:18; 1 John 4:12), yet Jesus was seen.
- God “knows everything” (1 John 3:20), yet Jesus himself admitted that he didn’t have complete knowledge, and that there were things that his Father knew that he himself did not (Matt. 24:36; Mark 13:32).
- Why would “all authority in heaven and on earth” have to be given to Jesus (Matt. 28:18)? Wouldn’t this already be his by virtue of him being God?
- If Jesus is God, how can he have a God over him (Rom.15:6; 1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28; Eph. 1:3, 17; Rev. 1:6; 3:12)?
Jason Hensley, was born in California and lives in Los Angeles and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Semi Hills.
Jason is the principal of a small private school, Heritage College in California and a professor of religion and Holocaust studies at Gratz Academy. He frequently lectures about the Holocaust, as well as the Bible, Christianity, Judaism, and related topics throughout North America.
Jason joins wildernessconversations to discuss his latest book entitled,
One Family Rediscovering Christianity’s Relationship with Judaism
And the book summary reads:
Christianity and Judaism are two separate religions with two separate approaches to life. Nevertheless, these two religions have often operated in similar spheres, and Christians and Jews have interacted over the centuries. Tragically, even in more modern times, this interaction often culminated in Christian assaults on Jewish communities and forced conversions to Christianity.
But this Christian anti-Judaism did not always exist. Originally, Christianity shared its history with Judaism. The first Christians were all Jews. The first Christians used the Jewish Scriptures as their sacred text. The first Christians continued to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem. Over the centuries, Christianity regrettably strayed from its mores and forgot its connection to the Jewish community. This book reconsiders Christianity’s Jewish roots. In doing so, it asserts that Christians, despite their doctrinal disagreements with Jews, are to see Jews as part of their own spiritual family. Christianity and Judaism, rather than two religions, are one family.
The book is available on Amazon.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations)
This morning Tuesday May 21, 2024 we received the sad news that Sister Gwen Rosser passed away, She was born in 1936, just before the 2nd WW started making her 88 years old this year.
She leaves behind her husband, Brother Jim who was born in 1926, between the wars a few years before the Great Depression
A couple of years ago I was able to speak with Jim and Gwen and they reflected on their teenage years, courtship and years of service in Christ.
The sound isn’t great and Priscilla preparing dinner in the background, but its enough to spark our memories of this wonderful couple and their service and they will receive their reward in due course.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Jonathan Bowen and his wife Charlene attend the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets in the Brantford, Ontario Canada.
With all the turmoil in the world, protests have broken out in many countries over many different issues. Some of the causes may seem valid, the hurt is real, but what should be the response of the disciple of Christ?
Should we get involved in the causes that seem just? Surely we have a responsibility to speak up for what we understand for be Gods point of view. Should we than participate in nonviolent civil unrest and protest?
Jonathan joins WildernessConversations and shares his view based on the scriptures.
The Disciple and Protest – Jonathan Bowenhttps://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Steph was born in Perth, moved to Sydney to complete her doctorate and residency, where she met and married Nic Collins. Before their first wedding anniversary and on the eve of moving from Sydney to Brisbane where Steph was to start a new position, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Today Steph and Nic deal with the ups and downs of living with cancer, and they join Wilderness Conversations to share their story.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Steph was born in Perth, moved to Sydney to complete her doctorate and residency, where she met and married Nic Collins. Before their first wedding anniversary and on the eve of moving from Sydney to Brisbane where Steph was to start a new position, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Today Steph and Nic deal with the ups and downs of living with cancer, and they join Wilderness Conversations to share their story.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Greg Palmer lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Aberfoyle Park ecclesia and recently wrote a book entitled Simply Revelation.
In the last 3 podcasts, Greg introduced the book and we looked at Revelation 1 -4, and then in part 2 the seals and trumpets, Revelation 5-11, then the vials. We finish with a consideration of Revelation 17-22.
The jacket introduces the book as follows:
Why another book on Revelation? Since the earliest days of the Christadelphian community, authors have written much on how to interpret Revelation and on the wealth of historical information that it contains, including its many connections with other parts of the Bible. For many, however, Revelation remains a confusing book – or even, sadly, a closed book. In the hope of providing simple solutions to the complex challenges that Revelation presents, this commentary is designed to be accessible to the average reader, debunking any ‘mystery’ about the last message of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although it differs in some details from the thoughts of earlier expositors, it is intended to be a relatively simple presentation of sound thoughts from the last 250 years, assembled in a readily accessible format for the modern reader – ‘simply Revelation’, expounded in a way that readers can easily read and understand.
The book is published by The Christadelphian and available from The Christadelphian and Christadelphian Scripture Study Service in softcopy or ordered as a paperback.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Greg Palmer lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Aberfoyle Park ecclesia and recently wrote a book entitled Simply Revelation.
In the last 2 podcasts, Greg introduced the book and we looked at Revelation 1 -4, and then in part 2 the seals and trumpets, Revelation 5-11. In this podcast we consider Revelation 12-16 including the vials.
The jacket introduces the book as follows:
Why another book on Revelation? Since the earliest days of the Christadelphian community, authors have written much on how to interpret Revelation and on the wealth of historical information that it contains, including its many connections with other parts of the Bible. For many, however, Revelation remains a confusing book – or even, sadly, a closed book. In the hope of providing simple solutions to the complex challenges that Revelation presents, this commentary is designed to be accessible to the average reader, debunking any ‘mystery’ about the last message of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although it differs in some details from the thoughts of earlier expositors, it is intended to be a relatively simple presentation of sound thoughts from the last 250 years, assembled in a readily accessible format for the modern reader – ‘simply Revelation’, expounded in a way that readers can easily read and understand.
The book is published by The Christadelphian and available from The Christadelphian and Christadelphian Scripture Study Service in softcopy or ordered as a paperback.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Michael Hyndman is a Christadelphian who grew up in Adelaide, attended the Christadelphian Heritage College and now has a career in cyber security. He currently lives in Perth, is a part of the Christadelphian community there, and is married with 4 children who all love the Lord Jesus.
Michael shares his story and the very serious warning of the ever near risks of cyber threats and how we can minimise their impact and replace what is natural in this day with what is holy.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Greg Palmer lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Aberfoyle Park ecclesia and recently wrote a book entitled Simply Revelation.
In the last podcast, Greg introduced the book and we looked at Revelation 1 -4, in part 2 we look at the seals and trumpets, Revelation 5-11.
The jacket introduces the book as follows:
Why another book on Revelation? Since the earliest days of the Christadelphian community, authors have written much on how to interpret Revelation and on the wealth of historical information that it contains, including its many connections with other parts of the Bible. For many, however, Revelation remains a confusing book – or even, sadly, a closed book. In the hope of providing simple solutions to the complex challenges that Revelation presents, this commentary is designed to be accessible to the average reader, debunking any ‘mystery’ about the last message of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although it differs in some details from the thoughts of earlier expositors, it is intended to be a relatively simple presentation of sound thoughts from the last 250 years, assembled in a readily accessible format for the modern reader – ‘simply Revelation’, expounded in a way that readers can easily read and understand.
The book is published by The Christadelphian and available from The Christadelphian and Christadelphian Scripture Study Service in softcopy or ordered as a paperback.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Greg Palmer lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Aberfoyle Park ecclesia and recently wrote a book entitled Simply Revelation.
Greg joins us to introduce the book and in part 1 we look at Revelation 1 -4.
The jacket introduces the book as follows:
Why another book on Revelation? Since the earliest days of the Christadelphian community, authors have written much on how to interpret Revelation and on the wealth of historical information that it contains, including its many connections with other parts of the Bible. For many, however, Revelation remains a confusing book – or even, sadly, a closed book. In the hope of providing simple solutions to the complex challenges that Revelation presents, this commentary is designed to be accessible to the average reader, debunking any ‘mystery’ about the last message of our Lord Jesus Christ. Although it differs in some details from the thoughts of earlier expositors, it is intended to be a relatively simple presentation of sound thoughts from the last 250 years, assembled in a readily accessible format for the modern reader – ‘simply Revelation’, expounded in a way that readers can easily read and understand.
The book is published by The Christadelphian and available from The Christadelphian and Christadelphian Scripture Study Service in softcopy or ordered as a paperback.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Peter Williamson was born in 1950 and grew up in the Sydney area, NSW Australia after which he moved to Adelaide where his whole life direction was radically changed.
Today he is a husband to Diana and father to 3 adult children and he joins Wilderness Conversations to share his story.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Mark Allfree attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Nottingham Forest Road and he lives in Mansfield about 20 kms north of Nottingham.
In 2022 Mark wrote a commentary on the Epistle of Jude. The letter of Jude has 25 verses and Mark’s book 228 pages. Is there that much to uncover in this epistle? It turns out that there is.
Last podcast we talked about the background and the first eight verses, it is advisable to listen to part 1 before part 2.
Jude wrote his epistle to encourage the faithful to contend earnestly for the faith in the face of developing ecclesial apostasy. He illustrated his exhortation by drawing upon examples of men from Old Testament history who failed to uphold God’s truth in their day. Mark’s analysis of Jude’s epistle demonstrates that all these examples of failure had one thing in common – a personal interaction with Michael the archangel, who so often has been involved in the execution of God’s judgments in the earth.
Mark joins us on Wildernessconversations.
http://www.wildernessconversations.com
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
The book is available at:
Christadelphian Scripture Study Service (csss.org.au)
The Christadelphian Office – https://www.thechristadelphian.com/
Mark (and John) Allfree – Lulu – https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/BibleStudyPublications
Mark Allfree attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Nottingham Forest Road and he lives in Mansfield about 20 kms north of Nottingham.
In 2022 Mark wrote a commentary on the Epistle of Jude. The letter of Jude has 25 verses and Mark’s book 228 pages. Is there that much to uncover in this epistle? It turns out that there is.
Jude wrote his epistle to encourage the faithful to contend earnestly for the faith in the face of developing ecclesial apostasy. He illustrated his exhortation by drawing upon examples of men from Old Testament history who failed to uphold God’s truth in their day. Mark’s analysis of Jude’s epistle demonstrates that all these examples of failure had one thing in common – a personal interaction with Michael the archangel, who so often has been involved in the execution of God’s judgments in the earth.
Mark joins us on Wildernessconversations.
http://www.wildernessconversations.com
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
The book is available at:
Christadelphian Scripture Study Service (csss.org.au)
The Christadelphian Office – https://www.thechristadelphian.com/
Mark (and John) Allfree – Lulu – https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/BibleStudyPublications
Geoff Henstock lives in Adelaide and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Happy Valley Ecclesia.
Geoff has a keen interest in history, especially where it intersects with his study of the scriptures. Last year we discussed the importance of the French Revolution and why it is so significant for Bible students. Recently Geoff has published a book entitled “Palestine: mythical yet real” which builds on the previous theme. The cover summary reads:
“Tensions between the Israelis and the Palestinians dominate the way which the world relates to the Jewish state. Just as the return of the Jews to God’s land is a feature of latter-day prophecies, so too is the response to the return by the Arabs in and around Israel. In this book we look at the prophetic and historical background to the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict. We also look at prophecies which describe how the Palestinians, and their supporters may be expected to act in the future.”
When Geoff published the book in early October, he had no idea that within days the uneasy standoff between Israel and Gaza would be turned on its head. Geoff joins us to discuss the events in the Middle East from a biblical point of view.
The book is available from the Christadelphian Scripture Study Service
There is also a lecture based on the book available here on YouTube.
https://wildernessconversations.com/
Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
Leen Ritmeyer, a husband and father of five and now a grandfather was born in Holland and now resides in Sully, South Wales, UK and is a member of the Christadelphian ecclesia or church that meets at Cardiff Museum Place.
For over fifty years Leen has been exercising his skills in the area of Biblical Architecture – a combination of the disciplines of archaeology, ancient architecture, history, education, and Biblical Studies. Leen says that the study of ancient structures in the Land of Israel and Near East enriches and confirms our understanding of Biblical history.
He has had a hand in a number of the important Biblical archaeological sites such as Shiloh, Caesarea, Bethlehem, Beersheba, Beth Shemesh, and the list goes on but no one would argue that his special contribution has been to our understanding of Temple Mount and its surrounds in Jerusalem.
see https://www.ritmeyer.com
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Now also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildernessconversations
James Mansfield attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Enfield in Adelaide.
At a meeting held in Adelaide on September 1993, 30 years ago this month, the idea of starting a Christadelphian Private School was tabled. Following a positive finding of a feasibility study conducted by Bruce Gurd, Brian Luke and James Mansfield a Planning Committee was initiated. A Christadelphian Primary school commenced operation on 31 January 1996; just two and a half years from the initial tabling of the idea.
James joins WildernessConversations to share his reflections on the process.
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Now also available on YouTube
Luke Hillian was baptised during Covid in June 2020 and now attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets in the North Lakes area near Morriset north of Sydney and just south of Newcastle. Luke joins WildernessConversations and shares his story of finding great treasure in the field.
Luke Smith attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets in Nanango, a small town north west of Brisbane, Queensland. Luke brings to light some of the heritage of the Christadelphians and their involvement in the early days of Jewish settlement in the Holy Land. One of the first villages established was that of Rosh Pina, a settlement funded in part by the Christadelpians.
Ron Houben lives in New Zealand and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Pakuranga.
He has a passion for sharing the gospel and joins wildernessconversaions to share his passion and experiences.
Des Manser lives in Adelaide and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Enfield. Des was born in 1937 and moved to Adelaide as a child and grew up in the Sunday School run by the Adelaide ecclesia. He shares his reflections of nearly 60 years as a disciple of Christ.
Kylee Mingham nee Lewis attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Birkdale in Brisbane Queensland.
Kylee, a Psychosocial Recovery Coach, experienced post-natal depression, and PTSD many years ago. Today she uses her personal experiences to help and guide clients through their own challenges with mental health.
Kylee was 26 years old when she had her first child, and like many others she struggled with the adjustment of becoming a parent.
She was in and out of hospital for the first two years of her son’s life with post-natal depression and PTSD.
Kylee’s extremely supportive husband was there with her every step of the way to encourage her to get well again, and care for their son when she was in hospital.
It took a long time for Kylee, whose son is now an adult, but she feels recovered and has been well for the last eight years.
Still happily with her husband after 25 years, she is now focusing on her future and helping others through their mental health journeys.
Kylee has always worked in healthcare, but it’s only been recently that she’s completed her studies while working as a Support Worker and now works as a Psychosocial Recovery Coach.
Kylee says “When people have a broken arm, they get it treated. Why is a mental illness any different?”
“I firmly believe that I was put in this position to help others. I tell clients not to give up because there is hope.”
Kylee joins WildernessConversations.
Kylee’s articles:
KM- My Perinatal Depression Journey
KM – Understanding and Caring for Yourself
KM – Physical and Mental Health Disabilities – NDIS
For those needing support, there is a Christadelphian Help-Line, and the following organisations provide a valuable service:
- Perinatal Anxiety & Depression (PANDA) Helpline – call 1300 726 306
- Beyond Blue – beyondblue.org.au
- COPE – Parental Support – cope.org.au
- Headspace – headspace.org.au Lifeline – lifeline.org.au
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Now also available on YouTube
William Patino grew up in the coastal town of Wollongong, NSW Australia and later moved to the mountainside town of Te Anau in the South Island of New Zealand and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Riverton.
He is a husband and father of two young children.
Will has been a full-time landscape photographer since 2014 and as such sees the world differently. He has newfound appreciation for nature and the many intricacies that many would take for granted.
Will’s has a deep reverence and awe of nature and the creator, and it is this that inspires him.
He shares his story on WildernessConversations
Home
https://www.instagram.com/williampatino_photography/?hl=en
http://www.youtube.com/@WilliamPatinoPhotography
Wills’s photo that became a screen saver for the Yosemite Apple Mac Operating system.
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Paul Tovell lives in the UK and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Burton on Trent.
Paul recently published a book entitled – THE KING IN YOUR HEART and joins Wildernessconversations – Part 2 of 2.
The title summary is –
Around a thousand years before Christ, following the spiritually turbulent days of the judges, Israel asked for a king. The royal and holy nation desired one man to act as their figurehead and champion, instead of the LORD God.
And the spark for this request was that the nations around them already had one.
This moment was a pivotal point in the history of Israel. The books of Samuel present it from all angles: we are told how the request comes about, what problems the new king creates, why God responds with an alternative, and where the two incompatible kings clash. This story is so relevant to disciples too, since we face a similar choice. We must decide whether to let sin have dominion over us, ruling as a king in our hearts, as Paul says in Romans; or to enthrone God there instead. This book , considers our choice in the light of Israel’s, and encourages us not to follow in their footsteps.
It is available from Lulu in E-Book (https://tinyurl.com/34wtr8ts) or Lulu in paperback (https://tinyurl.com/w28j2upf)
Wildernessconversations.com
Now also available on YouTube
Paul Tovell lives in the UK and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Burton on Trent.
Paul recently published a book entitled – THE KING IN YOUR HEART and joins Wildernessconversations – Part 1 of 2.
The title summary is –
Around a thousand years before Christ, following the spiritually turbulent days of the judges, Israel asked for a king. The royal and holy nation desired one man to act as their figurehead and champion, instead of the LORD God.
And the spark for this request was that the nations around them already had one.
This moment was a pivotal point in the history of Israel. The books of Samuel present it from all angles: we are told how the request comes about, what problems the new king creates, why God responds with an alternative, and where the two incompatible kings clash. This story is so relevant to disciples too, since we face a similar choice. We must decide whether to let sin have dominion over us, ruling as a king in our hearts, as Paul says in Romans; or to enthrone God there instead. This book , considers our choice in the light of Israel’s, and encourages us not to follow in their footsteps.
It is available from Lulu in E-Book (https://tinyurl.com/34wtr8ts) or Lulu in paperback (https://tinyurl.com/w28j2upf)
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Jason Hensley, was born in California and lives in Los Angeles and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Semi Hills.
Jason is the principal of a small private school, Heritage College in California and a professor of religion and Holocaust studies at Gratz Academy. He frequently lectures about the Holocaust, as well as the Bible, Christianity, Judaism, and related topics throughout North America.
Jason joins wildernessconversations to discuss a book he authored last year, entitled,
The Bible In Context
Have you ever wondered why so many people have different ideas about the Bible? How could one book inspire such disparate concepts and interpretations?
This a book for a newcomer to Biblical studies or the experienced Bible student; it will challenge them to sharpen their thinking.
The book is available from Amazon or from the Christadelphian Scripture Study Service
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Paul Yearsley until recently lived just south of Sydney, Australia and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets in the Southern Highlands.
In his twenties, Paul did what every young boy wants to do – become a fireman! Paul shares his reflections on how seeing people in the most extreme contexts has influenced his faith.
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Joshua Wallace lives in Melbourne, Australia and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Canterbury.
Josh has done some research into the cases of the three Merz brothers, Rudolf, August and Albert. They lived in Nazi Germany and as Christadelphian brothers they refused to perform military service, declared that they were conscientious objectors and suffered terribly as a result. Years in a concentration camp in one case, a decade in a mental institution in another, and execution in the case of Albert – all were borne with extraordinary determination and fortitude for the sake of Christ.
The research for the story was conducted by Graham Jackman and is in the book entitled:
“As dying, and behold, we live” The Merz brothers and the Third Reich.
The book is available from Amazon or from the Christadelphian Scripture Study Service
See also the Wikipedia entry.
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David Olsen lives just north of Sydney, Australia and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Punchbowl.
David has done some research into the horrible mode of death and punishment that became known a crucifixion.
What was so significant about this mode of death in the 1st century and what does it mean to us today?
Christ crucified – David OlsenWildernessconversations.com
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Joshua Robinson, originally from the UK, now living in Adelaide meets at the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Salisbury.
Joshua is a member of the Faith Alive committee that is responsible for the preparation and publication of the Faith Alive magazine, a magazine published by The Christadelphian Office.
It is an excellent resource for the target audience, initially designed for those aged from 16 to 25 but in recent times a broader audience as Josh explains.
The committee can be reached at: faithalive@thechristadelphian.com
Details are on the Christadelphian Magazine website.
A sample copy of the magazine can be downloaded here.
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Colin Byrnes lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Castle Hill.
In the August and the September Christadelphian Magazine Colin wrote an article entitled COMPARING KINGS AND CHRONICLES and he seeks to understand the differences between these two books and the purpose behind their writing.
Colin joins us on Wilderness Conversations.
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Daniel Mansfield lives in Sydney, Australia and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Punchbowl. Daniels hobby is astrophotography and whist this is largely a visual hobby, not lending itself to a conversation, the connection between what we can see in the sky and scriptures is fascinating. We discuss Lucifer, the morning star, the creation, the star of Bethlehem, Pleiades and Orion of Job 38:31 along with Mazzaroth of v 32 and the wandering stars in Jude 13.
Peter Knowles lives in South Australia and attends the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Southern Vales south of Adelaide. Peter joins wildernessconversations to discuss how the scriptures can help us to be mentally well.
Sam Mansfield lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Hyde Park. Sam recently presented a series of studies in Cairns entitled, “The Fruit of the Spirit” taken from Paul's letter to the Galatians – Sam joins Wilderness conversations.
Its been 5 years from the last Family Conference, held in Brisbane and plans are coming together for the Melbourne Christadelphian Family Conference to be held from January 8 to January 14, 2023. It is a now greatly appreciated opportunity for fellowship with Brothers, Sisters and Young People primarily from around Australia but no doubt some from other countries. The theme is “Choose Life” and the 2 international speakers are Bre’ Jim Styles from the USA and Andrew Bramhill from the UK. The two key note speakers join us on WildernessConversations to share what they are looking forward to.
Christadelphian and Author Colin Attridge is possibly known for his book on Fruit of the Spirit first published in 1998 with a 2nd edition in 2016 by The Dawn Book Supply. Colin joins Wilderness Conversations to discuss his most recent book entitled “Gods Secret”. A 340 page book written primarily for those who are still looking for answers to the big questions; but relevant and extremely helpful to any enquiring mind. The book is divided into two separate but complementary parts. Part one lays a foundation, encouraging readers to look further into God’s Word. From the existence of a creator, through to the question of human suffering and God’s plan to rectify the worlds problems through the work of Jesus Christ. The second part takes the reader step by step through the words of David in Psalm 34 as a key to unlocking true wisdom.
Geoff Henstock lives in Adelaide and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Hyde Park. Geoff has a keen interest in history, especially where it intersects with his study of the scriptures and he joins us to discuss the importance of the French Revolution and why it is so significant for Bible students.
James is a member of the Riverwood ecclesia in Sydney and he joins wildernessconversations to share his passion for the man and message of Ezra.
Jason Hensley was born in California and lives in Los Angeles and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Simi Hills. Jason is the principal of a small private school, Heritage College in California and a professor of religion and Holocaust studies at Gratz Academy. He frequently lectures on the Holocaust, as well as the Bible, Christianity, Judaism and related topics throughout North America. Jason joins wildernessconversations to discuss a book he authored, entitled: "Part of the Family: Christadelphians, the Kindertransport and the Rescue from the Holocaust"
Greg Palmer and Phil Shaw are the authors of the book entitled Hard Questions – Real Answers. We did an introductory conversation in January and due to the request of a number of listeners, Greg and Phil return to discuss some Real Answers to some Hard Questions under the headings of: Questions about Morals and Ethics.
Geoff Richards lives in Auckland, New Zealand and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Waitakere. Geoff is a Physician who specializes in substance abuse and addiction and he joins Wilderness Conversations.
Greg Palmer and Phil Shaw are the authors of the book entitled Hard Questions – Real Answers. We did an introductory conversation in January and due to the request of a number of listeners, Greg and Phil return to discuss some Real Answers to some Hard Questions under the headings of: Questions about Religion, Life and Death.
46 years ago, Rami was the Operations Officer of the Sayeret Matkal Commando unit in the IDF and took part in the scarcely credible events of July 4th 1976 when he and elite forces of the IDF rescued 102 Jewish and Israeli hostages from capture in Entebbe, Uganda.
Greg Palmer and Phil Shaw are the authors of the book entitled Hard Questions – Real Answers. We did an introductory conversation in January and due to the request of a number of listeners, Greg and Phil return to discuss some Real Answers to some Hard Questions under the headings of: Questions about Science and Religion.
Matt Davies lives in the United Kingdom and is a member of the Mumbles Christadelphian church or ecclesia. Matt is a keen Bible student and is involved with the Media Channel known as Christadelphian Video and the YouTube Channel: Bible Truth And Prophecy - Matt speaks with Wilderness conversations about some of the videos he has done recently on Russia and the return of Christ.
Greg Palmer and Phil Shaw are the authors of the book entitled Hard Questions – Real Answers. We did an introductory conversation in January and due to the request of a number of listeners, Greg and Phil return to discuss some Real Answers to some Hard Questions under the headings of: Questions about God, the Bible and Israel
In 2017 a large group of young people of the Christadelphian faith toured Israel. A few months later, fascinated by the fact that a group of non-Jewish young people would chose to spend their time and money visiting Israel, we were invited to a conversation on Jewish Radio in Melbourne. The host, Maurice Klein, describes Shabbat Shalom as a “ show that presents information to do with the Jewish community and Jewish world, with a centrality of Israel alone with some music, good humour with no PC or woke, just always wearing my heart on my sleeve.” Joining Maurice in Feb 2018 was Sarah Perry, Jacquie Casey, now Clothier and myself.
Stephen Hughes was born in London and moved to Australia in 1997. Stephen lives in Brisbane and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at North Brisbane. Stephen has a PhD in Physics from King’s College London and for over 15 years taught astrophysics at Queensland University of Technology. The October and November 2021 Christadelphian Magazine published a 2-part article written by Stephen, entitled, WHY I DON’T BELIEVE. Stephen joins wildernessconversations to discuss what he does not believe.
In an age when the very existence of God is doubted, it is no surprise that the reliability of the Bible, which claims to be His word, is questioned. For Bible believers there is ample evidence to support its claims; even so, it contains statements and incidents that can be difficult to understand. This book asks a series of challenging questions about life, faith and practical Christian living, and offers some Bible-based answers. Throughout the book the authors endeavour to provide “simple, yet credible solutions so that faith might be supported and thinking realigned to the divine mind”.
The final part of 7, a firsthand account of the work of Advocates. Thankfully we have a number of oral accounts of the personal experiences of brothers and sisters on rcord. Now nearly 20 years on, many of these brothers and sisters have subsequently fallen asleep in the Lord making these recordings a treasured resource indeed.
Part 6 of 7 parts, continuing in the period of 1951 to 1972. After a short reprieve, after the National Security Act expired on December 31 1946, with development of the Cold War, the Korean War and communist advances in South East Asia the new Prime Minister, R. G. Menzies successfully introduced new legislation to parliament in 1951 which involved conscription.
Part 5 of 7 parts, continuing in the period of 1951 to 1972. With development of the Cold War, the Korean War and communist advances in South East Asia the new Prime Minister, R. G. Menzies successfully introduced new legislation to parliament in 1951 which involved conscription. Many had their consciences tested.
Conscience in Action Part 2 (World War 2 part b). In 2007 the AACE - the Association of Australian Christadelphian Ecclesias published a book entitled “Conscience in Action - - the experience of conscientious objection in Australia” Thankfully in the couple of years leading up to the publication, a number of oral accounts of the personal experiences of brothers and sisters were recorded. Now nearly 20 years on, many of these brothers and sisters have subsequently fallen asleep in the Lord making these recordings a treasured resource indeed.
Conscience in Action Part 2 (World War 2 part b). In 2007 the AACE - the Association of Australian Christadelphian Ecclesias published a book entitled “Conscience in Action - - the experience of conscientious objection in Australia” Thankfully in the couple of years leading up to the publication, a number of oral accounts of the personal experiences of brothers and sisters were recorded. Now nearly 20 years on, many of these brothers and sisters have subsequently fallen asleep in the Lord making these recordings a treasured resource indeed.
Conscience in Action Part 2 (World War 2 part a). In 2007 the AACE - the Association of Australian Christadelphian Ecclesias published a book entitled “Conscience in Action - - the experience of conscientious objection in Australia” Thankfully in the couple of years leading up to the publication, a number of oral accounts of the personal experiences of brothers and sisters were recorded. Now nearly 20 years on, many of these brothers and sisters have subsequently fallen asleep in the Lord making these recordings a treasured resource indeed.
In 2007 the AACE - the Association of Australian Christadelphian Ecclesias published a book entitled “Conscience in Action - - the experience of conscientious objection in Australia” Thankfully in the couple of years leading up to the publication, a number of oral accounts of the personal experiences of brothers and sisters were recorded. Now nearly 20 years on, many of these brothers and sisters have subsequently fallen asleep in the Lord making these recordings a treasured resource indeed.
Jacky Philips has been a member of the church or ecclesia that meets at Brighton in South Australia for many years. Jacky was born in the UK during the war and moved to Australia as a young mother and has an extraordinary story to tell. Jacky shares her story with us on Wilderness Conversations.
Kel Hammond lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Yagoona. Recently Kel published a paper entitled “The Apostles’ Doctrine - The Foundation of NT Faith”. A link to the paper is attached. Kel discusses “the Apostles Doctrine” on Wilderness conversations. Jacky was born in the UK during the war and moved to Australia as a young mother and has an extraordinary story to tell. Jacky shares her story with us on Wilderness Conversations.
Mark Dennes lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia that meets at Riverwood. Recently Mark has done some work on what the scriptures refers to as - “a sin unto death” What is this sin that will not be forgiven and have we committed it?
David and Kathryn Pearce live in the UK David’s first preaching trip to Russia was in 1994, followed by the Ukraine in 1995, and Kazakhstan in 2003. David and Kathryn have continued the preaching work in Eastern Europe making around four trips every year for Bible Schools and welfare visits and in 1998 implemented the Cherith parcel scheme, which sends around 400 parcels a year from UK brothers and sisters to Christadelphian families in East Europe. David and Kathryn talk about their experiences in the past and the changes that are happening at the moment in the UK.
James McCann lives in Sydney and is a member of the Christadelphian church or ecclesia that meets at Riverwood. James provides a critique of postmodernism and the way it is influencing the world around us and has the potential to influence us as believers.
By One Man is a response to the challenge of Evolutionary Creation, or any view, which proposes that God evolved humans from primaeval life forms as His method of creation and reviews the evidence from both Scripture and Christadelphian writers and concludes that Evolutionary Creation is incompatible with Bible teaching and the Birmingham Amended Statement of Faith (BASF).
Kevin Dennes is a founding member of the church or ecclesia that meets at Riverwood. He was born between the wars during the Great Depression and became a Christadelphian just after he was married. He shares his story with us on Wilderness Conversations.
Ron Cowie lives in Adelaide and is a member of the Christadelphian church or ecclesia at Enfield. Ron was in Sydney recently presenting a series of studies entitled, “Life under Gods Holy Law” One of the criticisms of the Bible and in particular the Law of Moses is that it has a poor view ofContinue reading "Life under Gods Holy Law – Ron Cowie"
Gary Steel lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Riverwood. Over the last few years, Gary has been thinking and speaking about Faith in a world that doesn’t believe. Recently Gary did a talk entitled “The Philosophy of Faith”. What does Gary mean by Philosophy and what does it say about faith?
Terry Nutter was born in California in 1949, was raised in a Roman Catholic household, was drafted and fort in Vietnam and subsequently travelled still undecided on the direction his life would take. In 1976, he was in Bogotá Columbia and his life changed forever.
Andrew Bramhill lives near Birmingham and since 2011 as been the editor of the Christadelphian magazine. Andrew joins Wilderness conversations and talks about the work of the Christadelphian Office.
In late November 2020, the Change or Suppression (Conversion) Practices Prohibition Bill 2020 was introduced to the Victorian Parliament. What does this bill mean for people of faith?
Robert Crawford lives in the Hunter Region, north of Sydney and is member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Toronto. Two years ago Rob was about to spend the Australia Day long weekend with some friends when Rob had an accident. He was lucky to survive. In fact some would say it was a miracle he survived. Rob tells his story and shares some of the challenges he faced during his ongoing recovery.
Christopher Kelly lives in Melbourne and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Canterbury. In his day job he is a forensic accountant specialising in fraud investigation. Recently Chris wrote an article that was published in two parts, in the November and December Christadelphian magazine. The article was entitled, The Trinity – A Colossal fraud. We speak with Chris on Wilderness Conversations.
Peter Heavyside lives in Hong Kong and for many years has been a member of the Hong Kong Christadelphian community. A couple of years ago Peter published a book entitled “Genesis 1-2: A Harmonised and Historical Reading” In the preface Peter speaks of three different but related values First as a defence of the integrity of the scriptures against liberal critical handling which claims to identify historical errors or failures of historical accuracy, Second as a sound exposition of aspects of Genesis 1 & 2, and Thirdly as an illustration of how to deal with “problem” passages. Peter joins Wilderness conversations.
Colin Byrnes lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Castle Hill. A couple of years ago Colin published a book entitled “God Christ Man Woman” In the introduction he writes “This is written by a Christadelphian for Christadelphians but anyone else is a welcome reader. It was born out of the evangelical feminism that began to seriously bite in various churches in the early 1980s. It was inevitable that this would soon have an impact on the Christadelphian movement. Male leadership has been the norm since the inception of the movement and continues to be so. However, a small minority of brothers and sisters in the ecclesial world has challenged male leadership.” Colin speaks with Wilderness Conversations
Kel Hammond lives in Sydney and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at Yagoona. A couple of years ago Kel published a paper entitled “Evidence, Reason and Faith”. He discusses what Faith is on Wilderness conversations.
James Andrews lives in Coventry the United Kingdom – a city about 180 kms North West of London, near Birmingham. James is a member of the Kenilworth Christadelphian church or ecclesia, a town just outside Coventry. James recently wrote a 3 – part article in the Christadelphian Magazine about David entitled - David a witness to the peoples. It catalogues the vast extent to which David’s life was bound up with not only his own people but by those from the neighbouring nations. The definitive reference to the “tabernacle of David” by James in Acts 15 at the Jerusalem conference suggests that this involvement with people outside of Israel is key to our understanding of Gods plan.
Stephen Hughes was born in London moved to Australia in 1997. He has a PhD in Physics from King’s College London and for some years now has taught physics and maths at the University of Queensland. Stephen lives in Brisbane and for many years has been a member of the Christadelphian Church or ecclesia at North Brisbane. Stephen joins wilderness conversations and shares his insights into the extraordinary things we have discovered about the moon in the last few decades.
Last year Phil published a book entitled “Theistic Evolution Refuted”, we speak with Phil to understand what "TE" is and we take a look at it from a biblical perspective.
The senior Sunday School Class at the Riverwood church or ecclesia has 4 students – Noah Mia, Austin and Tyler. They share their experiences and perspectives of the extraordinary year 2020 yet to be concluded.
“The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire” has a particular interest to the student of the Bible.
Andrew shares his story and passion for the very important subject, Family & Domestic Violence.
This week on Wilderness Conversations we speak with a friend from Israel who shares his life experiences from the Holy land during the last 4 decades. His parents survived and escaped the horror of Europe between the wars under the Youth Aliyah program. Effi has retired from the workforce and follows his passion, sharing theContinue reading "Ephraim Yaacobi – the Holy Land today"
Mia is 17 years old and in her final year of senior school. In late June along with her family and some friends, I sat with Mia who wanted to share an expression of her faith.Mia was baptised 3 nights later.This is an abbreviated recording of our conversation with Sister Mia. http://www.wildernessconversations.com
Darren shares the findings of his studies from scripture and his discussions about the judgement seat and suggests that rather than fear the prospect of judgement, we should view it with confident anticipation. http://www.wildernessconversations.com
George Darke is a Christadelphian, a member of the Riverwood ecclesia in Sydney and he shares some of his memories from the past and offers some advice for the future.