The Student’s Desk

That we may know Christ

New Zealand – travelogue entry 1

Hello from the land of the long white cloud. Having said that, I realise not many of you would know I’m currently in NZ. And I’ve just realised I don’t have my short emailing list with me, so I’m having to use my regular emailing list.

I have just completed the first part of my trip, this being the national disability Christian camp where something in the order of 300 people attend. It was quite an experience, and I’ve received enough Pentecostalism to last me many years to come…

I presented twice during the camp. I held a workshop discussing God’s grace being demonstrated through weakness – which was one of the themes of my thesis. We had a really good discussion – much to my relief. I was slightly my concerned about giving my testimony having identified the positive semi-Pelagius philosophy that drives much of Pentecostalism, and how it differs from my conservatism, which focusses on the value of suffering. Anyway, enough with the big words. I need not have worried. My testimony was well received. Even still, it was quite an experience. I had expect people to be vocalising there endorsement throughout my talk. What I didn’t expect was, at the end of my third last paragraph where I had applied the gospel to my own circumstance, I had to come to a complete stop to let the clapping and cheering subside. In a way, this was a good thing as it gave me a moment to compose myself before applying the gospel to them. Perhaps I’m more cut out as a Pentecostal preacher!! Oh my…

Jokes aside, I was pleased to revisit Pentecostalism to think about the philosophies behind it, the reasons for it, and why people find Pentecostalism attractive, and how those needs can be acknowledged and ministered to in a conservative context.

Apart from that, I had a great time catching up with old friends, and having a good laugh with new ones. I was quite shocked to see how many people I actually know in NZ.

tomorrow I fly to Christchurch to pick up a camper van and tour the South Island for 18 days. I’m very much looking forward to having some downtime. Especially after this theologically and philosophically provoking weekends.

October 27, 2014 Posted by | Travel | | Leave a comment