Life + Faith

Author: Jon

  • The Great Salvation: A Warning Against Neglect

    The Great Salvation: A Warning Against Neglect

    In my previous post, we explored how Hebrews 1 establishes the supremacy of Jesus over the angels. This understanding sets the foundation for the message in Hebrews 2—a warning not to neglect the great salvation that Jesus offers.

    This isn’t just an ancient admonition; it is also a warning for us today. We live in a world full of distractions, temptations, and trials. It’s easy to lose sight of what’s important, the core of our faith. Hebrews 2 urges us to hold fast, to be anchored, to Jesus, the author of our salvation. In so doing he tells us to be vigilant against the slow drift that can pull us away from Him.

    Do Not Neglect the Great Salvation

    Hebrews 2:1-4 opens with a direct and urgent exhortation:

    “We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away.”

    The imagery of drifting is helpful.

    Think of a boat tied to a pier, its ropes securely fastened. As long as the knots are tight and the ropes strong, the boat remains anchored, no matter how strong the currents or waves. But if the knots loosen, if the ropes fray, the boat begins to drift, carried away by the unseen pull of the tides. The same is true for our faith. If we are not anchored to Jesus—in other words, ‘if we do not pay careful attention to what we have heard’—we can slowly, almost imperceptibly, drift away from our faith.

    The Danger of Drifting

    This warning isn’t about a sudden, conscious rejection of faith. It’s about the subtle, almost invisible drifting that can occur when we neglect our relationship with God. Some questions worth reflecting on for ourselves, which may help us evaluate where we are at, include:

    • Have you found yourself neglecting the reading of God’s Word, allowing days or weeks to pass without opening your Bible?
    • Have you neglected prayer, letting your conversations with God become infrequent or shallow?
    • Have you been absent from corporate worship, finding excuses to skip gathering with God’s people?
    • Have you neglected using your gifts to serve others, retreating into self-interest instead of investing in a community of faith?

    These are the areas where drifting often begins. The author of Hebrews warns that neglecting this great salvation will have serious consequences. He reminds us that the Law, delivered by angels, was binding and disobedience to it was met with just punishment. How much more severe will the consequences be if we neglect the salvation offered by Jesus, the Son who sits at the right hand of the Majesty (1:4)?.

    Anchoring Ourselves to Salvation

    So, how do we stay anchored?

    The answer is not just to “read your Bible and pray,” though those are essential practices. Staying anchored requires a conscious effort, an intentional commitment, to remain in communion with God. It means recognising our deep need for Him and seeking to deepen our relationship with Him through worship, community, and obedience. This could look like:

    Worship: Engage in both personal and corporate worship, reminding yourself of God’s greatness and your dependence on Him.

    Community: Stay connected with other believers who can encourage, challenge, and support you in your walk with Jesus.

    Obedience: Be diligent in following God’s commands, not out of obligation, but out of love and gratitude for the salvation He has given you.

    In a world that constantly tests and tempts, it’s easy to let those ropes loosen and find ourselves drifting. Hebrews reminds us of the greatness of the salvation we have in Jesus—a salvation confirmed by the apostles, witnessed through signs and wonders, and guaranteed by the Holy Spirit. Don’t neglect it. Stay anchored to Jesus and live with confidence in His power and presence.

    Like that securely tied boat, ensure that your faith is firmly anchored, not drifting away with the currents of life. Hold fast to the salvation that comes through Jesus, recognising the seriousness of the warning and the greatness of the gift we’ve been given.

    This is a series through the Letter to the Hebrews, based on sermons I have preached over the course of our sermon series. For other posts in this series please see:

  • New Podcast: Deep Dive

    New Podcast: Deep Dive

    In recent weeks I launched a new podcast, Deep Dive, for our church Mooroolbark Baptist Church.

    The idea had been bubbling away for some time. I think it give another good point of connection during the week, and the ability to communicate to our church in a different way and about a variety of things. At the moment it is focussed on providing a little more depth and application to our Sunday sermon series in Hebrews.

    There are now 4 episodes available online.

    Have a listen yourself and subscribe through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our YouTube channel.

  • Book Review: The Unhurried Pastor by Brian Croft and Ronnie Martin

    Book Review: The Unhurried Pastor by Brian Croft and Ronnie Martin

    The Unhurried Pastor by Brian Croft and Ronnie Martin is an important reminder for anyone in pastoral ministry, especially those feeling the strain of constant demands. The book challenges the modern ministry mindset, which often equates busyness with success, and instead offers a call to slow down, embrace limitations, and find strength in resting in Christ. There’s lots of thoughtful insights and practical wisdom. Croft and Martin help pastors rediscover a more sustainable and spiritually enriching way to lead.

    Embracing Limitations

    One of the foundational ideas in The Unhurried Pastor is the importance of accepting our limitations. Many ministers are driven by the desire to meet everyone’s expectations—whether those of their congregation, community, or even themselves. But this endless striving only leads to burnout and frustration. Croft and Martin remind us, drawing from the words of John Calvin, that “true and sound wisdom consists in two parts: the knowledge of God and of ourselves” (p. 3). This is a important point. When we are deeply aware of both who God is and who we are, we understand that our limitations are not failures—they’re a natural part of being human.

    Embracing limitations doesn’t mean we’re less effective; it means we’re leaning into God’s design. Instead of trying to be everywhere and do everything, we can rest in the truth that God is sovereign. The weight of the world—or the church—is not on our shoulders. When pastors accept their limits, they’re able to give more genuine attention to what truly matters, letting God’s strength work through their weaknesses. I will admit, this is something that can be hard to actually put into practice and I often need to remind myself of this.

    Redefining Productivity

    In a culture that prizes productivity, it’s easy to fall into the trap of measuring ministry success by how much gets done. The more programs, meetings, and events, the better—right? Croft and Martin challenge this assumption by encouraging pastors to redefine productivity in ministry. “True productivity in ministry is about being rather than doing” (p. 14), they write, pointing to the familiar story of Mary and Martha as a guiding example.

    Martha, in her busyness, missed the opportunity to sit at Jesus’ feet, while Mary chose the “better” portion by simply being present with Him. This story resonates with those who find themselves caught in a cycle of activity, running from one task to the next. The reality is that ministry is not about how many meetings are attended or how many tasks are accomplished. Instead, it’s about nurturing a relationship with Christ and leading others to do the same. By spending time in His presence, pastors can lead from a place of spiritual depth, rather than out of a need to prove their worth through endless busyness.

    For many of us, there’s a temptation to prioritise what’s urgent over what’s important. However, Croft and Martin remind us that spiritual productivity isn’t about ticking off tasks; it’s about being deeply rooted in Christ and allowing our ministry to flow from that relationship. This shift requires a rethinking of how we approach our day-to-day and week-to-week responsibilities, but as I’ve recognised, essential for a more sustainable ministry.

    Authentic Vulnerability

    Vulnerability has become a bit of a buzzword in leadership circles (thanks Brene Brown?), with many encouraging pastors to be more open about their struggles. But as Croft and Martin point out, there is a subtle but significant difference between authentic vulnerability and a curated image of vulnerability. The authors caution against the temptation to appear vulnerable without truly being transparent: “There is a difference between presenting oneself as a vulnerable and transparent pastor, rather than a vulnerable and transparent person” (p. 21).

    True vulnerability in ministry goes beyond the occasional mention of a struggle in a sermon or casual conversation. It’s about consistently living with honesty before God and others, even when it feels risky. Authentic vulnerability builds trust, both with God and with the congregation, because it shows a pastor who is fully human—dependent on God’s grace like everyone else. Croft and Martin encourage pastors to be more “psalmist-like,” laying their true selves before God in prayer and letting go of the need to maintain an image of invulnerability. When pastors model this kind of vulnerability, they help create a culture of authenticity within their church communities, where people feel safe to bring their own struggles and burdens to God.

    Rest and Renewal

    For me, perhaps the most important message in The Unhurried Pastor is the call to rest. In a world that glorifies hustle and productivity, the idea of rest can feel like a luxury—or even a weakness. Yet Croft and Martin emphasise that rest is not optional for those in ministry; it’s essential. They draw from the biblical pattern of Sabbath, reminding us that God built rest into the very fabric of creation. “The unhurried pastor knows Jesus is the Chief Shepherd over his church… It is only when a frantic, hurried pastor actually lets go that he truly rests” (p. 128).

    This kind of rest goes beyond simply taking a day off. It’s about a deep trust in God’s sovereignty, a willingness to release control and believe that God can and will sustain the ministry. When pastors neglect rest, they’re often trying to prove their worth by staying busy, or they’re afraid of what will happen if they’re not constantly ‘doing ministry’. But true rest comes when we let go and trust that God is in control. Rest, as Croft and Martin describe, is an act of faith—faith that God is capable of shepherding His people even when we’re not present.

    For pastors, this means regularly stepping away from the demands of ministry to replenish their souls, whether through prayer, time in Scripture, or simply enjoying life outside of pastoral duties. Without this regular rhythm of rest and renewal, burnout is inevitable. But when pastors take time to rest, they return to their work with greater clarity, energy, and a renewed sense of purpose.

    Conclusion

    The Unhurried Pastor is a timely and necessary reminder for those in pastoral ministry to slow down, embrace their humanity, and rest in God’s grace. Croft and Martin offer an alternative to the relentless demands of modern ministry (and life!), reminding us that our value is not in what we accomplish, but in who we are in Christ. By accepting our limitations, prioritising our relationship with God, and leading from a place of rest, we can experience a more sustainable and impactful ministry.

    As Croft and Martin conclude, “Pastors don’t need to be perfect or have it all together. They simply need Jesus” (p. 142). This truth is what sustains ministry—not our own efforts, but God’s grace working through us. For any pastor feeling the weight of their role or the pace of their life, this book offers practical wisdom and encouragement to embrace a slower, more sustainable approach to ministry.

    Related reading on rest and ministry
    11 Helpful Books on Burnout and Ministry
    Book Review: Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
    Rest in the Rock: A Series in Psalm 62

  • The Supremacy of the Son Over Angels

    The Supremacy of the Son Over Angels

    Angels are a subject that often fascinates our culture. From their depictions in art and literature to their appearances in pop culture, angels are often portrayed as powerful, mysterious beings. Shows like “Supernatural” or “Touched by an Angel” present them as celestial figures with their own personalities and missions, often serving as intermediaries between heaven and earth. Even in music, with songs like Robbie Williams’ “Angels,” we see them as symbols of hope and protection. Yet, as captivating as these portrayals are, the Bible gives us a much deeper understanding of angels and their role in God’s kingdom.

    In the opening chapter of Hebrews, we find this truth: as significant as angels are, Jesus, the Son of God, is far greater.

    This isn’t just a theological point but begins to form our understanding of the greatness of the salvation Jesus offers. The writer of Hebrews makes this clear by emphasising the supremacy of the Son over angels, which sets the stage for the rest of the letter.

    Jesus Is Greater Than the Angels

    Hebrews 1:5-14 focuses on establishing the supremacy of Jesus over the angels. The author does this by weaving together a series of Old Testament references—seven in total—to demonstrate that Jesus has always been greater than the angels.

    1. The Reality of Angels

    The Bible doesn’t question the existence of angels; it assumes their reality. They are mentioned throughout Scripture as servants of God, carrying out His will. Angels protected Abraham (Genesis 19:1), delivered the Law to Moses (Acts 7:53), ministered to Elijah (1 Kings 19:5), and announced the birth of Jesus to Mary (Luke 1:26-38) and Joseph (Matthew 1:20-21). They even ministered to Jesus after His temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4:11). In Revelation 5:11-12, we see angels worshipping Jesus, declaring His worthiness to receive power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honour, glory, and praise. Yet, despite their importance, they are never the focus of worship; that honour belongs to Jesus alone.

    2. The Son’s Greater Name

    The first point the writer makes is that Jesus’ name is far greater than any angelic name. In Hebrews 1:5, the author quotes Psalm 2:7 and 2 Samuel 7:14 to show that Jesus is uniquely identified as the Son of God. No angel has ever been given this title. The name of Jesus signifies His divine authority and unique relationship with the Father.

    3. The Son is Worshipped by Angels

    Hebrews 1:6-7 makes it clear that the angels worship Jesus (cf. Revelation 5:11-12). These divine celestial beings, who themselves are holy and God’s light, bow before Jesus, recognising His divine authority. This reinforces the idea that Jesus is not just another spiritual being; He is the object of angelic worship.

    4. The Son’s Exaltation

    Jesus has been exalted to the right hand of God, a position higher than the angels. This idea is supported by several Psalms (Psalm 45:6-7; 102:25-27; 110:1) quoted by the writer. The right hand of God is a place of supreme honour and authority, and it is here that Jesus is seated, ruling over all creation, including the angels.

    5. Angels as Servants

    Finally, Hebrews 1:14 tells us that angels are sent to serve those who will inherit salvation. This highlights their role as servants, not rulers. Their purpose is to assist in the unfolding of God’s plan, particularly in the lives of those who are saved by Jesus. This service again highlights the salvation Jesus offers, how it is so much greater that angels are sent to aid in its fulfilment.

    This first chapter of Hebrews serves as a powerful reminder: while angels are significant in God’s plan, they are not to be worshipped or revered above Jesus.

    The Son of God is far greater.

    He is the one whom the angels worship, and He is the one who holds the universe together.

    As we move into Hebrews chapter 2, we’ll see why this salvation that Jesus brings is something we must never neglect.

    This is a series through the Letter to the Hebrews, based on sermons I have preached over the course of our sermon series. For other posts in this series please see:

  • Pastoral Ministry and AFL Coaching

    In a recent article in The Age, Caroline Wilson explores a cultural shift in AFL coaching, where many top candidates have turned down the West Coast senior coaching position to prioritise family and personal well-being. This made me reflect on the parallels between the pressures faced by AFL coaches and those in pastoral ministry. Though these two fields operate in completely different arenas, they do share a number of common challenges around leadership, sacrifice, and the weight of responsibility.

    The Weight of Leadership

    In both AFL coaching and pastoral ministry, the role of a leader carries significant weight. For coaches, this involves the strategic management of a team, guiding players toward success while being under the constant scrutiny of fans and media. For pastors, the responsibility lies in shepherding a congregation, guiding them in their faith, and providing wisdom during life’s challenging moments. The Bible speaks to this in Luke 12:48, where Jesus says, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.” This isn’t just about material wealth but applies equally to those entrusted with leadership—whether on the field or in the church. Leadership demands much, and with it comes the pressure to meet those demands faithfully.

    The Relentless Pressure

    Wilson’s article highlights the high-pressure environment that AFL coaches endure, where every decision is analysed and critiqued. Pastors, depending on the season, can also operate in a similarly intense environment. The spiritual well-being of a congregation rests, in part, on their shoulders. The Apostle Paul understood this pressure well, when he shares in 2 Corinthians 11:28 that beyond his external trials, he faced “the daily pressure of concern for all the churches.” This type of pressure is sometimes relentless and requires both AFL coaches and pastors to have a strong foundation—whether it’s in their strategy, their faith, their identity, or all of the above.

    Sacrifices for Family

    One of the themes highlighted by Wilson is the decision by many coaches to prioritise their families over the senior coaching job. For pastors, this is similar. Ministry demands can easily encroach upon personal and family life, leading to burnout if not managed carefully. It’s a delicate balance, where one must constantly weigh the call to serve against the needs of those closest to them. However, the decision to prioritise family reflects a biblical principle found in 1 Timothy 3:4-5, where leaders in the church are instructed to manage their households well, for if they cannot do that, “how can they take care of God’s church?” This is a reminder that commitment to church leadership is balanced with a commitment to family.

    Mentorship and Influence

    AFL coaches are often seen as father figures or mentors to their players, providing guidance not just in the sport but in life. As spiritual shepherds, pastors seek to guide their congregation toward deeper faith and worship of God. The influence they have is often more significant than we realise, helping to shape those who lead. In Proverbs 4:23 we read, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” For pastors, and perhaps coaches too, this is helpful wisdom; influence must flow from a place of integrity and care for those they lead. In a way, both are in the business of heart work—coaches on the playing field and pastors in the field of the soul.

    The Ultimate Sacrifice

    At the core of both AFL coaching and pastoral ministry is the concept of sacrifice. Wilson highlights how even lucrative and prestigious coaching positions are being passed over in favour of personal happiness and family commitments. In ministry, this sacrificial nature is a direct reflection of the gospel itself. The ultimate act of sacrifice is found in Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for the sake of others. Philippians 2:7-8 describes how Jesus

    “made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

    This is the model for all Christian leadership: a life that prioritises the well-being of others, even at personal cost.

    Upon reflection, the challenges faced by AFL coaches are not entirely different from those encountered in pastoral ministry. Both roles require a balance of responsibility, the ability to endure pressure, and a heart willing to make sacrifices for the greater good. As pastoral leadership evolves, it’s crucial that those who lead do so with wisdom, resilience, and a deep commitment to the people they serve—always drawing strength and inspiration from the sacrificial love of Christ. This love, exemplified by Jesus on the cross, is the ultimate guide for anyone called to lead, whether in a sporting arena or a place of worship.

    If you’d like to read the full article from Caroline Wilson in The Age that inspired this post you can do so here (may be behind a pay wall).