As many readers of this blog may be aware, I announced my resignation as Principal of Carey Baptist College last week. I have been appointed Associate Director (Langham Preaching) and will be starting in this role in 2009. The plan is to be based in Auckland for 3-4 years before relocating to somewhere in South Asia.
Langham Preaching is one of the three ministries of Langham Partnership International, a global mission initiative founded by John Stott. Check-out the website: Langham Partnership International.
It is the following video which I have found so compelling, having watched it numerous times over the past two years. I cannot think of anything more strategic in the mission of God in the world and never ever seriously entertained the thought that one day I might have the delight and privilege of being involved in this work.
It is a big change for our family. It is an earlier move on from Carey than we expected. It is possible that my first month in the job will be twenty years to the month since I was first invited to consider a role at the Bible College of New Zealand. And so it will bring to conclusion two decades in theological education and the training of preachers here in NZ. These twin passions – theological education and biblical preaching – are at the core of Langham’s global ministry.
One more thing… As you watch this clip from youtube you too may feel stirred by Langham’s vision. Well, Langham Partnership (NZ) is just a few months old and while mine is an international staff appointment, LPNZ is having to set up an office and being asked to contribute to my support. Barby and I warmly welcome the opportunity to build a team of people who will stand with us in this ministry, praying and giving as they are able. If you’d like to register that kind of interest, send an email to tony@langhampartnership.org.nz and we will begin to communicate with you. Thank-you!
[added later, in July 2008 – a second video of Langham Preaching, this time in Vanuatu]
Meanwhile I need to focus on finishing well at Carey 🙂
nice chatting
Paul Windsor
About Me
the art of unpacking
After a childhood in India, a theological training in the USA and a pastoral ministry in Southland (New Zealand), I spent twenty years in theological education in New Zealand — first at Laidlaw College and then at Carey Baptist College, where I served as principal. In 2009 I began working with Langham Partnership and since 2013 I have been the Programme Director (Langham Preaching). Through it all I've cherished the experience of the 'gracious hand of God upon me' and I've relished the opportunity to 'unpack', or exegete, all that I encounter in my walk through life with Jesus.
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Paul, congratulations on your appointment to Langham. There is definitely a synergy between yourself and Langham. Knowing the regard you have for John Stott and Biblical Preaching it is a logical step. May you know a deep peace as you move towards 2009. I’m sure that you will leave Carey well and that the Baptist Church in New Zealand will be thankful for a job well done.
I am sure You will be seeking God’s wisdom
Proverbs 2 vs. 1-10 – Seek The Wisdom Of God
My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands, tune your ears to wisdom,
And concentrate on understanding, cry out for insight, and ask for understanding.
For I understand who you are, what you think, seek first the things of my kingdom
Don’t worry about the temporal, instead look to me, I’ll be of you comprehending
I know, I understand your confusion, your uncertainties, seek my Godly wisdom
Meditate upon my word, it will show you my purposes and messages I am sending
For my promises do not return void, trust in my word the message of the kingdom
As you seek and search for my wisdom and word, I will increase your understanding
Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures
Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God.
For as you dig and search you will uncover my truth beyond measure
You will comprehend the unsurpassing love I have for you, and know that I am your Lord
I will reveal to you that which is hidden, my words you’ll cherish, and treasure
I desire that you are able to discern, comprehend and gain knowledge of your Loving God
For the LORD grants wisdom! He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest.
He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him.
As we are prepared to look to him, he enables us to sense what is for the best
To be aware of the insidious things that can try and drag us into worldly sin
To know and rightly divide his word, to be guided by the Spirit in what is blest
We need to trust in his precepts, for they help those who are faithful to him
Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair and you will find the right way to go.
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy.
It will clearly show you that the choices you must make, let your yes be yes, your no be no
Beware the Devil who stalks likes a lion, his troops will attack and deploy
You need to resist and stand on Gods word, unless you understand it you are without a show
Seek the Lord your God, his wisdom and knowledge you will then enjoy
For without him there is no going, knowing or living, I am the way he says this you must know
My way is narrow, few find it, seek me in all things, and know then my joy.
Regards
Mark
I think this is a good move. It is time to leave Carey which needs a new direction. A change will be good for both you and Carey. God bless.