August marks the foundation month for Oamaru Baptist Church.
Recognising local church history is vital for the church’s existence and ongoing life.
Hebrews 13:7 states, “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”
Many in the church will forget the 5Ws (What, When, Where, Who, and Why) and 2Hs (How, How much) if the local church history celebration is neglected.
And because they have forgotten the 5Ws and 2Hs of their local church, many would “abandon ship” when the worst crises come. Some of the remaining few will resolve to dissolve the local church, sell the property, and advise the remaining members to join other churches in town.
However, those who are aware of the 5Ws and 2Hs of the local church they are joining will choose to stay and endeavour mightily to continue. They are resolved to await the disposition of God’s Mighty Hand, the rightful owner of the church.
I’ve noticed that many pastors and ministry leaders passionately refer to God’s work as “my” ministry and “my” church, expressing a heartfelt ownership and strong dedication to the mission they serve within the community. 
I acknowledge that there have been a few instances when I was in a hurry and made the same mistake of using “my” or “our” in referring to the ministry responsibilities that I have been entrusted with.
I would quickly apologise (if I still have the chance) and clarify that it wasn’t “my” or “mine,” but rather the church I serve and the ministry tasks assigned to me by His church.
Using the proper pronoun reinforces my belief: in my heart and mind, we are merely stewards in His vineyard and servants in His kingdom. Therefore, we are accountable to the one true Master and Owner, the Almighty God.
When people understand that the church and its ministries belong to Him, rather than to the pastor, elders, or ministry leaders, they will take part in that stewardship and accountability.
Three years ago, Oamaru Baptist Church faced a serious crisis. Many members had left for various reasons. Some of those who remained suggested dissolving the local church and selling the property.
The majority of the few remaining church members are dedicated to continuing until “God lifts us from this church,” which is their firm commitment. Church attendance and membership have increased in the last three years.
From fewer than ten Sunday-goers in 2022, Oamaru Baptist Church welcomes 55 to 60 people every Sunday in 2025.
OBC elected its local church elders in June, joining Rachel Murray and the pastor on the governance team. We are currently in a transitional phase during which the full governance responsibilities will be transferred to the local church when the time is right.
We have started an evening service in July. There is an ongoing discipleship course that aims to train members to plant and lead a church. The church continues to grow.
On Oamaru Baptist Church’s 142nd anniversary, this 13 August 2025, we are focusing on the theme, “Passionate Commitment”, to ignite the hearts of those who are attending the church to participate in the various ministries.
When we view the local church as a precious inheritance passed down from the faith of our founders, we become acutely aware of its essential aspects—who, what, when, where, why, how, and how much—and recognise that we are merely the current stewards of God’s work.
As accountable caretakers to the Almighty Owner, we will cherish this responsibility deeply for as long as we live.
But I know Whom I have believèd,
“I Know Whom I Have Believed” Hymn By Daniel Whittle
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.
Let us keep praying for His church to grow in wisdom, stature, and favour with God and men. To God be the glory.
