SEMBEQ magazine SUMMER 2016 - n°5
= Strong churches
MAGAZINE SEMBEQ - SUMMER 2016, n°5
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Table OF CONTENTs WHAT IS IT THAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT? 04 NeWs 08 HAVE YOU HEARD OF THESE AUTHORS? 10 Dear friends... 11 Our Needs 12 A STRENGTHENED CHURCH 13 COMPLEMENTARIANISM : Having Faith in a Sovereign God 14 A new undergraduate degree at SEMBEQ! 16 Priscilla Training Program 18 MICROPROGRAM FOR WOMEN 20 UPCOMING COURSES 20 One year of magazines 22
Update on the
600
men and women to be trained by 2024
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UNE CULTURE DU TRAVAIL RENOUVELÉE
16/200 pastors in training (workers having come from elsewhere, self-sustained cohort students, or students from the Immersion program) 54/200 elders in training (through microprograms and certificates, or the cohort students who are aspiring towards eldership) 72/200 women in training (Priscilla training, biblical counseling microprogram, certificate, as well as bachelor or master'S degree)
A WORD FROM OUR DIRECTOR Why publish a magazine about women’s discipleship? Even at the time of His earthly ministry, Jesus showed us how women contributed to the Kingdom's progression. The church’s history clearly demonstrates how God uses both men AND women to accomplish His will. Was it not Lois and Eunice that trained Timothy?... I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. [...] But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures… (2 Timothy 1:5, 3:14-15). And didn’t Priscilla serve as a missionary alongside her husband Aquilla? Whenever I visit churches in the United States, such as the one pastored by John MacArthur, I see an army of women who are serving in ministry, shaping the very core of their church's vision.
We believe that the role of being an elder in a church is reserved for men. However, for too long we have neglected to give women in the Church responsibilities that fit their skills and abilities. This is why we at SEMBEQ believe that equipping the women in the church is essential if it is to grow and accomplish its mission. In an individualistic society, the emphasis is put on individuals. However, the New Testament school of thought puts the emphasis on the community; every woman who makes the decision to get discipleship training chooses to strengthen the church as well as the other people around her. Several ladies were part of the core of SEMBEQ when it first started. Among them were Marion Hurtubise and Gisèle Girard, who dedicated their lives to develop classes and programs. And how could we forget our modern-day “Priscilla” missionaries, such as Carole Silvera, Marianne PetitClerc, and Virginia Beyer?
Whenever I present our vision to give discipleship training to 200 women in our churches, the women are always brimming with enthusiasm! If there ever was a time to equip them, my fellow leaders and pastors, it is now. Not to mention that pastoral formation doesn’t involve only men. We need to make sure that our spouses are rooted in the Word of God, since a pastor and his wife are one flesh in the ministry. Our objective of 200 trained women includes 72 who have already begun a discipleship program with SEMBEQ and who will finish before 2024. Let us praise God for the “Flamme”* team and the “Priscille” training. Discipleship training for women is not optional; it is an integral part of God’s divine plan. We hope that this magazine will exhort our leaders and encourage the women in our churches to get trained and become active in doing the Lord’s work in Quebec. François Turcotte - Executive Director
On March 10th 2016, Virginia went to be with the Lord. We are so thankful to Him for having placed her among us, and for the blessing she has been to others. Virginia was originally from Kansas, and lived in Quebec since 1965. She was well-known for her teaching and organizational skills. She devoted many years to translating a great amount of teaching material into French, for both children and adults. Having settled in Shawinigan-Sud, she worked with her church's pastoral team and with children & women’s ministries (and served in other ways as well). Her influence, especially in promoting a love for God's Word, was felt by many across the province. * Flamme is an encouragement and discipleship ministry for women in Quebec. Its objective is for women to get more involved in the variety of ministries that are currently active in the churches of our province. // See page 18 for information about the Priscilla training program.
Stéphane Gagné
WHAT IS IT THAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT ?
“ that marks the It is godliness
greatness of what we do.
”
Recently, media in Québec asked the following question to public figures: “Are you a feminist?” Several of them seemed uncomfortable in a way that is only found in society. The Church is also seeking to position itself properly on the issue of women, their role and their influence. Fortunately, we have Scripture. The issue of the relationship between man and woman has existed since the beginning of humanity, and started immediately after the fall (Gen. 3:16). Even though feminism wanted to concentrate its efforts on the relationship between man and woman, the underlying problem extends to all human conflicts: between the black and the white, fair or dark skinned, rich or poor, educated or not, pure science or social studies, the Canadiens and the Nordiques*… the heart of the problem is that everyone wants, in one way or another, to become someone. Someone who is relevant, accomplished, and respected. This desire to define ourselves according to our positions and accomplishments was exactly the problem of the church in Corinth. Several people wanted to be known for their wisdom (chapter 2), others for the fact that they were baptised or trained (chapter 3), and still others according to what they ate or abstained
from (chapter 8). However, one of the biggest problems in this church was the aspiration for fame. The spiritual gifts, which were supposed to be used for mutual edification, had become a means to express oneself. Defining ourselves according to our gifts or accomplishments has long been the source of many struggles or quarrels. In fact, according to James 4:1-3, it has been this way since the beginning of the world: “so that we may spend what we get for our pleasures.” And yet, it is God who gives gifts and roles to whomever He pleases: “What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). In truth, we do not exist for ourselves. Woman and man were both created to bring this world under the glory of God (Genesis 1:28). They were mandated to do so together, with all of their differences — just as Christians act as many different members of one body (1 Corinthians 12:14). There is no one who is so completely autonomous and independent of others that success comes to him, and him alone. Only Christ was the perfect man. And even the triune God that we worship is in fact a team, an example of perfect community. Edification is beyond gender. If the mandate for humans is to worship the Creator of the world, edification can
*Classic Québécois rivalry between Montreal and Quebec City hockey teams. 4
Trained women = Strong churches
thus come from everyone, without distinction of race, salary, gender, or any other criteria or condition that humanity wishes to establish. HIstory is full of examples where men and women have inspired others by their faith, their devotion, and their charity. Even while the roles were different and the gifts were complementary, the object of their worship and their service does not change: God is at the heart of our actions. It is only when we lose sight of this truth and we focus on ourselves that problems begin. God Himself will judge all of our works, whether big or small, at the end of time. And He does not judge like humans do. Many of the first will become the last. For example, in the past, women wrote very rarely if at all (e.g., the Greek philosophers and the writers of the Bible). That which women did write was not published as easily as the writing of men, including sermons, letters, and even diaries. History does not seem to have known or recognised women. Was that due to culture or context? The simple nature of man? At the end of it all, is it important to know why? History has only retained but a small fraction of that which has been written by those on earth, whether men or women. Many more have walked this earth without leaving any written trace, but Revelation 20:12 tells us that that which has not been written in books will soon be unveiled by God.
many valuable lessons to learn and retain from the history of women. What is more, God has carved out a special place for the remembrance of women and the lives they have lived. This is the case with the woman who pours perfume on the feet of Jesus (Matthew 26:13). And this is only one story among many. The humble and devoted way many women of the past have lived their lives has made them precious in the sight of God, even more so than so many sages or great men of this world. History tells the story of virtuous women, who continue to act as models for us and edify believers today. Think of Queen Esther, who saved the people of Israel (Esther 4:14), or Mary the mother of John, who courageously housed the
disciples during a time of persecution (Acts 12). In more recent times, recall the life of Joni Eareckson Tada and her incredible perseverance in the faith despite being accidentally paralysed since the age of 17. These women were true heroines whose goal was the glory of God, and not the fame of man. Finally, in examining our value, we must above all remember that it is God who will ultimately judge the eternal value of our actions, our words, and our thoughts. That which is most useful in the kingdom of God is not popularity or the size of an activity, but godliness lived through charity. Here are several examples on the next page.
Stéphane Gagné After working as a teacher, God called Stéphane to pastoral ministry in the early 1990’s. After having served the Church in St-Georges-de-Beauce, he moved to Joliette to pastor a church in that town. During that time, he completed a Bachelor's Degree (in Theology) and a Master of Arts Degree (in Church History) with SEMBEQ. He now teaches two courses at SEMBEQ: Survey of Church History and Survey of Women's History. He is also president of SEMBEQ’s board of directors.
Does this mean that we should not value the heritage left by the women who have come before us? Not at all! On the contrary, women form half of humanity and half of its history. There are indeed
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Perpetua (182 - 203) was a young martyr who courageously showed a total dedication to Christ, even in the face of death. She was imprisoned with her infant that she was still nursing, while her father pleaded desperately that she deny her faith in the Lord so that she could save her life. In spite of these things, her faithfulness to God inspired the entire early Church. The Passion of Perpetua is the oldest and most important work written by a young Christian woman of the early Church. Marcella (325 - 410) and Paula (347-404) were two women who contributed to Jerome’s translation of the Latin Vulgate Bible. This version of the Bible went on to be used during all of the Middle Ages and even up until recently. Marcella’s home could be considered as a type of pioneer Bible society, as she welcomed scribes into her home, who copied portions of Scripture. As for Paula, she sponsored a large portion of Jerome’s work. She would pay for the manuscripts and books which Jerome used to study the Bible, and ultimately played a pivotal role in the Latin Vulgate translation. Monica of Tagaste (331-387) was a woman dedicated to prayer, who often prayed for her son to know the Lord. Her son was the famous theologian Augustine of Hippo (354-430), and her faith and encouragement of Augustine in his theological training and ministry was immortalized in his numerous writings. Katharina von Bora (1499-1552) was perhaps the first “pastor’s wife” through her unwavering support of and marriage to the reformer Martin Luther (1483-1546). By offering hospitality to passing theologians, advice to other believers who came to visit, and bed and board to young students, the couple made their home a place of ministry instead of simply a living space (almost like the room of the prophet in the Old Testament). Catherine Parr (1514-1548) was the sixth and final wife of the English King Henry the VIII (1491-1547). Her authentic faith is shown in her book, Lamentations of a Sinner (1547), written while she was Queen of England. She left a longstanding impact in the development of future English monarchs and England itself, as she provided motherly care and shared her faith to the children of King Henry the VIII from previous wives. These children included a young Edward the VII (1537-1553) and the girl who would become the famous Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603). She was also unafraid to show her support for the reformation movement, and would go on to be known as the mother of the English reformation. Marguerite de Navarre (1492-1549) was mother to Jeanne d’Albret (1538-1572), and both mother and daughter influenced the reformation in France by preventing persecution of Protestants from the Catholic clergy. Marguerite was considered by the reformers of the time as “the only friend in favour of the reform in the court of France.” John Calvin (1509-1564) and Theodore Beza (1519-1605) studied for two years in the University of Bourges under Marguerite’s protection. In befriending and helping Clément Marot, she paved the development of the Huguenot hymnology for the French Protestants, which were poetic renditions of the Psalms. Jeanne was a young woman of character, and became one of the “pillars of Huguenot resistance” in more difficult times during attacks on French Protestants.
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Trained women = Strong churches
Suzanna Wesley (1669-1742) Her influence and her devotion will particularly be seen in the lives of her two sons: John, founder of Methodism, and Charles, popular hymnologist. This mother’s aspiration was as follows : ". . . for I desire nothing in this world so much as to have my children well instructed in the principles of religion, that they may walk in the narrow way which alone leads to happiness". In 1735, before her sons left England to become missionaries in America, they consulted their mother who responded to them in saying that “she’d be happy to send twenty sons into mission work, even if that meant she'd never see them again.” The Wesley’s would indeed revolutionize the world … Marie Durand (1711-1776) “Resist.” A word engraved on the prison cell walls in the South of France that incarnates the will to live, the vigor of faith, and perseverance in the face of adversity. That word comes from a woman who, behind bars, fought the good fight until the end. Unfairly imprisoned for 38 years, her brother being a pastor wanted by the authorities, she represents a tested faith that we recognize throughout her touching and godly letters. Henriette Feller (1800-1868) was a young Swiss widow who used her life and her savings to serve in Quebec, a province dominated by the Roman Catholic Church of the 19th century. She had great influence through education offered by the Grand Ligne Mission, favoring the training of ministry workers, multiplying visits, and door-to-door sharing of the Gospel in Montreal and the Eastern Townships. All of Quebec owes so much to this strong and faithful woman. Amy Carmichael (1867-1951) If life’s value is measured by the gift of one’s life for others, that is exactly the case for Amy. At a very high cost, she left Europe as a missionary to save children from sexual violence, mistreatment, and abandonment. Her consecration inspired a whole generation of determined and zealous missionaries.
Therefore, edification is not gender-based, as it has been mentioned above. It is true. Each plays their part, each fulfills their role, each and every one according to the measure of faith that God generously gives to us … for the glory of the Father, in the name of Jesus Christ…
Corrie Ten Boom (1892-1983) In 1947, Corrie returned to Ravensbrück (Germany), where she was imprisoned, to the concentration camp where her sister died. She wanted to share the good news with the Germans who used to be enemies. One of the Nazi torturers was actually in the crowd and came forward to ask for her forgiveness. The godliness of this woman, at that precise moment, defined the power of forgiveness when it is lived out through faith in Christ. Her example for us is the antithesis of the unforgiving servant (Mt. 18.23-35). Elizabeth Elliot (1926-2015) was the wife of one of the five missionaries that were killed by the Auca tribe (Waoranis), in Ecuador, in January 1956, while they were working towards winning the head-cutting tribe to Christ. Although a widow, she returned 3 years later with her 4-year old daughter, in order to continue the work of the cross amongst her husband’s murderers. The fruit of this effort mobilized thousands of people across the planet to engage in worldwide missions…
MAGAZINE SEMBEQ - SUMMER 2016, n°5
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NEWS
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Women’s Microprogram
First Woman in the MA
In the fall of 2015, the first group of women started a microprogram with a course on Christian Philosophy of Womanhood. They will continue in August with Women’s Coaching, and with The Woman in Her Living Environment in November. This spring, approximately thirty women from Saint-Georges de Beauce and Quebec City have begun a second group in Saint-Georges.
SEMBEQ is glad to welcome the first woman to the Master of Arts (MA) program. Having finished her Master’s of Pastoral Studies (MPS) in the spring of 2015, Marie-Josée Brochu began a new master’s that will allow her to deepen her knowledge of biblical languages, teaching methods, and biblical interpretation.
Microprogram Leadership
Assistant Registrar Position
Fifty students are taking the course Introduction to the Church and Its Mission in TerrebonneMascouche, and approximately forty of them are taking it as part of the leadership microprogram. Many people from Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Granby, and Magog are also following the course via webcast. This is very encouraging because they go home with a renewed love for the Church and a desire to fulfill its God-given mission. Furthermore, fourteen students are attending the Teamwork course at Emmanuel Church in Pierrefonds, ten of which are enrolled in the microprogram.
Our sister Esther Heron (Maurais), who had been faithfully serving our professors and students as assistant registrar over the last five years, is taking a one-year maternity leave. She and her husband will welcome their first child in June. May God bless them abundantly in this new stage of their lives. Marie-Michelle St-Onge has joined the team to take Esther’s place and serve among us.
Trained women = Strong churches
A new coordinator for SEMBEQ’s magazine
Helping Churches of Atlantic Canada
SEMBEQ’s Communications Team gained a new member in April. Maxime Giroux will now coordinate the production of the SEMBEQ Magazine. This will allow Nathanaël Aubut to tackle the numerous other communications projects.
François Turcotte had the privilege of presenting SEMBEQ’s training paradigm to the Fellowship’s pastors serving in Atlantic Canada. They are looking for tools to train a new generation of pastors. We thank the Lord for giving us opportunities to share our resources and the expertise He has enabled us to develop.
Visiting American Churches
The Contextualization Course’s Encouraging Results
In February, François Picard attended a missions conference at First Baptist Church of Tempe in Texas. The pastor, Roger Ball, and the other groups who were present at the conference were once again very delighted to hear about God’s work in Quebec. It is encouraging to know that many people who live so far away are regularly praying for SEMBEQ, the students, and the francophone ministry. Thanks to the army of people who are supporting us through prayer, we can overcome the trials and the challenges we face. François also payed a visit to Pastor Tim Savage from Camelback Bible Church, as well as the new youth pastor who is also in charge of the missions ministry. He was very encouraged by the work in Quebec.
One of the students who has recently taken this course (taught by Dr. Craig Ott) wrote her paper on homosexuality. She conducted a few thought-provoking interviews linking this topic to contextualization of the Gospel. Following these meetings, a young man showed great interest in the Gospel and another will soon be baptized! It is very encouraging to see how God has used this course to bring these young men to seek God (and find Him).
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HAVE YOU HEARD OF THESE AUTHORS?
Disciplines of a Godly Woman Barbara Hughes (Crossway) Maybe discipline seems like a hard word to you—implying nothing but challenge and duty. Yet most of us see the value in cultivating spiritual disciplines, and we long to be more consistent in our relationship with God, even in the midst of our busy lives. Combining biblical teaching, poignant stories, and insightful reflection questions, Barbara Hughes explores 15 vital disciplines in this classic book— helping us to mature as godly Christian women and giving meaningful shape to our lives.
Overcoming Fear, Worry, and Anxiety
Becoming a Woman of Faith & Confidence
Elyse Fitzpatrick (Harvest House Publishers)
Fear and worry are surprisingly common and paralyzing emotions for many women today. In fact, even those who have been Christians for years find themselves battling difficult and often overwhelming concerns—concerns about marital strife, rebellious children, problems in the workplace or at home, serious health issues, financial difficulties, and much more. God knew worry would be a very real problem. He addresses the issue in the Bible many times, giving practical guidance that is the only true solution to our fears and worries. Women will find comfort and encouragement as they learn from the transparent, real-life examples of others who have struggled with anxiety, including the author herself. A warm, friendly, and solidly biblical book that helps women to cast their cares upon God and be filled with complete confidence for every circumstance in life.
God’s Good Design Claire Smith (Matthias Media) Although Claire Smith was a young adult when she came to know Jesus, it wasn't until she went to theological college that she noticed parts of the Bible that challenged her feminist views. Studying these passages led to radical changes in her life. Too often we put these same passages in the ‘too hard basket’, or we make up our minds without taking a close look at them for ourselves. But we must let God's Word determine these issues, and not the culture in which we live. Claire takes us through the same process she went through herself, looking closely at seven key Bible passages about men and women and how they should relate together in God's purposes. Along the way she deals with many common objections, and applies the teaching of the Bible simply and practically to our relationships at home and in church. The warmth and simplicity of the book means it will benefit every Christian—whether you have looked at these passages a thousand times, or you've never thought about them in your life. 10
Trained women = Strong churches
Dear friends... The local church is the means by which God is expanding His kingdom through the proclamation of the Gospel. Women play an important role in most churches, which means that training them with a solid understanding of Scripture and theology is of first importance. When ministry workers come for training, SEMBEQ always gives the opportunity to their wives to accompany them in taking the same courses for free. This prerogative has the objective of reinforcing pastoral couples in their ministry. In our churches, women are involved in counselling other women, side-by-side ministry, teaching in children’s ministry, and women’s ministry. These are important roles that support the ongoing and future development of the Church. To this end SEMBEQ is working hard to develop programs and give opportunities for women to pursue further education to equip them for these roles. The development of the Priscilla and biblical counselling programs requires a lot of effort from a team of people who are committed to SEMBEQ’s vision. Since the tuition from these courses only covers 30% of the expenses, our ministry partners play an important role in the development and continuation of these programs. Our students make many sacrifices in order to study with SEMBEQ. They sacrifice their time and their finances in the service of the church. Our ministry partners also give sacrificially through faithful prayer and financial support of the work. As SEMBEQ’s ministry program expands, so does the financial need. Would you consider coming alongside, to see the next generation of women trained biblically and theologically in the service of the church? Your prayers sustain this work, and your financial support helps us continue to develop and maintain this important program. Would you consider a monthly gift to support training women for the work of ministry according to their calling? Your monthly gift allows us to plan future projects. Thank you for your prayers and financial support.
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Our Needs The theme of this magazine encourages us to share our specific needs in regards to the importance of training women. We want to offer them the support that is needed and you can participate in this part of God’s work in Quebec. Partnering with SEMBEQ means much more than allowing an individual to take theological courses. Partnering with SEMBEQ means that you are also promoting a culture of training where the Church works as the motor for multiplication in the training of its members and its leaders.
Scholarships for Biblical Counselling Students
Free Training For Wives of Men Serving in Ministry:
These bursaries help many people for whom it would be impossible to consider setting time aside for their training, as the financial impact would be too great for their families.
It would be a great advantage for our pastors and our Churches to benefit from a strong COUPLE that has been trained for the work in the Church. Therefore, it is important that we offer this kind of support to these women. We'd like to do so at no cost to them.
As always, your prayers are truly essential. We are always encouraged and so very grateful to know that we have faithful partners who intercede for us before the throne of our great God. Thank you !
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Lise lalonde
A STRENGTHENED CHURCH Missionary for AWANA and leader of the ministries for children and young mothers in her church
“It would take more than a snowstorm or freezing rain to keep these women from coming to their Wednesday morning study at the church!” exclaimed Lise Lalonde, organizer of the meetings for young mothers at the Evangelical Baptist Church “Le Sentier” (The Way) of Gatineau. This ministry is particularly meaningful for her because it impacts the mothers just as much as the children. Each week, 25 mothers from four different churches participate with zeal and enthusiasm in a Bible study. They share and pray together, while some of them alternate offering lessons and activities for preschoolers and homeschoolers. Since she was already part of a team of women who met to pray and study the Word, she was inspired to start this study for young women in 2010 by the young mothers who expressed their need for communion when they came to register their children for Sunday School, and by the example of her husband who had started a ministry with young men. Lise appreciates investing in the lives of other women, including that of her partner in the Wednesday study and the supervisors of children that she trains.
She attempts to replicate herself in each of the eleven people in her team, to ensure that she will be succeeded. For this purpose, each year she brings several of them with her to the Children’s Pastors Conference in the United States to encourage and exhort them. Additionally, she has the privilege of coaching a student in the first Priscilla cohort.
about 100 volunteers working with around 170 children. In addition to the Sunday School, which offers different programs during the two services, she manages the Friday night AWANA club, the summer day camps, and the Wednesday morning meetings for young mothers.
Taking Part in the Vision of Her Church Teaching children Christian doctrine What Motivates And Propels Her Work clearly concords with the overall vision Lise is fully convinced that God uses her of her church, which is to make disciples. according to the plan He has always But Lise is convinced of the fundamental had for her. It was during her mentorship importance of helping parents in their by Margaret Carson (the mother of Christian walk, because they are the Don A. Carson, cofounder of the Gospel primary influence in the lives of their Coalition and guest professor with children. Through her ministry with SEMBEQ) that Lise discovered her call, young mothers, she encourages them to years ago, to work with children. Convinced let themselves be transformed by Jesus that God would use her in children’s to become the wives and mothers God ministry, she completed several theology wants them to be. courses with SEMBEQ and later obtained a bachelor’s degree in Christian Education Her contagious laugh and overflowing enthusiasm reflects a heart full of with Tyndale Seminary in Toronto. She authentic joy, and a spirit anchored in has worked with the AWANA ministry for nearly thirty years and is now the Regional her hope in her Saviour. She encourages people to let themselves be guided Director in Québec. In addition to her by their faith in Christ and not by the service in her church, she also supported circumstances of their lives. “I want, the work of her husband François in promoting church-centered courses from before God, to be a model, because I know I exercise an influence… whether we SEMBEQ until 2014. want to or not, whether we realize it or Her love for children and her passion for not, we are always influencing someone.” God’s work led her to become the leader of children’s ministry at Evangelical Baptist Church “Le Sentier” (The Way) of Gatineau. Together with a team of twelve people, each with a specific role, Lise coordinates MAGAZINE SEMBEQ - SUMMER 2016, n°5
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vénusia fortier Mother of four and art teacher, Vénusia has been studying with SEMBEQ for several years. The training of women is very important for her and she wishes to contribute, by God's grace, to their development and edification in Quebec. She regularly teaches to the women in her church.
COMPLEMENTARIANISM Having Faith in a Sovereign God
In today’s world, we no longer need to prove women’s equality in regards to her abilities and value. Nevertheless, the way the roles of men and women complement one another remains a sensitive issue. Even though this can be challenging, God shows us, through His Word, His perfect plan for roles within marriage. THE BIBLE CONFIRMS COMPLEMENTARIANISM Complementarians believe that the Word of God is complete and is to be applied to all eras, nations, and ages. They believe in the initial perfection of God’s Creation before the Fall. In His initial plan, God
wanted man and woman, both of equal value, to have different roles: man would be the head of the wife (“For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior,” Ephesians 5:23) and that she would be submitted to him (“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord,” Ephesians 5:22). They would have different roles, yet complementary as a whole — perfect in God’s initial plan. Even though sin has clouded the issue, the whole of the Bible does confirm this divine plan. This complementarity between the roles of men and women is still relevant today. SIN BLINDS US Could it be that sin has blinded us? Could it be that it prevents us from seeing the
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true value of each role, often minimizing one in order to raise the other? Our sinful nature can lead us to desire the other’s role, even though we are perfectly created to fulfill our own. Sin creates the illusion that we will be much happier if we had the other’s role. Sin, as in all other areas of our lives, wrecks God’s initial, perfect and wonderful plan. THE CHALLENGES OF COMPLEMENTARIANISM Although a woman may know, believe and desire to put into practice the theology of complementarianism, it can still be difficult for her to fully live it out. Just as it may be difficult for a man to lead lovingly, a woman may often feel unable
to accept his leadership. The roots of sin in our hearts may prevent us from living this harmonious relationship between leadership and submission. Let us look at one of the spiritual challenges of complementarianism. Our goal here is to be better equipped to allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives, so that we may resemble Christ more and more. HAVING FAITH IN GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY One of the reasons why humans seem to struggle with accepting an authority’s leadership is a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty. The relationship between
man and woman is a good example. Sin leads a woman to believe the lie that God is not sovereign enough to intervene and fulfill His plan through disagreements with her husband or even through his weaknesses. We sometimes act as if God — the same God who created the universe, saved us from eternal ruin, and found a solution to our lost state — could not create a good outcome when men (or any authority) make mistakes or become too weak to lead. As in all other situations in our lives, the Lord asks us to not look at circumstances or at men, but
at Him instead. He asks us to trust Him, to believe that He has things under control and that He is sovereign no matter what disasters may happen while submitting to our husbands, even when they do not properly fulfill their role of being a loving head. He only asks us to take responsibility for our role, and husbands for theirs. God is entirely and eternally sovereign, and nothing is impossible to Him. By rejecting their husband’s authority, wives show a lack of trust not only in their husband’s leadership, but especially in God’s omnipotence.
Psalm 40:5 says, “You have multiplied, O Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you!” Let us remember the times in our lives when God showed His grace to us — especially those times when it felt like we were living in the desert and yet God caused life to bloom, or the times when we made mistakes but God used them to grow us. The complementary relationship is a relationship of love and respect between a man and a woman, but especially a relationship of faith in a sovereign God.
Oh, how abundant is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you and worked for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of the children of mankind! PsALM 31:19
When a woman does not put into practice, by faith, the theology of complementarianism in her life, she deprives herself of the blessings God has in store for those who have faith in Him and in His perfect plan. She deprives herself of seeing God moving and transforming her and her husband through the complementary relationship God had planned for marriage. This principle applies in all other authority relationships God has given. WONDERS IN STORE Let us not forget the wonders that God has in store for His children who allow Him to work in their lives, by believing that He has a perfect plan for every one of them.
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A new undergraduate degree at SEMBEQ!
Since autumn 2015, an exciting new undergraduate program is being offered at SEMBEQ: the Bachelor of Theological Studies, with a specialisation in biblical counseling (BET Biblical Counseling). This undergraduate degree consists of 105 credits in total, with a minimum of 36 credits in biblical counseling. We believe that the centrality and richness of the Gospel to the Christian life has the power to encourage and heal believers. To this end, the aim of the program is to train professional biblical counsellors who will be competent and confident in applying the Gospel to the lives of believers who are struggling. Looking back at the past 50 years, we have seen biblical counseling programs grow exponentially. The reason behind this is simple: the needs of Christians have changed and their position in the world has become more complex. However, the essential needs of the children of God have not changed. The fundamental problem of every man is still sin (whether our own sins, the sins of other people against us, or the original sin that manifests itself through injustice, sickness, etc.). The solution offered for every man to grow is still the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So how have the needs of Christians evolved? They have changed in their form. According to statistics from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Canada and the United States have some of the highest incidences of disability from mental health issues in the world (the rates are even higher than those of developing countries). In both the lives of believers and non-believers who attend or visit a local church, sin often takes the form of complex situations (depression, abuse, mental health issues, marital problems, anxiety, etc.). In such a context, those who are called to intervene within the local church need to be increasingly better equipped in order to discern between illness and sin. They also need to show compassion towards those who suffer, all while encouraging the steps of faith (or repentance) that lead to healing and growth. Indeed, only a gospel-based approach can lead people to bear fruit in the midst of difficult times. It is important to acknowledge that counselling in complex situations often require a long-term investment, making it difficult to fit into the heavy schedules of pastors. As such, pastors often deeply appreciate the support of brothers and sisters who are equipped to accompany those who are going through especially difficult times, or who need someone to show them how the Gospel applies in a precise way. Since 2012, Bill 21 of Quebec has changed to reserve the practice of psychotherapy exclusively to those who hold a permit from the Quebec Order of Psychologists or the Quebec College of Doctors. This being said, religious counselling is one of the exceptions of Bill 21. Graduates from the BET Biblical Counseling program from SEMBEQ will thus have access to an accreditation from the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC), and will be able to take advantage of professional insurance coverage for their biblical counseling practice. Whether you desire to complete this program for personal enrichment, to become a pastor who is equipped to counsel the members of his church, or even to support the relational ministry of your pastors, I encourage you to consider the biblical counseling program at SEMBEQ in the face of the great needs in our society today. Matthieu Caron - Biblical counseling teacher at SEMBEQ Written with Francis Bellemare
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femmes formĂŠes Trained women ==Strong communautĂŠs churches aff
I am very encouraged by the biblical counseling program that SEMBEQ is developing under the wise leadership of Matthieu Caron. This program reflects a deep investment to provide a solid biblical and theological foundation. Within the program, students will be encouraged to apply several modern therapeutical approaches. The graduates will then be able to stay rooted to the centrality of the Gospel, all while exploring the secular fields of psychology and psychiatry. The BET Biblical Counseling program will produce graduates who are equipped to navigate the universe of secular culture while still staying true to their dedication to Scripture. I am thankful for this program, which is growing in the province of Quebec.
Dr Tim Lane Director of the Institute for Pastoral Care
Caroline (Collins) Frérot Student in the Bachelor of Biblical Counseling Program at SEMBEQ concepts I have learned within the BET program, so that children too can begin to grasp the centrality of the Gospel in biblical stories, in order to apply it to their own lives at an early age. My role changes from moment to moment, between being the mother of four children, a part-time nurse, and a theological student. I look forward to adding the role of a coaching ministry to my schedule once it becomes wise to do so.
I have the immense pleasure of serving in the family ministry of my church, l’Église de l’Espoir Évangélique Baptiste in Longueuil. My husband and I are part of a team dedicated to accompanying couples in various stages of life, particularly during courtship and in preparation for marriage. As part of my bachelor degree in Biblical Counseling at SEMBEQ, I have completed internships at the Center of Biblical Counseling of the church, l’Église de l’Espoir, under the supervision of Matthieu Caron. My studies are truly a blessing in my life. I am continually amazed by the pertinence and sufficiency of the Gospel in all the facets of life. Once a month, I also teach in the children’s ministry of our church. These are great opportunities to integrate the
When I started the biblical counseling courses in 2011, I was motivated by an intense desire to deepen my understanding of the Word of God, but I did not have a precise end goal. Fortunately, the program has turned out to be a goldmine of resources! I’ve rediscovered the centrality of the Gospel within the Bible, and I have fallen in love with His Word all over again. Before beginning my program, I was lamenting the lack of women who are trained and capable of teaching with the help of the Word. To this end, the Lord has graciously led Matthieu Caron to be my coach in biblical counseling. Being an introspective person who likes to see beneath the surface of things, the counseling courses have added a theological depth to something I already liked doing - helping people. Eventually, I realized that my training at SEMBEQ was leading me to become a counselor. I like to think that
God has given me the gift of compassion since it is easy for me to love those who suffer. Having suffered personally from an obsessive compulsive disorder while I was a teenager, and having a child with Tourette’s Syndrome, it has become second nature for me to help those who live with special needs. The work that the Lord is doing in me impacts first and foremost my life at home with the four wonderful children that He has entrusted to me, three of whom have special needs. My courses in biblical counseling and the teachings of my church on the centrality of the Gospel have revolutionized my goals, my notion of success as a mother, and how I see the daily challenges of life. I also see how God is using my training to benefit the local church and the community. I share the ambitious goal of my church, which is to make 500 disciples who will continue to make disciples of their own. This vision is mainly carried out within our small groups, where members get to know each other and live and serve together. It is these deep, intentional relationships that lead to growth. One of the goals of biblical counseling is to help people to bear fruit where they are planted, a key element in discipleship. I exhort those women who dream and aspire to ministry. We are created in the image of our glorious God, and complementary partners of men. We are called to intentionally develop the gifts that were given to us to edify those around us and to help the Church flourish.
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Monique Saulnier
Priscilla Training Program SEMBEQ is now offering the training program, Priscilla. The goal of this program is to encourage the training of women who desire to deepen their study of the Scriptures, all while enhancing their competencies and skills. The student who completes this program will obtain a certificate in theology. SEMBEQ is now offering the training program, Priscilla. The goal of this program is to encourage the training of women who desire to deepen their study of the Scriptures, all while enhancing their competencies and skills. The student who completes this program will obtain a certificate in theology. A short history about the Priscilla training program (text by Monique Saulnier) Allow me to describe how the Priscilla program was born. During the ‘80s, very few women were taking either intensive or programmed courses. It became increasingly apparent that we needed to train francophone workers who could respond to the spiritual awakening and growth of churches in Quebec. At the same time, the second wave of feminism1 was taking place and was tainting the perception of women within the Church. As time passed, the third wave of feminism2 brought a balance between certain concepts, especially amongst evangelicals. While we remained firm in our conviction that the role of the pastor within the local church is exclusive to men, the need for instruction and training among our Christian sisters was evident. There were many women being trained in Bible school within the anglophone community, and many women went on to serve as missionaries either alone or with their husbands.
The Beginning The Spirit of God revealed Himself to me the very first time that I opened a Bible in January 1978. It was then that I discovered true life, the invisible reality of our existence. Hungry for the truth, my soul was being nourished as it found answers within the Word. The following year, the Église de Sept-Îles started their first course within a SEMBEQ program, called “Inductive Study of the Gospel According to Mark.” This first course opened the door to many others. It was in 2004 that I finished the 103 credits of the SEMBEQ program. During these 25 years, I only met a handful of women within the classroom. I was convinced that a larger number of women should get to experience the blessing that I felt through my courses. The connection between the eternal truths freed me from fear, anxiety, and lies that I believed without even understanding why. Through this process, I became free in Jesus Christ. These discoveries, and the freedom that I lived, led to the desire to share with my sisters within the Church. It was in 1987 that I joined the FLAMME ministry, which is a ministry based on teaching and encouragement among women. However, I realized that despite our efforts, we could not produce a continual growth within the lives of women. The needs surpassed what we were able to offer.
When François Turcotte asked me to prepare a syllabus for a possible program, I told him that others had already tried without success. The challenge was great. Nonetheless, the tenacity of this brother convinced me and in this way, the Priscilla program was formed in November 2009. Its first intensive course was titled, “Coaching for Women.” One of the conditions was that the women taking the course had to be paired with a coach, and that they would develop practical learning guides (GAP) and character training development (DFC). By being intentional in their training and their development, many women saw significant spiritual growth. The Program The program offers intensive courses as well as ecclesiocentric courses, spread over 7 years and ending with a certificate. Students will receive doctrinal training within the local church or a regional center, along with their brothers and sisters. Keeping close ties with the local church will ensure that the program trains workers who are committed to sound doctrine, ready to help and assist the pastoral ministry in the local church. Once a year, the cohort will meet for an intensive course focused on responding to the specific needs of women. Trained to Serve Until recently, there were still very few women who could teach during FLAMME
The arrival of a growing number of women pursuing an undergraduate degree at SEMBEQ has led us to develop a training plan which supports each student within their personal challenges. We have put in place measures which will allow for more flexibility, since the various interests and needs of women are often different than those of men. To this end, we strive to offer an education that is anchored in sound doctrine but also relevant to the context and ministry of every woman that studies at SEMBEQ. For more details, please write to us at registraire@sembeq.qc.ca
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Trained women = Strong churches
conferences. The Priscilla program will equip women to become speakers for conferences, biblical counselors, and coaches who will help other women grow in their faith. Any church that includes such equipped women within their congregation will have an invaluable resource to respond to the diverse needs in the community. FLAMME would like to intentionally invite students to teach in summer camps or to give workshops during the annual meetings. These meetings will be an opportunity for students to develop their gifts in the service of others, allowing for self-evaluation and improvement, to become coaches that are better-equipped to serve.
What Are Our Students Like? Next year, ten students will be finishing their certificates. Within three years, another 16 women will finish the program. The results are already evident in the lives of our students. One of the benefits is without a doubt the reconciliation of their womanhood in a world that has seen many debates and controversies in regards to the subject. Our students come from a variety of ages and social and family backgrounds. It is our desire to qualify those who embark on this marvelous adventure to become women of influence for the Church of Jesus Christ.
Testimony of a student from the first cohort of Priscilla Impact in the community After volunteering in her town’s library for seven years, Hélène was quickly nominated as the head of the volunteer’s committee. Since the beginning of her time there, she had been intentional with the people she met within this missionary field, but she did not see any concrete fruit of her influence even after 10 years. “Priscilla has changed my way of interacting with women. Several have been asking me questions and a few volunteers have even come to hear for themselves a testimony of faith given at the last ladies’ meeting in my Church.” Being trained to better serve Hélène has always had a natural interest in helping other people where they are. Because of this, she has been doing informal mentoring since she was 20 years old. Her greatest desire is to be equipped to better serve in her church and her community. It is this desire that convinced her to join the first cohort of Priscilla. Since starting the program, she has been mentored for 6 years by a mature Christian woman. In turn, she was able to apply the principles she learned in an intentional and structured manner with the women she was mentoring.
Her training at SEMBEQ has led to a recognition of her skills and grants credibility to her personal ministry. Seeing the transformed lives she has been able to be part of, she thanks God that she can be an instrument in His hands. A servant within the church At her home church l’Église Baptiste Évangélique de la Rivière in the town of Rivière-du-Loup, Hélène is head of the worship ministry and coordinates all worship-related activities. She and her husband will soon be coordinating the activities and events of the church. Aside from this, Hélène is also involved in teaching. While secondary school students benefit from her teaching during Sunday School, a group of 10 to 25 women also meet every six weeks to follow a study that she leads or helps with. “My church is currently very focused on the community: we try to reach people outside of the church with the Gospel.” Hélène recognises the importance of evangelism, but she also believes that believers need to be trained and have people walk alongside them in order to grow spiritually. “My desire is for the church to find a balance between the two, between those inside and those outside.
I want to be available to invest myself in the training of Christians.” An encouragement Hélène encourages women to get closer to one another, to seize the opportunities to spend time together among women in order to edify, help and share with one another. “We all need other people.” She also encourages them to look for tools in order to be transformed, to grow, and to help others to move forward as well, whether it be through official training or other options. Her desire is that every woman recognises her potential and ability to invest in the lives of other people, and that they ask God to use them, for His glory.
Hélène Therrien
¹ The second wave brought up the specificity of the dominating relationship played out against women, notably in the private sphere. It also contributed to constructing new social interactions between men and women. MAGAZINE SEMBEQ ²In the third wave, we observe an increase in claims coming from activists, especially among minorities.
- SUMMER 2016, n°5
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UPCOMING COURSES Richard Chouinard - Bibliology • Is the Bible really the final revelation of God to man? • How can it have been written by men while still being the Word of God? • How have the 66 books of the Bible been written, shared, and put together? • Is the Bible reliable? • Can it contain historical or scientific errors? • Are the manuscripts that exist today faithful to the original ones? • Can we trust the different translations of the Bible? The Bibliology course is an excellent opportunity to study these questions and deepen one’s understanding of several
facets of the Bible: its unity, authority, clarity, sufficiency, necessity, and efficacy. Through readings, research, and individual & group reflections, the student will develop the ability to defend the Bible as the foundation of faith, the revelation of the Good News. It is our hope that the student ends this course with a renewed passion for the Word of God. Pierre Constant - Biblical Theology of the New Testament This course seeks to deepen the student’s understanding of the overarching theological themes of the New Testament according to the biblical theology model. This model includes the progressive revelation and specific themes of the different authors of the New Testament.
The goal of this course is to equip the student in the analysis and synthesis of the themes of the body of literature within the New Testament. By analysing the key themes of the Gospels, the Epistles and Revelation, the student will be able to examine, for example, christology within the Gospels. The student will then be able to conduct analysis and synthesis on all the books of the New Testament. The themes covered include: the “gospels from childhood,” the ministry of John the Baptist, the kingdom of God according to the synoptic Gospels, the christology of the Gospels, as well as the unique themes covered in Luke, Acts, the books of Paul, the letter to the Hebrews, the books of Peter, and Revelation.
MICROPROGRAM FOR WOMEN
SANS TRAVAUX SANS LECTURES
COURSES
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A microgram is a program without credits and work to hand in, with the goal of equipping believers on a specific subject in order to serve within the local church. This usually consists of 4 courses that fit within a flexible schedule in order to be as accessible as possible.
POUR FEMMES
QUATRE COURS
ICROPROGRAMME
What is a microprogram?
Christian philosophy of woman This course lays the groundwork for the biblical position of the woman and her role in the local church.
The woman in her living environment This course encourages each participant to cultivate healthy lifestyles within the context of each person.
Coaching women This course explores the foundations of a healthy coaching relationship, within the appropriate context, including how to wisely choose a coach or protégé.
Influence in the community This course invites each participant to find creative ways to build bridges and influence the community for Christ.
Trained women = Strong churches
Microprogram for women This microprogram is specifically for women who wish to serve in their local church and community. The program lays the foundation for a biblical reflection of women and their influence in the church and community.
Where SEMBEQ’s first cohort is at today...
Nicholas Cotnoir,
Emmanuel Church in West Island of Montreal
Benjamin Desruisseaux
Church of Vaudreuil
Hugo Éthier,
Church of Rivière du Loup
Teaching Pastor
Pastor and church planter
Karl Fortin, Connexion Church, in Plessisville Church planter
Matthieu Giguère, Senior pastor
Church of Terrebonne-Mascouche
Jacob Mathieu, Church of St-Jérôme Pastor and church planter
Janick Fortier, Church of Repentigny Registrar at SEMBEQ and elder in his church
Donald Rodier Church of St-Hyacinthe Senior pastor
In 2004, SEMBEQ began its first cohort. Several men took on the challenge of investing in theirtheological and pastoral training. Your prayers and financial support encouraged and supported them throughout this crucial time. It is a great joy to take account of where many of them are now serving throughout the province. On their behalf, and on behalf of all the congregations who have benefitted from solid teaching, of all the individuals who have received attentive pastoral care, of all the Québecois who have come to know the Gospel and have been saved… we say thank you. May our God be glorified in the fact that you have contributed to the advancement of His Kingdom in Quebec. May He be glorified that people have come to know salvation and have grown in knowledge and in grace through the work of faithful men. These men’s training with SEMBEQ has had such an encouraging impact, which we are so grateful to share with you!
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ONE year of magazines Our dream is to take part in building a province marked by solidarity through a Gospel movement producing personal conversions, missional communities, social justice and a renewing of culture throughout Quebec and the French-speaking world.
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social justice
personal conversions
missional communities
renewing of culture
Trained women = Strong churches
1 year
SEMBEQ magazine We truly want to thank each person that has participated in making this challenging and inspiring content available to literally thousands of readers. Amongst them we find our partners, church leaders, graduated students, current and future students as well. They have all benefitted from the Gospel-centered sharing of vision, the theological reflections, the news, and the encouragement that were presented in the magazine. We pray that there would be a long-term impact for God’s kingdom in the province of Quebec! Thank you! The SEMBEQ Magazine Team MAGAZINE SEMBEQ - SUMMER 2016, n°5
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EDITORIAL TEAM NATHANAËL AUBUT Communications project coordinator Chief editor n.aubut@sembeq.qc.ca LOUISE DENNISS Translator and copy editor Proofreader l.denniss@sembeq.qc.ca LISE DIONNE Executive assistant, Writer l.dionne@sembeq.qc.ca Maxime Giroux Magazine project coordinator m.giroux@sembeq.qc.ca DANIEL HENDERSON Writer d.henderson@sembeq.qc.ca Oscar Hernandez Communications strategist o.hernandez@sembeq.qc.ca PATRICK MURPHY ARISTIDE THERRIEN Graphic design Graphic adaptation (English version) 24
Trained women = Strong churches
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