Addresses to the Synod of the Diocese of Melbourne in response to a motion relating to the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill currently before the Victorian Parliament.

It is puzzling how proponents of the legalisation of euthanasia can confidently claim, as they do, that in the Netherlands and Belgium - the two jurisdictions with the longest experience of legalised euthanasia - there have been no slippery slopes, when the evidence is clearly otherwise.

The purpose and reality of human gender and sex can only be comprehended from the perspective of the End, a perfected state already realised in the exalted humanity of Jesus. Conversely, if gender and its meaning are fluid and definable merely by human choice, then the biblical understanding of marriage is completely evacuated.

A social media fast may be seen as the path of less temptation. However, engaging in the complex reality of relationships online provides opportunities for connection and transformation that we may otherwise miss - as long as we are intentional and prayerful in our engagement.

Wherever we go in the world today we find trouble. Australia is not immune, nor are we as Christians. God doesn't take away the tough times; He strengthens us through them, giving us hope and peace as we pray, and reminding us that His Only Son, too, suffered as we do.

We often define people and their human dignity according to their rational and relational assets and activity, or even their relational capacity. But our dignity does not reside in any human function, or even in our knowing God, but in being known by God.

Approving same-sex marriage without broad-based protections will accelerate discrimination and detriment against supporters of traditional marriage. Therefore, robust and broad-based laws are needed to protect individuals and organisations, schools and charities from such repercussions.

Older people are often written off as irrelevant, frail and of little worth to society. Elder abuse is a reality, and could increase if euthanasia is legalised. But all people are of immense worth to God, and our Fourth Quarter is full of opportunity to enrich others.

When hurricanes devastate entire states, our best response is to show compassion or stay silent. Yes, 'acts of God' are messages from Him, but the question is: what is the message? And if judgement, then judgement for what?

One in five of the people you see at church on Sunday may be experiencing mental health challenges. Our church culture can often exacerbate mental illness, but churches also have the potential to be safe spaces. How can we support those who are struggling in a supportive and sensitive way?