Faith Facts

• Martin Goldsmith dedicated his life to global Christian mission, teaching for over 50 years.
• He pioneered theological education for cross-cultural missions at All Nations Christian College.
• Martin and Elizabeth authored books reflecting God’s faithfulness in their calling.

Martin Goldsmith was a devoted servant of Christ who, alongside his wife Elizabeth, served as a missionary in Southeast Asia before shaping Christian education in the UK.

Born into a Jewish family, Martin encountered the Gospel at school and later became a committed Christian during his time at Oxford.

He broke new ground in training missionaries, introduced non-Western theological studies, and launched enduring educational programs at All Nations Christian College.

Martin authored approximately 30 books and encouraged others, including Elizabeth, to share testimonies of God’s trustworthiness.

As he taught and mentored at All Nations for decades, Martin’s unique teaching style encouraged students to think deeply and biblically, always connecting faith to real-life mission.

His vibrant faith and thought-provoking lectures inspired countless students to take up the call of international Christian service.

“He could… be quite provocative and wanted to stretch students into opening their minds.”

Martin and Elizabeth’s steadfast worship and witness continue to testify to the joy of living out faith, family, and service for God’s greater glory.

We thank the Lord for Martin’s legacy, praying for God’s comfort over Elizabeth and his family, and for the ongoing blessing of the Gospel to flourish through faithful lives devoted to Christ’s mission.

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Faith Facts

• Online sports gambling advertising has become widespread and visible during major sporting events.
• The 2018 Supreme Court decision led nearly 40 states to legalize sports betting rapidly.
• Christian leaders warn that widespread gambling threatens moral values and social stability.

America is experiencing a surge in online sports gambling, leaving many faith leaders deeply concerned for the nation’s spiritual health. The cultural normalization of betting, especially surrounding events like the Super Bowl, challenges biblical teachings on stewardship and self-control.

Keith Stanglin, a minister in Austin, Texas, expressed shock and frustration over the rampant promotion of betting during football games. “I find it shocking and horrible; it angers me.”

After years of religious resistance, legalized gambling now faces little public opposition, in part because the speed of recent legislation has outpaced the church’s response. State-level Christian groups and pastors often find themselves outmatched by powerful gambling lobbies and a lack of interest among believers to oppose these measures.

Surveys show only 36 percent of Christians believe sports betting is morally wrong, while pastors remain more critical, with three-quarters saying it should not be legal. Many Americans now view gambling as morally acceptable, which alarms those who advocate for Christian values and Biblical morality.

Jesuit priest Richard McGowan noted that religious leaders were unprepared for how quickly sports betting entered the mainstream. The rapid rise of easy-access gambling marks a shift in ethics—what McGowan described as “the ethics of tolerance.”

Some critics argue powerful business interests and major sports leagues have promoted gambling for financial gain, drowning out voices defending morality. This transformation has made betting a commonplace act, robbing it of its former stigma and embedding it deeper into everyday American life.

As followers of Christ, we are called to resist cultural pressures that oppose God’s design for integrity and stewardship. Standing firm in faith and upholding family values, it’s vital to advocate for a return to biblical principles in the public sphere.

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Faith Facts

• A formal complaint was filed with Australian authorities concerning Bethel Sydney’s ties to Bethel Church in Redding.
• Allegations include mishandling of sexual misconduct complaints involving Shawn Bolz and safeguarding risks.
• Bethel Sydney asserts it is independently governed with its own accountability structures and comprehensive safeguarding policies.

Christian leaders and concerned families are watching closely as Bethel Sydney prepares for its official launch, mindful of the values of accountability and transparency that should define every church. The complaint highlights the need for churches to uphold the highest standards of safeguarding, particularly in leadership.

“As part of its establishment process, Bethel Sydney has developed a comprehensive safeguarding and accountability framework prior to launch. This includes policies covering safeguarding and child safety, sexual harassment prevention, whistleblower protections, complaints and grievance handling and pastoral code of conduct.”

Pastor Matthew King affirmed Bethel Sydney’s commitment to independent governance, emphasizing their accountability to their board and the dedication to nurturing a safe environment for worship and family. As Australian believers, it is vital to hold all ministries to account, ensuring the protection of all who seek faith and fellowship.

Let us continue to pray for wisdom and truth within the church, trusting God to guide every leader to make decisions that honor Christ and protect His people.

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