Name

Travers Coker

What was your life style like when you decided to follow Jesus?

I grew up 'surrounded' by the church as my parents were members before I was born. Nevertheless, my lifestyle was more in line with a non-church-goer. I ignored God and the Church as much as my parents would let me and was into most of those things a 'typical' rebellious teenager is in to.

What year were you baptised? What age were you?

I was baptised in 1994 when I was 16. Half-way through my last year of high school.

Where did you begin to worship and what was your first impression of the church?

I began to worship with the same congregation I had been meeting with since I was a child. Hence, it's difficult for me to remember my first impression as not much changed (within the congregation) after I was converted.

What difficulties / challenges did you have in striving to be like Jesus?

At the beginning it was my friends. I had several close friends who weren't interested in making the same decision and former activities we used to share, I now didn't partake in. Also, the same difficulty and challenge I still have today; Trav gets in the way of me becoming more like Jesus.

What challenges did you have in feeling part of the Lord’s body?

None really. I already had many good friends in the Church and was warmly welcomed as a brother in Christ.

What principles of the Restoration movement (restoring Christianity to be as it is in the New Testament) are important to you?

I think, for me personally, the most important principle is standing on God's Word only. Man's ideas, feelings, wisdom and knowledge must never usurp the authority of the Word of God. Jesus said the truth would set us free and if we fail to hold onto that truth, we lose the freedom that comes with it.

What did you think about having no musical instruments in worship?

I feel no obligation to 'defend' my belief that singing in worship to God should be without musical instruments. The first century church didn't use them and I have no doubt the worship they offered to God was pleasing. Those that wish to 'add' it need to justify their position.

What spiritual interest did you have before becoming a Christian?

I would have to say, none.

What is important to you, in how you walk in Jesus today?

The thing that, currently, is most important to me is doing exactly that; walking in Jesus. That means, remembering that He is there with me every step of the way and I need to make sure I acknowledge Him in EVERY part of my life. Keeping His interests as my interests and trying to see things and people in the way He sees them.

Where do you worship today? Approximately how many brethren?

I currently worship with the brethren in Cleveland,Brisbane. There are about 25 – 30 Christians here with a lot of young families and small children.

What roles do you carry out in the church?

Our congregation has no paid workers or preachers. My roles include; preaching/teaching every few weeks, leading around the Lord's Table and prayers, organising some Church activities etc.