The Marty Sweeney story
As I said in my last CHN, from 1 September we will be opening the doors of Matthias Media (USA), under the direction of Marty Sweeney. I thought you might like to hear how all this came about from Marty's perspective. Here's his story...
Some years ago, when visiting the UK, I picked up a Bible study on the book of Titus from a church bookstall (The Path to Godliness, published by Matthias Media). I worked through the studies, and found them very helpful. At around the same time, I was given some recordings of sermons given by Phillip Jensen. The quality of the Bible study book, and the insights into Scripture that I gained from Phillip's preaching, encouraged me to look further into Matthias Media resources. I ordered more Bible studies, and experienced their value in opening up the Bible to me. In fact, it would not be overstating it to say that they transformed not only my biblical insight, but also my life.
Over the ensuing years, I continued to use more resources, and couldn't help but feel that they were of greater value than many of the resources I had used from America. I am convinced that the resources are biblically faithful—and as a result are more aligned and consistent with each other.
By the time I entered seminary, Matthias Media resources had helped persuade me to the strong conviction that the Bible really does change lives. Through those years in seminary, and for a number of years now in pastoral ministry, Matthias Media has continued to provide me with resources to equip me in my own Bible reading and study, as well as resources to help equip others.
Working as a church pastor, I remained thoroughly convinced of the quality of Matthias Media resources, but had a growing conviction of our need for them in North America. I was conscious that because of my experience with the resources, my theological training, business background, and family situation, I was well-placed to be able to offer to help Matthias Media make this happen.
Now, after 15 months of discussion, prayer, planning, and long plane trips, it's all set to happen. I'm starting up “Matthias Media (USA)” and taking on the role of full-time Ministry Director.
I've used Matthias Media's training resources, Bible studies, and evangelism tools for the last five years in various ministry contexts. I hope that this ministry experience will enable me to help other pastors and ministry leaders be better resourced for the task of exalting our Lord and Savior, because it is “him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ” (Col 1:28).
Marty Sweeney
