30 Sayings by King Solomon :
1.
Don't take advantage of poor people just because they are poor
Don't beat down those who are in need by taking them to court
The Lord will stand up for them in court
He will take back the stolen goods from those who have robbed them
2.
Don't be a friend with anyone who burns with anger
Don't go around with a person who gets angry easily
You might learn his habits
And then you will be trapped by them
3.
Don't agree to pay for what someone else owes
Don't put up money for him
If you don't have the money to pay, your bed will be taken right out from under you!
4.
Don't move old boundary stones that your people set up long ago
5.
Do you see a man who does good work?
He will serve kings
He won't serve ordinary people
6.
When you sit down to eat with a ruler, look carefully at what's in front of you
Put a knife to your throat if you like to eat too much
Don't long for his fancy food
It can fool you
7.
Don't wear yourself out to get rich
Be wise enough to say no
When you take even a quick look at riches, they are gone
They grow wings and fly away into the sky like an eagle
8.
Don't eat the food of anyone who won't share it
Don't long for his fancy food
He is the kind of person who is always thinking about how much it costs
"Eat and drink," he says to you
But he doesn't mean it
You will throw up what little you have eaten
You will have wasted your words of praise
9.
Don't speak to a foolish person
He will laugh at your wise words
10.
Don't move old boundary stones
Don't try to take over the fields of children whose fathers have died
The One who guards them is strong
He will stand up for them in court against you
11.
Apply your heart to what you are taught
Listen carefully to words of knowledge
12.
Don't hold back training from a child
If you correct him, he won't die
So correct him
Then you will save him from death
13.
My child, if your heart is wise
My heart will be glad
Deep down inside
I will be happy when you say what is right
14.
Do not long for what sinners have
But always show great respect for the Lord
There really is hope for you tomorrow
So your hope will not be cut off
15.
My child, listen and be wise
Keep your heart on the right path
Don't join those who drink too much wine
Don't join those who stuff themselves with meat
Those who drink or eat too much will become poor
If they sleep too much, they'll have to wear rags
16.
Listen to your father, who gave you life
Don't hate your mother when she is old
Buy the truth
Don't sell it
Get wisdom, training and understanding
The father of a godly child is very happy
Anyone who has a wise child is glad
May your father and mother be glad
May the woman who gave birth to you be happy
17.
My son, give me your heart
Keep your eyes on the way I live
A prostitute is like a deep pit
A wife who commits adultery is like a narrow well
She hides and waits like a thief
She causes many men to sin
18.
Who has trouble?
Who has sorrow?
Who argues?
Who has problems?
Who has wounds for no reason?
Who has red eyes?
Those who spend too much time with wine
Or those who like to taste wine that is mixed with spices
Don't look at wine when it is red
Don't look at it when it bubbles in the cup
And don't look at it when it goes down smoothly
In the end it bites like a snake
It bites like a poisonous serpent
Your eyes will see strange sights
Your mind will imagine weird things
You will feel like someone sleeping on the ocean
You will think you are lying among the ropes in a boat
"They hit me," you will say. "But I'm not hurt!
They beat me. But I don't feel it!
When will I wake up so I can find another drink?"
Monday, December 31, 2018
Extraordinary Plan
Pastor Alvin
How do christians survive in this much changing world?
Big Idea :
How to trust and obey God in the midst of lines distruption to embrace God's ExtraOrdinary plan for you and me?
# It is always for a purpose
# It is always His Mercy
So that our lives will begin to be taken to another trajectory with Him
God wants to corner you by asking you 5 important questions in the midst of disruption :
1. WHOSE are you?
(Favoured One)
Luke 1:28
The angel came to her and said, “Peace be with you! The Lord is with you and has greatly blessed you!”
Our identity will be shaken (satan will come to say, "why are you still jobless?" "why do you have cancer?" "why are you barren?" "why did your loved ones die?" etc)
Romans 8:31-33
In view of all this, what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? Certainly not God, who did not even keep back his own Son, but offered him for us all! He gave us his Son—will he not also freely give us all things? Who will accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty!
How do we find favour with God?
1 Peter 2:20
For what credit is there if you endure the beatings you deserve for having done wrong? But if you endure suffering even when you have done right, God will bless you for it.
God's favour is already upon me
2. WHAT is in you?
(Do not be afraid)
What is God drawing out of my life when fear grips me? Fear reveals possible idols in my life. Disruption comes in many ways
3. WHERE are you?
(Behold)
Isaiah 43:19
Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there.
4. WHO is He?
(Call Him Jesus)
5. WHEN to say Yes?
(May it be done)
How do christians survive in this much changing world?
Big Idea :
How to trust and obey God in the midst of lines distruption to embrace God's ExtraOrdinary plan for you and me?
# It is always for a purpose
# It is always His Mercy
So that our lives will begin to be taken to another trajectory with Him
God wants to corner you by asking you 5 important questions in the midst of disruption :
1. WHOSE are you?
(Favoured One)
Luke 1:28
The angel came to her and said, “Peace be with you! The Lord is with you and has greatly blessed you!”
Our identity will be shaken (satan will come to say, "why are you still jobless?" "why do you have cancer?" "why are you barren?" "why did your loved ones die?" etc)
Romans 8:31-33
In view of all this, what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? Certainly not God, who did not even keep back his own Son, but offered him for us all! He gave us his Son—will he not also freely give us all things? Who will accuse God's chosen people? God himself declares them not guilty!
How do we find favour with God?
1 Peter 2:20
For what credit is there if you endure the beatings you deserve for having done wrong? But if you endure suffering even when you have done right, God will bless you for it.
God's favour is already upon me
2. WHAT is in you?
(Do not be afraid)
What is God drawing out of my life when fear grips me? Fear reveals possible idols in my life. Disruption comes in many ways
3. WHERE are you?
(Behold)
Isaiah 43:19
Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already—you can see it now! I will make a road through the wilderness and give you streams of water there.
4. WHO is He?
(Call Him Jesus)
5. WHEN to say Yes?
(May it be done)
Saturday, November 10, 2018
The Know-It-All God
by Pastor Meng Chiam
Big idea :
We need to rest and entrust our lives to the God who knows it all
Psalm 139
1. Who (God knows who we are)
vs 1-6
# God knows everything about YOU
- your habits
- your thoughts
- your self that you are (Matthew 10:30)
2. Where (God knows where YOU are) NO FEAR!
vs 7-12
# No place God is not
# No spot God cannot (1 kings 19:9)
- what are you doing here?
- Just do it!
- Step of faith!
- Call out His name!
3. When (God knows when is the season of life in our lives) NO WORRY!
vs 13-18
# before you were born
# before you expire (Luke 22)
- God's foreknowledge is to caution us, warn us, prepare us (Psalm 31:14-15)
4. Why (God knows why and our questions) NO PANIC!
vs 19-24
# the evil from without
# the evil from within
# God is infinitely patient
# search me, test me, lead me
Learn to have confidence in this God we have
Keep calm and remember I know it all!
Big idea :
We need to rest and entrust our lives to the God who knows it all
Psalm 139
1. Who (God knows who we are)
vs 1-6
# God knows everything about YOU
- your habits
- your thoughts
- your self that you are (Matthew 10:30)
2. Where (God knows where YOU are) NO FEAR!
vs 7-12
# No place God is not
# No spot God cannot (1 kings 19:9)
- what are you doing here?
- Just do it!
- Step of faith!
- Call out His name!
3. When (God knows when is the season of life in our lives) NO WORRY!
vs 13-18
# before you were born
# before you expire (Luke 22)
- God's foreknowledge is to caution us, warn us, prepare us (Psalm 31:14-15)
4. Why (God knows why and our questions) NO PANIC!
vs 19-24
# the evil from without
# the evil from within
# God is infinitely patient
# search me, test me, lead me
Learn to have confidence in this God we have
Keep calm and remember I know it all!
Extraordinary trust led by the Lord
by Pastor Calvin Lee
What is God's will?
How do I know God's will?
We all want to make the right decision because wrong decision will have a repercussion in our lives and the lives of other people around us.
Stop looking for a formula!
Element of faith is needed!
FEAR stands in the way of a good decision!
Remember that our thinking is FINITE! (We have great limitations in our understanding)
Whenever there is a special FAVOUR, we cannot automatically take it as a sign to proceed!
It is important to be FAITHFUL in our walk with God, in our daily devotion!
Talk to Godly friends
Proverbs 3:5
1. Discard self sufficiency
"lean not on your own understanding"
# Don't totally depend on our human reasoning because it can be flawed. Why?
A. Because our hearts is not completely reliable as mentioned in Jeremiah 17:9
B. Because our understanding is limited as mentioned in Proverbs 14:12
2. Demonstrate God's dependency
"in all your ways submit/acknowledge to Him"
- We consciously and intentionally bring our ways to God, we involve God in our decision making, seek Him
"This is not to say that trusting God means we no longer are responsible for figuring out the best course of action, but that we put God’s desires at the center of our decision-making"
- Koptak -
3. Discern God's direction
"and He will make your path straight"
A. Promise
B. Process
Pastor Calvin's way in seeking God :
- Word from God
- Warmth (impression grow strong and deep)
- Wisom (ask God to grant wisdom)
- Ways (learn to discern God's ways in life)
- Whys (check the motivation in heart, is it self centered or kingdom centered?)
5 Principles about God and His guidance in our lives :
1. God knows the way and what's best for us
2. God reveals his directions in the bible
3. God's sovereignty decrees and designs circumstances to make our path straight for his glory
4. God can overule personal folly or people's evil intentions to bring about his intended results
5. God's will is not a roadmap but a relationship
What is God's will?
How do I know God's will?
We all want to make the right decision because wrong decision will have a repercussion in our lives and the lives of other people around us.
Stop looking for a formula!
Element of faith is needed!
FEAR stands in the way of a good decision!
Remember that our thinking is FINITE! (We have great limitations in our understanding)
Whenever there is a special FAVOUR, we cannot automatically take it as a sign to proceed!
It is important to be FAITHFUL in our walk with God, in our daily devotion!
Talk to Godly friends
Proverbs 3:5
1. Discard self sufficiency
"lean not on your own understanding"
# Don't totally depend on our human reasoning because it can be flawed. Why?
A. Because our hearts is not completely reliable as mentioned in Jeremiah 17:9
B. Because our understanding is limited as mentioned in Proverbs 14:12
2. Demonstrate God's dependency
"in all your ways submit/acknowledge to Him"
- We consciously and intentionally bring our ways to God, we involve God in our decision making, seek Him
"This is not to say that trusting God means we no longer are responsible for figuring out the best course of action, but that we put God’s desires at the center of our decision-making"
- Koptak -
3. Discern God's direction
"and He will make your path straight"
A. Promise
B. Process
Pastor Calvin's way in seeking God :
- Word from God
- Warmth (impression grow strong and deep)
- Wisom (ask God to grant wisdom)
- Ways (learn to discern God's ways in life)
- Whys (check the motivation in heart, is it self centered or kingdom centered?)
5 Principles about God and His guidance in our lives :
1. God knows the way and what's best for us
2. God reveals his directions in the bible
3. God's sovereignty decrees and designs circumstances to make our path straight for his glory
4. God can overule personal folly or people's evil intentions to bring about his intended results
5. God's will is not a roadmap but a relationship
Sunday, October 21, 2018
Temptation of Jesus
Pastor Wilson
Matthew 4:1-3
vs 4
- Jesus first counter attack
- Jesus saying God's word is more important than the physicals of life
Matthew 3:16-17
Genesis 3:15
"Jesus the Son of God"
3 Temptations :
- Initiated by God
- Tested the humanity of Christ
- Demonstrated Jesus obedience to God's will
Why did satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread?
- It's more than hunger. Satan wants Jesus to act under human pride, telling him to fulfil the messianic prophetic about Jesus.
John 6:14-15
"Messianic Sign"
satan wants Jesus to fulfill His Messiahship
1st Temptation
- Satan wants Jesus to fulfill his Messiahship
- Jesus chose obedience to God's word
- Jesus was secure in his identity
# The pride of life is very subtle #
2nd Temptation
Matthew 4:5-7
Why did satan brings Jesus to the highest point of the temple?
- It is written in the Jewish writing that the Messiah would come and descend from the pinnacle of the temple and the Jews will worship Him.
- Satan temptation was for Jesus to show the world that he was the Son of God
vs 6 (Psalm 91 but satan took a verse out of context of the scripture)
- "...... throw yourself down"
The 2nd temptation is not a lack of faith in God but it is lack of understanding of our faith
- Satan tempted Jesus to fulfil God's word presumptously
- Jesus chose to live out the full counsel of God's word
Genesis 3
God pronounced a curse on Adam (toiling) and Eve (child bearing) and He did not remove that curse. Therefore, Galatians 3:13 cannot be applied to Genesis 3
# It is time to allow God's full counsel to come and guide you #
3rd Temptation
Matthew 4:8-9
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the .....
satan offered Jesus the whole world without sacrificing himself
- "...... if you will bow down and worship me"
- Satan tempted Jesus with the kingdoms of the world without the cross
vs 10
Jesus said to him, "away from me satan! for it is also written: worship the lord your God, and serve him only."
- Jesus chose the cross as his worship unto God
# Never exchange ourselves for short term gains #
Matthew 4:1-3
vs 4
- Jesus first counter attack
- Jesus saying God's word is more important than the physicals of life
Matthew 3:16-17
Genesis 3:15
"Jesus the Son of God"
3 Temptations :
- Initiated by God
- Tested the humanity of Christ
- Demonstrated Jesus obedience to God's will
Why did satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread?
- It's more than hunger. Satan wants Jesus to act under human pride, telling him to fulfil the messianic prophetic about Jesus.
John 6:14-15
"Messianic Sign"
satan wants Jesus to fulfill His Messiahship
1st Temptation
- Satan wants Jesus to fulfill his Messiahship
- Jesus chose obedience to God's word
- Jesus was secure in his identity
# The pride of life is very subtle #
2nd Temptation
Matthew 4:5-7
Why did satan brings Jesus to the highest point of the temple?
- It is written in the Jewish writing that the Messiah would come and descend from the pinnacle of the temple and the Jews will worship Him.
- Satan temptation was for Jesus to show the world that he was the Son of God
vs 6 (Psalm 91 but satan took a verse out of context of the scripture)
- "...... throw yourself down"
The 2nd temptation is not a lack of faith in God but it is lack of understanding of our faith
- Satan tempted Jesus to fulfil God's word presumptously
- Jesus chose to live out the full counsel of God's word
Genesis 3
God pronounced a curse on Adam (toiling) and Eve (child bearing) and He did not remove that curse. Therefore, Galatians 3:13 cannot be applied to Genesis 3
# It is time to allow God's full counsel to come and guide you #
3rd Temptation
Matthew 4:8-9
Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the .....
satan offered Jesus the whole world without sacrificing himself
- "...... if you will bow down and worship me"
- Satan tempted Jesus with the kingdoms of the world without the cross
vs 10
Jesus said to him, "away from me satan! for it is also written: worship the lord your God, and serve him only."
- Jesus chose the cross as his worship unto God
# Never exchange ourselves for short term gains #
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Extraordinary End Times
by Pastor Alvin
Big Idea :
We went to learn from Jesus how to discern and prepare for the end times that is imminent
Discern the times
Matthew 24:1-5
# Rise in human and natural disasters
Matthew 24:6-8
Zechariah 14:12 (the world will end in nuclear war)
- Earthquakes
- Drought
# Rise in persecution of Christian
Matthew 24:9-10
# Rise in irreligious and liberalism
Matthew 24:12
# Rise in the gospel spread
Matthew 24:14
# Rapture of the saints
(the day of the Lord)
Matthew 24:36-43
1 Thessalonians 4:16
1 Corinthians 15:52
1 Thessalonians 5
# GraceAOG believe in Post Tribulation
# 7 years of Tribulation
Daniel 9:26
# Antichrist to desecrate the temple
Revelation 13:5
2 Thessalonians 2:3
# 3.5 years of great Tribulation
Matthew 24:16-28
# The Jews as elect
Jeremiah 30:7
Isaiah 27:12
# So that "all Israel" will be saved
Romans 11:25-27
# God will send 2 witnesses in the Tribulation
Revelation 11:1-5
# 2nd coming of Christ
Matthew 24:27-35
- Battle of Armageddon
Revelation 16:16
# 1000 years of God's reign
Revelation 20:2-4
# Satan released for a while
Revelation 20:7-9
# Final Judgement
Revelation 20:11
1 Corinthians 3:11
# The new heaven and earth
Revelation 21:1
# Be ready today
Matthew 24:44
4 Parables on Readiness :
1. Master and Servant : there is time, enjoy first
2. Ten virgins : It's ok to be lukewarm. You can borrow faith
3. Talents : My talent is too small to serve. Play it safe
4. Sheep and Goats : love only those who can repay
Key : Jesus made himself the least to serve and save the least so that the least (us) will minister to the least
Big Idea :
We went to learn from Jesus how to discern and prepare for the end times that is imminent
Discern the times
Matthew 24:1-5
# Rise in human and natural disasters
Matthew 24:6-8
Zechariah 14:12 (the world will end in nuclear war)
- Earthquakes
- Drought
# Rise in persecution of Christian
Matthew 24:9-10
# Rise in irreligious and liberalism
Matthew 24:12
# Rise in the gospel spread
Matthew 24:14
# Rapture of the saints
(the day of the Lord)
Matthew 24:36-43
1 Thessalonians 4:16
1 Corinthians 15:52
1 Thessalonians 5
# GraceAOG believe in Post Tribulation
# 7 years of Tribulation
Daniel 9:26
# Antichrist to desecrate the temple
Revelation 13:5
2 Thessalonians 2:3
# 3.5 years of great Tribulation
Matthew 24:16-28
# The Jews as elect
Jeremiah 30:7
Isaiah 27:12
# So that "all Israel" will be saved
Romans 11:25-27
# God will send 2 witnesses in the Tribulation
Revelation 11:1-5
# 2nd coming of Christ
Matthew 24:27-35
- Battle of Armageddon
Revelation 16:16
# 1000 years of God's reign
Revelation 20:2-4
# Satan released for a while
Revelation 20:7-9
# Final Judgement
Revelation 20:11
1 Corinthians 3:11
# The new heaven and earth
Revelation 21:1
# Be ready today
Matthew 24:44
4 Parables on Readiness :
1. Master and Servant : there is time, enjoy first
2. Ten virgins : It's ok to be lukewarm. You can borrow faith
3. Talents : My talent is too small to serve. Play it safe
4. Sheep and Goats : love only those who can repay
Key : Jesus made himself the least to serve and save the least so that the least (us) will minister to the least
Saturday, September 29, 2018
Extraordinary Trust !
by Pastor Calvin Lee
Lean on the Lord
Led by the Lord
What is trust?
Dictionary says Trust is to console, to confide, to have confident with. In Hebrew, trust means to lean with the full body or to rest with the full wight upon
Who to trust?
Trust in the Lord
Isaiah 2:22
Stop trusting man. He can't help you. He only lives for a little while. What good is he?
1 Timothy 6:17
Command people who are rich in this world not to be proud. Tell them not to put their hope in riches. Wealth is so uncertain. Command those who are rich to put their hope in God. He richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
Proverbs 11:28
Those who trust in their riches will fall. But those who do right will be as healthy as a green leaf.
Proverbs 23:4
Don't wear yourself out to get rich. Be wise enough to say no.
Proverbs 28:26
Anyone who trusts in himself is foolish. But a person who lives wisely is kept safe.
Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots. Some trust in horses. But we trust in the Lord our God.
Trust in yourself, and you are doomed to disappointment.
Trust in your friends, and they will die and leave you.
Trust in money, and you may have it taken from you.
Trust in reputation, and some slanderous tongue may blast it.
But trust in God, and you are never to be confounded in time and eternity!
-- DL Moody --
Who is Jesus to you?
Who is Jesus in Matthew to Revelation?
Genesis : Jesus - The seed of the woman
Exodus : Jesus - The Passover Lamb
Leviticus : Jesus - The High Priest
Numbers : Jesus - The Cloud and the Fire
Deuteronomy : Jesus - The Prophet like Moses
Joshua : Jesus - The Captain of our Salvation
Judges : Jesus - The Judge and Lawgiver
Ruth : Jesus - The Kinsman Redeemer
1 & 2 Samuel : Jesus - The Prophet of the Lord
1 & 2 Kings : Jesus - The Reigning King
1 & 2 Chronicles : Jesus - The Glorious Temple
Ezra : Jesus - The faithful scribe
Nehemiah : Jesus - The rebuilder of the walls
Esther : Jesus - Mordecai
Job : Jesus - The dayspring from on High
Psalm : Jesus - The Lord who is our Shepherd
Proverbs & Ecclesiastes : Jesus - The wisdom of God
Songs of Solomon : Jesus - The Lover & Bridegroom
Isaiah : Jesus - The suffering servant
Jeremiah & Lamentations : Jesus - The weeping prophet
Ezekiel : Jesus - The Son of Man
Daniel : Jesus - The Son of Man coming in the clouds of Heaven
Hosea : Jesus - The Bridegroom
Joel : Jesus - The baptizer with the Holy Spirit
Amos : Jesus - The burden bearer
Obadiah : Jesus - The Mighty Saviour
Jonah : Jesus - The Forgiving God
Micah : Jesus - The Messenger with beautiful feet
Nahum : Jesus - The Avenger of God's elect
Habakkuk : Jesus - The great Evangelist, crying for revival
Zephaniah : Jesus - The Restorer of the Remnant
Haggai : Jesus - the Cleansing fountain
Zechariah : Jesus - The Pierced Son
Malachi : Jesus - The Son of Righteousness
Matthew : Jesus - The Messiah
Mark : Jesus - The Miracle Worker
Luke : Jesus - The Son of Man
John : Jesus - The Son of God
Acts : Jesus - The Ascended Lord
Romans : Jesus - The Justifier
1 & 2 Corinthians : Jesus - The Last Adam
Galatians : Jesus - the One who sets us free
Ephesians : Jesus - The Christ of Riches
Philippians : Jesus - The God who meets our every need
Colossians : Jesus - The fullness of the Godhead
1 & 2 Thessalonians : Jesus - The soon coming King
1 & 2 Timothy : Jesus - The Mediator between God and Man
Titus : Jesus - The Blessed Hope
Philemon : Jesus - The Friend, closer than a brother
Hebrews : Jesus - The Blood that washes away my sin
James : Jesus - The Great Physician
1 & 2 Peter : Jesus - The Chief Shepherd
1, 2 & 3 John : Jesus - Everlasting Love
Jude : Jesus - The God our Saviour
Revelation : Jesus - The King of Kings and the Lord of lords
Romans 15:13
May the God who gives hope fill you with great joy. May you have perfect peace as you trust in him. May the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.
How to trust?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Trust Him Entirely
Trust Him Exclusively
Trust Him Exactly
1. Acknowledge that God is our wonderful Abba Father
2. Admit that His ways are higher than our ways
3. Accept outcomes that are contrary to our desires and prayers
4. Abdicate self from the throne
5. Affirm His lordship over every area of our lives
Top 10 lessons I've learnt from Noah Ark
1. Don't miss the boat.
2. Remember that we are all in the same boat.
3. Plan ahead. It was't raining when Noah built the Ark.
4. Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something big.
5. Don't listen to critics, just get on with the job that needs to be done.
6. Build your future on high grounds.
7. For safety sake, travel in pairs.
8. When you are stressed, float a while.
9. Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs, the titanic by professionals.
10. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.
Lean on the Lord
Led by the Lord
What is trust?
Dictionary says Trust is to console, to confide, to have confident with. In Hebrew, trust means to lean with the full body or to rest with the full wight upon
Who to trust?
Trust in the Lord
Isaiah 2:22
Stop trusting man. He can't help you. He only lives for a little while. What good is he?
1 Timothy 6:17
Command people who are rich in this world not to be proud. Tell them not to put their hope in riches. Wealth is so uncertain. Command those who are rich to put their hope in God. He richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
Proverbs 11:28
Those who trust in their riches will fall. But those who do right will be as healthy as a green leaf.
Proverbs 23:4
Don't wear yourself out to get rich. Be wise enough to say no.
Proverbs 28:26
Anyone who trusts in himself is foolish. But a person who lives wisely is kept safe.
Psalm 20:7
Some trust in chariots. Some trust in horses. But we trust in the Lord our God.
Trust in yourself, and you are doomed to disappointment.
Trust in your friends, and they will die and leave you.
Trust in money, and you may have it taken from you.
Trust in reputation, and some slanderous tongue may blast it.
But trust in God, and you are never to be confounded in time and eternity!
-- DL Moody --
Who is Jesus to you?
Who is Jesus in Matthew to Revelation?
Genesis : Jesus - The seed of the woman
Exodus : Jesus - The Passover Lamb
Leviticus : Jesus - The High Priest
Numbers : Jesus - The Cloud and the Fire
Deuteronomy : Jesus - The Prophet like Moses
Joshua : Jesus - The Captain of our Salvation
Judges : Jesus - The Judge and Lawgiver
Ruth : Jesus - The Kinsman Redeemer
1 & 2 Samuel : Jesus - The Prophet of the Lord
1 & 2 Kings : Jesus - The Reigning King
1 & 2 Chronicles : Jesus - The Glorious Temple
Ezra : Jesus - The faithful scribe
Nehemiah : Jesus - The rebuilder of the walls
Esther : Jesus - Mordecai
Job : Jesus - The dayspring from on High
Psalm : Jesus - The Lord who is our Shepherd
Proverbs & Ecclesiastes : Jesus - The wisdom of God
Songs of Solomon : Jesus - The Lover & Bridegroom
Isaiah : Jesus - The suffering servant
Jeremiah & Lamentations : Jesus - The weeping prophet
Ezekiel : Jesus - The Son of Man
Daniel : Jesus - The Son of Man coming in the clouds of Heaven
Hosea : Jesus - The Bridegroom
Joel : Jesus - The baptizer with the Holy Spirit
Amos : Jesus - The burden bearer
Obadiah : Jesus - The Mighty Saviour
Jonah : Jesus - The Forgiving God
Micah : Jesus - The Messenger with beautiful feet
Nahum : Jesus - The Avenger of God's elect
Habakkuk : Jesus - The great Evangelist, crying for revival
Zephaniah : Jesus - The Restorer of the Remnant
Haggai : Jesus - the Cleansing fountain
Zechariah : Jesus - The Pierced Son
Malachi : Jesus - The Son of Righteousness
Matthew : Jesus - The Messiah
Mark : Jesus - The Miracle Worker
Luke : Jesus - The Son of Man
John : Jesus - The Son of God
Acts : Jesus - The Ascended Lord
Romans : Jesus - The Justifier
1 & 2 Corinthians : Jesus - The Last Adam
Galatians : Jesus - the One who sets us free
Ephesians : Jesus - The Christ of Riches
Philippians : Jesus - The God who meets our every need
Colossians : Jesus - The fullness of the Godhead
1 & 2 Thessalonians : Jesus - The soon coming King
1 & 2 Timothy : Jesus - The Mediator between God and Man
Titus : Jesus - The Blessed Hope
Philemon : Jesus - The Friend, closer than a brother
Hebrews : Jesus - The Blood that washes away my sin
James : Jesus - The Great Physician
1 & 2 Peter : Jesus - The Chief Shepherd
1, 2 & 3 John : Jesus - Everlasting Love
Jude : Jesus - The God our Saviour
Revelation : Jesus - The King of Kings and the Lord of lords
Romans 15:13
May the God who gives hope fill you with great joy. May you have perfect peace as you trust in him. May the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.
How to trust?
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Trust Him Entirely
Trust Him Exclusively
Trust Him Exactly
1. Acknowledge that God is our wonderful Abba Father
2. Admit that His ways are higher than our ways
3. Accept outcomes that are contrary to our desires and prayers
4. Abdicate self from the throne
5. Affirm His lordship over every area of our lives
Top 10 lessons I've learnt from Noah Ark
1. Don't miss the boat.
2. Remember that we are all in the same boat.
3. Plan ahead. It was't raining when Noah built the Ark.
4. Stay fit. When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something big.
5. Don't listen to critics, just get on with the job that needs to be done.
6. Build your future on high grounds.
7. For safety sake, travel in pairs.
8. When you are stressed, float a while.
9. Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs, the titanic by professionals.
10. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.
Friday, September 21, 2018
The Less than Ideal God
by Pastor MEng Chiam
Psalm 138
Lord, I will praise you with all my heart. In front of those who think they are gods I will sing praise to you. I will bow down facing your holy temple. I will praise your name, because you are loving and faithful. You have honored your name and your word more than anything else. When I called out to you, you answered me. You made me strong and brave. Lord, may all of the kings on earth praise you when they hear about what you have promised. Lord, may they sing about what you have done, because your glory is great. The LORD is in heaven. But he watches over those who are free of pride. He knows those who are proud and stays far away from them. Trouble is all around me, but you keep me alive. You reach out your hand to put a stop to the anger of my enemies. With your powerful right hand you save me. Lord, you will do everything you have planned for me. Lord, your faithful love continues forever. You have done so much for us. Don't stop now.
Do our less than ideal situation hinder God to do out His work in us?
Absolutely Not
When we read Psalm, we have an eschatological hope. God accomplishes his perfect plan for our lives despite our less than ideal condition.
I Will (is a human commitment)
- be Thankful (vs 1-3)
# Wholeheartedness
"I will give thanks, I Lord, with all my heart"
# have great Boldness
"I will sing your praises before the gods"
# come in Surrender
"I bow before your holy Temple as I worship"
They Will (no choice)
- be Faithful (vs 4-6)
# His glory is very great
"Every king in all the earth will thank you, lord, for all of them will hear your words. Yes, they will sing about the Lord's way for the glory of the Lord is very great"
Philippians 2:9-11
"So God lifted him up to the highest place. He gave him the name that is above every name. When the name of Jesus is spoken, everyone's knee will bow to worship him. Every knee in heaven and on earth and under the earth will bow to worship him. Everyone's mouth will say that Jesus Christ is Lord. And God the Father will receive the glory."
# His knowledge is very sure
"though the lord is very great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud"
2 Timothy 2:19
"But God's solid foundation stands firm. Here is the message written on it. "The Lord knows who his own people are." Also, "All who say they believe in the Lord must turn away from evil."
1 Peter 5:6-7
"So don't be proud. Put yourselves under God's mighty hand. Then he will honor you at the right time. 7 Turn all your worries over to him. He cares about you."
You Will (Will of Promise)
- be Hopeful (vs 7-8)
# His divine protection and power
"Trouble is all around me, but you keep me alive. You reach out your hand to put a stop to the anger of my enemies. With your powerful right hand you save me."
# His divine plan
"the lord will work out his plans for my life - for your faithful love, o lord, endures forever. Don't abandon me, for you made me"
Philippians 1:6
"I am sure that the One who began a good work in you will carry it on until it is completed. That will be on the day Christ Jesus returns."
Psalm 138
Lord, I will praise you with all my heart. In front of those who think they are gods I will sing praise to you. I will bow down facing your holy temple. I will praise your name, because you are loving and faithful. You have honored your name and your word more than anything else. When I called out to you, you answered me. You made me strong and brave. Lord, may all of the kings on earth praise you when they hear about what you have promised. Lord, may they sing about what you have done, because your glory is great. The LORD is in heaven. But he watches over those who are free of pride. He knows those who are proud and stays far away from them. Trouble is all around me, but you keep me alive. You reach out your hand to put a stop to the anger of my enemies. With your powerful right hand you save me. Lord, you will do everything you have planned for me. Lord, your faithful love continues forever. You have done so much for us. Don't stop now.
Do our less than ideal situation hinder God to do out His work in us?
Absolutely Not
When we read Psalm, we have an eschatological hope. God accomplishes his perfect plan for our lives despite our less than ideal condition.
I Will (is a human commitment)
- be Thankful (vs 1-3)
# Wholeheartedness
"I will give thanks, I Lord, with all my heart"
# have great Boldness
"I will sing your praises before the gods"
# come in Surrender
"I bow before your holy Temple as I worship"
They Will (no choice)
- be Faithful (vs 4-6)
# His glory is very great
"Every king in all the earth will thank you, lord, for all of them will hear your words. Yes, they will sing about the Lord's way for the glory of the Lord is very great"
Philippians 2:9-11
"So God lifted him up to the highest place. He gave him the name that is above every name. When the name of Jesus is spoken, everyone's knee will bow to worship him. Every knee in heaven and on earth and under the earth will bow to worship him. Everyone's mouth will say that Jesus Christ is Lord. And God the Father will receive the glory."
# His knowledge is very sure
"though the lord is very great, he cares for the humble, but he keeps his distance from the proud"
2 Timothy 2:19
"But God's solid foundation stands firm. Here is the message written on it. "The Lord knows who his own people are." Also, "All who say they believe in the Lord must turn away from evil."
1 Peter 5:6-7
"So don't be proud. Put yourselves under God's mighty hand. Then he will honor you at the right time. 7 Turn all your worries over to him. He cares about you."
You Will (Will of Promise)
- be Hopeful (vs 7-8)
# His divine protection and power
"Trouble is all around me, but you keep me alive. You reach out your hand to put a stop to the anger of my enemies. With your powerful right hand you save me."
# His divine plan
"the lord will work out his plans for my life - for your faithful love, o lord, endures forever. Don't abandon me, for you made me"
Philippians 1:6
"I am sure that the One who began a good work in you will carry it on until it is completed. That will be on the day Christ Jesus returns."
Saturday, September 8, 2018
Relate to Restore
by Pastor Wilson
Big idea :
To live out the gospel life by building gospel-transformed relationships
Galatians 6:1-2
Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each others burden, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
1 John 4:19-21
We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command : Anyone who loves God must also love their brother or sister.
The gospel transforms us internally and externally
Galatians 6:3-5
If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions, then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each should carry their own load
Galatians 6:6
Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor
Galatians 6:7
Do not be deceived, God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows
Galatians 6:8
Whoever does to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction. Whoever does to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap life
Sow into the flesh = DESTRUCTION
Sow into the Spirit = LIFE
The fruit of the Spirit (is) in singular means all the 9 fruits combine together in one seed
Galatians 6:9
Let us not be weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up
The reaping of the harvest requires time and a persevering heart
Galatians 6:10
Big idea :
To live out the gospel life by building gospel-transformed relationships
Galatians 6:1-2
Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each others burden, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
1 John 4:19-21
We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command : Anyone who loves God must also love their brother or sister.
The gospel transforms us internally and externally
Galatians 6:3-5
If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions, then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each should carry their own load
Galatians 6:6
Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor
Galatians 6:7
Do not be deceived, God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows
Galatians 6:8
Whoever does to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction. Whoever does to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap life
Sow into the flesh = DESTRUCTION
Sow into the Spirit = LIFE
The fruit of the Spirit (is) in singular means all the 9 fruits combine together in one seed
Galatians 6:9
Let us not be weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up
The reaping of the harvest requires time and a persevering heart
Galatians 6:10
Conversation with God
by Pastor Benny Ho
2 Chronicles 20:1-12
Prayers is really conversing with God. It becomes more enjoyable, deeper and meaningful as we pray within the context of who our God is
How did we do that?
By integrating our theology with prayer
Problems are so big but the resources are too little. When times like this happens, what better thing is there to do when you don't know what to do but to pray?
3 Rhetorical questions can shape our prayer life :
1. Lord, the God of all our ancestors. Are You Not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.
(vs. 5, 6)
2. Our God, Did You Not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend?
(vs. 7)
- Remember the transformation of your life
- Truth read & heard with application to our lives will cause our faith to arise
3. Our God, Will You Not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you
(vs. 12)
Psalm 121:5
He is your shade at your right hand
- shade literally means a shadow in Hebrew. Shade means a shield, a shelter
Why do we pray?
Because we believe the battle does not belongs to us, it belongs to God. That's why we pray instead of running around looking for answers and solution. Our shoulders are not wide enough to carry our burdens
A great prayer prayed by a great king to a great God.
2 Chronicles 20:1-12
Prayers is really conversing with God. It becomes more enjoyable, deeper and meaningful as we pray within the context of who our God is
How did we do that?
By integrating our theology with prayer
Problems are so big but the resources are too little. When times like this happens, what better thing is there to do when you don't know what to do but to pray?
3 Rhetorical questions can shape our prayer life :
1. Lord, the God of all our ancestors. Are You Not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.
(vs. 5, 6)
2. Our God, Did You Not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend?
(vs. 7)
- Remember the transformation of your life
- Truth read & heard with application to our lives will cause our faith to arise
3. Our God, Will You Not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you
(vs. 12)
Psalm 121:5
He is your shade at your right hand
- shade literally means a shadow in Hebrew. Shade means a shield, a shelter
Why do we pray?
Because we believe the battle does not belongs to us, it belongs to God. That's why we pray instead of running around looking for answers and solution. Our shoulders are not wide enough to carry our burdens
A great prayer prayed by a great king to a great God.
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Extraordinary Gospel - Set Free by the Spirit
by Pastor Alvin
Galatians 5
We want to learn how to live a victorious Christian life through the audit of the law, the truth of the Gospel and the power of the Spirit
Law -> Gospel of Grace -> Holy Spirit
- The Law is to show us the holiness of God. What He likes and don't like
- Jesus Christ came to give the gospel of grace
- When Jesus leaves, He left behind the Holy Spirit
1) You are set free under grace through faith not under the law
(Gospel not Legalism)
Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery
Legalism is
Faith + Good works + Obedience + Sacraments + Tradition + Church = salvation
Galatians 5:2-6
Gospel is
Faith alone in Christ alone by Grace alone = SALVATION 2 Corinthians 5:21
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God
2) You are set free to love one another not sin more
(Gospel not Hypergrace)
Galatians 5:13-15
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh. Rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command : "Love your neighbour as yourself." If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other
Galatians 5:7-12
Two Enemies of the Gospel :
Legalism (I obey therefore I am saved - Law)
Gospel (I am saved therefore I obey)
Hypergrace (I am saved therefore no need to obey - Grace)
3) You are set free by the power of the Spirit over the flesh
Galatians 5:16-18
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law
Hebrews 10:26
4) You are set free as evidenced by the law and the fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:19-23
The acts of the flesh are obvious : sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy: drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law
Matthew 26:41
Jesus asked Peter, "watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" Romans 8:11
And if the Spirit of Him who raised Christ from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because if His Spirit who lives in you
Feed the flesh for too long and your spirit will become weaken. Feed the flesh less
5) You are set free by what Christ has given
Galatians 5:24b-26
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
He gave His Life, the Spirit and the Church
Galatians 5
We want to learn how to live a victorious Christian life through the audit of the law, the truth of the Gospel and the power of the Spirit
Law -> Gospel of Grace -> Holy Spirit
- The Law is to show us the holiness of God. What He likes and don't like
- Jesus Christ came to give the gospel of grace
- When Jesus leaves, He left behind the Holy Spirit
1) You are set free under grace through faith not under the law
(Gospel not Legalism)
Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery
Legalism is
Faith + Good works + Obedience + Sacraments + Tradition + Church = salvation
Galatians 5:2-6
Gospel is
Faith alone in Christ alone by Grace alone = SALVATION 2 Corinthians 5:21
God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God
2) You are set free to love one another not sin more
(Gospel not Hypergrace)
Galatians 5:13-15
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh. Rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command : "Love your neighbour as yourself." If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other
Galatians 5:7-12
Two Enemies of the Gospel :
Legalism (I obey therefore I am saved - Law)
Gospel (I am saved therefore I obey)
Hypergrace (I am saved therefore no need to obey - Grace)
3) You are set free by the power of the Spirit over the flesh
Galatians 5:16-18
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law
Hebrews 10:26
4) You are set free as evidenced by the law and the fruit of the Spirit
Galatians 5:19-23
The acts of the flesh are obvious : sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy: drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law
Matthew 26:41
Jesus asked Peter, "watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" Romans 8:11
And if the Spirit of Him who raised Christ from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because if His Spirit who lives in you
Feed the flesh for too long and your spirit will become weaken. Feed the flesh less
5) You are set free by what Christ has given
Galatians 5:24b-26
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other
He gave His Life, the Spirit and the Church
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Purpose behind the Purpose
Pastor Calvin Lee
Big Idea :
Being right with God is about believing, not achieving
John 8:32
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free
Right belief, right behaviour
Wrong belief, wrong behaviour
1. The folly of the Galatians
Galatians 3:1-3
- First Paul stresses the gullibility of the Galatians
- Second Paul exposes the guile of the Judaizers who taught this 'new' gospel
Matthew 7:15-16
Matthew 24:11, 24
2. The faith of Abraham
Galatians 3:6-9
- This verse can also be shared with Gentiles, ie. us that faith is what brings us to God
3. The fact of the matter
Galatians 3:11-14
- The Galatians were wrong in believing and embracing that faith + law = salvation
The law has a purpose :
@ The Law informs us
@ The law reforms us
But the law cannot transform us from the inside out, nor make us righteous. The law shows us that we need a Saviour in our lives
# We are justified by faith and not by works
# We are to walk by faith from the start to the finish, not on men, organisation or something else
# We are to be people of the word, to discern what is right and what is wrong
# We are to live under grace, not according to our works
# We are blessed to be a blessing
We serve out of a sense of gratefulness, not to gain approval
Big Idea :
Being right with God is about believing, not achieving
John 8:32
Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free
Right belief, right behaviour
Wrong belief, wrong behaviour
1. The folly of the Galatians
Galatians 3:1-3
- First Paul stresses the gullibility of the Galatians
- Second Paul exposes the guile of the Judaizers who taught this 'new' gospel
Matthew 7:15-16
Matthew 24:11, 24
2. The faith of Abraham
Galatians 3:6-9
- This verse can also be shared with Gentiles, ie. us that faith is what brings us to God
3. The fact of the matter
Galatians 3:11-14
- The Galatians were wrong in believing and embracing that faith + law = salvation
The law has a purpose :
@ The Law informs us
@ The law reforms us
But the law cannot transform us from the inside out, nor make us righteous. The law shows us that we need a Saviour in our lives
# We are justified by faith and not by works
# We are to walk by faith from the start to the finish, not on men, organisation or something else
# We are to be people of the word, to discern what is right and what is wrong
# We are to live under grace, not according to our works
# We are blessed to be a blessing
We serve out of a sense of gratefulness, not to gain approval
Friday, August 3, 2018
Live A Life Of Integrity
by Pastor Wilson
Is this what we should be doing?
Galatians 2:10-24
Paul wrote this book and is addressing Cephas
The gospel is extraordinary because it doesn't just save us but transform our entire christian life
Jews would not eat food prepared by the Gentiles because of Jewish custom and dietary requirements
Paul was challenging Peter's integrity on his inconsistency living among the Gentiles that leads to hypocrisy. This issue of inconsistency is also happening to believers today.
#1 There was a lack of deep transformational change (Deep Change Effect from Acts 10)
- Peter has to overcome his personal biasesness in order to minister to Gentiles
- Starting from Cornelius family
- Yet this episode still did not change Peter inside out
- This is same as what we are facing today between our flesh and the Holy Spirit
- It is not deep enough to change us inside out
#2 Peer pressure can conform us, can shift ones behaviour in order to be accepted by the majority group
So what can we do today as believers?
1st : To please God
2nd : To stand up against the opposite belief. Would you rather lose that job or lose God's favour upon your life?
How should we live a christ-centred life?
vs 17-19
- Paul declared clearly that he has stopped living for the law
- the law only brought death and not life
vs 20
- Paul declared he has been crucified with Christ
- We no longer live as master of our lives, it means Christ has 100% King and Master of our lives
@ Jesus Christ has full lordship over my life
@ Christ has access into every areas of our lives that no one sees, our secret chamber
Because when we live for Christ, we can resist ungodly peer pressure and live our lives completely
Is this what we should be doing?
Galatians 2:10-24
Paul wrote this book and is addressing Cephas
The gospel is extraordinary because it doesn't just save us but transform our entire christian life
Jews would not eat food prepared by the Gentiles because of Jewish custom and dietary requirements
Paul was challenging Peter's integrity on his inconsistency living among the Gentiles that leads to hypocrisy. This issue of inconsistency is also happening to believers today.
#1 There was a lack of deep transformational change (Deep Change Effect from Acts 10)
- Peter has to overcome his personal biasesness in order to minister to Gentiles
- Starting from Cornelius family
- Yet this episode still did not change Peter inside out
- This is same as what we are facing today between our flesh and the Holy Spirit
- It is not deep enough to change us inside out
#2 Peer pressure can conform us, can shift ones behaviour in order to be accepted by the majority group
So what can we do today as believers?
1st : To please God
2nd : To stand up against the opposite belief. Would you rather lose that job or lose God's favour upon your life?
How should we live a christ-centred life?
vs 17-19
- Paul declared clearly that he has stopped living for the law
- the law only brought death and not life
vs 20
- Paul declared he has been crucified with Christ
- We no longer live as master of our lives, it means Christ has 100% King and Master of our lives
@ Jesus Christ has full lordship over my life
@ Christ has access into every areas of our lives that no one sees, our secret chamber
Because when we live for Christ, we can resist ungodly peer pressure and live our lives completely
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Exttaordinary Weapon II
Pasror Calvin Lee
2 corinthians 10:4
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds
Praise is about expressng your love, thankfulness, that he is good and faithful, praise is about thanking God for who He is
2 chronicles 20:2-4
Some people came and told him, "A huge army is coming from Edom to fight against you. They have come across the Dead Sea. They are already in Hazazon Tamar." Hazazon Tamar is also called En Gedi. Jehoshaphat was alarmed. So he decided to ask the Lord for advice. He told all of the people of Judah to go without eating. The people came together to ask the Lord for help. In fact, they came from every town in Judah to pray to him
2 chronicles 20:15
Jahaziel said, "King Jehoshaphat, listen! All you who live in Judah and Jerusalem, listen! The Lord says to you, 'Do not be afraid. Do not lose hope because of this huge army. The battle is not yours. It is mine
2 chronicles 20:21-22
Jehoshaphat asked the people for advice. Then he appointed men to sing to the Lord. He wanted them to praise him because of his glory and holiness. They marched out in front of the army. They said, "Give thanks to the Lord. His faithful love continues forever." They began to sing and praise him. Then the Lord hid some men and told them to wait. He wanted them to attack the people of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir. They had gone into Judah and attacked it. But they lost the battle
Instead of sending his best commandos, King Jehoshaphat sent singers to praise and worship the lord declaring His love endures forever>
1. Praise shifts our focus to God (v18)
- Jehoshaphat bowed down with his face toward the ground. All of the people of Judah and Jerusalem also bowed down. They worshiped the Lord
Praise and worship is not a ritual, it is not religionisy. it is our expression for who God is and what He has done
2. Praise anchors our praise in God (v20)
- Early in the morning all of the people left for the Desert of Tekoa. As they started out, Jehoshaphat stood up. He said, "Judah, listen to me! People of Jerusalem, listen to me! Have faith in the Lord your God. He'll take good care of you. Have faith in his prophets. Then you will have success."
Praise is faith in action
Praise before the crisis, praise during the crisis, praise after the crisis
Praise God even when our prayers are not answered
3. Praise is more than feeling (v21)
- Jehoshaphat asked the people for advice. Then he appointed men to sing to the Lord. He wanted them to praise him because of his glory and holiness. They marched out in front of the army. They said, "Give thanks to the Lord. His faithful love continues forever."
Habakkuk 3:17-18
The fig trees might not bud. The vines might not produce any grapes. The olive crop might fail. The fields might not produce any food. There might not be any sheep in the pens. There might not be any cattle in the barns. But I will still be glad because of what the Lord has done. God my Savior fills me with joy
4. praise open the door for us to experience the favor of God (v22)
- They began to sing and praise him. Then the Lord hid some men and told them to wait. He wanted them to attack the people of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir. They had gone into Judah and attacked it. But they lost the battle.
Is about the enthronment of God, exalt God
Why some believers are more prone to praise God than others?
1. Theological
- it is about knowing God, study about God and that inspire us to praise and worship Him
2. Relational
- The more we experience God, the more we can't help but to praise and worship God
- It is not a style, it is a relationship
3. Personal
- depends on individual commitment tp praise and worship Him. In good times or bad
Confession over Condition
- We are called to always praise the lord, to comfess praise and thanksgiving to the Lord
Hebrews 13:15
So let us never stop offering to God our praise through Jesus. Let us offer it as the fruit of lips that say they believe in him
The more you Complain, murmur, criticise the more you are building strongholds in yourself
Proverbs 6:2
Don't be trapped by what you have said. Don't be caught by the words of your mouth
Commitment over Consideration
i. satan will keep you from praising the lord
ii. Make a commitment to praise God no matter how the situation is, regardless of atmosphere, worship leaders, stage performance etc
iii. Make a commitment to keep the appointment with God on Sunday. Satan will cause you to Skip church over the slightest reason
2 corinthians 10:4
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds
Praise is about expressng your love, thankfulness, that he is good and faithful, praise is about thanking God for who He is
2 chronicles 20:2-4
Some people came and told him, "A huge army is coming from Edom to fight against you. They have come across the Dead Sea. They are already in Hazazon Tamar." Hazazon Tamar is also called En Gedi. Jehoshaphat was alarmed. So he decided to ask the Lord for advice. He told all of the people of Judah to go without eating. The people came together to ask the Lord for help. In fact, they came from every town in Judah to pray to him
2 chronicles 20:15
Jahaziel said, "King Jehoshaphat, listen! All you who live in Judah and Jerusalem, listen! The Lord says to you, 'Do not be afraid. Do not lose hope because of this huge army. The battle is not yours. It is mine
2 chronicles 20:21-22
Jehoshaphat asked the people for advice. Then he appointed men to sing to the Lord. He wanted them to praise him because of his glory and holiness. They marched out in front of the army. They said, "Give thanks to the Lord. His faithful love continues forever." They began to sing and praise him. Then the Lord hid some men and told them to wait. He wanted them to attack the people of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir. They had gone into Judah and attacked it. But they lost the battle
Instead of sending his best commandos, King Jehoshaphat sent singers to praise and worship the lord declaring His love endures forever
- Jehoshaphat bowed down with his face toward the ground. All of the people of Judah and Jerusalem also bowed down. They worshiped the Lord
Praise and worship is not a ritual, it is not religionisy. it is our expression for who God is and what He has done
2. Praise anchors our praise in God (v20)
- Early in the morning all of the people left for the Desert of Tekoa. As they started out, Jehoshaphat stood up. He said, "Judah, listen to me! People of Jerusalem, listen to me! Have faith in the Lord your God. He'll take good care of you. Have faith in his prophets. Then you will have success."
Praise is faith in action
Praise before the crisis, praise during the crisis, praise after the crisis
Praise God even when our prayers are not answered
3. Praise is more than feeling (v21)
- Jehoshaphat asked the people for advice. Then he appointed men to sing to the Lord. He wanted them to praise him because of his glory and holiness. They marched out in front of the army. They said, "Give thanks to the Lord. His faithful love continues forever."
Habakkuk 3:17-18
The fig trees might not bud. The vines might not produce any grapes. The olive crop might fail. The fields might not produce any food. There might not be any sheep in the pens. There might not be any cattle in the barns. But I will still be glad because of what the Lord has done. God my Savior fills me with joy
4. praise open the door for us to experience the favor of God (v22)
- They began to sing and praise him. Then the Lord hid some men and told them to wait. He wanted them to attack the people of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir. They had gone into Judah and attacked it. But they lost the battle.
Is about the enthronment of God, exalt God
Why some believers are more prone to praise God than others?
1. Theological
- it is about knowing God, study about God and that inspire us to praise and worship Him
2. Relational
- The more we experience God, the more we can't help but to praise and worship God
- It is not a style, it is a relationship
3. Personal
- depends on individual commitment tp praise and worship Him. In good times or bad
Confession over Condition
- We are called to always praise the lord, to comfess praise and thanksgiving to the Lord
Hebrews 13:15
So let us never stop offering to God our praise through Jesus. Let us offer it as the fruit of lips that say they believe in him
The more you Complain, murmur, criticise the more you are building strongholds in yourself
Proverbs 6:2
Don't be trapped by what you have said. Don't be caught by the words of your mouth
Commitment over Consideration
i. satan will keep you from praising the lord
ii. Make a commitment to praise God no matter how the situation is, regardless of atmosphere, worship leaders, stage performance etc
iii. Make a commitment to keep the appointment with God on Sunday. Satan will cause you to Skip church over the slightest reason
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Mind Games - Doubt to fear
by Pastor Wilson
Matthew 11:2-6
John's Presupposition
# John was imprisoned by Herod Antipas for opposing Herod's marriage to his sister in law
# He was eager to know the latest update of Jesus
1. John was the older cousin of Jesus, even as foetus John leapt in Elizabeth's womb
# John baptized Jesus and witnessed God affirming Jesus as the Son of God
John 3:10-12
As the last Old Testament prophet, John had high expectation on Jesus messianic ministry
# John was affected by all that he heard about Jesus
# John began to wonder if he had proclaimed the right Messiah in Jesus
# John wondered if he had lived his life in vain
This happen because John had an expectation of Jesus, John could not see the true intent of Jesus while going through the crisis
# Jesus cited messianic quotations from Isaiah 29, 35 and 61
# Jesus first coming was for the reconciliation between God and Man
- Jesus second coming will be for judgement day
# John took offense because of a partial understanding of God's purpose through Christ
# John framed his understanding from his perspective and not from Christ's
> Equpped with a right understanding of God (theology)
> Read the bible regularly, hide the word in your heart and the Holy Spirit can speak to you in times of need
> Participate in life-on-life, cell group. There is no perfect cell leader, be part of the group even though you have been wounded before. Let the Holy Spirit guide you and heal you
> Be ready for inner life formation
- it doesn't mean when you walk in God's will, everything will be smooth sailing
- it doesn't mean God is not with you
- we can sense His opening door when everything is shut, we sense His presence, we sense His Shalom......
- God is not only interested in doing something through you. God is also interested in doing something IN YOU
- Before He can do through you, He must do something great WITHIN you first
- Do not despise what God is doing in your life right now
- Allow the Holy Spirit to mould you to fulfil God's ultimate destiny in you
Matthew 11:2-6
John's Presupposition
# John was imprisoned by Herod Antipas for opposing Herod's marriage to his sister in law
# He was eager to know the latest update of Jesus
1. John was the older cousin of Jesus, even as foetus John leapt in Elizabeth's womb
# John baptized Jesus and witnessed God affirming Jesus as the Son of God
John 3:10-12
As the last Old Testament prophet, John had high expectation on Jesus messianic ministry
# John was affected by all that he heard about Jesus
# John began to wonder if he had proclaimed the right Messiah in Jesus
# John wondered if he had lived his life in vain
This happen because John had an expectation of Jesus, John could not see the true intent of Jesus while going through the crisis
# Jesus cited messianic quotations from Isaiah 29, 35 and 61
# Jesus first coming was for the reconciliation between God and Man
- Jesus second coming will be for judgement day
# John took offense because of a partial understanding of God's purpose through Christ
# John framed his understanding from his perspective and not from Christ's
> Equpped with a right understanding of God (theology)
> Read the bible regularly, hide the word in your heart and the Holy Spirit can speak to you in times of need
> Participate in life-on-life, cell group. There is no perfect cell leader, be part of the group even though you have been wounded before. Let the Holy Spirit guide you and heal you
> Be ready for inner life formation
- it doesn't mean when you walk in God's will, everything will be smooth sailing
- it doesn't mean God is not with you
- we can sense His opening door when everything is shut, we sense His presence, we sense His Shalom......
- God is not only interested in doing something through you. God is also interested in doing something IN YOU
- Before He can do through you, He must do something great WITHIN you first
- Do not despise what God is doing in your life right now
- Allow the Holy Spirit to mould you to fulfil God's ultimate destiny in you
Monday, June 18, 2018
The purpose of Fatherhood
By Pastor Scott
Genesis 3:1-13
Adam was there with Eve when the serpent was having a conversation with Eve, yet he did not do anything
Purpose of Fatherhood is to be a :
1. Protector
# Men are called to protect like the Father in heaven.
- What happens when the father is passive like Adam's attitude?
- Adam was suppose to teach and instruct Eve, by influencing her well
Genesis 2:15-18
2. Progenitor
# "to beget forth", "originator"
i. God created man to be father - the progenitor of generations
Father determines the types of offspring and influence the progress of the offspring. Father Needs to build a very strong foundation of the family and children, by going deep into the word
ii. Progenitor in fatherhood means you need to produce quality
iii. Progenitor in fatherhood means he is the foundation of the family
To be a progenitor we need to invest eternally
- Ask the holy spirit to help evaluate your life, the current situation you are in
There is a battle that requires the men to rise up
3. Priest
# Pray & Declare God's blessing on your family
Sin is not the greatest hindrance to God, it is the inability to pray
2 chro 7:14
We need to speak to the mountain with authority
Adam aka Fathers today :
Adam did not *lead* while the serpent was tempting Eve.
Adam did not *correct* Eve when Eve had the wrong information about the tree.
Adam did not *stop* Eve when she reached out to pick the fruit
Adam did not *refuse* the fruit when Eve offered him
Adam did not *own* up to his mistake when God questioned both of them regarding the fruit
Genesis 3:1-13
Adam was there with Eve when the serpent was having a conversation with Eve, yet he did not do anything
Purpose of Fatherhood is to be a :
1. Protector
# Men are called to protect like the Father in heaven.
- What happens when the father is passive like Adam's attitude?
- Adam was suppose to teach and instruct Eve, by influencing her well
Genesis 2:15-18
2. Progenitor
# "to beget forth", "originator"
i. God created man to be father - the progenitor of generations
Father determines the types of offspring and influence the progress of the offspring. Father Needs to build a very strong foundation of the family and children, by going deep into the word
ii. Progenitor in fatherhood means you need to produce quality
iii. Progenitor in fatherhood means he is the foundation of the family
To be a progenitor we need to invest eternally
- Ask the holy spirit to help evaluate your life, the current situation you are in
There is a battle that requires the men to rise up
3. Priest
# Pray & Declare God's blessing on your family
Sin is not the greatest hindrance to God, it is the inability to pray
2 chro 7:14
We need to speak to the mountain with authority
Adam aka Fathers today :
Adam did not *lead* while the serpent was tempting Eve.
Adam did not *correct* Eve when Eve had the wrong information about the tree.
Adam did not *stop* Eve when she reached out to pick the fruit
Adam did not *refuse* the fruit when Eve offered him
Adam did not *own* up to his mistake when God questioned both of them regarding the fruit
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Intimacy - The cries of God
by Pastor Ben
We can have an intimate relationship with God when we realise God yearns to draw us to himself and we respond by cultivating a deep desire for his presence
Exo 20:18-21
Moses drew near to God whereas the Israelites chose to stay at a distance
1. Spirituality is about intimacy
- spirituality is not merely about salvation, knowledge and blessings
- it Is about knowing God and growing a personal relationship with Him
- Spirituality is about
Exo 7:16
Spirituality is about Relationship, intimacy and connection
2. God's yearning for intimacy
- James 4:5
He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us
- Men holds a very special place in God's heart more than any other creature.
- God's relentless pursuit for us
Gen 3:9
"Adam, where are you? Why are you hiding from me?"
- Psalm 8:3-4
When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers the moon and the stars you set in place
- what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?
- Psalm 139:17-18
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.....
3. God's immense joy to be with us
- Luke 15:11-32
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, threw his arms around him and kissed him... Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate."
- regardless of our spiritual state
- James 4:8
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
(God always initiates and He will stop there because he wants men to notice him. Men will decide whether he want to take his first step to meet God)
- God's pattern is to make a step towards us and if we respond, He would take another step and draws close.
- Moses burning bush experience where he took the step towards the burning bush is an example of God take first step and Moses take the next
- Samuel experience as a young boy where he heard God calling him is another example.
4. Man's respond to intimacy
Exo 33:15
Then Moses said to him, "If your presence does not go with is, do not send us up from here. "
A. we need to increase our spiritual appetite
- we are hungry only if we have not eaten
Proverbs 27:7
A person who is full refuses honey, but even bitter food taste sweet to the hungry
- we are hungry for what we feed on
1 John 5:21
Dear children, keep away from anything that might....
B. Respond by taking time to soak in his presence
Psalm 27:4
One thing's ask from the lord, this only do i seek, that I may dwell in the house of the lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the lord and to seek him in his temple.
We can have an intimate relationship with God when we realise God yearns to draw us to himself and we respond by cultivating a deep desire for his presence
Exo 20:18-21
Moses drew near to God whereas the Israelites chose to stay at a distance
1. Spirituality is about intimacy
- spirituality is not merely about salvation, knowledge and blessings
- it Is about knowing God and growing a personal relationship with Him
- Spirituality is about
Exo 7:16
Spirituality is about Relationship, intimacy and connection
2. God's yearning for intimacy
- James 4:5
He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us
- Men holds a very special place in God's heart more than any other creature.
- God's relentless pursuit for us
Gen 3:9
"Adam, where are you? Why are you hiding from me?"
- Psalm 8:3-4
When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers the moon and the stars you set in place
- what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?
- Psalm 139:17-18
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.....
3. God's immense joy to be with us
- Luke 15:11-32
"But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him, threw his arms around him and kissed him... Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate."
- regardless of our spiritual state
- James 4:8
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.
(God always initiates and He will stop there because he wants men to notice him. Men will decide whether he want to take his first step to meet God)
- God's pattern is to make a step towards us and if we respond, He would take another step and draws close.
- Moses burning bush experience where he took the step towards the burning bush is an example of God take first step and Moses take the next
- Samuel experience as a young boy where he heard God calling him is another example.
4. Man's respond to intimacy
Exo 33:15
Then Moses said to him, "If your presence does not go with is, do not send us up from here. "
A. we need to increase our spiritual appetite
- we are hungry only if we have not eaten
Proverbs 27:7
A person who is full refuses honey, but even bitter food taste sweet to the hungry
- we are hungry for what we feed on
1 John 5:21
Dear children, keep away from anything that might....
B. Respond by taking time to soak in his presence
Psalm 27:4
One thing's ask from the lord, this only do i seek, that I may dwell in the house of the lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the lord and to seek him in his temple.
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Extraordinary Weapon
By Pastor Calvin Lee
Extraordinary weapon!
1. Prayer is our extraordinary weapon, one of the weapon that God has given us
2 cor 10:3-4
- weapons (prayer is one of them)
- warfare (we're in a spiritual warfare)
- carnal (we cannot use anything that is of the flesh because we are in a spiritual warfare, in order to fight the strongholds in the spiritual realm, we pray)
2 chronicles 20:1-15
5 impt lessons to learn :
1. A fearful man calling on the faithful God (v3)
2. Corporate prayer brings about a corporate anointing (v4)
Acts 4:31
Matthew 21:13
3. Focus on God and not on the Giants (v5, 6) Prayer shifts our focus from the problem to God
What happens when it doesn't work or it doesn't happen when you pray?
- is he still in control? Yes
- is he still a mighty God? Yes
- is he still faithful? Yes
4. Acknowledgement that he can and we cannot (v12)
5. The battle belongs to him, not me (v15)
2 chronicles 20:3
When men and women of God called out to God, they always experience an extraordinary intervention of God in a special way
Extraordinary weapon!
1. Prayer is our extraordinary weapon, one of the weapon that God has given us
2 cor 10:3-4
- weapons (prayer is one of them)
- warfare (we're in a spiritual warfare)
- carnal (we cannot use anything that is of the flesh because we are in a spiritual warfare, in order to fight the strongholds in the spiritual realm, we pray)
2 chronicles 20:1-15
5 impt lessons to learn :
1. A fearful man calling on the faithful God (v3)
2. Corporate prayer brings about a corporate anointing (v4)
Acts 4:31
Matthew 21:13
3. Focus on God and not on the Giants (v5, 6) Prayer shifts our focus from the problem to God
What happens when it doesn't work or it doesn't happen when you pray?
- is he still in control? Yes
- is he still a mighty God? Yes
- is he still faithful? Yes
4. Acknowledgement that he can and we cannot (v12)
5. The battle belongs to him, not me (v15)
2 chronicles 20:3
When men and women of God called out to God, they always experience an extraordinary intervention of God in a special way
Friday, May 25, 2018
He Is the Lord of the Harvest
by Rev David Lim
He is the Lord of the harvest
- I am His servant
Luke 10:2
Mark 10:45
Philippians 2:7
This will change your life which will change the world
1. He is the Lord of the Harvest
- We are all wounded healers
- Learn to dedicate our situations to Jesus
- We all make mistakes
- God is in charge
- God is responsible for the final harvest (children, career, my life, family)
- my job is just to obey, let the Holy Spirit leads me
2. Servanthood is the best path to authority
- Jesus was our example
- All organisations have strong and weak points. But servants work best within structures
- You do everything to glorify God's glory, not to please man
- You rejoice in suffering, it shapes you. You expect spiritual warfare
- Motivation and passion do not die, greatest privilege - to serve God (no matter how people treat you or say to you)
- You rely on the Holy Spirit
- Better for team building - people see your integrity (no hidden agenda)
- Servants learn from every type of situation and grow
- Leads to humility : I am an unprofitable servant. No need to compare with others (nothing to prove, nothing to hide, nothing to lose)
- Highest designation in scripture
3. Being God's servant frees you
Romans 6:17-18
Romans 8:1
All good things will come to pass
Romans 8:28
You're free to represent Christ in every situation
We are free to overcome
Romans 8:37
God, I am not limited because you are not limited.
He is the Lord of the harvest
- I am His servant
Luke 10:2
Mark 10:45
Philippians 2:7
This will change your life which will change the world
1. He is the Lord of the Harvest
- We are all wounded healers
- Learn to dedicate our situations to Jesus
- We all make mistakes
- God is in charge
- God is responsible for the final harvest (children, career, my life, family)
- my job is just to obey, let the Holy Spirit leads me
2. Servanthood is the best path to authority
- Jesus was our example
- All organisations have strong and weak points. But servants work best within structures
- You do everything to glorify God's glory, not to please man
- You rejoice in suffering, it shapes you. You expect spiritual warfare
- Motivation and passion do not die, greatest privilege - to serve God (no matter how people treat you or say to you)
- You rely on the Holy Spirit
- Better for team building - people see your integrity (no hidden agenda)
- Servants learn from every type of situation and grow
- Leads to humility : I am an unprofitable servant. No need to compare with others (nothing to prove, nothing to hide, nothing to lose)
- Highest designation in scripture
3. Being God's servant frees you
Romans 6:17-18
Romans 8:1
All good things will come to pass
Romans 8:28
You're free to represent Christ in every situation
We are free to overcome
Romans 8:37
God, I am not limited because you are not limited.
5 Languages of Love
Pastor Sophia
5 Languages of Love :
1. Words of Affirmation
2. Physical Touch
3. Acts of Service
4. Spending Time together
5. Gifts
5 Languages of Love :
1. Words of Affirmation
2. Physical Touch
3. Acts of Service
4. Spending Time together
5. Gifts
Saturday, May 5, 2018
Jerusalem - God's Eternal City
by Pastor Wilson
2 Samuel 5:1-7
David first reigned in Judah for 7 years. David declared Jerusalem as the capital of Israel after he captured the Jebusites
City of David or Zion is referring to Jerusalem, then or now
# Jerusalem, Zion and the City of David was mentioned more than 1000 times in the bible
Revelation 21:10
"Then he carried me away in a vision. The Spirit took me to a huge, high mountain. He showed me Jerusalem, the Holy City. It was coming down out of heaven from God."
Jerusalem is a capital for God's people all the way from Old Testament to the New Testament
Any news or events that stems from Jerusalem today is always pointing to something that will happen to the world. The world has no excuse to say they don't know Jerusalem
Zechariah 8:1-8
"The word of the Lord Almighty came to me. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I am very jealous for Zion; I am burning with jealousy for her.” This is what the Lord says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the Faithful City, and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain.” This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each of them with cane in hand because of their age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” This is what the Lord Almighty says: “It may seem marvelous to the remnant of this people at that time, but will it seem marvelous to me?” declares the Lord Almighty. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I will save my people from the countries of the east and the west. I will bring them back to live in Jerusalem; they will be my people, and I will be faithful and righteous to them as their God.” The Jews had just returned from Babylonian exile and they were returning to Jerusalem after 70 years for their disobedience. The prophet Zechariah is exalting the jews to rebuild the city and the first thing being rebuilt will be the temple of God.
God can disperse a nation overnight and He can rebuild the city in accordance to his timing
Restoration of Jerusalem :
In 1867, Sir Charles Warren discovered the ancient City of David. This validated the bible that Jerusalem was the Capital of Israel.
In 1917, British Empire liberated Jerusalem from 400 years of Ottomans rule. The Balfour Declaration established a national home for the Jews in Israel.
In 1967, Israel launched the 6-day ware and captured Jerusalem from Jordan.
In 2017, USA recognized Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel.
# God restores Israel's inheritance of Jerusalem through the Jubilee cycle of 50 years
United Nations today rejected Jerusalem as Israel's Capital, against President Trump. However, this is in accordance to God's word.
Psalm 2:1-6
"Why do the nations plan evil together? Why do they make useless plans? The kings of the earth rise up against the Lord. The rulers of the earth join together against his anointed king. “Let us break free from their chains,” they say. “Let us throw off their ropes.” The God who sits on his throne in heaven laughs. The Lord makes fun of those rulers and their plans. When he is angry, he warns them. When his anger blazes out, he terrifies them. He says to them, "I have placed my king on my holy mountain of Zion.”
Zechariah 12:1-4; 8-9
"This is a prophecy. It is the Lord’s message about Israel. The Lord spreads out the heavens. He lays the foundation of the earth. He creates the human spirit within a person. He says, “Jerusalem will be like a cup in my hand. It will make all the surrounding nations drunk from the wine of my anger. Judah will be attacked by its enemies. So will Jerusalem. At that time all the nations on earth will gather together against Jerusalem. Then it will become like a rock that can’t be moved. All the nations that try to move it will only hurt themselves. On that day I will fill every horse with panic. I will make every rider crazy,” announces the Lord. “I will watch over the people of Judah. But I will make all the horses of the nations blind."
"At that time I will be like a shield to those who live in Jerusalem. Then even the weakest among them will be great warriors like David. And David’s family line will be like the angel of the Lord who leads them. On that day I will begin to destroy all the nations that attack Jerusalem."
Jerusalem will continue to serve as God's endtime clock to the world
As believers, our first response is to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We should live a missional life ready for Christ's return, to give an account of our life when Christ return. Let's pray and support Israel's salvation. Not a prayer for no war, because a war is imminent. Pray for God's Shalom upon Israel.
Why must we pray for Israel?
Psalm 122:6
Because in Israel today, although there is 6.5 million Jews living there, only less than 0.5% are born-again Jews.
2 Samuel 5:1-7
David first reigned in Judah for 7 years. David declared Jerusalem as the capital of Israel after he captured the Jebusites
City of David or Zion is referring to Jerusalem, then or now
# Jerusalem, Zion and the City of David was mentioned more than 1000 times in the bible
Revelation 21:10
"Then he carried me away in a vision. The Spirit took me to a huge, high mountain. He showed me Jerusalem, the Holy City. It was coming down out of heaven from God."
Jerusalem is a capital for God's people all the way from Old Testament to the New Testament
Any news or events that stems from Jerusalem today is always pointing to something that will happen to the world. The world has no excuse to say they don't know Jerusalem
Zechariah 8:1-8
"The word of the Lord Almighty came to me. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I am very jealous for Zion; I am burning with jealousy for her.” This is what the Lord says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the Faithful City, and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain.” This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each of them with cane in hand because of their age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” This is what the Lord Almighty says: “It may seem marvelous to the remnant of this people at that time, but will it seem marvelous to me?” declares the Lord Almighty. This is what the Lord Almighty says: “I will save my people from the countries of the east and the west. I will bring them back to live in Jerusalem; they will be my people, and I will be faithful and righteous to them as their God.” The Jews had just returned from Babylonian exile and they were returning to Jerusalem after 70 years for their disobedience. The prophet Zechariah is exalting the jews to rebuild the city and the first thing being rebuilt will be the temple of God.
God can disperse a nation overnight and He can rebuild the city in accordance to his timing
Restoration of Jerusalem :
In 1867, Sir Charles Warren discovered the ancient City of David. This validated the bible that Jerusalem was the Capital of Israel.
In 1917, British Empire liberated Jerusalem from 400 years of Ottomans rule. The Balfour Declaration established a national home for the Jews in Israel.
In 1967, Israel launched the 6-day ware and captured Jerusalem from Jordan.
In 2017, USA recognized Jerusalem as the Capital of Israel.
# God restores Israel's inheritance of Jerusalem through the Jubilee cycle of 50 years
United Nations today rejected Jerusalem as Israel's Capital, against President Trump. However, this is in accordance to God's word.
Psalm 2:1-6
"Why do the nations plan evil together? Why do they make useless plans? The kings of the earth rise up against the Lord. The rulers of the earth join together against his anointed king. “Let us break free from their chains,” they say. “Let us throw off their ropes.” The God who sits on his throne in heaven laughs. The Lord makes fun of those rulers and their plans. When he is angry, he warns them. When his anger blazes out, he terrifies them. He says to them, "I have placed my king on my holy mountain of Zion.”
Zechariah 12:1-4; 8-9
"This is a prophecy. It is the Lord’s message about Israel. The Lord spreads out the heavens. He lays the foundation of the earth. He creates the human spirit within a person. He says, “Jerusalem will be like a cup in my hand. It will make all the surrounding nations drunk from the wine of my anger. Judah will be attacked by its enemies. So will Jerusalem. At that time all the nations on earth will gather together against Jerusalem. Then it will become like a rock that can’t be moved. All the nations that try to move it will only hurt themselves. On that day I will fill every horse with panic. I will make every rider crazy,” announces the Lord. “I will watch over the people of Judah. But I will make all the horses of the nations blind."
"At that time I will be like a shield to those who live in Jerusalem. Then even the weakest among them will be great warriors like David. And David’s family line will be like the angel of the Lord who leads them. On that day I will begin to destroy all the nations that attack Jerusalem."
Jerusalem will continue to serve as God's endtime clock to the world
As believers, our first response is to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We should live a missional life ready for Christ's return, to give an account of our life when Christ return. Let's pray and support Israel's salvation. Not a prayer for no war, because a war is imminent. Pray for God's Shalom upon Israel.
Why must we pray for Israel?
Psalm 122:6
Because in Israel today, although there is 6.5 million Jews living there, only less than 0.5% are born-again Jews.
Friday, May 4, 2018
An Extraordinary Appointment
by Pastor Calvin Lee
There are many situations in life that people term as coincidence but we as people of God will say this is divine appointment orchestrated throught the Holy Spirit.
1. We are the recipient
2. We are the conduit where God use us and the Holy Spirit empower us
Philip in the New Testament
Acts 8:26-29
# A detour directed by the Spirit
(we all have the holy spirit)
# A divine setup
(Eunuch was searching for the truth)
# A dedicated messenger of God
Big Idea :
Holy Spirit directs and guides us to where He wants us if only we will listen and obey
6 important truths :
1. God is the first mover
2. God is interested in individuals
(He wants everyone to know Him and experience Him)
3. Only God can satisfy the deep needs of the soul
(the Ethiopian eunuch is a wealthy person with status in the society however, he's still searching for truth in life deep down in the soul)
8cc that the world seeks :
Credit Card
Country Club
Chauvered Car
Cool Cash
Chic Condo
Challenging Career
China Connection
Clever Children
Believers seek :
Christ-Centered
(Only Jesus Christ can satisfy our soul)
4. God wants to work through us
(Philip is not an apostle or pastor but God use him)
5. God will fulfill His purposes through different extraordinary appointment
6. God is able to turn a situation around by extraordinary intervention
An unexpected Detour, Delay, Change, Crisis, Event etc can become an Extraordinary Appointment
There are many situations in life that people term as coincidence but we as people of God will say this is divine appointment orchestrated throught the Holy Spirit.
1. We are the recipient
2. We are the conduit where God use us and the Holy Spirit empower us
Philip in the New Testament
Acts 8:26-29
# A detour directed by the Spirit
(we all have the holy spirit)
# A divine setup
(Eunuch was searching for the truth)
# A dedicated messenger of God
Big Idea :
Holy Spirit directs and guides us to where He wants us if only we will listen and obey
6 important truths :
1. God is the first mover
2. God is interested in individuals
(He wants everyone to know Him and experience Him)
3. Only God can satisfy the deep needs of the soul
(the Ethiopian eunuch is a wealthy person with status in the society however, he's still searching for truth in life deep down in the soul)
8cc that the world seeks :
Credit Card
Country Club
Chauvered Car
Cool Cash
Chic Condo
Challenging Career
China Connection
Clever Children
Believers seek :
Christ-Centered
(Only Jesus Christ can satisfy our soul)
4. God wants to work through us
(Philip is not an apostle or pastor but God use him)
5. God will fulfill His purposes through different extraordinary appointment
6. God is able to turn a situation around by extraordinary intervention
An unexpected Detour, Delay, Change, Crisis, Event etc can become an Extraordinary Appointment
Saturday, April 21, 2018
Being Rich Towards God
Pastor Bee Ngor
Luke 12:14-18
1. To have a personal relationship with God
2. To have a right understanding of life and possessions
Luke 8:14
John 17:3
Jeremiah 9:23-24
Psalm 66:10-12
Eternal life starts the moment we are born again, not after we die
3. To live not only for the Here and Now
1 Corinthians 15:32
Ephesians 5:15-17
B. Living Rich Towards God
1. Give to God what in the first place belongs to Him
1 Chronicles 29:9
2. Give to others
Deuteronomy 15:10-11
Luke 6:38
1 Timothy 6:18-19
C. Choosing to be Rich Towards God
Luke 9:51-54
Joshua 24:15
Luke 12:31
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.
- Jim Elliott -
Luke 12:14-18
1. To have a personal relationship with God
2. To have a right understanding of life and possessions
Luke 8:14
John 17:3
Jeremiah 9:23-24
Psalm 66:10-12
Eternal life starts the moment we are born again, not after we die
3. To live not only for the Here and Now
1 Corinthians 15:32
Ephesians 5:15-17
B. Living Rich Towards God
1. Give to God what in the first place belongs to Him
1 Chronicles 29:9
2. Give to others
Deuteronomy 15:10-11
Luke 6:38
1 Timothy 6:18-19
C. Choosing to be Rich Towards God
Luke 9:51-54
Joshua 24:15
Luke 12:31
He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.
- Jim Elliott -
Saturday, April 14, 2018
Extraordinary Giving / Offering
Pastor Wilson
Give wholehearted worship to God and let him transform our ordinary offerings into extraordinary ones
1 Samuel 1:2-11
#1 Hannah was barren (v2)
#2 Elkanah demonstrated unwavering love for Hannah (v5)
#3 Peninah was relentless in her provocation (v7)
It's time to let go to let God bring relief and deliverance
#5 God remembered Hannah (v19) #6 Hannah gave birth to Samuel (v20)
God's divine timing in answering Hannah's prayer. It is not Hannah's perfect timing
When it's God's time, He will intervene. We must have the confidence where He knows what is the best for us
#7 Elkanah did not nullify Hannah's vow (v23)
Why Hannah had an amazing faith?
1. She immediately gave Samuel to the lord after he was weaned
2. She gave Samuel to the lord in an ungodly environment. Her promise to God was not conditioned in a negative environment
God did not shortchange Hannah after she gave and dedicated Samuel. The lord gave her 5 more children. Our God does not shortchange us
Samuel was not just for Hannah. Samuel was for God's greater purpose in His kingdom
May we never be afraid to release the "Samuels" in our lives to God
There will never be a good time to surrender your "samuels" to God, because there will always be good reasons and excuses to hold back the giving to God
Give wholehearted worship to God and let him transform our ordinary offerings into extraordinary ones
1 Samuel 1:2-11
#1 Hannah was barren (v2)
#2 Elkanah demonstrated unwavering love for Hannah (v5)
#3 Peninah was relentless in her provocation (v7)
It's time to let go to let God bring relief and deliverance
#5 God remembered Hannah (v19) #6 Hannah gave birth to Samuel (v20)
God's divine timing in answering Hannah's prayer. It is not Hannah's perfect timing
When it's God's time, He will intervene. We must have the confidence where He knows what is the best for us
#7 Elkanah did not nullify Hannah's vow (v23)
Why Hannah had an amazing faith?
1. She immediately gave Samuel to the lord after he was weaned
2. She gave Samuel to the lord in an ungodly environment. Her promise to God was not conditioned in a negative environment
God did not shortchange Hannah after she gave and dedicated Samuel. The lord gave her 5 more children. Our God does not shortchange us
Samuel was not just for Hannah. Samuel was for God's greater purpose in His kingdom
May we never be afraid to release the "Samuels" in our lives to God
There will never be a good time to surrender your "samuels" to God, because there will always be good reasons and excuses to hold back the giving to God
Friday, March 23, 2018
Chai 3:16
Pastor Benny Prasad
Unbelief is not of money but of value
Faith is not operational in our lives because of unbelief. We already stop believing even before we start the faith journey
Do you have faith that God can move?
Selfishness is so much part of our human culture
When you are praying, is it a selfish prayer or selfless prayer?
When there is revenge there is no love. Unforgiveness is very tough. Forgiveness is a win-win situation
It is good to be convicted because then we can grow up and come out
Unbelief is not of money but of value
Faith is not operational in our lives because of unbelief. We already stop believing even before we start the faith journey
Do you have faith that God can move?
Selfishness is so much part of our human culture
When you are praying, is it a selfish prayer or selfless prayer?
When there is revenge there is no love. Unforgiveness is very tough. Forgiveness is a win-win situation
It is good to be convicted because then we can grow up and come out
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Extraordinary Step
Extraordinary step
Pastor Calvin lee
Psalm 17:5
My steps have held to your paths, my feet have not stumbled
Psalm 37:23
Proverbs 16:9
Luke 15:11-16
There are 2 very contrasting steps that the prodigal son took :
1. Away from the father's house
Luke 15:12
(father give me my share)
# A shocking request
# A selfish request
2. Towards the father's house
# Regret!
v17 when he came to his senses
# Realization!
v17 how many of my father's hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!
# Resolve!
v18
I will
# Repentance!
v19
No longer worthy to be called your son
v20
He got up
First, Reconciliation!
v20
He (the father) ran to his son
Second, Restoration!
v21
Put a ring on his finger
Third, Reward!
v23
fattened calf
Key lessons that we can learn together :
1. Watch your steps!
Proverbs 14:15
The simple believe anything but the prudent give thought to their steps
2. If you don't take the next step, you're going to get stuck in a rut
NEXT
NOW
NEVER
3. Faith is more than believing. Faith is more than thinking and talking. Faith is action.
4. From time to time, God calls each of us to step out of our comfort zone
Proverbs 3:5-6
5. Be obedient with one small step and God will give you the next step.... And the next
Martin Luther jr
Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase
6. Any step we take in Christ is always on solid ground. All other ground is sinking sand
7. God meets us when we take a step towards Him.
Pastor Calvin lee
Psalm 17:5
My steps have held to your paths, my feet have not stumbled
Psalm 37:23
Proverbs 16:9
Luke 15:11-16
There are 2 very contrasting steps that the prodigal son took :
1. Away from the father's house
Luke 15:12
(father give me my share)
# A shocking request
# A selfish request
2. Towards the father's house
# Regret!
v17 when he came to his senses
# Realization!
v17 how many of my father's hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death!
# Resolve!
v18
I will
# Repentance!
v19
No longer worthy to be called your son
v20
He got up
First, Reconciliation!
v20
He (the father) ran to his son
Second, Restoration!
v21
Put a ring on his finger
Third, Reward!
v23
fattened calf
Key lessons that we can learn together :
1. Watch your steps!
Proverbs 14:15
The simple believe anything but the prudent give thought to their steps
2. If you don't take the next step, you're going to get stuck in a rut
NEXT
NOW
NEVER
3. Faith is more than believing. Faith is more than thinking and talking. Faith is action.
4. From time to time, God calls each of us to step out of our comfort zone
Proverbs 3:5-6
5. Be obedient with one small step and God will give you the next step.... And the next
Martin Luther jr
Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase
6. Any step we take in Christ is always on solid ground. All other ground is sinking sand
7. God meets us when we take a step towards Him.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Extraordinary Catch
Pastor Calvin Lee
Luke 5:1-11
# ACT 1
Work hard but no result
- work hard without God factor
- working hard is needful but may not be good enough
- whatever we are seeking to catch, do not leave God out of the equation. Let Him be the good shepherd leading us all the way
Luke 5:5
"Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything"
Psalm 127:1
"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain."
# ACT 2
Trust and Obey
Luke 5:4
"Put out into deep water"
- stepping out into challenges, unknown or unfamiliar
- as we step out, we experience Him more and more, although it will not be easy
- don't just depend on our own human experience, or even expertise alone
- do it even when it does not make sense
Luke 5:5
"but because you say so, I will let down the nets"
# ACT 3
Abundance beyond expectation!
Luke 5:6-7
"They caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break"
"They came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink"
- where God leads, He always provides
- the impossible becomes possible when God is in it
# ACT 4
Beyond the blessing
Luke 5:8-11
"from now on you will fish for people"
- revelation brings deeper commitment
- occupation becomes a vocation
Billy Graham on Jesus : "Many people are willing to have Jesus as part of their lives as long as it doesn't cost them anything. They may even profess faith in Jesus and join a church. But Jesus to them is almost like an insurance policy - something they obtain and then forget about until they die. What keeps you from being a disciple?"
Luke 5:1-11
# ACT 1
Work hard but no result
- work hard without God factor
- working hard is needful but may not be good enough
- whatever we are seeking to catch, do not leave God out of the equation. Let Him be the good shepherd leading us all the way
Luke 5:5
"Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything"
Psalm 127:1
"Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain."
# ACT 2
Trust and Obey
Luke 5:4
"Put out into deep water"
- stepping out into challenges, unknown or unfamiliar
- as we step out, we experience Him more and more, although it will not be easy
- don't just depend on our own human experience, or even expertise alone
- do it even when it does not make sense
Luke 5:5
"but because you say so, I will let down the nets"
# ACT 3
Abundance beyond expectation!
Luke 5:6-7
"They caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break"
"They came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink"
- where God leads, He always provides
- the impossible becomes possible when God is in it
# ACT 4
Beyond the blessing
Luke 5:8-11
"from now on you will fish for people"
- revelation brings deeper commitment
- occupation becomes a vocation
Billy Graham on Jesus : "Many people are willing to have Jesus as part of their lives as long as it doesn't cost them anything. They may even profess faith in Jesus and join a church. But Jesus to them is almost like an insurance policy - something they obtain and then forget about until they die. What keeps you from being a disciple?"
Tuesday, February 27, 2018
Extraordinary Us
Pastor Lee Meng Cham
Ecclesiastes 3:13 That each of them may eat and drink, and find find satisfaction in all their toil - this is the gift of God
John 6:27
Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures....
1 Samuel 17:32-37
David said to Saul, "Don't let anyone lose hope because of that Philistine. I'll go out and fight him."
Saul replied, "You aren't able to go out there and fight that Philistine. You are too young. He's been a fighting man ever since he was a boy." But David said to Saul, "I've been taking care of my father's sheep. Sometimes a lion or a bear would come and carry off a sheep from the flock. Then I would go after it and hit it. I would save the sheep it was carrying in its mouth. If it turned around to attack me, I would grab hold of its hair. I would strike it down and kill it. In fact, I've killed both a lion and a bear. I'll do the same thing to this Philistine. He isn't even circumcised. He has dared the armies of the living God to fight him. "The Lord saved me from the paw of the lion. He saved me from the paw of the bear. And he'll save me from the powerful hand of this Philistine too." Saul said to David, "Go. And may the Lord be with you."
1. Exalt the name of the Lord
v45
David said to Goliath, "You are coming to fight against me with a sword, a spear and a javelin. But I'm coming against you in the name of the Lord who rules over all. He is the God of the armies of Israel. He's the one you have dared to fight against. (don't waste your life!) (I live for the pleasure in the work that the Lord has provided me)
- Be kingdom-minded v46-v47
(that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel)
(that all... )
"This very day the Lord will hand you over to me. I'll strike you down. I'll cut your head off. This very day I'll feed the bodies of the Philistine army to the birds of the air. I'll feed them to the wild animals. Then the whole world will know there is a God in Israel. "The Lord doesn't save by using a sword or a spear. And everyone who is here will know it. The battle belongs to the Lord. He will hand all of you over to us."
That Jesus be the centre of it all
- Be God-fearing
Romans 13:1-2
All of you must be willing to obey completely those who rule over you. There are no authorities except the ones God has chosen. Those who now rule have been chosen by God. So when you oppose the authorities, you are opposing those whom God has appointed. Those who do that will be judged.
# David served God when he served Jesse
# David served God when he served Saul
A. Recognise that the job that you are in is something that is a sacred calling from God
B. Connect your work with worship
C. Wherever you are, create a kingdom culture of grace, honour, trust, godliness, truth and justice
Exercise God's Resource
v38-v40
Then Saul dressed David in his own military clothes. He put a coat of armor on him. He put a bronze helmet on his head. David put on Saul's sword over his clothes. He walked around for a while in all of that armor because he wasn't used to it. "I can't go out there in all of this armor," he said to Saul. "I'm not used to it." So he took it off. Then David picked up his wooden staff. He went down to a stream and chose five smooth stones. He put them in the pocket of his shepherd's bag. Then he took his sling in his hand and approached Goliath.
- With wisdom.
Choosing the best that God has given us
Goliath : intimidating but ineffective, strong but sluggish, experienced but egotistic, commanding but conspicuous
Sling : flexible, agile, small but swift, fast & furious
- with excellence.
Do it your best unto the Lord
- Use what you know, even when it is unconventional
- Play to your strengths, not your presumptions
- improvise when needed
Luke 16:10
"Suppose you can be trusted with very little. Then you can be trusted with a lot. But suppose you are not honest with very little. Then you will not be honest with a lot.
Expect God's help
v37
"The Lord saved me from the paw of the lion. He saved me from the paw of the bear. And he'll save me from the powerful hand of this Philistine too." Saul said to David, "Go. And may the Lord be with you."
- we step up
v32
Let No Man's heart fail on account of him, your servant will go and fight with this philistine
- God steps in when we step up
v47
"The Lord doesn't save by using a sword or a spear. And everyone who is here will know it. The battle belongs to the Lord. He will hand all of you over to us."
The secret to David and our success
1 Samuel 18:14
In everything he (David) had great success, because the Lord was with him
1 Samuel 16:18
One of the servants said, "I've seen someone who knows how to play the harp. He is a son of Jesse from Bethlehem. He's a brave man. He would make a good soldier. He's a good speaker. He's very handsome. And the Lord is with him."
Ecclesiastes 3:13 That each of them may eat and drink, and find find satisfaction in all their toil - this is the gift of God
John 6:27
Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures....
1 Samuel 17:32-37
David said to Saul, "Don't let anyone lose hope because of that Philistine. I'll go out and fight him."
Saul replied, "You aren't able to go out there and fight that Philistine. You are too young. He's been a fighting man ever since he was a boy." But David said to Saul, "I've been taking care of my father's sheep. Sometimes a lion or a bear would come and carry off a sheep from the flock. Then I would go after it and hit it. I would save the sheep it was carrying in its mouth. If it turned around to attack me, I would grab hold of its hair. I would strike it down and kill it. In fact, I've killed both a lion and a bear. I'll do the same thing to this Philistine. He isn't even circumcised. He has dared the armies of the living God to fight him. "The Lord saved me from the paw of the lion. He saved me from the paw of the bear. And he'll save me from the powerful hand of this Philistine too." Saul said to David, "Go. And may the Lord be with you."
1. Exalt the name of the Lord
v45
David said to Goliath, "You are coming to fight against me with a sword, a spear and a javelin. But I'm coming against you in the name of the Lord who rules over all. He is the God of the armies of Israel. He's the one you have dared to fight against. (don't waste your life!) (I live for the pleasure in the work that the Lord has provided me)
- Be kingdom-minded v46-v47
(that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel)
(that all... )
"This very day the Lord will hand you over to me. I'll strike you down. I'll cut your head off. This very day I'll feed the bodies of the Philistine army to the birds of the air. I'll feed them to the wild animals. Then the whole world will know there is a God in Israel. "The Lord doesn't save by using a sword or a spear. And everyone who is here will know it. The battle belongs to the Lord. He will hand all of you over to us."
That Jesus be the centre of it all
- Be God-fearing
Romans 13:1-2
All of you must be willing to obey completely those who rule over you. There are no authorities except the ones God has chosen. Those who now rule have been chosen by God. So when you oppose the authorities, you are opposing those whom God has appointed. Those who do that will be judged.
# David served God when he served Jesse
# David served God when he served Saul
A. Recognise that the job that you are in is something that is a sacred calling from God
B. Connect your work with worship
C. Wherever you are, create a kingdom culture of grace, honour, trust, godliness, truth and justice
Exercise God's Resource
v38-v40
Then Saul dressed David in his own military clothes. He put a coat of armor on him. He put a bronze helmet on his head. David put on Saul's sword over his clothes. He walked around for a while in all of that armor because he wasn't used to it. "I can't go out there in all of this armor," he said to Saul. "I'm not used to it." So he took it off. Then David picked up his wooden staff. He went down to a stream and chose five smooth stones. He put them in the pocket of his shepherd's bag. Then he took his sling in his hand and approached Goliath.
- With wisdom.
Choosing the best that God has given us
Goliath : intimidating but ineffective, strong but sluggish, experienced but egotistic, commanding but conspicuous
Sling : flexible, agile, small but swift, fast & furious
- with excellence.
Do it your best unto the Lord
- Use what you know, even when it is unconventional
- Play to your strengths, not your presumptions
- improvise when needed
Luke 16:10
"Suppose you can be trusted with very little. Then you can be trusted with a lot. But suppose you are not honest with very little. Then you will not be honest with a lot.
Expect God's help
v37
"The Lord saved me from the paw of the lion. He saved me from the paw of the bear. And he'll save me from the powerful hand of this Philistine too." Saul said to David, "Go. And may the Lord be with you."
- we step up
v32
Let No Man's heart fail on account of him, your servant will go and fight with this philistine
- God steps in when we step up
v47
"The Lord doesn't save by using a sword or a spear. And everyone who is here will know it. The battle belongs to the Lord. He will hand all of you over to us."
The secret to David and our success
1 Samuel 18:14
In everything he (David) had great success, because the Lord was with him
1 Samuel 16:18
One of the servants said, "I've seen someone who knows how to play the harp. He is a son of Jesse from Bethlehem. He's a brave man. He would make a good soldier. He's a good speaker. He's very handsome. And the Lord is with him."
Saturday, February 3, 2018
Ordinary People Ordinary Act
Pastor Alvin
We want to empower people like you and me to do ordinary act of faith to seeing God move in extraordinary ways. The world perception of God :
- God is a God of favouritism
- God is a sexist
Joshua 2:1-24
Joshua first task is to conquer the promised land despite him having just taken over Israel from Moses.
4 Major Questions :
1. Why choose a lying Canaanite prostitute?
# Why a prostitute house?
- because it is not so obvious
- it's easy access to the wall
- it's also easy for the soldiers to search
# Why a prostitute?
- because they are abomination to the Jews
- they are the lowest grade people
- but we have a compassionate and inclusive God who chose to use Rahab
# Why lying?
- did you save a life?
- are you saving somebody else life or your life when you lie?
# Why a Canaanite?
- canaanite are hated by the Jews because they are barbaric and done terrible things to the Jews
- however Israel is just as sinful (Deut 9:6)
- Israel is used in the OT as instrument of blessing and it is not God favouritism (Deut 4:5-7)
# Why female?
- to show us that God favours female and male the same from the beginning
@@ God is a God of compassion. No one is too sinful : you are not forgotten @@
2. What did Rahab do that was commendable?
# Rahab remembered
- what God had done for the children of Israel (JOshua 2:10)
# Rahab confessed
- she is declaring her faith which is the personal name of God, ie Yahweh (Joshua 2:11)
# Rahab acted
- her act of keeping the spies requires taking rish of possible death (James 2:25-26)(Hebrews 11:31)
@@ God is a God of faith. No act is too small : you can make a difference @@
3. What was the outcome of Rahab faith?
# Rahab entire family was saved
# Rahab became the great grandmother of King David (Matthew 1:5)
# Rahab became the ancestor of Jesus
4 women mentioned in Matthew 1 :
Mary
Ruth (Gentile)
Tamar (Gentile)
Rahab (Gentile)
# this shows that our God is a God of Gentile and the Jews!
@@ God is a God of Grace. An extraordinary outcome : Live a grace-filled life @@
What does it mean for us?
# like Rahab...
- we need a saviour (I can't)
- as long as we see that we can save ourselves, we don't need a saviour
# We have a saviour (He did it)
# We are suppose to respond in faith like Rahab (Now I can)
* Remember
* Confess
* Act
How to act in faith?
* Trust : is about trusting God for our future
* Obedience : if there are areas in your life that is against your will, return to fellowship with God
* Take Risk : there's a risk in talking to your colleagues, starting new venture ....
We want to empower people like you and me to do ordinary act of faith to seeing God move in extraordinary ways. The world perception of God :
- God is a God of favouritism
- God is a sexist
Joshua 2:1-24
Joshua first task is to conquer the promised land despite him having just taken over Israel from Moses.
4 Major Questions :
1. Why choose a lying Canaanite prostitute?
# Why a prostitute house?
- because it is not so obvious
- it's easy access to the wall
- it's also easy for the soldiers to search
# Why a prostitute?
- because they are abomination to the Jews
- they are the lowest grade people
- but we have a compassionate and inclusive God who chose to use Rahab
# Why lying?
- did you save a life?
- are you saving somebody else life or your life when you lie?
# Why a Canaanite?
- canaanite are hated by the Jews because they are barbaric and done terrible things to the Jews
- however Israel is just as sinful (Deut 9:6)
- Israel is used in the OT as instrument of blessing and it is not God favouritism (Deut 4:5-7)
# Why female?
- to show us that God favours female and male the same from the beginning
@@ God is a God of compassion. No one is too sinful : you are not forgotten @@
2. What did Rahab do that was commendable?
# Rahab remembered
- what God had done for the children of Israel (JOshua 2:10)
# Rahab confessed
- she is declaring her faith which is the personal name of God, ie Yahweh (Joshua 2:11)
# Rahab acted
- her act of keeping the spies requires taking rish of possible death (James 2:25-26)(Hebrews 11:31)
@@ God is a God of faith. No act is too small : you can make a difference @@
3. What was the outcome of Rahab faith?
# Rahab entire family was saved
# Rahab became the great grandmother of King David (Matthew 1:5)
# Rahab became the ancestor of Jesus
4 women mentioned in Matthew 1 :
Mary
Ruth (Gentile)
Tamar (Gentile)
Rahab (Gentile)
# this shows that our God is a God of Gentile and the Jews!
@@ God is a God of Grace. An extraordinary outcome : Live a grace-filled life @@
What does it mean for us?
# like Rahab...
- we need a saviour (I can't)
- as long as we see that we can save ourselves, we don't need a saviour
# We have a saviour (He did it)
# We are suppose to respond in faith like Rahab (Now I can)
* Remember
* Confess
* Act
How to act in faith?
* Trust : is about trusting God for our future
* Obedience : if there are areas in your life that is against your will, return to fellowship with God
* Take Risk : there's a risk in talking to your colleagues, starting new venture ....
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Extraordinary God!
Pastor Calvin Lee
Ephesians 3:20-21
- a statement about God's greatness
- a statement about God's grace
- a statement about God's glory
1. Focus on the extraordinary God
v20
"Now to him who is able"
Instead of focusing on the bigness of God, we focus on the bigness of our problems! When we do that, we begin to make limiting statements.
2. Fathom the incredible resources of God for us
v20
"to do immeasurably"
John Scott :
He is able to do because he is not idle or inactive or dead
He can do what we ask for he hears us when we pray
He can do what we think for he knows what we think before we think
He can do all we ask or think because he knows it all and can do it all
He can do more than we ask or think because his plans are bigger than our plans
He can do much more than we ask or think because there is no holding back with God
He can do exceedingly abundantly beyond what we can imagine because he is the God of the superlative
3. Faith in our prayer-answering God
"More than all we ask or imagine"
Most important is the posture of our hearts when we pray, not outward physical posture.
A. Spiritual warfare
The devil doesn't want us to pray. He knows there is power when we start to pray
B. Spiritual apathy (lack of interest)
Due to busyness
C. Spiritual luke warmness
We allow other things to take priority over prayer
Learn to pray "kingdom prayer"
"I pray for boldness and that your word will spread...." instead of I, me, myself or when we need
4. Fire up as God is working in us
v20
"according to his power that is at work within us"
3 areas God is stretching us to do :
* Conforming us to the image of his son
* Enabling us to do that which, in our own efforts, is impossible
* Sustaining us by his grace
5. Forge ahead for the glory of God
v21
"to him be glory in the church"
We assist for the glory of God in everything we do. That includes managing our household, our children, our work, our husbands.....
Ephesians 3:20-21
- a statement about God's greatness
- a statement about God's grace
- a statement about God's glory
1. Focus on the extraordinary God
v20
"Now to him who is able"
Instead of focusing on the bigness of God, we focus on the bigness of our problems! When we do that, we begin to make limiting statements.
2. Fathom the incredible resources of God for us
v20
"to do immeasurably"
John Scott :
He is able to do because he is not idle or inactive or dead
He can do what we ask for he hears us when we pray
He can do what we think for he knows what we think before we think
He can do all we ask or think because he knows it all and can do it all
He can do more than we ask or think because his plans are bigger than our plans
He can do much more than we ask or think because there is no holding back with God
He can do exceedingly abundantly beyond what we can imagine because he is the God of the superlative
3. Faith in our prayer-answering God
"More than all we ask or imagine"
Most important is the posture of our hearts when we pray, not outward physical posture.
A. Spiritual warfare
The devil doesn't want us to pray. He knows there is power when we start to pray
B. Spiritual apathy (lack of interest)
Due to busyness
C. Spiritual luke warmness
We allow other things to take priority over prayer
Learn to pray "kingdom prayer"
"I pray for boldness and that your word will spread...." instead of I, me, myself or when we need
4. Fire up as God is working in us
v20
"according to his power that is at work within us"
3 areas God is stretching us to do :
* Conforming us to the image of his son
* Enabling us to do that which, in our own efforts, is impossible
* Sustaining us by his grace
5. Forge ahead for the glory of God
v21
"to him be glory in the church"
We assist for the glory of God in everything we do. That includes managing our household, our children, our work, our husbands.....
Thursday, January 11, 2018
Mind The Gap!
Pastor Meng Cham
2 Thessalonicans 1:11,12
Ezekiel 22:30-31
Big Idea :
Resolve to be the one to intercede on behalf of people doomed to destruction
1. The Power of one individual : "I searched for a man"
A. the willingness of God to collaborate with individuals (by warning or interceding)
2 Peter 3:9
B. the individuals who changed destinies (Jonah, Abraham, Esther, Moses...)
Psalm 106:23
3 groups of people that we should pray for :
1. People who will not pray
2. People who pray yet God is not listening (Isaiah 59:1,2) referring to prebelievers
3. Believers who have been knocked down so hard that they don't have energy or desire to pray anymore
2. The Power of a different Spirit : "... among them"
A. the prevailing decadence - "them"
i. Prophets - abusing their position
ii. Priests - failing to distinguish between holy and profane
iii. Princes - justifying illicit acquisition
iv. People - oppressing the marginalized
B. the persistent Defiance - "going against the grain" (Ezekiel 9:4)
i. Compassion - for the afflicted
ii. Contention - against the apathetic
# Culture
- Condemn
- Critique
- Copy
- Consume
- Create
3. The Power of a single-minded commitment : "... who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before me for the land"
A. see the danger - "be watchmen" (Matthew 13:11)
B. Sympathize with the vulnerable - "be good hosts" (Mark 2:17)
C. Start with small steps - "Be handymen" (Nehemiah)
i. Pray with Compassion
ii. Learn and Understand
iii. Act with Discernment
iv. Correct with Courage
Hebrew 7:25
Don't stand on the Sidelines!
Ezekiel 13:4,5
Do stand in the Gap!
Isaiah 58:12
2 Thessalonicans 1:11,12
Ezekiel 22:30-31
Big Idea :
Resolve to be the one to intercede on behalf of people doomed to destruction
1. The Power of one individual : "I searched for a man"
A. the willingness of God to collaborate with individuals (by warning or interceding)
2 Peter 3:9
B. the individuals who changed destinies (Jonah, Abraham, Esther, Moses...)
Psalm 106:23
3 groups of people that we should pray for :
1. People who will not pray
2. People who pray yet God is not listening (Isaiah 59:1,2) referring to prebelievers
3. Believers who have been knocked down so hard that they don't have energy or desire to pray anymore
2. The Power of a different Spirit : "... among them"
A. the prevailing decadence - "them"
i. Prophets - abusing their position
ii. Priests - failing to distinguish between holy and profane
iii. Princes - justifying illicit acquisition
iv. People - oppressing the marginalized
B. the persistent Defiance - "going against the grain" (Ezekiel 9:4)
i. Compassion - for the afflicted
ii. Contention - against the apathetic
# Culture
- Condemn
- Critique
- Copy
- Consume
- Create
3. The Power of a single-minded commitment : "... who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before me for the land"
A. see the danger - "be watchmen" (Matthew 13:11)
B. Sympathize with the vulnerable - "be good hosts" (Mark 2:17)
C. Start with small steps - "Be handymen" (Nehemiah)
i. Pray with Compassion
ii. Learn and Understand
iii. Act with Discernment
iv. Correct with Courage
Hebrew 7:25
Don't stand on the Sidelines!
Ezekiel 13:4,5
Do stand in the Gap!
Isaiah 58:12
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