by Pastor Joey Asher
In a biblical sense true friendship is more than just longevity or seeing each other weekly
It talks about laying down of one's life
Flourish - How life is meant to be
How many of us have true friends we can count on and not friends we can count?
Does connectedness means closeness?
Yes we're friendly with one another but not closeness.
We can be surrounded by people and still alone. We're comfortable with surfaced acquaintances and not comfortable to make ourselves vulnerable....
True friends ensure good and hard times, runs deeper and a lot more intentional
Big idea:
True friendship reflects God's covenantal love and helps us flourish in community
Have we confuse Connectivity with community?
What kind of friendship do we really need?
How do we actually build this friendship?
1 Samuel 18:1-4
After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt.
True friendship is tested by adversity and attested to by sacrifice
"Love' in this message is not between husband/wife, parents/children but of frienship love
Jonathan allegience to David was to God's purposes and not his own purposes
Covenantal friendship is about loyal allegience, first to God then to each other
Symbols of kingship:
- Jonathan Robe symbolise royal status
- Jonathan Armor marked him as heir to king saul throne
When we isolate ourselves we not only experience loneliness but also denying each other to how God's love for us
True friendship is marked by sacrificial love - a love that seeks the other person's good above your own
Proverbs 17:17
A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
The true test of friendship is hardship
Proverbs 17:17 encourage us to Be constant in every season
Build Kingdom friendships that goes beyond spouses, parents and children.
Going deeper is tough
We keep our guard up
Go beyond superficial
by doing that then we no longer share prayer request on value terms
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls
and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
1. True friendship produces greater fruitfulness
Ecclesiastes 4:9 (because they have a good reward for their toil)
2. True friendship lifts us up when we stumble
Ecclesiastes 4:10 (for if they fall, one will lift up his fellow)
3. True friendship comforts us in hardship
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (again, if two lie together they keep warm)
4. True friendship helps us stand firm together
Ecclesiastes 4:12 (a threefold cord is not quickly broken)
Ecclesiastes 4:10
Isolation isn't just painful but dangerous, and makes us vulnerable
Jonathan friendship with David foreshadowed the ultimate covenant friend
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
1 John 4:19
We love because he first loved us.
Kingdom friendships transform how we befriend each other because we moved from...
# minding our own business to gentle involvement
# transactional to covenantal friendships
# isolated to intentional relationships
If you let things happen naturally, nothing happens naturally
We have a chance to change the script
Monday, October 27, 2025
Sunday, October 19, 2025
Flourishing in your Vocation
by Ho Wan Leng
Numbers, matrix, financial performance, employees recruitment, exams scores, awards... Do more we bless, better still, do faster than the rest before everyone else, driven with achievement culture. No wonder AI took over....
Mid level manager at work, AI help to draft reports, within minutes. Report clean floor, thermomix cook in minutes, self driven taxis, buses, companion robots, track health and keep companies.
They cannot flourish because flourishing is uniquely human cos is tied to purpose and fruitfulness. They never replace the image of God in us. ai can analyse but no robots can pray wisdom and bring peace or shine Christ light in situation. Ai can complete task but only human can radiate Christ
In a world of common code, I am a special vessel
If all I do is functioning well, I can be sure I will be replace
We are called not just to function well but to flourish, no robot can replace you
Functioning well is doing your job with competence and diligence
Flourishing refers to the process of growing, thriving and becoming more like King Jesus
Bearing lasting fruit and impacting lives for God. We carry the fragrance of Christ, bring meaning, value and redemption into our marketplace.
Flourish not in what we do but Who we belong to
Big idea:
God wants us to thrive in our vocation beyond strife and performance
You're not your annual remuneration, profession or position but who God called me to be. To love Him, to serve him to glorify him
Before you were ever called to a vocation, you were called to Jesus to belong to Him as a child of God
Vocation is where I live out my calling, a God given assignment
You are called and not just employed. Your vocation is your God-given assignment
# Flourish beyond function
How do we flourish beyond function?
John 15:2-8
He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
we are formed by destiny and flourish in fruitfulness
1. Commanded to Abide
Dwell, remain and stay close. Without him you cannot bear fruit that last. Abiding is a permanent heart posture, not a seasonal visit. Do go looking busy, successful but lifeless and empty within. Abide deeper.... Dwelling more in his presence, his words and obedience to surrender
Only those who abide in Christ will truly flourish and bear fruit that last so that we will be formed for destiny
2. Formed for Destiny
Paul did not become an apostle overnight. The pathway to destiny is not speed by abiding in Christ.
Destiny is an outcome of formation. Formation always precedes promotion from God. He chiselled us, refined us so that our character can carry the weight of our calling. David was anointed three times, shepherd, king of Judah, king over all Israel
First Anointing : The Call
1 Samuel 16:1-13
The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” 2 But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.” The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ 3 Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.” 4 Samuel did what the Lord said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?” 5 Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. 6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.” 12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” 13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.
David spent 13 to 15 years in hiddeness. God's timing is always perfect and always specific. He learned faithfulness, tending to sheep, intimacy with God, courage to fight.
God shapes us in the hidden places so we can stand in the public places. God called us as we are but will not leave us as we are.
The Call of God prepares what we will be but Pasture prepares what we must become. Saul died and his sons took over.... David was anointed second time.
David continue to wait....
Second Anointing : The Promotion
2 Samuel 2:1-7
In the course of time, David inquired of the Lord. “Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” he asked. The Lord said, “Go up.” David asked, “Where shall I go?” “To Hebron,” the Lord answered. 2 So David went up there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal of Carmel. 3 David also took the men who were with him, each with his family, and they settled in Hebron and its towns. 4 Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and there they anointed David king over the tribe of Judah. When David was told that it was the men from Jabesh Gilead who had buried Saul, 5 he sent messengers to them to say to them, “The Lord bless you for showing this kindness to Saul your master by burying him. 6 May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this. 7 Now then, be strong and brave, for Saul your master is dead, and the people of Judah have anointed me king over them.”
You often get hired for what you can do, but you get fired for who you are. Your competence must be matched by your character.
Don't despise your hidden and waiting season which are testing ground. Your Competence must be matched by your character.
Third Anointing : The Destiny Fulfilled
1 Samuel 5:1-4
All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. 2 In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’” 3 When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years.
Psalm 78:72
And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.
Waiting seasons are shaping seasons. Marketplace is where we face Failure, injustice, competition...
If we desire the crown without communion, if we desire the platform without the presence, if we desire influence without intimacy, then we miss the heartbeat of Jesus' calling in our lives.
3. Flourish and be Fruitful
You bear fruit of character that impact lives, not personal success, carry eternal significance bringing glory to the Father.
WIN-N-E-R
A winner who evangelizes, disciples and reproduces
Marketplace work is kingdom work. Your workplace is your mission field
Reclaim home, marketplace, community for the lord, people need the lord. Jesus doesn't want your output but He wants your heart
Good and faithful servant, not good and productive servant
You are called to Abide
You are formed for Destiny
You are meant to Flourish
Flourishing is to be Faithful, fruitfulness and fullness in Christ
Numbers, matrix, financial performance, employees recruitment, exams scores, awards... Do more we bless, better still, do faster than the rest before everyone else, driven with achievement culture. No wonder AI took over....
Mid level manager at work, AI help to draft reports, within minutes. Report clean floor, thermomix cook in minutes, self driven taxis, buses, companion robots, track health and keep companies.
They cannot flourish because flourishing is uniquely human cos is tied to purpose and fruitfulness. They never replace the image of God in us. ai can analyse but no robots can pray wisdom and bring peace or shine Christ light in situation. Ai can complete task but only human can radiate Christ
In a world of common code, I am a special vessel
If all I do is functioning well, I can be sure I will be replace
We are called not just to function well but to flourish, no robot can replace you
Functioning well is doing your job with competence and diligence
Flourishing refers to the process of growing, thriving and becoming more like King Jesus
Bearing lasting fruit and impacting lives for God. We carry the fragrance of Christ, bring meaning, value and redemption into our marketplace.
Flourish not in what we do but Who we belong to
Big idea:
God wants us to thrive in our vocation beyond strife and performance
You're not your annual remuneration, profession or position but who God called me to be. To love Him, to serve him to glorify him
Before you were ever called to a vocation, you were called to Jesus to belong to Him as a child of God
Vocation is where I live out my calling, a God given assignment
You are called and not just employed. Your vocation is your God-given assignment
# Flourish beyond function
How do we flourish beyond function?
John 15:2-8
He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.
we are formed by destiny and flourish in fruitfulness
1. Commanded to Abide
Dwell, remain and stay close. Without him you cannot bear fruit that last. Abiding is a permanent heart posture, not a seasonal visit. Do go looking busy, successful but lifeless and empty within. Abide deeper.... Dwelling more in his presence, his words and obedience to surrender
Only those who abide in Christ will truly flourish and bear fruit that last so that we will be formed for destiny
2. Formed for Destiny
Paul did not become an apostle overnight. The pathway to destiny is not speed by abiding in Christ.
Destiny is an outcome of formation. Formation always precedes promotion from God. He chiselled us, refined us so that our character can carry the weight of our calling. David was anointed three times, shepherd, king of Judah, king over all Israel
First Anointing : The Call
1 Samuel 16:1-13
The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” 2 But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.” The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ 3 Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.” 4 Samuel did what the Lord said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?” 5 Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice. 6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.” 12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” 13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.
David spent 13 to 15 years in hiddeness. God's timing is always perfect and always specific. He learned faithfulness, tending to sheep, intimacy with God, courage to fight.
God shapes us in the hidden places so we can stand in the public places. God called us as we are but will not leave us as we are.
The Call of God prepares what we will be but Pasture prepares what we must become. Saul died and his sons took over.... David was anointed second time.
David continue to wait....
Second Anointing : The Promotion
2 Samuel 2:1-7
In the course of time, David inquired of the Lord. “Shall I go up to one of the towns of Judah?” he asked. The Lord said, “Go up.” David asked, “Where shall I go?” “To Hebron,” the Lord answered. 2 So David went up there with his two wives, Ahinoam of Jezreel and Abigail, the widow of Nabal of Carmel. 3 David also took the men who were with him, each with his family, and they settled in Hebron and its towns. 4 Then the men of Judah came to Hebron, and there they anointed David king over the tribe of Judah. When David was told that it was the men from Jabesh Gilead who had buried Saul, 5 he sent messengers to them to say to them, “The Lord bless you for showing this kindness to Saul your master by burying him. 6 May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this. 7 Now then, be strong and brave, for Saul your master is dead, and the people of Judah have anointed me king over them.”
You often get hired for what you can do, but you get fired for who you are. Your competence must be matched by your character.
Don't despise your hidden and waiting season which are testing ground. Your Competence must be matched by your character.
Third Anointing : The Destiny Fulfilled
1 Samuel 5:1-4
All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, “We are your own flesh and blood. 2 In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, ‘You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler.’” 3 When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned forty years.
Psalm 78:72
And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.
Waiting seasons are shaping seasons. Marketplace is where we face Failure, injustice, competition...
If we desire the crown without communion, if we desire the platform without the presence, if we desire influence without intimacy, then we miss the heartbeat of Jesus' calling in our lives.
3. Flourish and be Fruitful
You bear fruit of character that impact lives, not personal success, carry eternal significance bringing glory to the Father.
WIN-N-E-R
A winner who evangelizes, disciples and reproduces
Marketplace work is kingdom work. Your workplace is your mission field
Reclaim home, marketplace, community for the lord, people need the lord. Jesus doesn't want your output but He wants your heart
Good and faithful servant, not good and productive servant
You are called to Abide
You are formed for Destiny
You are meant to Flourish
Flourishing is to be Faithful, fruitfulness and fullness in Christ
Sunday, October 12, 2025
Flourishing
by Pastor Wilson Teo
Big Idea:
A flourishing life involve aligning one's heart and financial ambitions with King Jesus
Flourishing refers to the process of growing, thriving and becoming more like King Jesus
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Jesus teaching in verses 19-21 highlights the temporal nature of earthly possessions versus the everlasting value of heavenly treasures
Where are you building your treasures?
Matthew 6:22-25
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,[a] your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy,[b] your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Do Not Worry 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
A healthy eye represents a generous, single minded focus on God and His kingdom
A bad eye refers to a greedy, selfish or divided heart focusing on wealth or self-gain
Money (english)
=
Mammon (greek)
Mammon was personified as an evil spiritual being who stood in competition with God, drawing people away from Him
1. Where are you building your treasures?
2. Who are you serving in your heart?
Truth#1
We must focus on building kingdom treasures
Truth#2
We must serve King Jesus only
Kingdom treasures are what God will reward us with when we account our lives before Him
Matthew 5:12
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 6:26-27
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Revelation 22:12-13
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
Kingdom treasures will be given to you on judgement day
Parable of the Talents:
Matthew 25:14-30
“Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ 23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ 26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. 28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
Kingdom treasures are rewarded based on how we steward our earthly treasures to establish kingdom purposes
We can use the following to build Kingdome treasure:
1. Time
2. talent
3. Earthly treasure
God doesn't require our money because He is creator of all but God's kingdom work on earth requires the faithful giving of His people
Tithing was needed in the temple for three main areas:
1. The livelihood of the Levites and Priests who served in the temple (Numbers 18:19-24)
2. The celebration of the annual festival (Deuteronomy 14:22-27)
3. The poor and needy among the people (Deuteronomy 14:28-29)
Numbers 18:19-24
Whatever is set aside from the holy offerings the Israelites present to the Lord I give to you and your sons and daughters as your perpetual share. It is an everlasting covenant of salt before the Lord for both you and your offspring.” 20 The Lord said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites. 21 “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. 22 From now on the Israelites must not go near the tent of meeting, or they will bear the consequences of their sin and will die. 23 It is the Levites who are to do the work at the tent of meeting and bear the responsibility for any offenses they commit against it. This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. They will receive no inheritance among the Israelites. 24 Instead, I give to the Levites as their inheritance the tithes that the Israelites present as an offering to the Lord. That is why I said concerning them: ‘They will have no inheritance among the Israelites.’”
Deuteronomy 14:22-27
Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. 23 Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always. 24 But if that place is too distant and you have been blessed by the Lord your God and cannot carry your tithe (because the place where the Lord will choose to put his Name is so far away), 25 then exchange your tithe for silver, and take the silver with you and go to the place the Lord your God will choose. 26 Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice. 27 And do not neglect the Levites living in your towns, for they have no allotment or inheritance of their own.
Deuteronomy 14:28-29
At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year’s produce and store it in your towns, 29 so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
Believers give to the local church for three reasons:
1. The livelihood of the full time staff who lead and equip the faith community
2. The advancement of the Great Commission and the celebrative events of God's people
3. The support of the poor and needy in our community
All of us will give an account of our lives and how we steward the God-given resources on earth
Beware of evil spirit at work, materialism, evil system behind fame and wealth, lure you from kingdom purpose to build your own fame and wealth...
Matthew 25:14-29
“Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ 23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ 26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. 28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.
Romans 14:12
So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.
Hebrews 4:13
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
1 Peter 4:5
But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
Revelation 22:12
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.
Genesis 3:4-5
“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
King Jesus or the mammon of the world?
He is your saviour but is He also your King? King of your heart?
How does my king want me to give?
Big Idea:
A flourishing life involve aligning one's heart and financial ambitions with King Jesus
Flourishing refers to the process of growing, thriving and becoming more like King Jesus
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Jesus teaching in verses 19-21 highlights the temporal nature of earthly possessions versus the everlasting value of heavenly treasures
Where are you building your treasures?
Matthew 6:22-25
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy,[a] your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy,[b] your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Do Not Worry 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?
A healthy eye represents a generous, single minded focus on God and His kingdom
A bad eye refers to a greedy, selfish or divided heart focusing on wealth or self-gain
Money (english)
=
Mammon (greek)
Mammon was personified as an evil spiritual being who stood in competition with God, drawing people away from Him
1. Where are you building your treasures?
2. Who are you serving in your heart?
Truth#1
We must focus on building kingdom treasures
Truth#2
We must serve King Jesus only
Kingdom treasures are what God will reward us with when we account our lives before Him
Matthew 5:12
Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Matthew 6:26-27
Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life[a]?
Colossians 3:23-24
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Revelation 22:12-13
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
Kingdom treasures will be given to you on judgement day
Parable of the Talents:
Matthew 25:14-30
“Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ 23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ 26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. 28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. 30 And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
Kingdom treasures are rewarded based on how we steward our earthly treasures to establish kingdom purposes
We can use the following to build Kingdome treasure:
1. Time
2. talent
3. Earthly treasure
God doesn't require our money because He is creator of all but God's kingdom work on earth requires the faithful giving of His people
Tithing was needed in the temple for three main areas:
1. The livelihood of the Levites and Priests who served in the temple (Numbers 18:19-24)
2. The celebration of the annual festival (Deuteronomy 14:22-27)
3. The poor and needy among the people (Deuteronomy 14:28-29)
Numbers 18:19-24
Whatever is set aside from the holy offerings the Israelites present to the Lord I give to you and your sons and daughters as your perpetual share. It is an everlasting covenant of salt before the Lord for both you and your offspring.” 20 The Lord said to Aaron, “You will have no inheritance in their land, nor will you have any share among them; I am your share and your inheritance among the Israelites. 21 “I give to the Levites all the tithes in Israel as their inheritance in return for the work they do while serving at the tent of meeting. 22 From now on the Israelites must not go near the tent of meeting, or they will bear the consequences of their sin and will die. 23 It is the Levites who are to do the work at the tent of meeting and bear the responsibility for any offenses they commit against it. This is a lasting ordinance for the generations to come. They will receive no inheritance among the Israelites. 24 Instead, I give to the Levites as their inheritance the tithes that the Israelites present as an offering to the Lord. That is why I said concerning them: ‘They will have no inheritance among the Israelites.’”
Deuteronomy 14:22-27
Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. 23 Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and olive oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the Lord your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the Lord your God always. 24 But if that place is too distant and you have been blessed by the Lord your God and cannot carry your tithe (because the place where the Lord will choose to put his Name is so far away), 25 then exchange your tithe for silver, and take the silver with you and go to the place the Lord your God will choose. 26 Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the Lord your God and rejoice. 27 And do not neglect the Levites living in your towns, for they have no allotment or inheritance of their own.
Deuteronomy 14:28-29
At the end of every three years, bring all the tithes of that year’s produce and store it in your towns, 29 so that the Levites (who have no allotment or inheritance of their own) and the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns may come and eat and be satisfied, and so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.
Believers give to the local church for three reasons:
1. The livelihood of the full time staff who lead and equip the faith community
2. The advancement of the Great Commission and the celebrative events of God's people
3. The support of the poor and needy in our community
All of us will give an account of our lives and how we steward the God-given resources on earth
Beware of evil spirit at work, materialism, evil system behind fame and wealth, lure you from kingdom purpose to build your own fame and wealth...
Matthew 25:14-29
“Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. 15 To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag,[a] each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. 17 So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. 18 But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. 19 “After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. 20 The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’ 21 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 22 “The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ 23 “His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ 24 “Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’ 26 “His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest. 28 “‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. 29 For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.
Romans 14:12
So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.
Hebrews 4:13
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
1 Peter 4:5
But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
Revelation 22:12
“Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.
Genesis 3:4-5
“You will not certainly die,” the serpent said to the woman. 5 “For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
King Jesus or the mammon of the world?
He is your saviour but is He also your King? King of your heart?
How does my king want me to give?
Keep Growing, Keep Going
by Pastor John Lin
Big Idea:
Disciple-making is about multiplication. Investing in others to become disciple-makers
We must proclaim the message of King Jesus and repentance to all
Luke 24:44-47
He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
True disciple making make Jesus the centre of it all
What should we repent from?
Repent from sin against YW, from past, sinful lives, disloyalty to be king of my life, return to God's original design of a family of God, our inability to overcome and acknowledge Jesus as King, choose to forgo our desires to follow Jesus, instead of blaming external factor, education system, government, generational era, finger pointing, believing that change will never happen....
Starts from Every single person right from our heart, is not behaviour modification
Am I proclaiming King Jesus in my life?
We must faithfully and intentionally invest in others
Luke 24:48-49
You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 19:15-26
“He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 “The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.’ 17 “‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ 18 “The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.’ 19 “His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.’ 20 “Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.’ 22 “His master replied, ‘I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then didn’t you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?’ 24 “Then he said to those standing by, ‘Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.’ 25 “‘Sir,’ they said, ‘he already has ten!’ 26 “He replied, ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away.
Association without allegiance leads to apathy
The intention is to Test the servants character, loyalty and allegiance
Faithful stewardship is an evidence of your faith, loyalty to king Jesus and confidence in His gracious character until He comes back again. Don't leave things hanging, be intentional, do the hard work, have a strong desire to please the master. Only two responded out of the three. It wasn't a collective thing, it was an individual effort. Likewise don't carry the mindset of letting others do, because I'm not as skillful. What am I doing with the time, treasure, talents, am I doing anything with what God has given me?
When I do nothing, nothing happens.
Who are you faithfully and intentionally investing in today?
Big Idea:
Disciple-making is about multiplication. Investing in others to become disciple-makers
We must proclaim the message of King Jesus and repentance to all
Luke 24:44-47
He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” 45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
True disciple making make Jesus the centre of it all
What should we repent from?
Repent from sin against YW, from past, sinful lives, disloyalty to be king of my life, return to God's original design of a family of God, our inability to overcome and acknowledge Jesus as King, choose to forgo our desires to follow Jesus, instead of blaming external factor, education system, government, generational era, finger pointing, believing that change will never happen....
Starts from Every single person right from our heart, is not behaviour modification
Am I proclaiming King Jesus in my life?
We must faithfully and intentionally invest in others
Luke 24:48-49
You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”
Acts 1:8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Luke 19:15-26
“He was made king, however, and returned home. Then he sent for the servants to whom he had given the money, in order to find out what they had gained with it. 16 “The first one came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned ten more.’ 17 “‘Well done, my good servant!’ his master replied. ‘Because you have been trustworthy in a very small matter, take charge of ten cities.’ 18 “The second came and said, ‘Sir, your mina has earned five more.’ 19 “His master answered, ‘You take charge of five cities.’ 20 “Then another servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man. You take out what you did not put in and reap what you did not sow.’ 22 “His master replied, ‘I will judge you by your own words, you wicked servant! You knew, did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what I did not put in, and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then didn’t you put my money on deposit, so that when I came back, I could have collected it with interest?’ 24 “Then he said to those standing by, ‘Take his mina away from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.’ 25 “‘Sir,’ they said, ‘he already has ten!’ 26 “He replied, ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but as for the one who has nothing, even what they have will be taken away.
Association without allegiance leads to apathy
The intention is to Test the servants character, loyalty and allegiance
Faithful stewardship is an evidence of your faith, loyalty to king Jesus and confidence in His gracious character until He comes back again. Don't leave things hanging, be intentional, do the hard work, have a strong desire to please the master. Only two responded out of the three. It wasn't a collective thing, it was an individual effort. Likewise don't carry the mindset of letting others do, because I'm not as skillful. What am I doing with the time, treasure, talents, am I doing anything with what God has given me?
When I do nothing, nothing happens.
Who are you faithfully and intentionally investing in today?
Friday, October 3, 2025
Is it about us or not about us?
by Pastor Wilson
Lead like Jesus: The Greatest are the servants
Big Idea:
Disciple-making is not about position, power or status but serving others as Jesus did
Luke 9:46-48
An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. 48 Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”
Greatness is not found in the company of powerful and status but receiving least
In God's eyes, true greatness is about welcoming and valuing those whom the world often overlook - those with little social status or outward significance
Oikos : One's household, friends, relatives and people within one's social network and sphere of influence
Reach out to Dis-similar people who need God in their lives
Luke 18:15-17
People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Anyone who wants to enter the kingdom of God must have absolute dependence, complete trust and unwavering loyalty to King Jesus
Discipleship is the process of helping a believer become more like King Jesus in every part of one's being
Is a partnership with Holy Spirit to transform us
Deeper discipleship occurs when you go about your daily life, confronting the world's system, resist temptations, when Holy Spirit convicts you to forgives someone who hurt you deeply, continuously love a wayward and rebellious child who turn away from faith, gives during tough times....
Luke 22:24-30
A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25 Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. 26 But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. 27 For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 28 You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29 And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30 so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
In God's eyes, Greatness is seen through the willingness to follow Jesus' example in serving others with one's life
Lead like Jesus: The Greatest are the servants
Big Idea:
Disciple-making is not about position, power or status but serving others as Jesus did
Luke 9:46-48
An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. 48 Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”
Greatness is not found in the company of powerful and status but receiving least
In God's eyes, true greatness is about welcoming and valuing those whom the world often overlook - those with little social status or outward significance
Oikos : One's household, friends, relatives and people within one's social network and sphere of influence
Reach out to Dis-similar people who need God in their lives
Luke 18:15-17
People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
Anyone who wants to enter the kingdom of God must have absolute dependence, complete trust and unwavering loyalty to King Jesus
Discipleship is the process of helping a believer become more like King Jesus in every part of one's being
Is a partnership with Holy Spirit to transform us
Deeper discipleship occurs when you go about your daily life, confronting the world's system, resist temptations, when Holy Spirit convicts you to forgives someone who hurt you deeply, continuously love a wayward and rebellious child who turn away from faith, gives during tough times....
Luke 22:24-30
A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25 Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. 26 But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. 27 For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 28 You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29 And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30 so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
In God's eyes, Greatness is seen through the willingness to follow Jesus' example in serving others with one's life
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