molmam

What's Your Legacy ?

2009-09-01T10:00:00.005+08:00

A man is destined for a greatness begins his journey. It all started when he shared the dream he had with his brothers and father. A boy who was his father's favorite which was openly displayed by the Multi-colored coat he received from his father. He became a slave sold to Midianite merchants (took him to Egypt) by his own brothers. He was thrown into jail despite his faithfulness and righteousness. Whom I believe have learned that size is nothing; substance is everything. If you are thinking if this is Joseph son of Jacob, you are absolutely correct.

We live in a culture where the greater we are the better, where size or position is the measure of success. I believe Joseph had a great perspectives on life; he did all things in an excellent manner, one who of integrity and served the people around him. From a slave to Chief of the household. From a prisoner to the Head of all those in the prison. From a mere commoner/foreigner in Egypt to a man in charge of Egypt (2nd in command under Pharaoh). His righteousness, in the short run, seemingly was not rewarded.

His life went from lows to small highs. Yet, his faith in God remained remarkably matured. It was clear by the manner he interpreted the dreams of the cup bearer, baker and the Pharaoh when he said 'it is God who can interpret dreams' and gain no credit to himself. He walked in an unwavering faith, a heart which was not filled with criticism, unbelief, and doubt. Could he have been able to interpret his own dream and knew God's destiny for him. Thus holding on to the very promise from God even when all else seems to be at war with him. Has God forgotten suffering Joseph? He was hated, betrayed, sold, seduced, accused and even jailed. God who cares for us never loses track of us. God always made him prosperous/successful where ever he was.

The appointed time came for Joseph to rise up when he needed to interpret the pharaoh's dreams and wisely gave a strategy to save the nation from famine. A man of character formed in the depths of betrayal and conspiracy by his own brothers, ripped away from his own family, falsely accused by his Master's wife, subjected to an unfair punishment by his own master and forgotten by the man he comforted in jail. He never asked 'why does all these happen to me?' He was not depressed, never grumbled or murmured. He never questioned the benevolence of his God. Then one day, he rose to Power, Prestige and Fame. God had vindicated him and raised him up to an exalted position. He stored up corn during 7 yrs of plenty, married into the Priesthood of On, fed people during the seven years of famine, wisely instituted a income tax of one fifth except over the priests, it was he who brought the Twelve Tribes to Egypt, where in time they would grow to nationhood. Thus his entire family had joined him there in Egypt, to share the best of that place. Was this just a remarkable turn around or what God intended from very beginning when Joseph shared his dream. The brothers intended it for evil (selling him as a slave) but God intended it so that many lives can be saved. Yes, God didn't turn the situation around for Joseph, it was exactly how He wanted to bring Joseph into Egypt.

The end of a story signifies forgiveness and grace, family re-united and from which the blessings of God were appropriated and the remarkable fulfillment of God's promises and word. At 110, Joseph displayed a greater act of faith which extraordinary when he believed God's promise about the land inheritance. And his instructions and made the sons of Israel swear an oath to carry his bones out of Egypt to the promised land. He was later put in a coffin in Egypt. Then the next book of bible (Exodus) begins some 400 years later which God spoke of in Genesis 15: 13.

(FAST FORWARD to Joshua's time) Joseph's bones which the Israelites had brought up from Egypt, were buried at Shechem which today is known as Israel (the promised land). Joshua was Joseph's descendant and what a privilege it must have been for Joshua in fulfilling Joseph's desire and witnessing God's faithfulness generations after generations.

The chapters in the book of Genesis also reveals the importance of Joseph not only to the history of Israel, but also to the history of Egypt. That's Joseph's legacy! What legacy are you building?

Lord I lift My Friend to You

2009-08-06T16:35:00.005+08:00

A song of faith and reliance on our Lord =)Enjoy!

See you on Friday@ Day of His Power
Ps San

Special FREE Movie Screening of "FIREPROOF" at TCT

2009-07-16T15:22:00.007+08:00

Before you think, "Ah, it's just another cheesy Christian movie", let me share that I showed this movie to my cell group of 19-29 year old hot-blooded young men and many of them were in tears by the end of it. They may not admit it, but I certainly saw many red eyes! This is a powerful show which I believe will touch the hearts not just of married couples but also teach our youth how to treat their future partners with love and respect the way God has intended us to. Click on for a short review of the show.

Special FREE Movie Screening of "FIREPROOF" @ TOUCH Community Theatre
4 July (Sat), 7.30pm (In English with Mandarin Subtitles)
11 July (Sat), 3.00pm (In English)

Dr Ted Baehr of Movieguide wrote this review: FIREPROOF is an incredibly gripping, compelling, heartrending, transformational story about saving a marriage that is on the rocks. Kirk Cameron stars as Caleb Holt, a fire chief in a small town who gets respect from everyone except his wife. Katherine, played by Erin Bethea is the public relations officer of the local hospital. Caleb and Katherine fight about everything. Their marriage seems to have no hope, but Caleb’s father asks him to take 40 days to work through a personal journal to change the way he treats Katherine. Caleb agrees, but Katherine is already interested in a doctor at the hospital. Only faith in Jesus Christ and repentance can save their relationship.

The ending to FIREPROOF is powerful, emotional and in many ways unexpected. The Kendrick brothers, who also made FACING THE GIANTS with help from their church in Albany, Georgia, display an incredible amount of talent. Their story is perfectly plotted. Kirk Cameron does an excellent job turning Caleb into a real person. Despite its low budget, FIREPROOF is a stirring presentation of the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the power of God’s amazing grace.

=) What if His People Pray- Casting Crowns

2009-07-13T15:47:00.005+08:00

A beautiful song to bless your heart, as we go through this season of 40 days of prayer and fast.

Let's lift up and dust our sword; and PRAY

Be blessed and be a blessing.

=) Ps San

Eunice's Wedding 18 April 09

2009-04-17T15:39:00.006+08:00

Weddings are always special as they symbolise the love and commitment that two people are prepared to give to each other till the end of their days. Of course, it becomes even more special when the groom is one's brother, and the bride, a close sister-in-Christ. For both Eunice and Sebastian, I believe weddings are also about the community of friends and relatives. Most of you would have heard Eunice inviting you to her wedding tomorrow. If you didn't, know that you are! (from Eunice) Join me in sharing in their joy and celebration tomorrow. :)

Cheers,
Joshua

Session 12, Pastor Lawrence Khong

2009-04-12T12:04:00.001+08:00

Destined for the throne (the blood of the crown)

Blood at the crossroads

§ Because we believe God for greater things and therefore we choose the blood at the crossroads.

§ Every decision we make to do certain things to glorify Jesus instead of satisfying our own will (which goes in the opposite direction), we’re claiming the power of the blood shed at the crossroads!

Blood of the crown

§ THE CROWN OF FRUITFULESS!

§ Romans 8:30 “And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified.” = GOD WANTS TO GLORIFY US!

§ God is exceptionally proud of you! Excited over you! Dances over you! He wants to glory you! He wants to put the crown on you! You are destined for the throne!

§ John 3:17 “For God did not send his son into the world to condemn the world.” = GOD DOES NOT WANT TO SHAME US! Never, ever, his intention at all!

§ We have the AUTHORITY AND POWER because Jesus has already shed blood on the crown!

Jesus took the crown of thorns so that he can give you back the crown of glory! So what next?

§ Put it on!

The overcomers! Who are they? These overcomers who are destined for the throne?

§ THE OVERCOMER, WHO DOES NOT GIVE IN TO THE MOMENTARY PLEASURES, TEMPTATIONS, ETC.

§ Revelations 3:21 “To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on m throne, just as I overcame and sat wit my Father on his throne.”

§ Revelations 12:11 “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb…”

1. Destined to reflect God - CHARACTER

§ Romans 8:29 “… that we look more and more like God …”

§ 2 Corinthians 3:18 “…we can be more glorious tomorrow than today! Because we will grow from glory to glory...”

§ Galatians 5:22-23 “…seven fruits of the spirit…”

§ Psalm 8:5 “…God has designed us to share his glory and honour…”

§ Psalm 149:4 “…you are special in the sight of God, sharing his glory…”

§ Proverbs 10:25 “When the storm passed… the righteous will stand firm…”

§ Proverbs 10:29 “The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous…”

2. Destined to reign with God - CONTROL

§ Ephesians 2:6 “… God raise us up… IT IS DONE!”

§ FORGET ABOUT WHAT YOU CAN DO WHAT YOU CANNOT DO… It is about God!

§ Ephesians 1:18-23 “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, ¹⁹and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, ²⁰which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, ²¹far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. ²²And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, ²³which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”

§ NOT IN ARROGANCE, BUT IN CONFIDENCE, BECAUSE I WEAR THE CROWN THAT GOD GIVES ME, BECAUSE I AM A CHILD OF GOD, BECAUSE JESUS HAS SHED BLOOD ON THE CROSS, ON THE CROWN!

3. Destined to revel in his glory – CELEBRATION

§ Paul Billheimer “Destined for the throne” PRAY AND PRAISE ALWAYS!

§ Psalm 149:6-9 “…to praise God is a double-edged sword”

§ PUT ON THE CROWN EVERYDAY!

Ezekiel 36:26 “(God says) I will give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you, I will remove from you your heart of stone, and give you a heart of flesh.”

§ Remove your old heart, cold heart, stony heart, old desires, your old habits

§ STONY HEARTS

Slow to action even if you do hear God

§ HEART OF FLESH

Submissive - obedient to God’s will
Sensitive - to sins and dangers
A heart that can enjoy no matter what circumstances
A heart that can love all man no matter how fallen they are

§ New spirit + new heart = new life = renewed by the Holy Spirit

§ New spirit + new heart = new will, passions, desires, and even sorrows too

DO YOU WANT THIS HEART OF FLESH?

Session 14, Pastor Lawrence Khong

2009-04-12T12:03:00.001+08:00

There is power in the blood of Jesus

Revelations 12:11 “They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.”

Ÿ When we’re hiding in Christ, the Devil’s attacks cannot reach us!

Ÿ Because Jesus will take in all the attacks from the Devil!

Ephesians 1:7 “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace”

Hebrews 12:24 “and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks better than the blood of Abel.”

Spiritual warfare is NOT you yourself fighting the dragon, the Devil. You will die, man!

It’s by the BLOOD OF JESUS, to redeem yourself, and to redeem the people and situations you pray for!

It is NOT YOU, it is the POWER OF THE BLOOD OF JESUS.

Session 13, Daniel Khong

2009-04-12T12:00:00.001+08:00

Chasing after the wind makes life meaningless!

Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 “Meaningless! Meaningless!... Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”

§ The more we pursue the things that this life can offer, the more we find that it is empty, and meaningless.

§ You can never be satisfied!

3 reasons why life is meaningless / Chasing after the wind

1. Without a purpose in God, life is meaningless.

2. Without the fear of the Lord, life is meaningless.

3. Without the cross, life is meaningless.

1. Without a purpose in God, life is meaningless.

Colossians 1:16 “For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him”

§ Only the inventor can tell you what the invention is for…

§ The invention itself can never tell you what its own purpose is for!

§ God, our inventor and creator, sees the COMPLETE picture of our lives

§ We as the inventions, we just see little pixels of our lives!

§ SO WHAT SHOULD WE DO? – We should realign our lives with God’s planned destiny and purpose for us

2. Without the fear of the Lord, life is meaningless.

Fear of the Lord -> Gives us wisdom & leads us in the direction that God wants us to go to

§ Ecclesiastes 12:13 “..we must fear God and keep his commandments…”

§ Proverbs 1:7 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”

§ Psalm 111:10 “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”

§ Proverbs 10:27 “The fear of the Lord adds length to life...”

§ Proverbs 14:27 “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life…”

§ Proverbs 16:6 “…through the fear of the LORD a man avoids evil”

§ Proverbs 19:23 “The fear of the Lord leads to life: THEN ONE RESTS CONTENT, UNTOUCHED BY TROUBLE.”

§ Proverbs 15:16 “Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.”

Hence, choose to fear and follow the Lord?

§ YES = you’ll have the protection and covering of the Lord.

§ NO = without God, we seek our own direction but we will somehow, never find it! Even if you have success, not the full potential, not the entire success that God has planned for you to have.

3. Without the cross, life is meaningless. – THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE CROSS

§ He COMPLETED THE WORK and gave us the POWER TO DO THINGS WE NEED TO DO and reminds that no matter what happens HE HAS GIVEN US HIS LOVE = John 3:16

§ Therefore, the cross has the power to SET US FREE FROM ALL OUR PAST

Session 11, Pastor Lawrence Khong

2009-04-12T11:48:00.006+08:00

Paradigm Shift -> How to do evangelism? (PART 2) – cont’d from Session 9

3. EQUIPMENT – are we equipped?

§ Put everyone in cell groups – in a community of love and protection

§ Each of us should have a personal testimony to share

§ Share the John 3:16 diagram

§ Everyone should know the simplest prayer to lead people to the Lord

4. GET GOING – how do I get it going and keep it going?

§ Initiate a structure, environment and culture

o Focus of evangelism should be built AROUND THE HARVEST CYCLES:

§ April – “Let’s have a Good Friday!” (CELLS)

§ May – “QQS and banquet for internationals” (BLESSING)

§ August – show? (CELEBRATION)

§ December – “I’ll be home for Christmas” / “My Hope Singapore” (CHRISTMAS)

§ Give a nudge to leadership and planning

5. FINALLY – there is a need to unlearn the “E” word…

§ Matthew 4:18, 19 “…They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 19 Come follow me and I’ll make you fishers of men”

§ Matthew 13:47, 48 “… the Kingdom of heaven is LIKE A NET that was let down” – so that we can have all kinds of people in our community, because God loves all Man, and not just a certain category of people.i

§ “I caught ya!” / “I got ya!” à SCARY YA KNOW!

§ Evangelism is the work of community, not some hunting game!

Session 10, Pastor Cesar Castellanos

2009-04-12T11:34:00.005+08:00

Victory over the enemy

3 weapons we can use to win the battle against the enemy

1. Love

2. Confession

3. Our life’s brokenness (TO DIE, COMPLETELY… in Christ)

§ Don’t keep even a little bit of your old self, old habits

§ LEAVE IT ALL BEHIND

§ Eg your quick temper / irritatibility… If you know you’re the kind who will not say or do nice things when irritated, then just keep quiet! Talk only when you are at peace!

§ Galatians 2:20 “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me…”

Yes, there is a great spiritual battle going on. So how?

OVERCOME IT ALL, OVERCOME THE ENEMY WITH THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB.

§ Exodus 12:2123 “… it was the blood of the Passover lamb which was put over the door frames that protected the lives that are living in those households …”

§ Jesus came back to be this lamb… Hebrews 13:12 “And so Jesus also suffered outside the city gate to make the people holy through his own blood.”

Thank God It's Good Friday

2009-04-10T21:50:00.005+08:00

As we celebrate Good Friday,I am very blessed by the sacrificial love of God for us. Heard this song during a baptism service this morning. The lyrics of the song aptly told of the love of Christ for us.

=) May the Lord open our hearts and embrace the love of God afresh.

Ps San

* I have translated the lyrics into English, hope it does not dilute the meaning.

在十字架上，你為我捨命，On the cross of Calvary, you sacrificed your life for me
受鞭刑，使我得醫治， Received the lashes, so that I can be healed
所有的罪惡，你為我擔當，For all my sins, you paid the penalty
受刑罰，使我得平安， Received the punishment, so that I can find peace
何等犧牲的愛， What a sacrifical love!
聖潔神子成為贖罪祭。 Holy Son of God to become a sin offering
何等能力，勝死亡權勢 What power demonstrated! Overcoming the dominion of death
今我屬你永活的真神， From now onwards, I live for you, o living God
在這個時刻，我心只有你，At this moment, there is only you in my heart
我的主，我唯一的愛。 My Lord, my only love.

Session 9: Paradigm Shift -> How to do evangelism? (PART 1) (Ps Lawrence Khong)

2009-04-10T12:15:00.006+08:00

1. Map – Do I have a map?
People come to Christ through a process of change:

2. Strategy – How do we get there?
The cell group church believes in:

Community Evangelism
- The community an individual is in affects one’s decision. Therefore, it is crucial to provide the community to the individuals.
- Jesus did not just die for one individual , Jesus died for a church – a community of us!

Relationship Evangelism
- Oikos = you spend at least 1 accumulated hour per week with them on a one to one basis. Because nobody will be comfortable to trust and to follow a stranger (You, Jesus, etc.) recommended by another stranger.

- PERFECT 10 PRAYER STRATEGY = People engaged regularly for effective community transformation, Zechariah 8:23

Servant Evangelism
- H E A R T evangelism = when I serve (a need), I touch hearts.

- Steve Sjogren, 1993, Conspiracy of kindness – “If the heart is the centre of focus of man’s personal life, the spring of all his desires, why not we aim for the heart right at the beginning? … The exciting thing is that the heart is not unreachable … People’s hearts are most easily touched by acts of kindness.”

- Show God’s love in a practical way, with no strings attached.

- DO IT CONSISTENTLY, because you really love, because God first loved you.

- If not, come on, then you ARE doing it with strings attached.

Session 8: Key to multiplication -> Power of Group Evangelism (Ps Lawrence Khong)

2009-04-05T03:05:00.002+08:00

Key to multiplication
- NOT to just find 12
- but to find 144 = train up spiritual fathers / harvesters!

Best group dynamics?
- Socio-scientifically proven that a group with self-generating GROUP DYNAMICS = magical group of 8!

Body/ group evangelism
- Forming a family and community
- Much more effective than one-to-one!
- When a few groups come together, the stronger leaders can also support the weaker ones!
- Results in increased excitement! Woo hoo!

Session 7: Reaching For the Stars (Ps Claudia Castellanos)

2009-04-05T02:53:00.003+08:00

Matthew 2:10 “When they see the star, they were filled with exceedingly great joy.”

Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Psalm 51:9-10 “Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

How to hear God? How to desire what He wants for you?
- Until you surrender your natural/logical mind to the cross, you’ll never get to hear God!
- If it’s your own natural mind and not God’s, your motivation will be your own, not God’s!
- Romans 12:1 “…you have to surrender your minds to the altar…!”
- Tell the Lord, "Give me a heart that can hear You!"

What do you do when you do God’s work?
- When you can hear God, you can speak God’s words to people and help them!
- The 3 wise men brought gold, myrrh, wisdom = offering, moments of tribulation, our talents
- Let yourself hear God + be used by God = Be a shining star for God to everyone!

What’s your star?
What’s in you?

Follow after your star and you will SHINE, to bring glory, praise and salvation to the house of the Lord.

Session 6: Life Through the Spirit, Live In the Spirit (Sarah Castellanos)

2009-04-05T02:46:00.003+08:00

Moving in the spirit = to die to your own desires

3 things the Holy Spirit give us:
1. Purpose
2. Strength
3. (eh, not mentioned?)

Romans 8:9-10 “You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.”

When you go through hard times, just rest in God -> then you’ll see the miracle.

Rest in God = trust Jesus = knowing He has everything under control!

You might feel discouraged and feel like giving up = this is normal! However, you should NOT really give up! Press on NOT depending on your own strength but on God's strength.

3 issues that prevent us from going in the Spirit and doing God’s work:
1. Thinking that God will use someone else better, not me!
2. Thinking that God will never use me given that I am nothing at all!
3. Using my own strength instead of depending / resting in God!

Know that God’s love and blood NEVER FAILS, because IT IS DONE at the cross…

Session 5: Not Just Pure Blessings, Those Who Can Do It Really Do Have Skills! (Ps Lawrence Khong)

2009-04-05T02:33:00.005+08:00

The Cell Group Agenda
1. To love one another (part 1)
Inside cells we must minister (EDIFY)
- That we see God’s answered prayers

2. To love one another (part 2)
Outside cells we must multiply (EVANGELISE)
- If not we’ll just keep focusing on our own problems, or worse, we start focusing on others' problems i.e. gossiping!

3. To train each other to love
Cells must mobilise (EQUIP)
There are 3 levels of learning:

a. Cognitive (Knowledge) - you have to KNOW HOW IT’S SUPPOSED TO WORK
b. Psychomotor (Skills) - you have to KNOW HOW TO DO IT
c. Affective (Values) - your heart has to be transformed and WANT TO DO IT!

You impart it not by sending people to class. You need to create a culture in the cell that everyone in the cell does it! Then when new people join, they see that it is the only value/option that everyone does, therefore they will do the same too!

John 13:34-35 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Reason for cell gatherings
MINISTRY AND EDIFICATION must be the explicit, main reason of cell group

Session 4: When I Change, Everything will Change (Ps Cesar Castellanos)

2009-04-05T02:00:00.003+08:00

TREND:
A rejected/wounded soul -> has a BRAND MARK on them -> attracts other rejected/wounded souls!

SOLUTION:
Jesus was rejected too and He overcame the cross, so that you too can break free from this trend/mark/past of rejections! What do you have to do? REMOVE THE OLD, TAKE IN THE NEW. Not to integrate with the old, but to totally REMOVE THEM ALL.

2 Corinthians 5:21 “God made Him who has no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”

When you worry, start with TRUSTING GOD and His power over all things, and not whether you have the resources to solve the problem.

When God made Adam, He made him a king of the world. Yet when Adam fell, he lost his kingship, he lost his crown. The ground was cursed, and the curse is represented by thorns and thistles.

Therefore, when Jesus wears the crown of thorns and thistles, Jesus’ blood that flowed washed away the curse. BELIEVE, CLAIM AND DECLARE that power in the blood of Jesus! The power of conquest.

Isaiah 54:2 - God will enlarge your territory if you believe you can do it. YOU MUST WANT THAT SUCCESS. Arise!

How much time do you need to be a man or women of God to create an impact on your nation?

It is not a matter of time, it is a matter of WHETHER YOU BELIEVE. Because when you believe, God's anointing and power will be with you. YOU CAN OVERCOME!!!

Session 3: The Paradigm Shift to the G12 Cell Church (Ps Lawrence Khong)

2009-04-02T15:17:00.014+08:00

Understanding the cell church structure:

1. A church with cell and a cell church are DIFFERENT!
- Traditional church - Cell ministry is a only a department, just an option
- Cell church - Cell IS the church

2. Cell church
- Acts 2:46-47
- The church is in the lives of the community, not just a ‘Sunday thing’
- Hence, nothing competes with the Cell
- All resources will support the Cell, not activities that will take people away from the Cell
- It is a Vision-driven movement, not just another programme

There are 2 kinds of small groups in the G12 cell church:-

1. Open cell
- EVANGELISM we need to be outward-looking, if not we’ll keep hubbing on our same problems

- EDIFICATION 1 Corinthians 14: when the people in the bible see people having their cell group,
they said “…surely God is among you”

- EQUIPPING

2. G12 cell
- 12 open cell leaders
- A closed group
- Train disciple-makers
- Supports network pastors

Cells celebrate together under a vision.

Nature of the church cell:-

Community	Corporation	Cause
Brothers/ Sisters	Workers	Soldiers
Family	Business	Military
People matters	Process matters (the strategy diligently implemented to partner the vision and passion)	Purpose matters

Session 2: The Salvation and Power at the Cross (Ps Cesar Castellanos)

2009-04-02T03:48:00.004+08:00

1 Peter 2:1-2 “Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. 2Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation…”

1 Corinthians 15:45-47 “So it is written: "The first man Adam became a living being" the last Adam, a life-giving spirit. 46The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven.”

Adam, having sinned, fell from his position of inheritance and received the curse for all the generations that come after him.
Jesus is the last Adam; He took the curse upon Himself

Isaiah 53:6-8 “We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. 7 He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 8 By oppression and judgment he was taken away…”

If we come to cavalry, we can find redemption.

There is power in the blood of Jesus

Problem: WE ARE OUR OWN PROBLEM, YOU MUST DIE TO YOURSELF.
Solution: THE CROSS IS THE SOLUTION, ONCE AND FOR ALL.

Hebrews 9:12 “He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all by his own blood, having obtained eternal redemption.”

Session 1: The G12 Vision (Ps Lawrence Khong)

2009-04-02T03:34:00.005+08:00

3 Promises
1. Gladness in our hearts - delight
2. Growth in our ministry - development
3. Global impact - destiny

3 Major Challenges
1. The need for inter-dependence - the lack of community
- FRAGMENTATIONS AND POSSESSIVENESS because each ‘family’ operates on their own

2. The need for skill training - the lack of competence
- UNPREPARED TO LEAD cell groups as we do not have the skills despite having passion

3. The need for integration - the lack of convergence
- NOT HAVING A COMMON GOAL ie to win the nations together

Vision for Transformation (2000 - 2015)
“To serve the Nations by effecting Community Transformation in Singapore and Gateway Cities in Asia.”

Luke 19:10 “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save THAT which was lost.”

What was lost?
1. Our relationship with God - eg Adam and Eve cast out of the garden of Eden
2. Our relationship with each other - eg Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel
3. Our relationship with the marketplace - eg the ground was cursed

Luke 19:10 “Today salvation has come to this HOUSE.”
Context of this verse = the salvation of Zacheus because HOUSE = HOME + MARKETPLACE.

The 3 Dimensions of Marketplace
1. Personal
2. Inter-personal
3. Marketplace

Colossians 1:19-20 “For it was the Father’s good pleasure… to reconcile ALL THINGS…”

Ephesians 1:7-10 “…that He might gather together in one ALL THINGS in Christ, both in heaven and on earth…”

We WILL NOT GIVE UP any area that has been taken away.

G12 Conference 2009 Sessions Summary

2009-04-02T03:21:00.005+08:00

Some of you might have missed the G12 Conference for some reason or another. Thanks to Mary-had-a-little-lamb Yeo, we are able to bring you summary notes from each session. If you missed any of the sessions, I pray God will still speak to you through these notes. If you were there throughout, I pray too that the notes will remind and impress upon your heart again the things God was speaking to you about, so that you might live your life differently today. May you be committed to a life of transformation every day.

Cheers,
Joshua

G12 Conference 12-14 March 09

2009-03-12T11:08:00.004+08:00

The G12 Conference is finally here! Get charged up for God’s assignment to FCBC in 2009 with this defining conference for all FCBC members. Come and receive a fresh revelation of the G12 vision through the conference speakers and be inspired to reach the multitudes for Him! See you at the conference!

Pre-Conference Prayer Meeting

2009-03-11T09:33:00.008+08:00

Churchwide Prayer Meeting
11 March 2009 (Wed), 8.00pm, The MAX Pavilion

Free Shuttle Bus ServiceSimei MRT Station

>> The MAX Pavilion: 7.00pm – 8.00pmThe MAX Pavilion

>> Simei MRT Station: Up to one hour after meeting ends

Parking lots at Carpark K and within the vicinity of The MAX Pavilion are reserved for trade visitors to the International Furniture Fair and the ASEAN Furniture Show 2009.

Please use the carparks at the nearby Expo Halls 1 to 6, The Signature Building at Changi Business Park Central 2, or the multi-storey carparks near Simei MRT Station. See You There =)

TS Tribe Prayer Meeting (4)

2009-02-23T01:11:00.008+08:00

As we look at the needs around us yet we have so little resources to meet these needs, it can be discouraging, isn’t it?

Yet as I pondered upon this passage of the scripture, the Lord was showing me that He is MORE than able to meet these needs, as we learn to SURRENDER to Him.

To those of us who feel that your loaves and fish is not enough, the Lord's encouragement is what we offer is MORE than enough for Him to turn the insufficiency into SURPLUS.

May the word of God ENCOURAGE you.

Ps Sook San

Prayer Guide for this week:

1) 5 loaves and 2 small fish (John 6:1-12)

Come in surrendering of the 5 loaves and 2 small fish in our lives
Trust in Him who is the one who will use these offerings to feed the 5000.

2) The Joy of the Lord will be Our Strength (Nehemiah 8:9-10)

-Pray for the leaders and members against the spirit of discouragement, in the process of rebuilding
- Pray for tenderness of our hearts so that the Word of God will fall on good and fertile soil.

3) The Year of the Lord’s Favour (Isaiah 61: 1-4)

Pray for our eyes and hearts to refocus back the calling and purposes of God in our lives.

TS Prayer Meeting 3

2009-02-19T16:55:00.005+08:00

Praying is life's highest privilege! Why? Because it is prayer that allows us to draw near to the heart of God. In prayer we commune with our awesome heavenly Father. Prayer gives us access to the ear of God, enabling us to fulfill His purposes in the earth! And in prayer, He actually shares His deepest desires and purposes with us.

Alice Smith
Co-founder and Executive director of the U.S. PRAYER CENTER

This week as we pray, let’s learn to:
1) Bless the Lord - Acknowledge the goodness and greatness of God
2) Inspect the Walls - Allow the Lord to open our eyes to see the conditions of our lives
3) Claim His Promises - Rebuild the walls through His promises

Bless The Lord
Acknowledge the goodness and greatness of God
Declaration:
Declare and thank God for His goodness in our lives
Proclaim His goodness and greatness using Ps 103

Inspect the Walls
Allow the Lord to open our eyes to see the conditions of our lives
Listening & Intercession Time:
Let’s learn from Nehemiah, to inspect the walls of our lives, individually and corporately, and ask God for revelations over the areas of lives that are broken and destroyed.
As you seek the Lord for His revelation, jot down the points and start to ask God how to pray over these broken walls.

Nehemiah 2:11-13
Nehemiah Inspects Jerusalem's Walls
11 I went to Jerusalem, and after staying there three days 12 I set out during the night with a few men. I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem. There were no mounts with me except the one I was riding on.
13 By night I went out through the Valley Gate toward the Jackal [a] Well and the Dung Gate, examining the walls of Jerusalem, which had been broken down, and its gates, which had been destroyed by fire.

Claim His Promises
Rebuild the walls through His promises
- Thank God that He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.(Ps 103: 9-10)

- Speak forth the promises of God over the areas of brokenness.
Isaiah 61:3
a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor

Ps Sook San

Testimonies from Tribe Prayer Meeting

2009-02-11T19:26:00.002+08:00

These are 2 testimonies from the prayer meeting on Sunday. I hope you are encouraged and blessed to continue to press on in your prayer life as you read them.

"I think it's a good thing to be praying. I felt the word yesterday for healing was timely too - both spiritual and physical. In fact, I was feeling a little flu-ish, but praise God the sickness was averted and I am perfectly healthy now. "

- Daniel Lee -

"When I just came to FCBC, I could not get used to the environment, especially the way of worshipping. I also struggled with Pastor Khong doing the magic shows. Some of the negative comments that I have have heard before also didn't help. These all caused me to not be able to trust what he preached.

Last week, during the first tribe prayer meeting, Esther prayed for me that God will open and soften my heart for the service later. I didn't expect that I amazingly found my barrier was gone and I would simple enjoy the worship. I felt the peace and all the uncomfortable feelings gone! Also, last Sunday, when Pastor Khong reported the success of the magic show at Chingay, I started to tear. I think God is using him to glorify God's name and I felt my bias suddenly going away. Instead, I was filled with love and respect for Ps Khong!

I know that these 2 changes did not come from myself but from God. It happened because I decided to release my burdens to Him. Praise God!"

- Grace -

TS Tribe Prayer Meeting 2

2009-02-10T15:30:00.005+08:00

Last week as Ps Melvyn preached on the Blood of Healing, I sensed that we need to speak forth the healing of God over our lives; especially in the area of our spiritual health and physical health. Let’s learn from Nehemiah, when he heard the conditions of Jerusalem, he prayed by :
Declaring the greatness of God, Confessing the sins of himself and his people, Receiving the promises of God. Let’s continue to speak forth the healing of God over our health: Spiritually and Physically as we go through the week.

Prayer Agenda:
1) Healing of Spiritual Health
2) Healing of Physical Health
3) Protection over our Spiritual Leaders

1. Healing of Spiritual Health : Personally & Corporately
Nehemiah 1
Prayer Guide:
1) Acknowledge the greatness of God (vs5-6)
2) Acknowledge and confess sins in our lives (vs 6-7)
- Personal
- Corporate
3) Receive the restoration of the Lord through His words (vs 9)

2. Healing of Physical Health:
Isaiah 53: 4
Prayer Guide: Pray for the physically sick among us
Tribe: Pray for Elise( Angela’s cell member) who has blood cancer and has undergone 3 rounds of chemotherapy. Speak forth strength and complete healing.
Family members: your family members who are ill.

3. Spiritual Leadership

- Ps Khong & Ps Nina

- Ps Eugene & Ps Julie

- Ps Timothy & Ps Sook San

- Your G12 leaders
As we lift up the prayer; ask God for His protection over our leaders as our battle is not against flesh & blood (Eph 6:12)

- Against the scheme of the evil one; against discouragement

- Pray for success- "The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding (Neh 2:20)

Prayer on Bended Knees

2009-02-02T23:47:00.006+08:00

For those of you who were at our first prayer meeting of the year, we hope that you had a great time connecting with God and interceding for yourself. As we start the week, we want to encourage you to continue to take time praying for yourself. This is not a self-centred attitude of asking God for "me, me, me!" but a realisation that we desperately need God and desire to get right with Him.

You might find it useful to use Psalm 63 to guide you in your time of prayer as we did on Sunday morning. Below are the same prayer prompters we used on Sunday. Have a blessed week committing yourself unto the Lord. :)

Prayer on Bended Knees
(Our Personal Posture before the Lord)

Let’s spend the first portion of the time to seek Him. Let this be the time that we will learn to find:

-Reconciliation and forgiveness of sins through Jesus, the High Priest.
-Restoration of relationship with Him
-Revelation of God in our lives to know Him.

You can use the following as a guide:

-Find a place for yourself, away from pp that you will be tempted to talk to.
-Read and meditate through Psalm 63
-As you read, begin to use the psalm as a prayer before God. You can personalize the psalm i.e. use your own words

Eg:
my soul thirsts for you,
my body longs for you,
even in this time where my family are in chaos; my studies are not doing well...

- Ask God to reveal the conditions of our hearts as we pray

- Pray for these areas of our lives:

In Repentance- of sins; asking for forgiveness (*Repentance does not stop at feeling sorry for the act; but a commitment to TURN 180° away from it.)
In Restoration- of relationship with God; claiming His promises of love
In Revelation- of knowing who God Really is in our lives; living a life according to His pleasure

2 NEW Additions on the Tribe Blog

2009-01-31T02:56:00.003+08:00

Great things are happening! If you have been a faithful follower of our tribe blog, you would have seen how we grew from just a simple blog created to encourage each other by our learnings and reflections into a treasure chest of resource for the modern day Christian committed to knowing God for himself/ herself. Of course, not forgetting too that this still remains as an online portal for us in the tribe to connect with each other (especially those overseas) and to sharpen each other through our reflections of what God has done in our lives.

It is with great joy that I announce two new additions for the blog. Firstly, as you would have noticed with the post on "The Shack", is the start of a collection of book reviews that I hope would encourage you to read on your own. Christian literature is never a subsitute for the Bible itself, but God has also gifted many of these authors with unique insights into His word and for some others, gave them moving experiences of great faith that inspire. Authors like J.I. Packer, Edmund Chan, R.T. Kendall, John Bevere and Martin Loyd Jones have dramatically changed the way I see and know God through their books and I know you will be blessed too. Along the way, we will try to group these books by theme and level of "cheemness" so that anyone from a new believer to a mature Chrisitan will have a selection of recommended books to choose from.

The second addition, is a new series of blog postings on the heroes of the Bible. The likes of Joseph, Moses, Daniel and Abraham have lived lives that are anything short of extraordinary. What can we learn from them and how can we live life differently in Christ so that we can fulfill the destiny God has intended for us? Through each character study, we hope to inspire you towards your own journey of faith, passion and compassion in Christ.

So there you have it! 2 great things to look forward to on the tribe blog! May you be blessed and encouraged!

Sunday Prayer Meetings

2009-01-30T17:40:00.006+08:00

Starting this Sunday, for two months, we will be gathering as a tribe to pray on Sunday mornings before service. In our time together praying and seeking the Lord, we sense the Lord leading us to anchor in prayer and knowing the word as we begin the new year. Psalm 127 reminds us that "Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain." Let's be committed to seek God first instead of busying ourselves with many things to do.

For this season we want be praying according to these 2 focuses:

1) To present ourselves to the Lord as the living sacrifices (Seeking God)
2) To hear and lift up the house of God in prayer (Intercede for our shepherds and sheep)

Dates: Feb 1, 8, 15, 22 | Mar 1, 8, 15, 22
Time: 8.30am-9.30am
Venue: Expo Hall 9 outside Gkids P1/P2 Classrooms (along the same row as the cafe vendors)
Who should come: TS tribe members and leaders who want & need to pray

John 10:14
"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me."

Will this be a seat of comfort, or a prayer stool to the Lord?

See you this Sunday!

The Shack by William P. Young

2009-01-28T12:18:00.006+08:00

The Shack first caught my attention as it was a Christian-based novel. Having used to reading theological Christian books, I decided to give this book a try and soon found out its justification as a New York Times bestseller. The book depicts the story of how the main character Mackenzie lost his faith as he desperately seeks for the answer for the death of his daughter. The author, William Paul Young personifies the Trinity interestingly and through the encounter of the Trinity, Mackenzie discovers the heart of God and become a changed man. "The Shack" seeks to clear the doubts over a timeless question of where God is in this world filled with hurts and disappointments.

I was drawn to how this book invites you into renewing your understanding of God through His responses to this question. What intrigued me were also the conversations Mackenzie had with the Trinity which formed the main body of the book. The conversations had a personal impact on me as they ministered to me as well. The wrong perceptions Mackenzie had of God reflected common stereotypical views we have of who God is and "The Shack" addresses many of these views. William P. Young cleverly integrates all these as well as many of God's truths into this enthralling novel and invites you to a rediscovery of God's heart as you encounter Him personally. A highly-recommended book for all who desire to have this personal encounter with God.

Loving our neighbour at Canberra Sec School

2009-01-12T10:50:00.009+08:00

The voted N7 Monthly Best ESSS for the month of Nov '08 goes to... Canberra Secondary: "Emergency Examination Packs for Sec 4 and 5 sitting for the O Levels".
It all started out when Joshua and I were thinking about how to bless the 'O' Level students in our cell group. We wanted to do something practical that would encourage them and let them know that the body of Christ cared for them beyond whether they came for service or cell group. We brainstormed and finally came up with the idea of putting together an Exam Blessing pack for each of them. Each pack would contain a standard list of items that include extra pens, mint sweets, 2B pencils, etc. and an additional Small pack for the parents which includes encouragement cards that they could use to bless their kids too. ... [+]

Since then, it became a culture to do these Exam blessing packs when our members or cell brothers were having exams. It was received well by our guys and we even extended it to the rest of our tribe people so bless them.

In Oct 2008, I came up with a proposal to Amos (Captain of 99th BB Coy) for Exam packs to be distributed to the Sec 4 cohort of Canberra Secondary School (the school where 99th is in). We thought it would be a good application for that week's Christian Education lesson. I was going to speak on 'Love Thy Neighbor' and believed that doing the exam packs for the students would be a great gesture of love to the school. By doing the exam packs, we will encourage the Sec 4 students and spur them on through our love and good deeds. Having the experience of previously doing this for the group of boys in church with a budget of $7 per pack, we did some groundwork to find out the School's Secondary 4 cohort's size and budget we would need to set aside from BB.

Since I had it all conceptualised, in the beginning I thought it would be something easy to carry out. But only during the execution, I realised that it was a major and tedious task. Nonetheless, we pressed on with the Boys and I was proud that we had completed 144 Exam packs (just in case we did 2 more extra packs) within 10hr 30mins and spent about $515, about $3.60 per pack. It was well below the budget of $710 set aside for it. Most importantly, many of the Boys verbalized that they enjoyed the whole experience. They found it fun, new (interesting) and meaningful to have spent their time doing the exam packs.

The following day, the exam packs were transported from one of the BB boy's house to school with the help of the BB Teacher-in-charge, Mr Chew. The boys proceeded to give out the exam packs to the students. The O level students were also informed to collect their 'Emergency Exam Pack' from the booth. We even kept the booth open over the next 2 days to ensure that all the students were covered. It was well received by the students and some of the teachers were pleasantly surprised as well.

On 2nd Jan 2009, we received news from Mr Chew that BB 99th Coy together with Canberra Secondary School had won the N7 Best ESSS (Education Staff Suggestions Scheme ) for our Emergency Examination Pack idea! The ESSS teacher-in-charge in Canberra Sec was so impressed with what the boys had done that she encouraged our Mr Chew to submit it in for this award. Indeed, it was amazing to see the Lord's favour upon 99th Coy all these years. I still remember how when we started, we were struggling with poor enrolment. Today, we are able to be a blessing to the school in more ways than one. I see this as an unexpected affirmation from the Lord to Love thy Neighbour. God is indeed good and faithful! May you be encouraged to go out and love your neighbour too as we begin this new year!

Narash

God is bigger than our exams

2009-01-09T06:29:00.008+08:00

The results of my International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations were released to us in school on Wednesday morning, and I obtained the equivalent of 1 distinction and 5 high distinctions, giving me a total of 44 out of 45 IB points. Naturally, I thank God for His provision in the release of results, for giving me this timely blessing just before I enter National Service. Yet, it definitely goes beyond this, as my results represent a culmination of a process that began some time ago. ... [+]

Over the course of my examination period (and this probably lasted the last half a year of JC), God has been showing me that exams are not an excuse. That is, that my walk with God shouldn't be sacrificed just because exams are around the corner. Of course, that is easier said than done, and I myself feel that I wasn't setting enough time aside daily as I might have. It seems a common occurrence that service may be skipped or cell may be canceled because of exams or other pressing commitments that are coming up. However, I personally don't see how the few extra hours spent studying can have a real effect on my grades in the long term. In fact, throughout my JC years I attempted to do the exact opposite, I tried never to use academics as a reason not to attend service or cell meetings, my only condition was that I should not be out the night before a paper. I even found myself volunteering for choir or hospitality duty despite having coursework due, internal assessments or final exams looming.

As I saw it, I partook in all this with the understanding that God would grant me results that make available the university courses or career paths that He has meant for me. Indeed, whenever tough projects came to completion or exams were coming, I experienced a serenity that I am willing to insist is God-given. Last-minute mugging was sometimes replaced with time spent quietly talking to God, and exams were seldom a harrowing experience.

Detractors may then argue that I was only able to do this because I was confident enough in my grasp of the content, or that I just do not need to study as much as others. At this juncture, it is important to note that I had been consistent in my work, yes, but only slightly above average when it came to results. Interestingly enough, upon reflection I realize that improvement in my results probably coincided with the year I began to serve in Smartkids. Thus forms the trend of God's faithfulness in making more than worthwhile time that has been devoted to His work.

As such, I see my results as a form of encouragement that what really matters is not so much the time spent studying, but the greatness of the God that I put my trust in. Eventually, things will work out for good to those who love Him, regardless of good or bad results. Waiting for results to be released, I can say I was prepared to thank God for whatever result I gained, but His providence definitely made it much easier.

Jonathan Low
Andrew's cell group

Blessed New Year

2009-01-02T02:42:00.005+08:00

I believe many of us have a great time at the countdown party yesterday as I saw many of you, including the TS 24, were dressed as construction workers; chefs; students; and even a TAXI...driver?? I am impressed by the creativity of all of you!

As we enter into the New Year, I have personally started it with a time of solitude (being alone) with the Lord. (Psalm 46:10 says "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'') ... [+]

Richard J. Foster states that “In contemporary society our Adversary majors in three things: noise, hurry, and crowds.” With the invasion of MSN, Facebook, mobile technologies in our lives, there is almost an impossibility of being "quiet" in our lives. Yet this time of quietness is so important so that we may know our Lord and hear the voice of God, knocking at the door of our heart, waiting to come in to have moments of intimate time with us. John 10: 3-4 tells us, "The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice."

What do we do during the solitude time?

R- elease every anxious thoughts to Him
E-nter into worship
S-peak less so that we can hear more
T- ake time to ponder and reflect on His Word

Let’s start the New Year hearing His voice for your life. As we enter into a Year of Loving Our Neighbours, let us find our solace not in our ability to love, but His ability to speak to us, to coach us how to love as we choose to set aside the time to hear Him.

May the Lord bless you in hearing His voice.

Ps San

Don't Waste Your Sexuality

2008-12-31T13:35:00.005+08:00

We know we are living in very different times when we read about news such as Alec Greven, a nine-year old American who has written a book on relationships called "How to Talk to Girls". These days, love and sex have become topics that our youths are exposed to earlier and earlier. If parents in the 1980s thought their children were pushing the limits when they were fooling around at 20, they certainly did not expect a future where 10 year olds are having casual sex. The Straits Times, Singapore reported recently that the trend of children between 10-13 years engaging in sexual activity is becoming more visible in Singapore. ... [+]

This was highlighted last week when the Community Court heard the case of an 11-year-old girl who had sex with a 16-year-old boy last year. They met after chatting on the Internet. She told him that she was 12 and in Primary 6, and they split up after two weeks as the girl felt they had begun to drift apart. The girl, now 13, is believed to have had sex with a second boyfriend, who was then 16.

Sounds alarming? The reality is, we live in a world which increasingly feeds us ideas and values regarding our sexuality that serve only to fulfill our selfish desires. As Christians, do we know what the Bible says about our sexuality and how we should honour God with it? Don't waste your sexuality. God has called us to restrain ourselves and preserve ourselves for marriage so that we can truly enjoy intimacy the way God has purposed it. Make up your mind to do so today!

Thanksgiving from My Hope

2008-12-30T13:16:00.001+08:00

Seeing my friends and neighbours come to know the Lord was something I’ve always dreamt of, imagined, hoped for and prayed for, but for the first time on a Friday, it came into reality. Seven of the 21 pre-believers came to know the Lord while 4 believers rededicated their lives to Jesus! The following night, 6 of the 11 pre-believers received Christ! God often does more than our expectations! On Saturday night, I prayed for my parents in their presence for the first time in my life. The presence of the Holy Spirit was strong, and tears flowed. My father’s eyes were red by the end of the prayer. Even though they have yet to make the decision to accept Christ, I know that a seed has been sown in their hearts and there is new hope for their salvation!

Sharon

Editor's note: Sharon's testimony was also featured on the My Hope Prayer Pointers for Dec 21-28, 2008. We rejoice with you in what God is doing in your family, Sharon!

A special Christmas for me

2008-12-28T13:03:00.001+08:00

This Christmas is a special one. Why is it special to me? Because I am celebrating my first Christmas as a Christian. Unlike other years, Christmas no longer means turkey, feast, chocolates, gifts in the socks, Santa Claus, gathering with friends. It meant so much more. ... [+]

First of all, thanks be to God's grace for Christmas. For without it, He would not have sent Jesus to us. 2008 Years ago, our saviour was borned to us and to be sacrificed, despised, tormented and eventually cruxified on the cross. Jesus died on the cross and brought salvation to all. Such was the love of the Father.

Well, not all will be able to agree in the same light as me, so here's a little video to re-enact God's love for us:- (see above)

Are you one of those on board the train - the undeserving that were saved? If you feel a little sad about it, perhaps it is time to rethink your actions and your lives. How much does it take for the Father to sacrifice his own son? I hope you realize there was no anger involved but a great smile in the end. That is His Grace.

"For God so loved the world, he gave his one and only son, so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16

Teck Hao

A blessed Chirstmas to you and your family!

2008-12-25T20:20:00.006+08:00

Today I was asked a question, "What is the greatest Christmas gift I have received so far?” I paused for a moment and started to list down the most expensive, the most memorable…the list goes on. Basically was trying to match one of them to the question asked. At that moment, someone in the group answered it was Jesus. It sounded like a Ten year Series answer. But, suddenly a dawning came upon me. Indeed I accepted the Lord during Christmas one year. I FORGOT!!!

I believe God knows that and in many ways, put markers to remind us of what He has done and can do for us. E.g. Lord Supper, in the OT how certain names and songs were reminders. ... [+]

Sometimes we can be so caught up with the party and yet forget the VIP whom we are throwing the party for…Jesus. We sing the Christmas jingle and forgot the worship. Take a moment to pause and think about His goodness and love. Think about the G.I.F.T. Here’s my gift to us all.

G….is for Gratitude
Let us respond to the Lord with gratitude. Take time to lift thanksgiving to the Lord. To remember the good things He has done and response with a grateful heart.

I….is for Intimacy
Take time to pause and enjoy intimate moments with Jesus. Christmas is all about Jesus after all.

F….is for Family
Appreciate the relationships and be grateful for the friends and family that God has given us. When the Spiritual Family gathers make thanksgiving to God a must-have in the agenda. Spur one another on…In this Spiritual Family, we have always been taught about the importance of thanksgiving. We will still continue to do that.

T….is for Tell
Make it a habit to tell others about Jesus. Don’t just wait for a Christmas party. Christmas is but an occasion that we use to remind us, as well as the world, about Jesus. We don’t just celebrate Jesus on Christmas. We should celebrate Jesus everyday. Go tell the world….

So what is the greatest Christmas gift you have received?

Blessed Christmas to all!

Ps Tim

Little Miracles

2008-12-21T04:32:00.008+08:00

I am currently in the Naval Undersea Medical Institute and training to become a Submarine Independent Duty Corpsman. I'll be in the state of Connecticut for another 11 months. I have written my thanksgiving before the time I left till now.

Firstly, I want to thank God for all the people He has placed in my life.
Even before I left, many friends were there to encourage me, gave me all kinds of advice, met me and had a meal with me, prayed for me, made/gave a card to me, gave me chocolates, pass his safety shoes (last minute), gave gifts to me (ie: an aussie shirt that says "to be old and wise You must first be young and stupid", a mighty mouse) and some came to send me off. However, I told some of my friends (ie: Charles) that it’s not that "one farewell session" which is the most important to me but the quality time we have spent together that matters. And just because it was difficult for some of them to be there before I leave, it doesn't affect the depth of our relationship that have already been built. I do really thank God for the friends there for me at the airport before I left. It made a difference! ... [+]

Thank God for my Mac book, Skype and Face book – it is because of great technology and advancement of the IT world has it been possible to keep in touch with my family and friends. This has definitely made my transition even better even though at times I do still feel a bit home sick. Who wouldn't be right!

But even that God has taken care of that. He has placed in my life an officer named Brandon. He is married and with 3 kids (and the 4th one on the way). I have been to their house for thanksgiving and after church meetings. They have been very accommodative and a great host. He is a very caring, matured and good-natured man (some people call him 'the preacher'). And he has been taking good care of me. At times, I feel so ‘paiseh’ meaning embarrassed (Asian traditional man). Recently, Brandon told me that at first he was trying to be a good host but slowly he feels I have become a family friend. I also rejoice in the fact that I do feel at home with them. Recently, I did the Christmas tree decoration with them which they do it yearly as a family. I do believe this is totally God's plan and His blessings!

Secondly, one event to highlight God is in control.
When i arrived at the Providence airport, one of my luggages went missing. Going to the Airlines Customer Service, I found out that they sent it to wrong airport. Somehow, I still had peace in my heart, as I knew God is control. I knew then something GOOD was to come out of it. Interestingly, the luggage that I was holding on to had all the essentials I needed change and all. The missing luggage contained all of my uniform and other stuff. I thank God that the missing luggage was the one that went missing.

To add to all of that, the people that were suppose to pick me up to the base were not there. And the customer service guy needed to make arrangement to bring the luggage to me the following morning and therefore he called up the school. Guess what the school was close by that time. The customer service guy (named John) knew one of the officer's hand phone number. Coincidentally? NO, I won't accept that. Then I realized that the school didn't know that I was coming. Ironic but true. But if that's the case, and I have had all of my luggages, then I may have been able to contact the school, as it was thanksgiving holiday the next day. Not exaggerating! But I have to call back Singapore (note there's 12 hour difference) to ask for assistance in connecting me with the school.

Yes, I choose to believe that all of these were divinely planned by God. Why? It is because; I would not have gone that customer service guy (John) if my luggage has not gone missing. It was because of him that the Officer from the school found out that I was at the airport and had Brandon to come and fetch me to base. The customer service guy is from the United Airlines and not from the Airport Customer Service. Just for the info: If your luggage went missing, you need to go the Airlines Customer Service. And that's the amazing part. You see God's hand was upon me all the time. And I had the assurance all that time because Daniel lee prayed for me and said "things may not go they way I expect it but God is in control".

Lastly, I want to thank God for the church He led me to.
I have not really started my classes yet. It will begin a week later (next Monday). But during these few days, I have been studying the Old Testament online course, reading books and doing some self-study. It has been a powerful journey of knowing the Lord. I have been blessed by it.

The first Sunday in Connecticut, I went to a church nearby (not the one planned) because of it rained, I got lost caused by some miscommunication between Brandon and I. It was a nice traditional church, but I felt there was something more that God wanted me to do or somewhere else he wanted me to be.

So last Sunday, I went to another church called Seaport Community Church. I like the service, pretty much like TC (my previous church building but it has one level). The people there made me feel so welcomed. One cell group bought me a breakfast meal (even though they had a meeting going on) as I was sitting alone in the cafe. The person who brought me to church was rehearsing for the session later. Many people came to say Hi to me and talk to me. Even the little ones said hi to me as they passed me (some were not with their parents). During the service, I felt in line with what the pastor was saying. Then I was reading their bulletin and saw the words like: Win, Connect, Disciple, Send. Then I went like, Well this is interesting! Ha ha it sounds like my church stuff. Then I saw a big poster of a lion and the word 'encounter'. Ha ha ha, hmmm another familiar word. I felt this was the church for me also because I felt at home and peaceful about the church. They had newcomer welcome gift for me. When I came back, I opened it and saw that they had a website on it. Interested to find out more, I went into the website before I make a decision. Guess what?! They had the similar vision (like G12? to be confirmed) as my church back home. How often do get that. ha ha..

By the way, the guy (Steve) who brought me to the Seaport Community Church is Brandon's neighbour and it was Brandon who connected me with him (because I said I was from a Baptist church). If not for the rain and miscommunication, I would have been to Seaport Community Church on the first week I was in Connecticut. But I think searching for a church and later finding the one for me is a much sweeter experience. Perhaps that’s because we value things more when we have to search, wait for them and find them. How not to believe this is the work of God?

Don’t you agree? Merry Christmas...

Narash
Reporting live from Connecticut

New "Love Your Neighbour" YouthNET T-Shirt for 2009

2008-12-04T14:30:00.009+08:00

We are proud to announce to you a brand new "Love Your Neighbour" YouthNET T-Shirt for 2009! Specially for all of us at YouthNET only, is the red edition T-shirt with silver print! There will be counters set up at Youth service this Sunday for you to preview the T-shirt and try on the sizes. My initial impression of the T-shirt is that it looks good! And for YouthNET only, you get to buy this T-shirt at a special price of $5! So go bug your open cell and G12 leaders to take your orders this Sunday! (Order forms have to be in this Sunday.)

For some of you leaders who might be overseas and need your people to help you consolidate the orders, you can download a digital copy of the order form here.

Joshua Teo

Asia on the Edge 2008 - Thought Leaders Forum

2008-11-21T00:30:00.008+08:00

I don't often put up such posts on our tribe blog, but given our church's focus for next year - Loving our neighbours to bring about Community Transformation, I thought this is something that some of you might be interested to attend. The Thought Leaders Forum, organised as part of the entire Asia on the Edge 2008 festival is a series of public lectures and a forum that is aimed at examining the national, social and cultural traditions of Asia and how its past shapes the present Asia and charts its future development.

Of particular interest to some of us might be the Public Lecture by Mechai Viravaidya. Dr Mechai Virayaidya is the Founder/Chairman of the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), one of Thailand's largest and most successful private, non-profit development organisations that initiated community-based family planning services, poverty reduction, rural development and environmental programs, as well as HIV/AIDS prevention activities throughout Thailand. ...

Dr Virayaidya will be speaking on Privatising Poverty Alleviation. In his talk, he will share about how he has seen in his years of experience that while many governments promise to deliver people from poverty, in most cases they do not succeed because of market imperfections. He suggests that the business community has a big part to play in filling this gap.

You can find more details of the public lectures here. I have signed up for the public lecture with Dr Mechai Virayaidya in case any of you are interested to go too.

Joshua Teo

Why we choose to give thanks

2008-11-12T15:45:00.005+08:00

From the beginning to the end of this short clip, 21 changes were made on set. How many were you able to spot? This rather ingenius advertisement for TFL cycling safety ends with this reminder, "It's easy to miss something you're not looking for." I couldn't help but ponder about how our relationship with God is like that sometimes. Without seeing all the blessings He has given us, we find it almost too easy to complain and even "blame" God when things do no go our way. That is why I make it a point to give thanks during cell group meetings.

Giving thanks should never be a ritual of our Chirstian walk. It has a very important purpose. It makes us stop to reflect and look out for God in every situation of life so that we do not miss Him. Is God's presence obviously apparent in your life today? Perhaps it's time to stop and give thanks.

Be A 7:15 Blessing

2008-11-10T10:32:00.005+08:00

Imagine our city abuzz with the voice of hope in Jesus' love. Imagine Christians living in the same housing block, or working in the same office block, coming together to bless our city - the prayer way! You can make that a reality this Thursday, 13 Nov on Good Neighbour Day. At 7.15pm, come gather at your void deck or office lobby to pray and bless our city, along with other members from different LoveSingapore churches. Bring along the ‘Operation Blessing 7:15’ event booklet (available within the 8 and 9 November 2008 church bulletin) with you, and wear the special ID sticker found inside the booklet for identification.

LoveSingapore is also collecting testimonies for this time of prayer. So do take time to share your experience or any impressions you may have received from the Lord by emailing it with a photo or two to visioncity@pacific.net.sg.

The purpose of trials and tests in our lives

2008-11-09T23:39:00.001+08:00

We are all not strangers to trials in our lives. We know from James 1:2-4 that the testing of our faith develops perseverance so that we might be complete. Recently, I've been reflecting over how this truth actually works out. We often think that God's purpose for trials and tests in our lives, is for Himself to judge whether we are serious about Him or just playing the religious game. Sometimes, it is not too difficult for us to imagine God taking notes and giving us a score at the end of the day isn't it?

I have come to realise, that is furthest from the truth. Job 37:16 tells us that God is already perfect in knowledge! He does not need to test us to find out whether we will pass. He already knows it! So why is there still a need for God to test us in our faith? I believe it is God's way of making US aware, the real condition of our own hearts...

I used to think that difficult moments in our lives cause us to grow stronger. The more difficulties we go through, the stronger we become. There is even an age-old saying that goes, "What does not kill you, will only make you stronger". In a sense, that is a half-truth! You see, the immediate effect of the storms of life is not that you become more resilient, but that the foundations of your life are revealed! Who you really are becomes laid bare without all the pretenses and covering up. Imagine a real environmental storm hitting a house by the beach. The roof is torn off, all the nice designer furniture is swept away, the beautiful wallpaper and carpeting is reaped off and blown away! What is left is the basic structure and foundation of the house.

It is not too different when we face difficult situations in our lives where our values and what we stand for are challenged. It is often times like these that we realise we are not as strong as we thought ourselves to be. And it is in this revelation of our inadequacies that God wants to use to draw us back to Him. In revealing the true conditon of our hearts before Him, He is telling us to wake up from our deception and showing us the way out of it - total dependence and reliance on Him and not on our abilities or the things of this world.

In one of these tests of life recently, God showed me something crucial. I was struggling to go for one of my project presentations as I felt very inferior about that the work that I had produced for it. I had already replayed in my mind many times how badly I imagined the presentation would go and I just could not bring myself to make that a reality. I struggled so hard to go that it almost came down to a coin toss. It was then that I remembered a word of encourgagement that a close friend has sent me. The words rang loud in my mind, "Go and do well, God is with you."

At that moment, the Holy Spirit convicted me that if I believed in a God who is all powerful, and whose promise is that if He is with me, who can be against me, then I HAD to live out what I believed in. If I claimed that God did not give me a spirit of timidity but one of power, love and sound mind, then I cannot allow myself to live in fear and defeat! So, by God's grace, I dragged myself to the presentation and trusted God to come through for me.

How the presentation went is another whole story in itself, but I can testify that God DID come through for me! More importantly, He showed me the true condition of my heart - sick and needing of divine revelation. It was a simple lesson, but His revealed truth has taught me to live my life differently today.

If you are facing some difficult moments in your life today, ask the Lord what about your heart He is revealing to you today. Do not be ashamed to witness and accept the true condition of your heart. It is not God's intention to condemn you. That is the lie of the Devil. It is God's very purpose to redeem you. Pray and ask God to help you live our His truths and promises in your life. And then determine in your heart to live it out by His grace. Make the change today.

Joshua Teo

In God we can Overcome

2008-11-07T15:01:00.010+08:00

Hillsong London: You Are Here (The Same Power)

In this period of examinations, there are times when you might be disappointed or discouraged by a tough paper. Or perhaps you have been trying hard for a particular subject, yet it seems that you keep hitting a wall and can't move forward. Some days you might even feel that you are being overwhelmed by a great sense of helplessness and hopelessness. I have been there and I want you to know that in God you CAN overcome. In times like these, remember that God is not far. He is here with you. Draw near to Him so that by His grace, mercy and power, you can overcome. As this song claims, "The same power that conquered the grave lives in me, Your love that rescued the earth lives in me". May this song lead you to draw near to our God who is our great overcomer. Amen.

Watch the story behind You Are Here

A New Beginning

2008-11-05T15:24:00.005+08:00

It has been a while since we have gathered as a tribe. Mark the 23rd of November down in your calendars because it is going to be significant as a new beginning for all of us. By now, most of you would have heard from your leaders regarding some of the changes in the tribe. We will be making some important announcements this tribe meeting and taking time to pray too. So make an extra effort to be there. Spread the word around!

Sharing 'My Hope' this Christmas

2008-10-29T01:45:00.005+08:00

For Christmas this year, FCBC is taking part in ‘My Hope’, alongside over 240 other local churches, to usher those around us into the Kingdom of God! This is based on the same worldwide evangelistic effort initiated by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) in 2002. ‘My Hope’ is an outreach effort that uses the video medium to spread the gospel message. The result has been overwhelming – more than 9 million people, in more than 40 countries, have given their lives to Jesus Christ!

As we will be running this in our cells this Christmas, there is a need for all cell leaders to be familiar with the material. The training details for all Youth leaders are below:

Date: 5 Nov 08 (Wed)
Time: 7.30pm
Venue: TOUCH Community Theatre

The videos (available in English, Mandarin, Hokkien and Cantonese) and materials will be distributed to individuals and cell groups before December through the networks. E-INVITE the rest of our family to participate in this mega year-end harvest event today!

Study on Ecclesiastes

2008-10-29T01:11:00.004+08:00

Looking to enrich your Biblical knowledge and understanding, strengthen your character and personal life, and enhance your ministry skills? Then register for the inaugural SOM course taught by Rev Patrick Chew, on the book of Ecclesiastes.

Dates: 8, 15 & 22 Nov 2008 (Saturdays)
Venue: TC 4th Flr Chapel (08 & 22 Nov); TC 3rd Flr (15 Nov)
Time: 1.30pm – 4.30pm
Registration Fee: S$5 per person
Pre-requisite: Completed SOL Level 1

Please register at the Info & Service Counter in Expo Hall 9 by Sunday, 2 November.

Click on for more on Ecclesiastes. ... [+]

About Ecclesiastes
The meaning and purpose of life, as seen through King Solomon, the wisest of men. Journey with him through the important issues of success, power, sex, money, justice, politics, relationships and death, and you will discover that all of life need not be vanity. Instead, it can be very fulfilling indeed when God is in the picture.

Nick Vujicic at Youth Service 9 Nov 08

2008-10-28T22:09:00.005+08:00

There are quite a few interesting events coming up in the near future, some of which will be good for you to take note of. In the next few posts, I will try and draw your attention to them.

First up, Nick Vujicic, an incredible young man, will be back at FCBC to share his life-changing testimony on 9 Nov 08 at Youth Service. This is a great opportunity for all of us to invite our friends to hear Nick's unique story. I am sure many of you were blessed greatly when he came the last time. It's time to share that experience with your friends and loved ones too. Don't miss out on this. Invite your friends and family today! More on Nick in the extended post.

Nick Vujicic is 25 years old (26 on Dec 4). He was born without arms or legs and given no medical reason for this condition. Faced with countless challenges and obstacles, God has given him the strength to surmount what others might call impossible. Along with that, the Lord has placed within him an unquenchable passion to share this same hope and genuine love that He have personally experienced with more than two million people all over the globe.

God has used him to let people know in countless schools, churches, prisons, orphanages, hospitals, stadiums and in face-to-face encounters with individuals how very precious they are to God. Secondly, it is his pleasure to assure them that God does have a plan for their lives that is purposeful. For God took his life, one that others might disregard as having any significance and filled him with His purpose and showed him His plans to move hearts and lives toward Him. Understanding this, though faced with struggles, you can overcome too.

10 Commandents to excel in youth ministry

2008-10-14T16:00:00.011+08:00

I asked myself recently why I involve myself in mentoring youths in church. It's been a good 13 years since I first started as a rookie cell leader in Sec 3, trying to inspire others towards living passionately for Christ. The pay is non-existent, the hours are long, our weekends are their weekends and after a while, you kind of wonder why you bother to put yourself through the hurt, disappointment and discouragement when nobody seems to appreciate what you are doing. Parents expect you to perform miracles with their children, your youth expect you to make it worth their while or they will be too bored to turn up. No one seems to care that you have put in so much time and effort to get things together. The list goes on! So why bother?

Reflecting over my life these past 15 years in FCBC's youth ministry, I realise that I bother because I cannot NOT bother. I am who I am today, because there were people who believed in me and bothered to make time for me, even when I didn't want it. They invested time and energy in me, not knowing what would come out of it, but holding on to the truth that God has a destiny for my life and they took joy in guiding me towards the right path. I have been a recepient of such love and grace and that inspires me to want to be there for others too. ... [+]

Still, over the years, I have seen many youth leaders come and go. Some left because they were burnt out, some left because they were disillusioned, some just left. Yes, the journey of leading a youth ministry is not an easy one and it has certainly claimed its casualties. The challenges are real and it is hard work! But imagine if Jesus thought it was too much work to save us and decided to go for a long holiday instead! I recently came across this article written by Tim Schmoyer where he shared some great principles on how to not just last the journey in youth ministry, but to excel in it! I've included just the 10 main points, but you should read the full version at Tim's website here. May all you leaders be encouraged and refreshed!

1. Thou shalt pray daily.

2. Thou shalt regularly meditate on my Word.

3. Thou shalt always publicly respect and support your church’s leadership.

4. Thou shalt get to know parents.

5. Thou shalt invest into students lives on an individual basis.

6. Thou shalt evaluate criticism said privately in love.

7. Thou shalt communicate as often as possible.

8. Thou shalt be flexible.

9. Thou shalt not be a solo act.

10. Thou shalt be thineself.

Joshua Teo

A familiar face

2008-10-13T01:06:00.001+08:00

I saw this as I was boarding the place to Venice a month ago. As I set down on the airplane seat, strapped myself in and started looking through the papers, I came across a familiar face! Maybe you will recognise him too. Ha Ha. But in case you are wondering, our ~~Navy~~ Airforce captain is no longer in the ~~Navy~~ RSAF. He's on his way to fulfilling a greater calling in his life. Want to know more? Buy him lunch and I'm sure he will be most willing to tell you more. :)

Jadon arrived

2008-10-08T04:51:00.004+08:00

In June, we had another newborn in our tribe. Jadon - Say Pin and Cindy's second child arrived into our world and I think he is one good looker! Well, i never got down to posting up his photos, so here they are. As I revisited Jadon's photos, I couldn't help but be reminded about the new life that we have in Christ. May you blessed as you reflect about what God is doing in your life anew.

Joshua Teo

The coming of Hannah

2008-10-06T12:21:00.008+08:00

It's always a miraculous moment witnessing a child come into this world. At exactly 7.50am on Sunday morning, beautiful Hannah was born in great health to Evan and Mabel. In Evan's words, "She's a spunky baby!" I had the privilege of visiting them in the evening yesterday and was glad to see Mabel in great spirits and Evan, a beaming new father. May God's hand be upon this precious child that she may grow to fulfill her full destiny in Christ. Oh yeah... and according to Evan, she has Mabel's nose and lips. And her beautiful head of hair? Well, it could only be Evan's! Enjoy the pics and let's celebrate together with this family!

Joshua Teo

Building Godly Families

2008-10-05T12:43:00.005+08:00

Recently, I was helping my dad out at a teaching session that he was involved in for one of the networks. This was a course aimed at helping couples appreciate the differences between men and women and is based on the teaching material of Bill and Pam Farrell called, "Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti." That particular session my dad was taking was on parenting and he had called me along to share from the perspective of a child and also from my experience as a youth mentor.

It's always been my passion to see the next generation grow up to realise their destiny in Christ and so I readily agreed. I had the most enjoyable time sharing with was glad that I could be a blessing to those who were there. Just yesterday, my dad forwarded me an email from one of the ladies who was at the session. Her encouragement is really the point of this post and I hope you spend some time to read it. ... [+]

"Thank you for sharing your life. I am very blessed by it.

Last night it was so awesome! We were bewildered listening to Joshua telling his story of what it's like to live in a family where the principles being applied. His smile is so contagious! After we heard your earlier testimonies we know it is not out of the best circumstances that your children turn out so wonderful. It is simply the fruit of two lives that chose to live in the TRUTH, abide in GOD and allow Him to rule and reign (though you didn't explicitly said that, it was clearly implied).

This is undoubtedly God's SECRET WEAPONs prepared for a time like this - when all around us scream of Marriages Breaking Down, Family Dtysfunctioning, Children Beyond Parental Control: uniquely FCBC, STRONG FAMILIES.

It is with great confidence we can tell the world that when God says that the church has the solution for families, He doesn't just mean He has a set of secret manual the church can teach on. People are asking for REAL answers. So God authenticates His Word with His Work IN real people and THROUGH real people - FAMILIES. His way to SALVATION is to provide a SAVIOR, His way to strengthen FAMILIES is to provide FAMILIES.

Suddenly I have a new understanding on what it means "to present everyone perfect in Christ" - it is not when we no longer has flaws. When we present people whose lives are in Christ, God's grace so abound in us, His POWER making PERFECT our weaknesses.

We become so beautiful, so attractive, so admirable, so amazing, so abundant in life. People says, "I want the GOD they have".

Our lives are HIS MESSAGE."

Yes, we are not perfect. As humans, we are bound to make mistakes. But the amazing thing about life in Christ is that His grace and sovereignty extends far beyond what we can ever imagine. I echo this sister's thoughts that in a time like this, where we see many families crashing, where we see the values of our youths being eroded, we must rememer that there is great hope in Christ! Yes, we can build strong families in the Lord if commit ourselves to doing so.

This is the part that touched me most, “Suddenly I have a new understanding on what it means "to present everyone perfect in Christ" - it is not when we no longer has flaws. When we present people whose lives are in Christ, God's grace so abound in us, His POWER making PERFECT our weaknesses.... Our lives are His Message.”

We CAN and we NEED to make a difference by living our lives as a light and salt to those around us. Let's encourage and spur each other on to build Godly families that will inspire and transform others too. Let’s press on in building God’s kingdom on this earth!

Joshua Teo

Do what You will, Lord

2008-09-27T08:42:00.005+08:00

It's not always possible to fully understand why God allows us to go through certain journeys in life. Many times in these situations, it is so easy and tempting to look only at the negative and ask the big 3-word question, "WHY?" or in Singlish, "HUH?!!" And many times, it is too easy to allow ourselves to dwell obsessively on the hurt and the disappointment, thinking to ourselves that by somehow holding on to it, we are better able to make sense of what's happening and justify our suffering.

I've learnt that in such times, the best thing we can do for ourselves is to remember that God continues to be the good, perfect and loving God who is watching over us and directing our path. That is a truth that remains no matter where and how we are. In our desperation, let us cry out like this song says, "Take my heart, and make it new. Make it true and make it like you. Take my hands I lift them high, they're yours not mine. Do what you will."

Instead of surrendering to anger, bitterness and confusion, let us lift our hands in surrender to the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. It is only in Him that we can find renewed hope to do what He wills. If you are in such a situation, I pray that this song will minister to you powerfully. Click on for lyrics to Ready Now by Desperation Band. ... [+]

READY NOW
Desperation Band

You come like you promised you would
I want to surrender for good
I know that I need you
And I don't want to keep living life alone

So take my heart
And make it new
Make it true
And make it like you
Take my hands
I lift them high
They're yours not mine to do
Do what you will
Do what you will
Do what you will

I feel like a blind man in you sight
I know that I'm wicked in your eyes
So wash me and make me shine like the sun
I want to tell everyone
That You're the only one

So take my heart
And make it new
Make it true
And make it like you
Take my hands
I lift them high
They're yours not mine to do
Do what you will
Do what you will
Do what you will

I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now

Joshua Teo

Youth Work: The importance of involving youth through the cell

2008-09-20T13:12:00.004+08:00

I once counseled a member and she shared that she finally felt part of FCBC because she was involved in a TYL project. Through volunteering, she came to know more members of FCBC, SJ tribe etc. and THAT made her feel belonged. Yet interestingly, she wondered if she was being carnal because her sense of belonging was due to people/ friends.

3 important points to note:

1. The importance of involvement
If you do not engage your youth to do something for the cell or church, you are denying them the chance to feel part of the family. Just think of the first time you were given responsibility at home and school (carry text books for teachers, etc) and how that made you feel good. It is a very normal human need – the need to be able to contribute. When your youth can see themselves doing something, they feel more for the group or thing. Of course, in Service-Learning language, the task must be age appropriate bearing in mind their competence too. ... [+]

2. Is coming to church because of friends wrong?
Of course NOT!
We should be the walking signboard for God. If you are not one of the reasons why people come to church, you need to check your life. We are called to be witnesses for Him. We are His ambassadors, we are His fleshy representations to the lost world. People are drawn to God because of the messenger first. So we need to ensure our lives are clear reflections of God. Meanwhile, it is normal for some new members or even non-Christians to come to church because of you and your members. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Of course, over time, we need to build into their lives so that they come because of God. We should not be too idealistic that people come just because of the unseen God. They all need to see God in you.

3. G12 vision
Most of our members are very free and not engaged in church. That is because they are NOT in the vision of discipling someone. They are not in the G12 vision.
Why?
Our defective discipleship. We are not producing the RIGHT kind of disciples. We are not producing well because we are growing well. We are all consumed by our life-pressing issues, which are legitimate, but might have neutralised our effectiveness to be a fruitful vine. We need to return to God and cry for a renewed passion to make disciple again. Go for 12 and not settle with the few you have in your cell. Make them disciple-makers and not just mere cell members.

CSL

Transformation begins where you are!

2008-09-06T00:32:00.012+08:00

With Pastor Khong’s demonstration through the MAGICBOX and the word of God spoken through many men of God in this season, the word ‘Transformation’ has taken a new meaning for many people. I guess it is not just a new ‘IN THING’ for FCBC or Love Singapore but it is something God intended since the start. Christ came and transformed the communities and beyond through simply living each day according to His Father’s will in his life. My latest experiential learning is that as we get closer to God, we begin to experience the heart of God and in this process the capacity of our hearts will be expanded for the multitudes because God desires that none should perish.

I run a program for at-risk youths in a secondary school. I thank God that He has opened doors as we continue to press in despite the challenges faced at times. As the weekly sessions ended, I decided to continue to engage the students through providing tuition help and playing basketball with them. Just last week, we had our first session. My volunteers and I sat down with some of these youths and revised with them their work for a solid hour. This is something almost unthinkable as these youths are disruptive in class and are known as trouble makers in school.

The interesting thing is that some of the neighborhood friends whom they hang out with also began to sit down with us during the session. Some of these youths are even out of school. After the session, they were almost smoking non stop when we went for basketball. I found an opportunity to talk to the entire group of ‘Ah Bengs’ about smoking and drugs from an angle of concern more than reprimanding (which they are more used to). Many of them were quite open to continue to meet us. This is my thanksgiving because weeks ago, I proclaimed by faith that I hope to see an open cell started among this group of youths. God opened my eyes to include the neighborhood youths who are not in school. He showed me step by step as He opened one door at a time.

What Ed Silvoso shared is not new but part of our SOL 2 curriculum or commonly known as Luke 10 principle:
1. Bless them (Giving tuition help)
2. Fellowship with them (Eat at Mac and play basketball)
3. Minister to felt needs (Address smoking addiction or family problems)
4. Preach the gospel (Sharing personal testimony)

Until we decide to act, all we heard are just good information gathered. As I was on my way to an open cell in Sembawang, God showed me more youths in the neighborhood who need Him. I know the capacity of my heart is limited but God’s heart is able to accommodate them all. God asked, “Can all these youths be included in the open cell?” The answer is clearly a ‘yes’ but the current step I can take is only prayer as I really don’t know how. God is stirring the hearts of his people to see transformation where we are. Are you seeing it? It could be the colleague sitting beside you or the students in your class. Are you acting on what God is showing you?

Amos Ng

Reflections on Ed Silvoso's Conference

2008-09-05T22:18:00.002+08:00

Jonathan Loh Says:
After the talk, I thought that there were several things that I should do. One of which includes starting to pray for the people around me at school. Another thing includes getting myself to know more people at school with those who are isolated most of the time for a start. I think that I should also read through the 7 steps on intimacy with God to start off every morning so that this things would be fresh in my mind each day and I can go about applying them. I feel that I should also start to live closer among the Christian community at school not only by having more conversations with them on our lives relating to ministry at school but also on more other cases such as praying for the school.

Colin Wong Says:
I think for me, the most important thing that I took away from Ed Silvoso was that God loves me and there's nothing I can do about it. I thank God that I was able to receive this truth once more from Him. So often, we are often caught up in the business of life, trying to transform the marketplaces that we forget about some of the basic truths of the Bible. And so I thank God that i am able to come home to a Father who loves me no matter how much wrong I have done.

Lim Wei Ren Says:
What I took home from the Ed Silvoso’s sharing was that church should not only be on Sunday, but also everyday, that in fact our very workplace from Monday to Friday can be a place of worship unto God. This really broke my mindset that church on Sunday and what we do at work during the weekday are separate and not really connected things. It was also a reminder to me that as a representation of Christ in our marketplace, we should be intentional in looking out for opportunities to bless our colleagues and co-workers, whether in big or small ways.

Guys from Zhaohua's Tribe

Have you caught the FIRE?

2008-09-03T22:01:00.005+08:00

“…I find that the toughest part to write in a book is the first paragraph…” quipped Reverend Ed Silvoso during last Saturday’s Transformation Inside Out Conference. He went on to relate his experiences in writing books to the lives that we lead as Christians in the marketplace.

I began to think, and reflected on this and can’t help but agree with Reverend on the subject that it is always the first step that has the greatest inertia. Before we go on to inertia in our marketplace, I feel that there’s already a great inertia, or probably uncultivated habit; which I feel once cultivated, will in turn relate to a genuine yearning in wanting to hear the word/direction of God even for our daily dealings.

How then are we suppose to fully engage and relate to the messages that all the great speakers of God that have or will be speaking in our church? I was then led to Hebrews 5 and 6 on the topic on maturing in Christ, and not falling away from God. Where the passage encourages us to move on from milk to solid food, and from there gain spiritual maturity in producing crops of blessings from God; rather than to dwell on the basic foundations of Christ (which are also important truths) that we have already known; and from there, risk getting caught in a vicious cycle of wandering off, and to have God so graciously find us again to be kept and nurtured all over again in His pen.

Therefore, I believe that it is essential for us to inculcate Christianity as a lifestyle that’s built on our relationship with Jesus Christ, our Saviour, and from there, begin to catch His fire of revival for your marketplace, then wait attentively for His revelation, and overcome the next inertia that’s in place; which is to find courage and strength to do and continue doing God’s work.

Lance Kwok
Under the wing of Kenneth Tan

Career Talk by Eximius

2008-08-26T16:40:00.006+08:00

Need help looking for a job that is right for you? Wondering how to write a proper CV so that you can give your potential employers the best impression? If these are questions that have been bugging you, make sure you don't miss this opportunity to hear from Leonard Leow, founder and Chief Executive of The Eximus Group, a specialist search, career management and consulting company. Accompanying him will be Nicole Ang, a senior consultant at Eximus and an old friend of mine! This a 2 session workshop put together by YouthNet for your personal development and growth. How often do you get the chance to hear personally from the CEO of a company? Don't miss out on it! Click on for details.

28th Aug Thursday, 7.00pm
Bukit Merah, Blk 162 Rm 4
Topic 1: How to build up my credential in my resume?
-value add to my resume vs value add to my job and company
-how long should I stay in my job.
-go for the $ in my next job vs good track record
-is an MBA or paper necessary in helping me find a good job.
-what is considered as a good employee?

4th Sep, Thursday, 7.00pm
Bukit Merah, Blk 162 Rm 4
Topic 2: How to land myself with the right Job? (Am I suitable for my Job?)
-job matching-tools to help evaluate type of job is best suited for me
-what are the questions to ask in an interview to help assess the nature of the job offered
-What type of preparation must I do in seeking a job
-What are some of the important consideration in deciding the potential employer
-what can I do if the current job doesn't suit me.

The Speakers have a request, to make the talk meaningful to those coming. They would like to hear beforehand, any existing questions that you might have. They will try to include the answers into their sessions. Do email any question you have to youthcareer@mrisg.com

Calling all tribe choir members for 31 Aug 08!

2008-08-25T23:50:00.011+08:00

Hi choir members! For those of you who are serving in the choir this Sunday, thank you for offering your time and effort. I always tell those around me that it is a GREAT privilege to serve God as part of the Celebration team. While I know many of you might be there because you were asked to help or because it's your scheduled duty, I want to encourage you to look beyond that and see the honour and pleasure of being able to bless our heavenly King of Kings!

Some of you do not have the lyrics and CDs because there were not enough. We have put the songs and lyrics up here and at the tribe choir blog for your convenience. Please make use of them as you see fit!

Download the lyrics HERE!
For details of venue and timing for the rehearsal, click HERE!

Joshua Teo

Youth work: Dealing with sexual temptation, discipline and accountability

2008-08-24T04:25:00.011+08:00

I would like to start a new series of reflections purely on youth work. Between Ps Jo and I, we have more than 40yrs of youth work experiences. It will be poor stewardship for us NOT to share or teach all of you - our beloved in the Lord. Yet in doing so, I must be careful not to lock your learning into our times and context. As such, I will try and distill our experiences into principles as much as I can for your application in your context. Although these refelctions are written with youth ministry leaders in mind, they carry principles that apply to any believer who struggle with the same issues.

In this 1st reflection, I would like to highlight my learning on certain issues I encountered recently ... [+]

1. Dealing with sexual temptation
It is normal for youth to struggle in their sexual attraction with their partners. Yes, even Christian youth. If they are not sexually attracted, I will be of great concerned – because we are created as sexual beings.

The correct perspective is to see this struggle as a necessary process to develop the fear of God in their lives. We need to teach our youth not to avoid their leaders because of it (have not sinned but struggling), or run away when they have sinned (when they arouse one another intentionally). The temptation to run from their leaders or God is the scheme of the devil to condemn them further through self pity and further sinning. God’s grace is always more than enough for us.

So how do we minister to youth in such a journey? I believe the priority is to inspire them to consider God’s destiny for their lives. They need to know that they are created for GREAT thing because God is Great. Despite their sins and struggles, God can use them if they are willing to return and repent. One thing that helped me personally was understanding the way of God. When I was younger, and struggled more with sexual temptation, I did not see God condemn me and sentence me to uselessness in Christendom. Rather, I was shown grace – I was accepted, I was loved, I was affirmed, I was given the joy to serve.

How could I deny such GRACE? Grace melted my heart and I was changed. For leaders who are helping couples over these areas, draw them to focus their energy/passion towards serving God and seeking God’s destiny (which is both doing and being; there is no clear separation) for their lives.

2. Dealing with discipline
I was shocked by how some leaders react violently to discipline of words of rebuke or correction. They reacted with bad attitude and in an improper manner towards leadership. Their actions only further revealed a lack of character in them.

We need to remember that we are in character formation and not behavioural modification. As such, I will like us to grow in this when we are corrected by leadership. Accept the correction and see if there are areas of change. Acceptance is not necessary equal to agreement. You can accept and change because you are accountable to God over your action towards leadership. Yet there is nothing stopping you in praying for wisdom to understand the purpose of God over the situation that you cannot agree with. In all things in life, we need more than knowing the facts or truth (theory). We need to grow in understanding.

So even when you are corrected unreasonably by leadership, accept it and seek to be understanding.

3. Dealing with accountability with youth; speed and reminders
In working with youth, we need to know that they do have a lot of time; more than you think. They can sleep much lesser than us, chatting on msn, surfing, gaming, etc. Thus, everyday is a full 24hrs of available time to be involved in things that matter to them, eg. BGR, interests and hobbies and even studying. While this is not true for us who are working adults (have a lot more responsibilities etc), it will NOT be prudent to respond to youth ONLY at your convenience or preference. If there is a need for accountability, call them immediately or asap and not when you can. If they are thinking about someone or doing something foolish, they will not wait till you are free to call them to counsel them. If there is a need to check with them on a life issue, do it asap or regret knowing they would have done the very thing you know they should NOT. Thus SPEED in responding is very vital.

About reminders, we cannot use our adult practices and expect youth to respond accordingly. You cannot set a time for cell meeting and expect your youth to remember. They may not because they have many options and interesting distraction. If you don’t call or sms them about your cell meetings, you should not be surprised that they do not turn up or say they forgot. By calling and smsing them, you are helping them to remember their commitment to you and the cell, and they MAY turn up. Such is youth work.

Do drop me a line or mail if you have some questions or thoughts to add.

Ps Seng Lee

Happy 22nd Anniversary, FCBC!

2008-08-21T20:30:00.007+08:00

FCBC turned 22 years old on 17 Aug 2008. It's kind of hard to imagine that it's been so long and that we have gone through so much as a church. From a rented auditorium at SLF building, we have since moved to Touch Centre, added a new premises at Touch Community Theatre and finally made the BIG Move to Expo Max Pavilion. Somehow when I think back, it doesn't seem that long ago when I was a 13-year-old cell member trying to figure out what cell group was all about. Then at 15 years old, I led by first cell group and began my journey wondering what being a cell leader was all about. Today, the challenges are not altogether new, as I still continue to learn what it means to be a disciple-maker.

As I thought through my life being part of FCBC for the past 18 years, I realised that being part of this family had influenced me a great deal to become who I am today. The experiences, the memories, the relationships, they all make up what FCBC means to me. It's funny how we sang Happy Birthday to FCBC during Youth service last week. For a moment, it felt as if we were celebrating the entity called FCBC. But FCBC is just a name. By itself, it is a non-living thing. The thing that makes FCBC alive is its people, the people who make up this family-in-christ. We were not celebrating someone else. We were celebrating our lives together! ... [+]

As I thought about the years to come, what FCBC would be like 10, 20 years down the road, I realised that I could not think of it as if our church was a growing organism on its own. It isn't. FCBC 10 years on, would be pretty much what we decide to make it. And that's the beauty of it. We are not outsiders watching a show unfold. We are the actors of the show! We each have a part to play to become the people of God He desires us to be! That is what it means for FCBC to fulfill it's calling - if we, the people who make up the church fulfill our calling in Chirst! Hence, as you read SP's thoughts on FCBC's Defining Moment, I encourage you to read it from a personal capacity too, as God's challenge and call to transformation for your own life. Then, let's look forward to greater days in the future. As a family, as a church, as FCBC, a people of God committed to His destiny for our lives.

On our 22nd Anniversary, I believe that God is leading our church into a new phase of our ministry - God will use us, together with the other LoveSingapore churches, to effect transformation in Singapore. God gave me a prophecy for the LoveSingapore churches. And I believe FCBC will play a pivotal role in the next seven years in seeing God bring major changes to our nation. I have included this prophecy for you, so that FCBC will rise up to fulfil God’s destiny for us.

GOD’S HEART FOR SINGAPORE

“This is a defining moment for Singapore. We are entering into seven years of the Lord’s abundant blessing for His people in this nation. The Lord is about to do more than we have ever seen in our history of transforming Singapore in the coming seven years. God is leading Singapore into her divine destiny.

Yet this defining moment is also a moment of decision. Our destiny lies in the choice we will make as God’s people. The devil wants to distort and frustrate God’s purpose for us. God has brought the foreigners to us, so that they too, can be a part of our destiny as the Antioch of Asia. If the church of Jesus Christ arises as one people, committed to fulfil God’s destiny for our nation, these foreigners in our midst will put their roots here, and make this land, their land, this home, their home, and enter into the spiritual destiny and inheritance of this land with us as one people.

If every leader of God’s people in Singapore will be committed, not just to build his or her own church or congregation, but be committed to build God’s kingdom in this land, the values of God’s kingdom will penetrate into every fibre of our society. However, if we fail to make the right choice, if we decide to be sectarian in our attitude, and if we just focus on how we can grow our own church or denomination, we as a nation will lose this destiny of being the Antioch of Asia. The foreigners in our midst will remain as foreigners, using us as stepping stones to greener pastures. The true blue Singaporeans will lose their identity, and they too will leave this nation, abandoning their dreams and forfeiting their divine destiny. The future of this nation is in the hands of God’s people.

This is a defining moment for LoveSingapore to rise up again, and with a strong national agenda in transforming our land. God had shown us in the past what we could do together when we unite and seek only to build His kingdom. God had shown us in the last seven years that, where unity had eroded, and where the vision had not been clear and strong, the spiritual and moral fibres of society began to degenerate.

It is the time for a national agenda to transform our nation, and to align our people to God’s destiny. LoveSingapore is about being a catalyst in spurring God’s people to fulfil God’s national agenda for the nation. Only when this national agenda of transformation is fulfilled then can we realise God’s destiny for us in Asia, and around the world.

This 43rd National Day ushers us into a seven-year season that will bring Singapore to her 50th Anniversary. It could become a Year of Spiritual Jubilee for God’s kingdom in Singapore, or it could become a year of frustrated dreams and unfulfilled destiny.

May God humble and enable us, with brokenness before Him, to cry out for His mercy and grace. May the Lord impart upon us a fire from heaven to have, not only a heart of compassion to win the lost, but also a heart of passion to see our nation transform into the Kingdom of God. May the Lord unite our hearts together, to embrace God’s heart for this nation.”

Senior Pastor Lawrence Khong

Joshua Teo
Photos from www.fcbc.org.sg

Calling for Molmam Bloggers!

2008-08-21T02:58:00.003+08:00

I guess most of you would have realised that the tribe blog has been inactive for quite a while. It has been a pretty busy period for me and keeping up with the posts has been exceptionally trying these 2 months. Sometimes, I wish that there was a machine that could automatically translate my thoughts and reflections onto digital content on the blog. That would be a really useful invention!

Until that happens, I would like to make a call for those of you who are interested to come and assist me on the blog team. Intuitive design, content and regular posts make up the most important parts of a good blog, so if you have a passion and experience in web design, can write well, or are able to help me coordinate postings, do leave your name and G12/ open cell leader's name in the comments section and I will contact you directly!

In the meanwhile, look forward to fresh posts coming up soon!

Joshua
Molmam Blog Moderator

Becoming A Man

2008-07-05T03:51:00.003+08:00

My learning from Intensive Post Encounter

2008-07-01T22:50:00.006+08:00

During my intensive post encounter (PE) in June, I have learnt many new things about God which I was not very clear about, previously. The topic on Church - I have learnt that usually when a person is too busy for church, or does not feel like going to church, he or she needs to go to church the most, because his or her heart is weak. Thus, I have decided in my heart, to go to church to worship God, no matter how busy I am.

I have also learnt that there are songs that worship God as well as Satan but most importantly we must not end up listening to songs that praise Satan but instead listen to songs that praise and worship God. Application for me is to be aware of all the songs that I am listening to.

In this post encounter, I have also learnt to be more aware of the things around us that are ungodly and that I should not follow the ungodly ways which the world has been or is doing. In order to do that, I must spend 10 minutes in reading the Word of God so that I know about Godly ways.

Hui Yun
Sook San’s Subtribe

Sure and Steadfast is HE

2008-06-29T22:56:00.006+08:00

During the tribe review last week, Pastor Jo got us to pen down significant events in our lives along our time-line. This list of events will never exclude Boys’ Brigade events for me. The past years serving in BB has personally been a great privilege and journey of growth for me as I witnessed the growth of many others who came along to serve with me. Looking back, I am often humbly reminded that none of this work was accomplished by the hands of man but through the faithfulness of God. We fumbled and struggled along the way but God never failed to use the many things we did to bring about lives born into His kingdom. Our progress was not without its own obstacles but the process and journey has certainly been precious for many of us.

Pastor Seng Lee shared with us in the context of our time-line, that even routines can and should be significant events for us if we were intentional about we did in those routines. The weekly BB parades is one which has indeed become significant for us. Every parade is a chance to impart godly values and share the word of God to the boys. We just had our BB Awards Presentation last Saturday and I seized the chance to process with the boys our commitment to the company. I have learnt to give thanks for everything God did for us and know that there is SO MUCH MORE He will do for us and through us. We got Bronze for the second year running but my heart is still filled with excitement and anticipation to see how God will glorify Himself through this company which is called to serve and glorify Him. Praise the Lord!

Amos Ng

Rising Up To A Godly Expectation For the Youth

2008-06-21T03:09:00.011+08:00

We are in the youth ministry and sometimes I ask myself what it means to be young. Youth is a stage of self discovery. There are so many opportunities to explore and passions to pursue. In the process of growth, sometimes experiences of life may not always be positive but they are all part of God’s training program for us. I celebrate the energy of youths and how far youths can go to discover what God has in store for them.

What does the bible say about being young? In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul’s instructions to Timothy says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” Being a memory verse during my secondary school days, it has impacted me and my actions. I believe God will always use the youths to influence the adults if they (the youths) believe that they though young can do great things for God... [+]

On the same note, I like to share my joy of seeing one of my guys, Murphy who participated in a Wushu competition, going through this process. The journey of pursuing passion and training is sweeter than the success itself. Below is his reflection and him ‘live’ in action.

“I love Wushu. I love acrobatic stuff. And I love how my hands and legs support my body to flow. I loved my agility as young as 9 years old. In 2007 I joined my first CCA, Wushu and became immensely passionate about it.

During trainings, I would give it my all. I have three trainings a week. And it’s not just some "oh so hard, i must go on" kindda feeling but it's a passion, a love. I trained so hard that I suffered a few injuries.

When the competition came, I was very confident, due much to the encouragements that my teammates and teacher gave me. I really wanted to do my very best and it seemed like one of the top three places was mine to take. However, during the competition, when I did the single leg balance, a sudden spasm of uncontrollable nervousness made my leg wobble. Then after the aerial kick, it wobbled again. There went all my points. After these two setbacks, I got 6th position out of 9 and I was very disappointed. Really very disappointed.

I learned a lesson about true self confidence. It doesn't come from yourself. You can't be confident just because you want to. I believe this confidence I needed comes from elsewhere. Maybe God is the key to this confidence. (He is, Murphy. More than you can imagine - editor's comment.) Anyway, after this experience I have not stopped practicing. It will always be my love.” - Murphy Chia

Amos Ng

Love Cambodia

2008-06-15T23:40:00.014+08:00

It has been a week since I am back from Cambodia. Personally I would like to thank all of you for your prayer over my fear of chicken since I came to know that we will be staying in the village and there are quite alot of 'them' around...

There were a few objectives for me to go for this trip with the Boys' Brigade Boys from our coy. One of them was to face my own fear. Courage is not the absence of fear but facing it and eventually overcoming it. I wanted to face it, confront it as I am rather frustrated with this irrational fear of mine especially if I want to do long-term mission work in time to come. It's a real fear and when the bus was approaching the Boys' Brigade Learning Center (BBLC), my heart was beating fast as I had no idea what would become of me. Will I go hysterical? Will I be a burden to the group? Maybe I should not have come to Cambodia... I could only pray and our God is One who hears our prayers. Amen?

Every day during the week in Cambodia, we had to walk a distance from BBLC to a house along the main road for our meals (lunch and dinner) and we would pass by the villagers' houses and I would never miss our dear 'friends' - cocks, hens and chicks. It was good training for me! Thank God I did not go hysterical and the team need not cast out any spirit of 'chicken' from me. You know why? The supernatural power of God was there and the love of God was evident. I am surprised that I could see the hen and chicks and enjoyed the scene of her motherly love over the young ones. The Officers (Amos, Narash, Lance and Charles), the teacher IC (Karen) and the Boys would keep a look out for me. They did not laugh at me but protected me. I would not say that I have overcome my fear completely (I would not dare touch or hug the chickens for sure at least for now) but I am really thankful for experiencing God in such unique manner. Our God is real if only you believe! [+]

To be honest, it became such a wonderful trip for me instead of one filled with fear. The stars in the sky and the fireflies at night were really so beautiful, the gekco and the spiders were exceptionally big and the people in Cambodia were simple, friendly and teachable. God's creation - awesome and amazing!!! Although we stayed in very simple lodging (Karen and I were on a super single bed with mosquito net for 4 nights, no light and fan in the night when we sleep, exactly 3 meals a day), I really felt like a princess.

This is not self-deception, ok? :) I had a hand-powered fan with me all the time (the weather is very very hot), my bed had a netting that protected me from the attack of the creepy crawlies, my plates were washed by the Boys (their cleaning duty) and once we even hired a tuk tuk (the Cambodia taxi) and were chauffeured to a town clinic as Karen's foot became swollen due to some bacterial infection on her blisters. We were chauffeured back to BBLC after the clinic visit. I was telling Karen when we were on the way back how beautiful the scenery in Cambodia was and how 'princessly' I felt. She had a good laugh. On the last afternoon at BBLC, we went to visit some families and their school and once again, the Boys and the Cambodian youth protected me from my 'foes'. My heart is filled with much gratitude to the Lord for His blessings!

Though the living and school condition in Cambodia may not be comparable to that of Singapore, the Cambodian youth whom we come into contact with became a great blessing to us, especially to our BB Boys. Their simplicity, friendliness and teachability caused our Boys to reflect much and learn to appreciate the things they have. We see our Boys gaining confidence over the 5 days in cross-cultural interaction, assuming leadership in leading activities and being more appreciative of life in Singapore. It was a truly a service-learning trip for us. My prayer, as I have told the Boys, is to make application on what they have learnt from the trip. I am also thankful for the bonding built among us, between Boys and between Officers and Boys. We may not be the best coy yet but the existence of this coy is really by God's grace since 2004. And I know He is watching over us and blessing us throughout. :)

To end my sharing with you is to give glory to our almighty God for the 3 salvations (2 Cambodian youth and 1 of our BB Boys) we saw during this trip. The 2 Cambodian youth were led by the worker at BBLC and he said that because we were there, he had the space and time to talk to them more. Our BB Boy was led to receive the Lord on the flight back due to divine seating arrangement. He was seated beside Pastor Amos. Praise the Lord indeed for these salvations! I pray for more. Truly His kingdom come, His will be done! We serve a personal and powerful God!

God is good all the time!

Angela Tan

Happy Birthday Pastor Seng Lee

2008-06-12T03:48:00.000+08:00

12 June 1966 has always been remembered as the day a great fire broke out in Singapore. There was great heat felt and some even said they saw sparks and fireworks. 42 years later, that fire burns with still greater intensity and has even started off smaller fires in many other areas of the land. Firefighters say it is a miracle and a work of God. I couldn't agree more. Happy Birthday Pastor Seng Lee! Keep burning passionately for God for many more years to come!

Congratulations Tim & Cindy!

2008-06-08T12:06:00.004+08:00

Growing in Interdependence

2008-05-24T12:42:00.007+08:00

How many of you actually spend time to read the Youth Buzz portion in the church bulletin at Youth Service? I must admit, most of the time, I am more excited about how the cover of each week's bulletin looks like! Hands up those of you who can identify with me. Wow, so many of you. It's true. The Youth Buzz portion, being just one sheet is often easily missed. But I have come to discover and realise for myself that within this one sheet of paper contain many gems and words of wisdom towards living a Godly life! Here's something I read that really challenged the way I live my life... [+]

"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16 NASB)

"If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." (Galatians 5:25 NASB)

In the first quarter of this Year of Sabbath, we got back to basics in our PERSONAL walk with the Lord. We've focused on reading the Word and Prayer, on Fasting and Repentance. Individually, we need to continue walking (Galatians 5:16) in the Spirit, so that we will not carry out the desires of the flesh.

Yet the Greek word for "walking" by the Spirit in Galatians 5:25 refers to a CORPORATE walk in the Spirit. We need to learn to walk in step with one another "in the Spirit".

Consider the following checks and guidelines gleaned from a teaching by Pastor Benny Ho.

3 things that can cause dis-unity in the Body of Christ:

Do we get conceited, "do our own thing" and pull ahead of the Body?
Are we excessively competitive and cause others to pull aside in the ministry?
Do we get envious of others' successes and pull out of the race in order to "save face"?

3 things we must do to keep in step with one another:

Is there someone who has fallen and needs a helping hand?
Is there something you can do to help those who are overloaded?
Is there a place where you need to take personal responsibility to carry your own load?

Let's commit to march as one army, so that we can corporately enter God's rest. A step-by-step walk individually, as well as corporately, into God's glory.

As I reflected upon some of the points mentioned, I realised that even in ministry, it is very easy for us to become critical about some of the things that we see other people do and adopt a "self-righteous", holier-than-thou attitude that says, "I am better than you. I know how to do things better, so I will just go ahead and do my own thing. Make sure you don't hold me back or pull me down."

I was reminded of Hebrews 10:24 - "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." The Lord reminded me about the need to consider for others in our community and spiritual family. Are we genuinely concerned about the people around us or do we take them for granted and use them as a stepping stone to make ourselves look good? Before you say, "No, I am not like that" too quickly, take time to let the Holy Spirit search your heart. And as the Lord reveals to you, ask yourself what is one thing you can do this week to keep in step with one another.

Joshua Teo

Just What Are You Shouting About?

2008-04-17T21:28:00.007+08:00

"Now, singing Shout to the Lord, once again, your American Idols..." First thing that went through my mind when I heard that was, "Wah, must be some black mama gospel song." And then the into came and my ears perked up! Now that's a really familiar tune! In case you are still wondering, YES YES YES! Last week's American Idol closed with the contestants singing Darlene Zschech's Shout to the Lord! It was incredible hearing it on national TV. I told my dad, that's probably the only time you will hear a worship song being broadcast over Singapore national TV.

Rare as it might be, I couldn't help but marvel as these words were blasted out "Shout to the Lord, all the earth, let us sing. Power and majesty, praise to the King!" Imagine the number of homes that this program broadcasts to. It was like an international declaration of praise to Jesus! Wow! A few things crossed my mind at that instance. Imagine a day when we could go to singing competitions and belt out our favourite hymn or praise song and wow the judges without anyone (namely Simon Cowell) calling it indulgent. I do believe that's what we call culture transformation and I do hope I can see that in my lifetime... [+]

Looking at the contestants, I wondered too how many of them meant what they sang the way they did with their individual performances. I realised that to most of them, this might have just been a new song for them to learn and perform during the results show. Is Jesus truly their Lord? Is He really their tower of refuge and strength? Is He yours? We do that sometimes too, don't we? Learn a new song and perform it on Sundays. I'm guilty of it myself. There are days when my mind is just so distracted that corporate worship turns into a vocal exercise.

Last Sunday was kind of that way. With the anxiety of finishing my thesis project deeply stuck like chewing gum in my mind, it was an uphill climb trying to mean what I sang. Times like that, even the deeply moving scenes of the Passion of Christ lose their impact. So I prayed. Actually, I prayed for the person beside me, whom the Lord showed me was feeling the same way. I knew each word that I blessed him with was a word meant for my own heart. And that prayer was all I needed to experience a breakthrough. It's strange how God works isn't it?

So what am I saying? We were made to worship God. That's our primary calling! To give Him praise and worship. But to fully appreciate that, we need to be intentional with out choices. Choose to worship Him. Choose to focus on Him. Choose to depend on Him. Choose to obey Him. Despite your circumstances or emotional feelings. That is going to be the crucial difference between an American Idol singing " Shout to the Lord" and you, a child of God bringing a smile to Jesus' face. Indeed, nothing compares to the promise we have in Him.

Joshua Teo

Transform and Roll Out!

2008-04-15T17:50:00.005+08:00

I always find it interesting to look back at old photos. They are a snap shop of a time passed and tell a story of what was important to us at different times in our lives. Put together, these photos describe a journey of growth and changes. I had quite an amusing time digging up old photos of us as a tribe. You will see that some of us have changed much physically (check out someone with mustache!), some of us still look the same. I realised though, that the more important thing to ask yourself is "How much have I been transformed by Jesus?" Am I still the same person 5 years ago as I am now? (Incidentally, the oldest photo in the set was taken 5 years ago.) As you have a good laugh looking at the photos, take some time to reflect on that. And may the Holy Spirit deposit in you a greater desire for Christ-like transformation as you journey through this Year of Sabbath.

(Click on the first photo to go to the next one.)

Magic Box in the papers

2008-04-02T12:54:00.005+08:00

SP and Priscilla are featured in the 2 April 08 issue of My Paper (today)! Here's the article. Start saving for the all new Magic Box!

For more information on the Magic Box show, check out www.magicbox.com.sg!

After the 40 Days - How then shall I live?

2008-04-02T00:57:00.009+08:00

Sermon Points
1. Prioritize worship - Acknowledge His Lordship

2. Pursue Reconciliation – Appreciate His Discipline
3. Persist in Prayer – Appropriate His Promise

Verses
Exodus 33 –Moses’ prayer on God’s presence.
Exodus 33: 15 Then Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.

Numbers 14:34 – 40 years in the wilderness
Rev 3:15-16 – Lukewarmness of God’s church

Golden lines
What began as a season must then become a lifestyle
Hide Nothing from God and God will hide nothing from you. [+]

My takeaways
For the 2nd time this week, I feel so blessed by church (FCBC), indeed out pastors and spiritual leaders are always pointing us back to God. On thur’s sanctification service (Chinese) , I felt like I fell I love with God again. Then Pastor Khong shared too about Moses’ prayer. And there and then, my prayer to God was indeed that, I want both God’s presence and His blessings. But if I have to choose, I’d choose His presence. And incidentally, I'm now reading Brother Lawrence’s writing on “Practising the Presence of God”. I’ll quote a few lines from this simple man below.

That he expected, after the happiness God had given him, that he would experience pain and suffering, but he had not worried about it, knowing well that since he could do nothing by himself, God would not fail to give him the strength to bear the pain and suffering.

Then when the occasion arose to practice some virtue he always said to God:”My God, I cannot do this unless u enable me to do so” and he was immediately given the strength needed, and even more.

That when he stumbled, he simple acknowledged his fault and said to God:” I shall never do otherwise if u leave me to myself; it is up to you to keep me from falling and to correct what is wrong.” With this he put the pain of this fault from his mind.

-‘The Practice of the Presence of God-brother Lawrence of the resurrection

My conclusion?
That worship, reconciliation and prayer like what Ps Eugene says , must become part of our lifestyle, the way we live, to be in constant fellowship and presence with the Almighty. To me, that is the beauty of knowing God.

Cynthia
Sook San's Subtribe

School starts this Sunday, 6 Apr 08!

2008-03-31T01:33:00.006+08:00

Every stallion first started out as a wild rookie. It's kind of the same as a Christian. We need God to tutor our hearts in a way that will allow us to be transformed into the fullness of who has created us to be, so that we can reflect His glory. That's what we hope to share with and impart to you in our Ladder Of Success classes. That's why after a season of prayer and fasting, SCHOOL STARTS THIS SUNDAY! Mark the 6th of April 08 down! Lessons start at 10am but do come at least 15 min earlier to get your registration done and to prepare your hearts to receive of the Lord. Come and be transformed by the renewing work of Christ in your lives today!

1) LOS Class Schedule (Apr-Jun 2008) 17 years and below

2) LOS Class Schedule (Apr-Jun 2008) 18 years and above

*SOC class will commence only in September 2008.

**Image used is adapted from an ad for Minichamps.

Week of Sanctification: Reflections 3

2008-03-24T03:05:00.004+08:00

It was a glorious picnic in expo max pavilion the past 3 nights. and i thank God for each and everyone of them. It's so comfortable to be sitting on the floor and its a very peculiar sight to see all the assorted mats/sleeping bags/ponchos being laid all over the floor. as if it is a giant cell group meeting. and pastor khong is the cell leader. just having a good time in God's presence doing divine business. settling the outstanding issues in our hearts. a privilege FCBC has, to have with us Dr. Maurice Sklar. who uses his talents in the violin to minister to the church.

"O God, you are my God. Earnestly i seek you. My soul thirsts for you. My heart longs for you. In a dry and weary land, where there is no water."

I've been trying to commit to memory that whole psalm. And while doing that i think it sets the atmosphere and spirit of these 3 nights. [+]

First night:
Success or the presence of God? I felt that this tied in well with John Piper's sermon about the radical effects of the resurrection. Indeed, if success in life is all we seek, if comfort is all we want, if the desires of the world and our perception of life is one that the world strifes for then there are other faiths that can offer that. Christianity is not a comfort seeking religion; God did not design it that way, although God wants to bless us. It is truly about a relationship of the Almighty with us, His creation and about living in the plan that He has marked out for each of us. It is altogether possible to be successful in life without the presence of God. (story in exodus). Because God is faithful, He will bless, but when we search deep within... that God-shaped void is still vacant and in desperate need of the savior's love.

Night Two (Good Friday):
Remembering the path that Jesus took on the cross for us. how he endured the scorn and suffered under the hands of those he love and created.
it can be sum up like this:

King of my life, I crown Thee now,
Thine shall the glory be;
Lest I forget Thy thorn crowned brow,
Lead me to Calvary.

May I be willing, Lord, to bear
Daily my cross for Thee;
Even Thy cup of grief to share,
Thou hast borne all for me.

Lest I forget Gethsemane,
Lest I forget Thine agony;
Lest I forget Thy love for me,
Lead me to Calvary.

I teach relief whenever I can. So far in the primary schools it has been fun as much as funny, which is very weird because I have crowdophobia - the fear of crowds. Primary schools are a daily mayhem. But maybe its because I am tall (well at least taller than them) so they LOOK UP to me. No choice. Haha. Anyway, I was in class and when asking for homework or when collecting something, they will say FORGET!!!! rings a bell? it seems that even from young, everyone forgets!! its a human trait that will last the entire lifetime. while we can do and create mental processes to help us remember. we will still fail sometimes. "To Err is human"; yes as well as "To Forget is Man"

Forget forget forget. This is true of our faith too. Sometimes i forget why Jesus died on the cross. Oh maybe sometimes i forget who is Jesus. Might just be a fictional character in my mind. That's why i live the way i live. in folly and strife, trying to make it on my own, to prove that I'm somebody. But God has his way of doing CPR in our memory and to revive our hearts with that greatest story in the history of mankind, so that we know how to live our short life on earth with meaning.

Night 3:
Many times we come to God from a position of insecurity. That's why we try to always be a people-pleaser, living for the expectations of man. It is no wonder we are caught up with having strife in our hearts, getting discouraged when things don't seem to go right and everything else goes terribly wrong. We get easily frustrated with God over matters that maybe don't matter. Oh. how foolish we are. It is like a prince of the rich king who lives like a beggar not knowing his identity. We just need to know that it is not about what we do, but who we are.

SP spent the rest of the night talking family. SP shared with us how he feels he has made a big mistake by "automatically" allowing a culture of calling our leaders spiritual fathers/mothers in the church. He felt the Lord show him that this has caused much disharmony because firstly maybe the spiritual father/mother is not ready to be one; not quite there yet. And maybe the member finds it difficult to respect his/her leader as "father/mother" and thus to label them as one would be a tremendous struggle. It's certainly something that i grapple with too in my own journey.

SP also shared that our church has become too clan-ish. My tribe, your tribe. Pastor Melvyn is right. We have grown deep but small. The segregation is so strong that when I see someone that I am close to from another tribe i feel that distance. Very weird. Hard to explain. And sometimes, the homogeneous setting makes it even worse. But as I hear SP share, I know God is doing something NEW in FCBC. May the divine flow happen in FCBC in this year of sabbath.

Charles Tan
Ps Khong's Church

Week of Sanctification: Reflections 2

2008-03-23T23:49:00.000+08:00

Jesus is RISEN!

2008-03-23T02:55:00.004+08:00

Local authorities baffled; religious heads have no explanation. The strong earthquake that struck in the early morning damaged more than just homes and injured civilians. Local authorities have revealed that it also affected the area near the grave of recently buried Jesus Christ.

In their short statement to the press, they have reported that the huge boulder used to seal the tomb was dislodged by the earthquake, and it appeared that the body is now missing from its resting place.

When interviewed, one of the special Roman guards posted to secure the tomb said sheepishly, "His disciples might have come during the night and stole him away while we were asleep."

Local authorities have yet to rule out foul play, though no arrests have been reported so far. Neither the chief priests nor the council members could be reached for comment at press time.

The authorities are now urging anyone that has seen the body of Jesus to report back to them.

For full story, please see Matthew 27:57 - 28:15.

Week of Sanctification: Reflections

2008-03-22T16:22:00.005+08:00

In this season of knowing God and taking time to develop the discipline of being in His presence, one key word that keeps cropping up is that of brokenness. Our pastors have taught from the pulpit what it means to be broken before God, but I'm sure there are many of you out there who still wonder what that means for you personally. Perhaps you are asking, "Am I broken already? How do I know?" Well, I thought about this as I spent some time hearing from my guys after last night's session. My encouragement to you is to focus on spending time with God and giving up the things that are important to you so that you can obey God wholeheartedly. Brokenness will come when you do that. Here's something from our Youthbuzz coulmn in our weekly bulletin that I thought helped me understand brokenness a little more. [+]

BROKENNESS

As a young Christian, I was impacted greatly by the writings of Watchman Nee, a spiritual giant who knew and experienced close intimacy with God. His books like "The Normal Christian Life" and "The Release of the Spirit" increased my understanding of the spirit man by leaps and bounds. "Brokenness" has been the buzz word this last week. I thought I can do no better than share with you some gleanings from his writings on this subject:

"Many of God's servants are not able to do even the most elementary works. Ordinarily, their spirits should enable them to know God's Word, discern the spiritual condition of another, send forth God's messages under the anointing, and receive God's revelations. However, because their outward man has never been dealt with, revival, zeal, pleading and activity are a waste of time. There is just one basic dealing that can enable man to be useful before God, and it is this: brokenness."

"Without the breaking of the outward man, the inward man cannot come forth to bless others because Christ's life is imprisoned by us. It is not that the Lord cannot bless the church, but that the Lord's life is so confined within us that there is no flowing forth. If the outward man remains unbroken, we can never be a blessing to His church, and we cannot expect the Word of God to be blessed by Him through us!"

How do we know if we've been broken?

"There is one common feature that marks those who have been enlightened and disciplined; they become meek. Meekness is a sign of brokenness. All who are broken by God are characterized by meekness" (Note: not weakness!).

Jesus said, "The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words which I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life." (John 6:63)

-Youthbuzz 2 Mar 08

Joshua Teo

The Divine Exchange

2008-03-21T02:12:00.006+08:00

Tonight was the first night of Sanctification Week. SP shared what I believe is a very important and timely word for us at FCBC. Teaching from Exodus 33, SP share how it was possible for us as a church to be growing and becoming very successful, yet God's presence is not with us because we are "stiff-necked" and stubborn to obey Him. He challenged us if we were willing to give up everything else just so we may yearn for the presence of God. Personally, I was very touched by the word. I made that decision today to tell God "Yes." It doesn't matter anymore whether I become good in my job, whether I excel to the best of my potential professionally, whether I am recognised by people for having contributed to the community, whether I can do great things for Singapore and my church and ministry. These are all things that are important to me and still are. In a way, I thought they defined who I was, as a successful Christian. But I came to realise none of these matter if God's presence is not with me. I can achieve all that and be proud that I have "done it" but God is not with me as I have placed all these things above wanting Him. Today, I made the choice to want Him more than anything else. Even at the expense of my "success". They are of no value if Christ is not with me. And you what, as I responded to God with that heart of brokenness, He allowed me to encounter the Holy Spirit like never before. As I died to Him once more, I felt the Lord lead me to enter deeper into His presence.

If you were not here tonight, make sure you don't miss the next 2 days. I know the Lord is doing something NEW in FCBC. He has already started tonight and you don't want to miss out on it. Cancel whatever you can and come and meet Him. I guess I understand what it means a little more that "one day in the courts of the Lord is better than a thousand else where". But don't take my words for it. Come and experience God for yourself. You need to. If I may be a little blunt in my encouragement, don't waste your time elsewhere. Come and meet God. And may your life be transformed.

Joshua Teo

FCBC Week Of Sanctification

2008-03-20T23:56:00.000+08:00

Rekindled Passion, Restored Intimacy, Renewed Faith – your life changed as you encounter our Lord Jesus Christ. Come to the Sanctification Week beholding Him, and see a rekindled, restored and renewed Christian life flowing out of you.

WEEK OF SANCTIFICATION (English with Sign Language available)
20 Mar (Thu), 7.30pm
21-22 Mar (Fri & Sat), 6pm
@ The MAX Pavilion

WEEK OF SANCTIFICATION (Mandarin)
27-28 Mar (Thu & Fri), 7.30pm
29 Mar (Sat), 2pm
@ TOUCHCENTRE Auditorium

Free shuttle bus service (Simei MRT-The MAX Pavilion) one hour before & after meeting.

Free FCBC special bus services (return trip only, first-come-first-serve basis) from:
- The MAX Pavilion to MRT Stations (Clementi/Jurong East & Ang Mo Kio)
- TOUCHCENTRE * to MRT Stations (Clementi/Jurong East, Ang Mo Kio & Eunos)
* Return bus services from TOUCHCENTRE available on both Thu & Fri nights only.

I'd rather have Jesus. What about you?

2008-03-20T00:06:00.006+08:00

Last week, Ps Melvin taught us a new song at the closing of his sermon. He sang "I'd Rather Have Jesus", an old hymn with lyrics that really touched my heart. May the words of the song minister to you and cause you to reflect on the direction of your own life as you prepare for Sanctification Week over the next few days. As with many hymns, there is usually a meaningful testimony behind it. Read it with the lyrics after the break. [+]

(Adapted from allaboutgod.com)

I’d Rather Have Jesus is a song written by Rhea F. Miller with the tune written by George Beverly Shea. This poem, written in 1922, was left on a piano in the Shea home by Bev Shea who wanted her son to find it and change the course of his life.

The words, I’d rather have Jesus, moved George so much and spoke to him about his own aims and ambitions in life. He sat down at the piano and began singing them with a tune that seemed to fit the words. Shea’s mom heard him singing it and asked him to sing it at church the next day.

George’s life direction did change. He was offered a popular music career with NBC, but a few years later chose to become associated with evangelist Billy Graham and sang this hymn around the world.

I'D RATHER HAVE JESUS

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;
I’d rather be His than have riches untold;
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands,
I’d rather be led by His nail pierced hand.

Than to be a king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin’s dread sway,
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.

I’d rather have Jesus than men’s applause;
I’d rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I’d rather have Jesus than world-wide fame,
I’d rather be true to His holy name.

He’s fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;
He’s sweeter than honey from out of the comb;
He’s all that my hungering spirit needs,
I’d rather have Jesus and let Him lead.

Photos from Baptism Service 22 Feb 08

2008-03-19T18:22:00.002+08:00

Baptism is always a special and significant time for those involved. It represents the sealing of a commitment to follow Jesus no matter how challenging the journey. Last month, one from our own tribe, Rachel who is under Peiyi, took that step of faith! Her parents, our dear pastors, Ps SL and Josephine put together a surprise to make this a truly memorable experience for her. May this be the start of an incredible journey for you, Rachel! Indeed, something NEW has begun!

Tell The World 2007

2008-03-18T21:45:00.007+08:00

Just uploaded - Tell The World 2007 Pics.

Reaching for the SKY

2008-03-17T23:56:00.004+08:00

Some time last year, I came across a skyrunner video that totally got my adrenalin running and made me want to go out and get one immediately. It is simply incredible what you can do with this piece of equipment. Amazing... Watch the video yourself and see if it doesn't capture your imagination or perhaps blow your mind away.

More videos after the break. [+]

Joshua Teo

Be Part of NDP 2008!

2008-03-17T22:03:00.004+08:00

This is a great opportunity to be part of something really significant! The team needs more of you to come forward to volunteers yourself as skyrunner or hip hop dancer. Sign up today! For more info, check out the TOUCH NDP Blog here.

Sign up through your open cell or G12 leader today!

Your Spirituality & Your Prayer Life

2008-03-14T21:12:00.004+08:00

Your spirituality is never beyond your prayer life. SP taught about this during the church-wide prayer meeting last Wednesday. I have been reflecting on these words the past few days as I found them to be immensely profound. It is certainly not the first time I am hearing them. In fact, just about 2 months back, Ps SL did say this to during our weekly cluster prayer meeting when he taught on prayer. At that time, I still remember sharing with my guys, "If we know prayer to be so crucial in our life, that our ministry, our spirituality, our success in the Lord, depends on this life of prayer, will we not pray more?"

The logical answer is of course, Yes we will spend most of life seeking God! If a life of prayer is the key to unlocking growth in your cell which you have been struggling with for so long, or to experience the much desired revival that we ask God for, or to experience that breakthrough in your workplace, why do me not pray more? [+]

I realised that for myself, the reason was simple. While I knew it in my head, I did not know it experientially. While I saw it simply as a logical form of cause and effect, I missed out that it was more about delighting in God than in it was about working hard at prayer so that i could get what i want. This season of prayer is starting to change that for me. Of course, it helps that we are keeping each other accountable in this one hour with God. The discipline helps cultivate what was almost unnatural before. I pray because I know more now, that I need Jesus. I need Him as my advocator before God. I need Him as my place of refuge and my pillar of strength in times of struggle and stress. I want to enjoy the closeness and dwell in the knowledge that God delights in me. I want to, and I need to.

Of course, being the questioning person that I am, I asked, "Does it mean then that the more hours I pray, the closer I will be to God?" So 2 hours is better than 1 hour? 3 hours better than 2 hours? Does it mean then, that God blesses us conditionally on how much we pray? Certainly a very tempting way to think, but not a good reflection of who God is. I'm learning that our ability to receive God's blessing is very much dependent on our ability to hear Him and do His bidding. Prayer before the Lord cultivates and builds our capacity to do so. It disciples us to live a life of total reliance upon God rather than to depend on our human abilities which would ultimately lead us to live life without God.

Also, our prayer life is not measured in hours. It is measured in sincerity and truth. Do we pray biblically and passionately to God? Our prayer life is a measure of our intimacy with God ONLY if our prayer life is authentic and biblical. Instead of chasing after how long we pray, let's ask God to tutor us how to pray deeply. Don't be surprised though that when God touches you, the last thing on your mind would be how long.

Joshua Teo

Something New

2008-03-13T23:02:00.000+08:00

The word is "NEW".
After our Church wide prayer meeting, Pastor Seng Lee gathered us for a short meeting. He shared with us that God has spoken to him. And God told him that He is going to do something NEW. Pastor said "God, that's EXCITING!" That day during a prayer meeting at his workplace, Pastor encountered the Lord in a way like never before. He experienced the manifestation of the Holy Spirit in a that he had never done before and it was totally out of his mind. As Pastor inquired of the Lord, the Lord told him that was He was showing pastor what it meant to experience something new in his life and that was His way of affirming that word in his life.

Pastor felt that the word "New" was also for all of us. Amen!

So Ask God for SOMETHING NEW (right now).
New fresh touch
New heart
New brokenness
New spiritual experiences

Jesus came to make ALL things New. Experience it today!

Narash

No Testimony Without the Test

2008-03-12T00:36:00.009+08:00

Recently, I heard someone say these wise words which impacted me a lot. "There is no testimony without the test." The person who said this was sharing from the perspective of one who has been in the mission field for many years and has seen the Lord come through for him in the most extreme of circumstances. He has faced head hunters, come face to face with 2000 prisoners, all in the name of bringing the Gospel to people who would have otherwise not have had a chance to hear it. Extreme? Certainly. But it is exactly in those extreme circumstances that he saw God deliver him in nothing short of miraculous ways! [+]

So am I asking you to sell of your valuables, pack your bags and go search the jungles of Borneo for head-hunter tribes? Certainly, if that's where the Lord is calling you. But for most of us, persevering through the test and testifying to God's goodness in our lives start a little closer to home. I have been thinking a lot about our 40-day prayer and fast recently. Many of us struggle through it. We struggle to focus during the one hour, we struggle to make time in the midst of our busyness, we struggle that after praying, we still go back to dealing with the difficult matters that we were facing before praying. So what gives?

Well, the Bible tells us in James 1:2-4 to "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." God puts us through tests so that we can be refined and testify of His goodness in our lives. What is our response? To persevere through until perseverance finishes its work in us! God has a plan to redeem the weaknesses and ugliness in our lives and to use it for His Glory. But it calls for a response of pressing on from our side. Perseverance is not a final goal that can be won or achieve. It is a process. And God is very much more interested in this process rather than what you achieve in the end. It is this process that transforms you from coal to diamond, that refines you into all that God has called you to be.

But it's not just about passing the test. It's also about pursuing it. One of the things that we worry about when we have to teach at encounter is, "Do I have enough stories to tell?" When was your last experience with the Holy Spirit? When was the last time you saw a tangible manifestation of the Lord's provision for you? When was the last time you were in a situation where only a miracle would have saved you and God came through with it? Well, such testimonies to speak of come only when you allow God to lead you into victory through trials of many kinds! Question is, ARE YOU WILLING TO BE LED? Decide for yourself today!

Joshua Teo

Is One Hour Really Too Much?

2008-03-09T22:33:00.006+08:00

Most of you would know and have experienced that a time of 40 days of prayer and fast does not come without its challenges and struggles. Each week as I check in with the people in my open cell, a common sharing that I hear is that they struggle to spend that one hour with God, especially when there seems to be so many other (in our human understanding) important things to do. How do you carve out one hour of your time to be with the Lord when you have 3 tests to study for and you are behind in your revision? The easiest thing to do would be to tell God, "I'm sure you understand, I really need the time. It's not that I don't want to be with you, but I'm sure you want me to do well in my test right? I'm sorry but I will try harder when I have more time." Really? [+]

My personal experience through the first week of prayer and fasting was certainly short of smooth sailing. Having set that one hour aside, I found it was exactly like what SP had described - all the emails that I had not sent came into mind. The errand that I had to run suddenly just kept flashing before my eyes. Even the scenery outside my window became a distraction as I found myself being drawn to it instead of God! It was like, suddenly everything that could distract you amplified itself a thousand times and was fighting for your attention! This week that passed was a challenging time for me too. I was working towards an important dateline and found myself struggling with every minute that I gave to God. The stress and anxiety made it all the more difficult to start praying and finding rest in God!

The purpose of me sharing with you all these? Well, I pressed on. And I felt the Lord reveal to me something very precious.

Firstly, it is precisely in times of great stress and demands that we need to find our refuge in God. Of course the human side of us would rather take control and "manage it" the way we know how. Somehow, we feel that if we let God take charge, He will mess it up for us. Considering that He is the omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient creator of the whole universe, it is quite a joke for us to think that way, but I am sure most of you can identify.

Consider David who was anointed king at the age of 30 after the death of Saul. Many of the Psalms that he wrote were done during his twenties when he was evading Saul's capture! (That's not much older than many of us.) They were written not in times when he was king and he was walking through the royal gardens and contemplating the beauty of the world as the soft breeze blew by, but in very dire circumstances when his life was in danger! Yet, during those times, he found time to rest in the Lord and call out to Him. He KNEW his source of strength and WHO was his deliverer! And each time the Lord proved faithful and met his every need.

So, was it just about David tapping into the right source to sustain him through his life-threatening circumstances? I believe David knew something else. He knew that given his own devices, he would have gone down the path of destruction instead of one of hope. See, David was a warrior, and a skillful at that. He had his mighty men who were part of a great army. He could have taken things into his hands many times, yet as you read in the Psalms, a constant theme that appears is that of David giving up his right to retaliate, and allowing God the rightful place to vindicate him. He knew that on his own, his intentions could only be selfish and self-glorifying at best, hence the need to turn to God and to depend on Him. Only then, could he live a life that experienced true freedom in the Lord and delighted his heavenly father.

The Lord showed me that it is the same with my life. The times that I experience the greatest challenges are the times where I need more than ever to be with the Lord. I need His encouragement, His peace, His truth to guard my heart and mind, and hope in His ultimate sovereignty over my life. Without God, I will probably sink to great depths of depression and desolation. But in God, like the psalmist, I can cry out to Him to break me so that I become aware of the desperately sick condition of my heart and cry out for a new one that is tender and ready to receive of His love and to respond in obedience to Him.

The Lord showed me too, that many of my "important priorities" in life are motivated by my conditioned need to maximise my comfort and pleasure in this life on earth. Spending time with God would then mean having less time for these "treasures" that are highly valued in the world we live in. However, as a Christian, believing in Jesus and His resurrection means that I can and should live my live in light of eternity instead of this temporary home. What's going to matter in eternity is really my relationship and intimacy with Christ, not how well I do in school, how many promotions I have at work, how much money I earn or how much fame and recognition I receive from man. Not that doing well is unimportant, but that is not my main focus and priority in life. Rather, all these will be an outflow of a life that is consumed with loving God and loving His people!

That puts things in perspective doesn't it? Our live on this earth is not about eating well, staying healthy, getting a good job and having a loving family! If it were, what does it matter with or without Christ? But Jesus came to offer us something better! He came to give us a life of deep connection and intimacy with Him that was intended for us from the start. A life of total reliance that knows His peace and experiences the great measure of His loving kindness every second of our life from here to eternity!

Is one hour really too much? Don't short-change yourself. God is waiting with eager anticipation to fellowship with you. I pray your time with Him today will be extraordinary beyond what you can ever think or imagine. Amen.

Joshua Teo

Going For Broke(nness)

2008-02-24T23:45:00.002+08:00

These 2 weeks of sermon from Ps Khong really touched my heart. I have been crying alot again, since don't know when and I want to continue to be tender before the Lord always. The teaching on Ps 45 and 51 brings me deeper into the knowledge of His grace and mercy. Reflecting on what was shared by Ps Khong, I am again thankful for the Aug 07 incident when I was struck with ITP when my platelets was so critically low. The fact that I can still type this email is because of God's grace and mercy. I am convinced further and convicted of my position in Christ and His love for me. [+]

Firstly, I am His bride. The amazing thing is the ring that was given to me (my Israel trip expenses was very much blessed by some kind pp in the tribe) during the Israel trip last year. This ring has my name in Hebrew. It is symbolic of the reality that God knows me by name and the ring represents an unchanging love from God, the relationship continuing in that circular motion, never coming to an end. These sweets thoughts came to be during one of the night worship sessions in Israel when I struggled if I should buy that ring for it costs US$50. I am truly His beloved. I don't deserve all these, the complete healing from my non-stop bleeding for a week or the trip to Israel or even the ring. These are all demonstrations of God's grace, His love overwhelms me. He just loves me despite all my sinful nature and self-centredness.

That is grace, for what I don't deserve yet freely given unto me - the most amazing thing which we often mention is His death on the cross. So heart-wrenching, so difficult, so broken to have to be separated from God the Father, yet He obeyed and did what I truly don't deserve. MY DEAR GOD IS REALLY GOOD TO ME! And to all of you too of course, my beloved family.

God has been teaching me about mercy too and He revealed this to me when Ps Khong taught from Philippians. On my own, I know how prideful, how stubborn and how sinful I can be. Yet, I experienced His mercy. I could have been struck to death for my sins but He mercifully saved me and gave me life, not just the physical one but every day allowing me to taste of His goodness, every day helping me to change my heart so that just as He is crazily in love with me, I can be deeply in love with God too. And the fact I can love Him is bcos He first taught me how to love. For those of you who know, I was a very revengeful person in the past. Mercy, mercy, it's been mercy all the way - I love this song. Many times I was not faithful but every time He will re-instate me just like the way He did to Peter. I don't deserve this! I was a wretch but now a princess in God, His beloved. Amazing Grace and Abundant Mercy indeed!

To be honest, I still struggle with things in life but somehow things are also seemingly lighter to me now because I know WHO I AM IN THE LORD. I can rest securely in His love. When you know WHO GOD IS, you can rest simply in His presence and power.

I am also learning not to be proud of God sharing His heart with me. Don't be mistaken, it is not that I am highly spiritual or I deserve it. But having felt God's heart a little more recently, I find myself crying more often in my prayer. There are not much words especially when praying for the youth-at-risk or for my girls or for the youth generation. I have been praying for FCBC too, my beloved church, that as God bless us with a big place to worship, He will be there too or it is really pointless, meaningless and purposeless. As I talk to God everyday I am learning to practise His presence wherever I am. For me, it simply means to be more God-conscious so that in all the meetings I have with students or volunteers or at cell, I am dependent on Him and being used by Him to speak forth the right words.

Many of you might still be wondering what it means to live a life of brokenness before God. I hope that my sharing inspires you to re-examine your life and spur you on towards this life of brokenness. Do not be fearful to go for broke and give Him your all. You will find that in return, the joy of experiencing God's salvation at work in your life, far outweighs everything that you have denied yourself to be broken before Him. I have experienced that. Have you?

Angela Tan

An Adventure of Love

2008-02-21T12:50:00.014+08:00

The 14th of February might be a special day for some. It is most well known to be Valentine's Day, a day where many people take special effort to surprise and celebrate that special person in their life. It was no different for me. There was a special person who meant a great deal to me and I was really excited to plan something extraordinary for her. My adventure of love begins after the break... [+]

Relax lar, the person is none other than Pastor Jo! (Now what were you thinking!) Pastor Jo's birthday is on 14 Feb too and on the eve of her birthday, some of the SJ24 gathered at Youth Office to give her a surprise!

We snuck into a room at Youth Office without Ps Jo knowing. The ladies were having G12 meeting with pastor that night.

As their G12 meeting was going to start soon, the ladies has to take their leave or arouse suspicion. We switched off the lights and took our places. On the way out, Angela said, "30 sec!" and we started to wait in the dark.

3 min passed and nothing happened, so we decided to do a little more decorating.

We heard a sound and thought someone was coming. We all frozed in action.

False alarm. Phew! Ok, back to work.

Haw Ling is now an expert at hanging stuff, even in the dark.
Hwee Khoon, must make sure he helps you hang the curtains ok!!! Ha ha.

Putting the finishing touches on the deco.

Test-lighting the candles and trying not to burn them off before Ps Jo came.

SURPRISE! Our lady of the day arrives in pretty pink!

And the crowd goes wild! Amos does a special performance while the rest of the brothers try to avoid getting hit.

Obviously it sends everyone in stitches.

The singing starts. Angela leads the choir.

Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday to Pastor Jo......... (with resounding low bass from Say Pin) Happy Birthday to you!

Blowing off the candles, with a little help from our resident expert candle blower.

Popping the champagne! I almost got hit by the cork. Almost lah. Pastor was aiming for me! Ha ha.

These presents are but a token expression of our heartfelt love and appreciation for you, pastor!

Cheers to the spiritual mother in our lives! May you live to every God-ordained day and grow to be very close to His heart!

Sorry, children cannot drink. Smiling is ok though. ;)

Praying for pastor. Would you pause here for a minute and bless her too? Yes, now.:)

Take another minute to pray for Pastor Seng Lee too and their whole family...

Megan with a great sweet smile. Preciousness!

Bonus pic of the day! Our resident wine guzzling SUPERSTAR!
(Remember the Mt K Pics?)

Joshua Teo

Oh no! The TV has to go!

2008-02-17T22:33:00.006+08:00

Today's sermon by SP was certainly different. In case you are still wondering if SP said it right.... Yes! Ladder of Success stops with immediate effect, so don't turn up for Post Encounter or SOL next week! Someone joked that when SP mentioned that during service, he turned around to see if anyone around him pumped their fist in the air and went, "Yes!" Upon some reflection, I wonder if there are those among us who really feel this way. Finally for once, we can wake up later on Sunday. Thank God for the break, thank God for the rest! Thank God that we got more time to do our own things! I hope not! If you heard SP clearly, we are stopping all equipping because our hearts are not right before God! What's the use of doing all these just so that we can fill up the blank spaces in our equipping record? Today was a timely reminder to ask God to check our hearts. [+]

Personally, the 40-Day fast from TV is going to one of my biggest struggle. TV time for me is de-stressing time for me. But I realise that it too has become an idol in my life. I question myself, why watch TV to de-stress instead of reading the Word of God which refreshes my soul and equips me for every good work? It seems a simple decision to make right? But it required such a drastic call to pray from SP to tear me away from the goggle box. I think that's reflective of the state of my walk with God. I would rather watch TV then spend time with God.

Two things I heard over the weekend stood out for me this week. The first was when SP said, "It is not that God wants to deprive us of the things that we desire. He doesn't want us to sacrifice the most important thing in the world - our relationship with Him." I believe it's time we learnt the truth of that. Is knowing and obeying God more important than our computer games, our TV shows, our dinner with friends, our outing with old schoolmates? It is easy to say yes, but I urge you to ask God to test your heart so that it might be revealed true and authentic before Him.

The second thing that struck a cord with me was during prayer meeting when Pastor SL challenged us, "What's the difference between us as spiritual leaders and the leaders out there in the world if we do not pray?" It was really a rhetorical question of course. There is no difference. We are as good as depending on our own abilities and skills instead of tapping into the infinite resources of the Almighty. It is no wonder that while we hope and expect supernatural things to happen (eg.great revival, breakthroughs in members' lives, the sick healed, the dead raised, etc), we witness only those humanly possible. It is impossible to be a cell leader/G12 leader if we don't pray. Supernatural things call for supernatural means! More importantly, how do we know God's heart in all that we are doing if we don't bother to seek and listen to Him?

I pray and encourage all of us that we will grow to delight God in this area. For a start, no TV and computer games will feel a little like cold-turkey treatment. I felt it tonight already. (The urge was very strong but I chose to deny myself.) But I pray that we will all grow to delight in spending time with God, to walk with Him, to tarry with Him. And in case you are wondering about this word that appeared in the hymn we sang today, Merriam-Webster's Online Dictionary defines tarry as 1. to linger in expectation or 2. to abide or stay in or at a place.

May you be blessed greatly as you tarry with God personally. Amen!

Joshua Teo

Let us PRAY.

2008-02-17T19:05:00.042+08:00

This is Pastor Khong's challenge to FCBC.
Let us Fast and Pray for the next 40days.

Fast from all of these stated below :
1. Television
2. Any sort of Computer & Electronic Games (eg. PSP & Games on the Net)
3. Any one Meal (Breakfast or Lunch or Dinner)

Pray for 1 hour everyday using an easy guide stated below:

1. Praise and Worship (Thanksgiving to God) -10min

- Sing a few Praise and Worship songs unto God

2. Pray for Yourself - 10min

- Your needs, your burdens, your worries

3. Pray for your Family, Spiritual Family - 10min

- For their salvation, wellbeing, protection and as the Lord leads

4. Pray for your Marketplace - 10min

- Ie: School - Teachers, Friends, Education system, Atmosphere

5. Pray for Singapore - 10min

- Economy, Government, Ministers, Any other recent issues concerning Singapore

6. Pray for the Nations of the World - 10min

- Print out the Worldmap and Start praying for each of the country. If Lord gives you a burden for any of the country as you pray, then continue praying for it.

After the 40 days of Fast and Prayer we will begin Sanctification Week. Let's ask God to sanctify us starting from now!

Have you been also reading the psalms a day before breakfast? If no, what are you waiting for. Join us! Delight in the Lord, for the Lord delights in you spending time with Him.

God bless you to enjoy your reading of one Psalm a day. Remember also to send in to the blog your testimonies of how God has blessed you through this time of fasting and praying. You can email to narash22underwhere@gmail.com

Narash

Happy Birthday Shujia!

2008-02-14T00:01:00.000+08:00

Two weeks ago, we celebrated Shujia's birthday after G12 meeting. I had the wonderful priviledge of planning her mini-celebration with a budget of $30. Here's how it went. Heh. [+]

Mini-birthday cake with candle and lighter - $5.00

Printing of 4R-size photos of Shujia from my candid shots collection - $10. (We took turns affirming and blessing Shujia using the photos.)

Swenson's voucher to enjoy a proper birthday cake at her own time - $10.

A photo book (also our birthday card) which contains Psalms 61-66 (of which Shujia did the reading guide) - $0.

Playmobil set describing the story of Psalm 23 and also the parable of the vine and the branches - $15.

The look of surprise and appreciation on Shujia's face? - PRICELESS. ;)
If you bothered to do you math rightly, you would realise that I overshot the budget by $10. Ha ha. But seriously, with all the fun and enjoyment I had preparing, who's complaining? Enjoy the rest of the photos!

Bonus photo! - Our resident dragonboat hunk catching a late dinner! :)