God and our festival

Deuteronomy 18:9-13
Galatians 2:11-14

Custom: A traditional activity or festival that takes place the same time every year
Festival: A day or time that people have holiday to celebrate some event
Superstition: Belief in magic or fairies. Certain beliefs in signs and luck. Have certain fears.

1. Religion and culture
Culture - all aspect of life
Religion – Covers spiritual side

2. The historical baggage

3. The stumbling block to our elders

4. How to be a good Christians without forsaking our roots
a. Chinese new year / Chun jie
b. Guo nian
c. Spring cleaning
d. Reunion dinner
e. Visitation
f. Ren Ri

Sermon taken @ Lighthouse Evangelism (preached by Ps Colin)

Life Most Important Things

1. My relationship with Jesus
Isaiah 9:6
- whenever we call on Jesus, the Holy Spirit and our God father is there.

2. My relationship with my family
Ephesians 5:22 - wife submit to husband.
Ephesians 5:25 - husband love the wife.
Ephesians 6:1 - children cherish parent.
Ephesians 6:4 - Parent and children together.
- Family worship together and serve together.
- Take time communication with each other.

3. My comradeship with my staff
Luke 21:15-17
- Always try to dissolve problem among boss and staff.
- care for your sheep

4. My responsibility to my Lighters
John 21:20-22
- Don't look at other christian, just focus yourself on the lord.
- Just keep your eye focus on the lord.

5. Our effectiveness in Christ's Great Commission
Mark 16:15-18
1 Corinthians 2:4
- Lay hand on the sick and they shall heal. Not only in miracle service or at work place.

6. Our readiness for the Rapture
Matthew 24:37-41

7. A clear conscience
Acts 23:1-5 NIV
1 Tim 1:5
2 Cor 1:12

8. A rhythm of proactive living and sound sleep
Psalm 127:1-2 NKJV
Psalm 127:2-4 NKJV

9. Having the mind of Christ
"as a man thinketh in his mind, so is he"
Phi 2:1-11 NIV

"think of a strong point that a person has and you don't have"

10. Control the tongue
1 Peter 3:10 NKJV
Psalm 34:12-13

11. Putting objectivity into my EQ
Proverb 15:1
Proverb 4:23

12. Keep physically fit
1 Tim 4:8 (as compared between godliness and exercise)
3 John 2 NASB
1 Cor 6:19-20

13. A lifestyle of excellence
Colossion 3:23-24
- Character, Competence, Consistency, Continuity, Completion
Philippians 1:6 NKJV

14. Building meaningful relationships
Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 18:24

15. Childlikeness towards God
- Simplicity of trust and faith
Character of a child:
1. They are easily motivated to believe
2. They trust their parent explicitly
3. They forgive readily
4. They are curious for knowledge and are teachable
5. They are in a world of wonderment
Matthew 18:1-4 NASB
Matthew 11:25

16. Major on my life message
Philippians 3:3-10 NKJV
Acts 26:4-20 NKJV

17. The habit of keeping things in order
- Dirt is matter out of place
1 Corinthians 14:40

18. Preparing the next generation
John 14:12
John 14:16-17
John 14:25-26
-Generation know not the Lord
Judges 2:10

Sermon notes taken during Sunday service at Lighthouse Evangelism (preached by Ps Rony)

Preparation for a new start

3 Factors of a fulfilled year

1. How we learn from the past
2. How to plan for the future
3. How we begin to take action now in the present


Scriptural Reference:
Philippians 3:12-14
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

3 Steps to start anew

1. Leave the past behind (Phi 3:12)
2. Move forward from NOW on (Phi 3:13)
3. Reach for the ultimate (Phi 3:14)

Feeding which nature more?

Scriptural reference:
Romans 7:18-25
I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[a] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.

Sermon notes taken during Sunday service at Lighthouse Evangelism

What happen when christians pray?

1. When God answers our prayer if does not cross the mark

-Job 36:32
-Habbakkuk 3:4

2. Our prayer reach the Throne Room

-Rev 5:8
-Rev 8:1-5

3. God answered David's prayer by thunder and lightning

-2 Sam 22:1-15

4. Agreement intensifies prayer effectiveness

-Matt 18:18-20
-Levi 26:8

5. Whose prayer does the Lord hear
a) the harmonious family (1 Peter 3:7)
b) the righteous (Romans 5:19)


sermon preached by Ps Colin @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Our Great High Priest

Scriptural reference: Hebrew 4:13-16

Hebrew 4:13
God is sovereign

Hebrew 4:14
Jesus is the perfect High Priest

-inferior high priest (Hebrew 5:1-3)

-Jesus the High Priest (Hebrew 10:11-14)

Hebrew 4:15
Jesus understands our weaknesses

Hebrew 4:16
God's grace allows us to approach Him


Sermon preached by Ps Pacer @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Answers To Critics Of The Pre-Tribulation (Part1 - Part3)

Details of the Rapture

1. The Lord himself will descend to the clouds in mid air
2. He will shout as He comes but only those who will be raptured can hear him
3. We will hear the voice of the Archangel and the last trumpet call of God for the Church and the Church age ends at this point.
4. In an atomic second, demised saints will have their spirits (from heaven) and their bodies (even scattered remains in this world) reunited, resurrected, translated and raptured to meet Christ in mid-air
5. Following the same twinkling of an eye, believer will be translated and raptured to join Christ and the saints who had gone before them
6. There will be mid-air monumental reunion in the clouds
7. That's when Jesus reconciles us to Himself and accompanies us to Heaven where we shall always be with Him

little background:

1. Church goers who missed the rapture will get serious with God
2. Age of lawlessness
- 144,000 Jews sealed by God
- 2 groups of believers killed during Great Tribulation
1. Martyred saints (Rev 6:9-11)
2. Tribulation saints (Rev 7:9-10, 13-14)


The 18 objections to the Pre-tribulation position

1. No way in the bible is there a single verse that explicitly state that the Rapture will take place before the Great Tribulation

2. If all Christians are raptured, then who will Anti-Christ persecuting?
- not all church goer will be raptured
- those left behind will be serious and fervent Christian
a) Left behind Christians
b) Jews
c) Opposer not in line with Anti-Christ
d) Political enemies
e) People who are against Anti-Christ
f) Unfortunate innocent victims

3. Didn't Jesus say that in this world there will be persecution? (John 16:33)
- different degree of suffering and persecution
- not referring to the Great Tribulation

4. Jesus' prayer in John 17:15 indicates that we have to go through the Great Tribulation
- John 17: 1-5 (Jesus prayed for Himself)
- John 17: 6-19 (early disciples)
- John 17:20 - 20-26 (all disciples of all time)

5. If early Christians had to suffer much persecution, why should we be exempted from the Great Tribulation?
- early Christians were not suffering from the Great Tribulation

6. Suffering during the Great Tribulation will purify Christians
- we are purified by the Word of God (John 17:17)
- reason why Thessalonians were serving faithfully

7.If millions of Christians are simultaneously raptured all over the world, how can the rapture be secret?
- 1 Corinthians 15:51-52

8. If all Christians are rapture who will continue to evangelize the lost world?
- John 9:4
- Revelation 7:1-4
- Revelation 11:3-6
- Revelation 14:6-7

9. Isn't it obvious that Christ comes at the 6th seal and that's at the end of Great Tribulation?
- Revelation 6:12-17

10. At the Rapture, the last trumpet will sound and that corresponds with the 7th trumpet of the Great Tribulation?
- Revelation 11:15
- 1 Corinthians 15:52

11. Even God's elect have to go through the Great Tribulation, and if we are exempted, are we more special than them?
- Matthew 24:15-22

12. Matthew 24:29-31, clearly states that the rapture will take place after the Great Tribulation.

13. Pre-tribbers are advocating a convenient Gospel in which Christians are exempted from any suffering and persecution.
- in any ages, Christians have been persecuted
- Matthew 10:23
- Jesus doesn't glorify in persecution

14. Most great preachers like Moody, Finney, Spurgeon and many others are post tribbers
- their statements were mis-quoted out of context

15. How can there be more than 1 rapture?
- the raptures recorded in the bible
a) Enoch (Gen 5:24, Heb 11:5)
b) Elijah (2 King 2:1)
c) Jesus (Acts 1:9)
d) Church (1 Thess 4:15-17)
e) 144,000 Jewish evangelist (Rev 14:1-5)
f) 2 witnesses (Rev 11:7-8, Rev 11:11-12)
g) Tribulation rapture (Matt 24:29-31)

16. 2 Thess 2:1-4 clearly states that the Rapture cannot take place before the Anti-Christ comes
- the anti-Christ must in the temple

17. The Pre-tribulation position is a recent erroneous teaching, which originated from an unreliable source
- all positions are relatively recent teachings

18. Pre-tribbers are deceiving believers causing them to be unprepared for the Great Tribulation
- no way to be prepared for the great tribulation

What and how to get prepared?

1. Be ready (Matt 24:44)
2. Be watchful (Matt25:13)
3. Be on your guard (Luke 21:34-36)
4. Be together (Heb 10:25)
5. Be faithful (Luke 12:42-44)
6. Be expecting his return (Heb 9:28)

Conclusion

Rev 22:20-21

Change your thinking, change your destiny

... as water takes the shape of the pipe, so is our life energy that takes the shape of our thinking.

A thought reap action. An action reap habit. A habit reap character and a character reap a future.

Assumption: Pre-position taken for granted as if it is true

1. Paradigm shift in modern times 

 - Example: 4 minute-mile run

2. Paradigm shift in biblical times (2 Samuel 21:15-22)

a) Abishai  rescued David from Ishbi-Benob (2 Sam 21:15-17)

b) Sibbecai The Hushathite killed Saph (2 Sam 21:18)

c) Elhanan killed lahmi (2 Sam 21:19)

d) Jonathan killed a giant with 24 fingers and toes (2 Sam 21:20-22)

3. Thinking affects actions (Matthew 6:6-7, Matthew 24:44)

4. Thinking change the destiny of the Jews (Esther 4:12-17)

5. Same exposure but different assumptions (Number 14:6-8)

6. Adverse circumstances need not change the man (Gen 37:1-11)

Notes taken during sermon preached by Ps Colin @ Lighthouse evangelism

The perspective of Rapture (Part 2)

12 Reasons of Pre-Tri position:

(cont)

7. Our judgement took place at Calvary (Rev 12:12)

8. Believers are not appointed for wrath (1 Thes 1:10, 1 Thess 5:9, Luke 21:11)

9. Believers are to escape the Great Tribulation (Luke 21:36)

- escape all (Hell, Atrocity of Anti-Christ, Betrayal from loved ones, Rampage of the world, Demonic attack)

- Rev 7:2-5 (144,000 Jews sealed)

10. Believers are kept from the hour of temptation (Rev 3:10)

- Hour of temptation: Great tribulation, temptation to denounce Christ

- The trust in Christ that prevent hell, not endurance

11. It is intended by the Lord to bring comfort to us (1 Thes 4:16-18, 1 Thes 5:1-11)

12. It agrees with the scriptural teaching of the imminency of Christ's second coming (1 Thes 4:13-18, 1 Cor 15:51-58)

To have the expectancy of the Lord' return. And to love God and others more. 

Notes taken during sermons preached by Ps Rony @ Lighthouse Evangelsim

The proper perspective of rapture (Part1)

Eschatology: The study of end-times

3 positions regarding the Rapture:
1. Pre-tribulation
2. Mid-tribulation
3. Post-tribulation

Nowhere in bible has explicitly stated which is the correct position to take. Hence, we can agree to disagree without being to disagreeable

Question: Will christian got through the Great tribulation?
- Great tribulation is about God's judgement
- It is a 7 years period
- This earth will be given to the evil rulers

















12 Reasons Why I believe in the Pre-Tribulation:

1. It fits well into the chronology of the book of Revelation
Scriptural reference: Revelation 4:1
Scriptural reference: Revelation 11:12

2. It is confirmed by other scriptures
Scriptural reference: Titus 2:13
Scriptural reference: 2 Thess 2:1
Scriptural reference: 2 Thess 2:8

3. It harmonizes with Revelation 5

4. It is supported by Revelation 2:22

5. There is no mentioned of the Church on earth during the Great Tribulation..
- No mentioning of church from Revelation onwards

6. It's in keeping with the loving character of God
- Noah's ark

Scriptural reference: Genesis 19:22a
- Lot was asked to leave before judgement comes upon Sodom and Gomorrah

Sermons (Preached by PS Rony) taken @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Speak to the mountians (Part4)

A recap
Scriptural reference: Mark 11:12-25

A pre-requisite: Forgiveness

1. Forgive those who wronged us
2. Ask for forgiveness
3. Kinds of confession
1) Confession for sins to God (1 John 1:9)
2) Confession of faults to those who have wronged us (James 5:16)
3) Confession and declaration of God's words in any situation (Heb 113:5-6)

Positive confession:
Declaring word of God over my circumstances

Scriptural reference: Romans 4:17-22 NIV

- Keeps speaking the word of need
- From weak faith to strong faith

Scriptural reference: Judges 6
Gideon's account

Scriptural reference: Joshua 6:10
- The conquest of Jericho

Life and death are in the power of tongue

Scriptural reference: Matthew 8:5-13
- Centurion's account
- No hesitation from Jesus
- Under the authority of Jesus

Do not be snared by words from own mouth

Sermons (preached by Ps Rony) taken @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Speak to the mountians (Part 3)

Scriptural Reference: Matthew 17:14-20
When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus and knelt before him. 15"Lord, have mercy on my son," he said. "He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. 16I brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him."
17"O unbelieving and perverse generation," Jesus replied, "how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy here to me." 18Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of the boy, and he was healed from that moment.
19Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, "Why couldn't we drive it out?"
20He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

- Before cursing of fig tree
- Starts small

Scriptural Reference: Mark 11:25
25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins

3 Facets of forgiveness:

1. The perspective of God's forgiveness

Scriptural Reference: Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

- forgives as Jesus forgives
- always ready for reconciliation
- refuse to be condemned (after you have done your part)


2. The scriptural and practical aspects of exercising forgiveness

Scriptural reference: Matthew 18:21-22
21Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?"
22Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times

How to forgive?
- by not taking personal revenge
- ready to be reconciled
- need not return to as original state of relationship

Scriptural reference: Matthew 18:15-17
If your brother sins against you,go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.

- balance of forgiving

Scriptural reference: Matthew 18:34-35
34In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.
35"This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."

- not taking revenge
- not going back for more hurts
- ready and open for reconciliation
- not to be bitter

Unforgiveness is like:
1. Taking poison and hopping the other person would die
2. Burning down the whole house just to kill a mouse
3. Taking a fire to own's bosom

Unforgiving personnel:
- Prisoner to the offender
- Powerless spiritually
- Loose the joy of salvation
- Loose faith

3. The divine benefits of forgiveness

- New dimension of freedom and power
- Defeat the devil
- Effectiveness in prayer


2 Steps of recovery

1. Look forward to your bright future
Scriptural reference: Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

2. Speak the word boldly and consistently to shape that future
Scriptural reference: Psalm 119:114
You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word.

Sermon taken @Lighthouse Evangelism (preached by Ps Rony)

Speak to the mountains - Part 2

Hebrew 11:3
By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.

3 Invisible Components
1. God's spirit (Gen 1:1-2)
2. God's spoken word (Gen 1:3)
3. God's kind of faith (Heb 11:1)

*Faith brings the intangible into reality

What is 'God's kind of faith'?
- full of Spirit
- full of word
- full of faith
- spoke the word

Mark 11:12-14
The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. 14Then he said to the tree, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it.

Mark 11:20-23
In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. 21Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"
22"Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.

Matthew 21:18-21
Early in the morning, as he was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. 19Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, "May you never bear fruit again!" Immediately the tree withered.
20When the disciples saw this, they were amazed. "How did the fig tree wither so quickly?" they asked.
21Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done.

2 Seeming Discrepancies:
1. Words of Jesus to the fig tree
- Each writer reported partially on what is important
- The end result is the same

2. Signs of the withered tree
- Not all disciples were together to hear and saw what Jesus spoke to the fig tree
- Peter wasn't there
- Peter noticed the following day

Matthew 21:22
If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer

- Keep praying and believing

Mark 11:24-25
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."

Taken from Sermon by Ps Rony @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Speak to the mountain (Part 1)

Mark 11:23 (King James Version)
23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

Examples:
- Adverse circumstances
- Needs
- troubles
- Hindrances and Obstructions


Effect and manifestation may not be immediate

Speaking to the mountains:
1. Peter's mother-in-law's fever
2. Storm
3. Lazarus

Effect of spoken on fig tree:
Matthew 21:18-21 (King James Version)
18Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.
19And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.
20And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away!
21Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.

Mark 11:12-14 (King James Version)
12And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:
13And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.
14And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.

- effect not immediate
- Not all disciples heard the message

About attitude of prayer
Heart full of word

Taken from sermon preached by Ps Rony @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Life & Wisdom

Psalm 90:1-12

1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place
throughout all generations.
2 Before the mountains were born
or you brought forth the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

3 You turn men back to dust,
saying, "Return to dust, O sons of men."

4 For a thousand years in your sight
are like a day that has just gone by,
or like a watch in the night.

5 You sweep men away in the sleep of death;
they are like the new grass of the morning-

6 though in the morning it springs up new,
by evening it is dry and withered.

7 We are consumed by your anger
and terrified by your indignation.

8 You have set our iniquities before you,
our secret sins in the light of your presence.

9 All our days pass away under your wrath;
we finish our years with a moan.

10 The length of our days is seventy years—
or eighty, if we have the strength;
yet their span [a] is but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.

11 Who knows the power of your anger?
For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you.

12 Teach us to number our days aright,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

----------------------------------------------------

1. We belong tp God exclusively (Ps 90:1-2)
2. Returning home is normal (Ps 90:3, Gen 3:19, Ecc 12:7)
3. Life on earth is a short visit (Ps 90:4-6)
4. Our lives are transparent before God (ps 90:7-9)
5. The content of life are trouble and sorrow (Ps 90:10, John 10:10, John 3:2)
6. Acknowledging God (Ps 90:11)
7. Use wisdom to measure life span (Ps 90:12, Luke 12:16-20)

Taken from sermons preached by Ps Colin @ Lighthouse Evangelsim

Who Is God (Part 2)

2 Titles of Jesus:
Son of God
Son of Man

The Son of God became Son of Man so that we sons of man can become sons of God.

16 (major) fulfilled prophesies regarding Christ:
1. Christ was to be rejected (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 55:3, John 1:11)
2. Christ was to be betrayed by a close follower and friend (Scriptural reference: Psalm 41:9, Mark 14:10)
3. Christ was to be sold for 30 pieces of silver (Scriptural reference: Zechariah 11:12, Matthew 26:15)
4. Christ was to be silent before His accusers (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 53:7, Matthew 26:62-63)
5. Christ was to be smitten and spat upon (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 50:6, Mark 14:65)
6. Christ was to be mocked and taunted (Scriptural reference: Psalm 22:6-8, Matthew 27:39-40)
7. Christ’s hands and feet were to be pierced (Scriptural reference: Psalm 22:16, John 20:27)
8. Christ was to be given gall and vinegar (Scriptural reference: Psalm 69:21, John 19:29)
9. Christ was to suffer with transgressors and pray for His enemies (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 53:12, Matthew 27:38 / Luke 23:34)
10. Christ’s side wad to be pierced (Scriptural reference: Zechariah 12:10, John 19:34)
11. They were to cast lots for His garments (Scriptural reference: Psalm 22:18, Mark 15:24)
12. Christ was to be buried with the rich (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 53:9, Matthew 27:57-60)
13. Christ was a sacrifice for sin (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 56:5-6, John 1:29)
14. Christ was to bring healing to humanity (Scriptural reference: Isaiah 53:4-5, Matthew 8:14-17)
15. Christ was to be resurrected (Scriptural reference: Psalm 16:10, Matthew 28:9)
16. Christ was to ascend to the right hand of God (Scriptural reference: Psalm 68:18(NIV), Luke 24:50-51)

Yet-to-be-fulfilled prophesy about Christ:
Daniel 7:13-14, Matthew 24:30

Son of God seen in Christ when Jesus is in His weakest moment
Matthew 27:50-54

*Sermons by Pastor Rony @ Lighthouse Evangelism

Who Is God? - Part 1

The reason why some people are atheistic is because they ask the wrong questions about God. Their usual questions are:Why does God allow so much suffering in the world?Why doesn’t God get rid of all the evil people right away?Why are there so many religions?These questions often get us nowhere. Perhaps we should be asking fundamental questions such as:Who is God?How do I know that He is my Creator? What did He really do for me?How do I know Him?These basic questions with no pre-conceived antagonism against God will open our eyes to the truth.

• Who am I really is?
• What is the meaning and purpose of life?
• Where are we going?
  

2 Common thoughts about God
a. Great but vague, in somewhere up the sky
b. Religions (different movements trying to explian about God)

Christiany teachings:
1. God is not defined by objects
2. We have only once to die and then face the judgement
3. Do good even unto the enemies

Other religions teachings:
1. god are made into objects
2. man has many lives
3. do good to offset evil


How do I know which religon teaching is true?
Key point: The purpose of your life

4-fold purpose of your life
1. To have an intimate replation with the Lord (scriptural reference: Rev 3:20)
2. To be like Him in character (ascriiptural reference: John 14:20)
3. To be like Him in conduct (scriptural reference: Acts 17:28a)
4. To love others like Him (scriptural reference: John 13:34)

Salvation leads to good works
Good works do not lead to salvation

3 components of Man
1. Physical
2. Soul
3. Spirit

The bridge between God and Man - the missing link (Jesus Christ)
Scriptual reference: John 1:1-14)

Truth:
Sin will lead to eternal death, die in condemation, judged

Grace:
The price has been paid. It brings us to heaven. Have our sins forgiven.

Justice:
You have to pay for your sins

Love:
Christ has paid the price

**taken during sermon @Lighthouse Evangelism (preached by Ps Rony Tan) - 17/08/2008

How to pray for our nation

Scriptural reference:
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (New International Version)
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

Why Christians are able to determine the welfare of the nation?

Scriptural reference:
Matthew 5:13-16 (New International Version)
"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.
14"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven

3 Functions of Salt
1. Salt creates thirst for water
2. Salt retards corruption and preserves

3 Ways to function as salt
a. Our exemplary conduct
b. Our extended hands to help
c. Our prayers

Example of Abraham with Lot:
Scriptural reference:
Gen 14:22-23
Gen 18:23-33

2 reasons why Abraham's prayer was not answered
a. Abraham wasn't the citizen of that nation
b. Lot is the citizen but not worth the salt

3. Salt gives flavor
Scriptural reference:
Job 6:6

2 Aspects of flavor
a. Make life more meaningful to those around us
b. Our presence makes the earth acceptable to God


Scriptural reference:
2 Thess 2:3-7 NSAB

4 prayer points for the nation
1. Our national leaders to realise their need for Christ the Saviour and Guide
2. Our younger politicians to uphold the time-tested principles and policies that our nation has practised.
3. Singaporeans continue to vote wisely and not selfishly
4. All Christians to remain salty and shine brightly

*Points taken during sermon preached by Pastor Rony Tan

The Miracle Nation

The Miracle Nation

1 Timothy 2:1-4 (New International Version)
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth

2 Major Facets:
1. We may be saved
- about individual decision
- 2 possible reasons a person is not saved:
a) Have not heard the gospel
b) Heard but rejected the gospel

2. We may lived a quiet and peaceful life
- It is a national decision to work towards peace and prosperity

2 yardsticks to measure the quality of any government:
1. Freedom to believe in God
2. Security to live a quiet and peaceful life

Singapore History Highlights

1918
Stamford Raffles who work for an East India Company founded (politically) Singapore.

15 Feb 1942
Singapore surrendered to Japanese
2 reasons of the fall:
1. Incompetence leadership
2. Untrained and poorly equipped army

Aug 1945
American bombed Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Sep 1963
The merger of Malaya and Singapore
- The British saw the 2 countries as one
-2 incompatible system of the 2 government

1964
Racial riot erupted

1965
Singapore Independence Day

Singapore not only survived but thrive. What makes Singapore successful?

10 Timeless Principles Of Government Principles
1. Major on building an effective government that delivers on her promises
2. Began with what precious little we have and built on it
3. Progress and work for the common good, regardless of race and religion
4. Strive for consistency and continuity
5. Mindful that we have a narrow margin for errors
6. The political will to implement tough but necessary decision
7. Never allow corruption to be a way of life
8. Given a stake in the country
9. Political culture where only the credible leaders will survive
10. Never forget that we are still small and vulnerable

2 Internal Perils
1. Tendency of our young ignoring the painful lessons we have learnt and adopting the permissive way of life from the west
2. The seduction of the liberal brand of politics, advocating hyper-freedom and hyper-welfare

(A train is free to run, as long as it is on its rail track)


- Taken @ Lighthouse Evangelism (preached by Pastor Rony Tan)


The Singapore Song
(Music and Lyrics by Pastor Rony Tan)

-----------C--------- F----------------- Am
Oh I was born on cold and rainy morn
--------------F-------------- G------------------- C
My mama cried as she held me, frail and small
-------------------Am-----------Em ------------F----------- Am
There was no hope in her eyes as the enemies swept by
---------F------------------ G----------- C
A colony left alone to bleed and die

Oh it was hard to endure pain and tyranny
Beneath the load how we yearned to be free
Then came the day of liberty
When we took our destiny
To build a nation of strong security

-----------G
Singapore
-----------------C
I hear your call
----------G----------------- F--------------- C
All for one and one for all I stand so tall
------------------Am ---------Em
Now that I've finally survive
-----------------F---------- Am
I pledge my heart and life
--------------F------------ G----------------- C
So in this homeland I vow to live and die

Oh We were born after the war peacefully
We've never known great suffering and poverty
But we know our know our father's sacrifice
And what they've left behind
A legacy we hold dear in our lives

Singapore
We hear your call
All for one and one for all We stand so tall
Now that we've finally survive
We pledge my hearts and lives
So in this homeland we vow
to live and die


***the chords were added by myself... not too sure if it is right.... any expert out there to correct me?***




http://www.lighthouse.org.sg/
http://www.ndp.org.sg/

Celebrating The Singapore Spirit - NDP 2008

Happy 43rd Birthday to Singapore

Be Sure Of Your Salvation - 27 Jul 2008

Be Sure of Your Salvation


Hebrews 6:1-12 (New International Version)

1Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death,[a] and of faith in God, 2instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. 3And God permitting, we will do so.
4It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, 5who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, 6if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because[b]to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace.
7Land that drinks in the rain often falling on it and that produces a crop useful to those for whom it is farmed receives the blessing of God. 8But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
9Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are confident of better things in your case—things that accompany salvation. 10God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 11We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. 12We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.

1. The challenge to progress
Scriptural Reference: Heb 6:1-3

2. The warning against regress
Scriptural Reference: Heb 6:4-8
Scriptural Reference: Matt 13

3. The signs that assure
Scriptural Reference: Heb 6:9-10

4. The steps that ensure
Scriptural Reference: Heb 6:11-12

- Sermons taken @ Lighthouse Evangelism (Preached by Ps Clarence)

A thorough cleansing (Part 1 +2)

A thorough cleansing (Part 1)

Scriptural reference: Ecclesiastes 3:4 (New International Version)
a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance

Scriptural reference: Ecclesiastes 3:2 (New International Version)
a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot

Heart of matter è Relationship

2 types of relationship:
1. Vertical
2. Horizontal

3 States of Relationship

Trust & Allegiance

Indifference & Neglect

Distrust & Disloyalty


Happiness – is only real and real when shared

The battle between truth & lies

3 Deceptive Steps:
1. Disarm all reservation and caution
2. Present yourself as your benefactor
3. Instill distrust by lying

Struggle of sin:
Scriptural reference: 1 John 1:8-9 (New International Version)
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Grace of God (2 extremes view)
1. You don’t even have to repent
2. You have to repent every minor detail

Scriptural reference: Romans 7:19-24 (New International Version)
19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.
21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?

Scriptural reference: Hebrews 4:14-16 (New International Version)
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens,[a] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. 16Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

Examples of Saints who sought the Lord:
1. King Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:3-4)
2. Job (Job 5:8-9)
3. Daniel (Daniel 9:3)
4. King David (Psalm 63:1 & Psalm 27:4-5)


A thorough cleansing (Part 2)

Scriptural reference: 1 John 1:5-10 (New King James Version)
This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.

3 Basic Points about Sins:
1. All of us have sins
2. To be forgiven and cleanse, we must confess them to God
3. To be in fellowship with Jesus, we must deal with our sins accordingly and regularly

There are consequences of sins. The 5 effects of sins and consequences:
1. Every sin carries with it some consequences
2. The longer the sin stays the graver the consequences
3. The more sins one allows, the more consequences one has to face
4. A combination of multiple consequences can ruin the rest of one’s life
5. A so-called small sin can multiply itself many times
2 deadly and extreme views about repentance:
1. You must repent every minor detail of your sins
2. You don’t have to repent anymore because at conversion, your past, present and future sins are forgiven