Worship
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Acts 2:42
2023 Sermons
28-May-2023: Jesus is the Light of the World - by Bro Therren Shelton-Szmidt
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JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
John 9:1-12
1. Are all our maladies and infirmities due to sin? Yes and No.
2. The light of the world is Jesus: through His word and in His body the church does HE continue to shine in the world.
3. Consider the hopelessness of those without these lights, that is, with no bible and no church to show them the way of salvation.
4. Why did Jesus have to make clay of His spittle to open this man’s eyes? God is Sovereign in how He pleases to work in peoples lives.
5. The means is not what effected the cure, it was his faith and obedience that that allowed for the power of God to work in his life. Consider Naaman in 2 Kings 5:10-14.
6. He went in obedience, he washed in faith, and came again restored.
7. How should we share our testimonies? God ought to be the author and finisher of our faith and salvation, to whom be all the glory.
8. Yet it should never end with just us and what God did for us, but they should inquire and we must direct where they too can find Christ and so have their blindness remedied as well. Song of Solomon 5:9-6:3. Christ may be found in His church, in His sacraments, amongst His people that seek Him and honor Him. Whoever believes shall be saved.
21-May-2023: Jesus is our Love, Life and Light - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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JESUS is our LOVE, LIFE, and LIGHT
John 3:16-21
Today, we will continue the series of messages on “Burning Brighter with Jesus as Light.” God has expressed His love for the world by giving His Son to suffer and die at the cross for us to have the hope of eternal life (John 3:16). This is the Good News and the whole world should hear it. Despite the negative but natural attitude of people toward God, the Almighty does not stop to show His love and compassion for us. What people need to understand and do in appreciation of the love, life, and light that God brings in Christ is to “believe in Him.” This “believing” is a process that results to receiving Christ into our lives to become God’s children (John 1:12) and being reconciled back to God (Rom 5:10) to become His friends (John 15:15).
The process of “believing” entails:
1. CONVICTION. We all are sinners (Rom 3:23).
2. CONDEMNATION. We will all die (Rom 6:23a; Rev 20:14; 21:18).
3. CONFESSION. We can have eternal life (John 3:16).
Only when we go through this process of believing that we can respond well to God’s expression of His grace through Jesus Christ in loving us, giving us life, and showing us the light.
CONSECRATION:
1. Jesus is our Love: We love Him back (1 John 4:19): by obeying Him (John 14:23-24)
2. Jesus is our Life: We live for Him (Galatians 2:20).
3. Jesus is our Light: We shine His light with others (Matt 5:14-16).
14-May-2023: Jesus is Our Light Despite the Darkness - by Pastor Narry Santos
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JESUS IS OUR LIGHT DESPITE THE DARKNESS
(John 1:1-9, 14)
On this Mother’s Day, we start a new series on “Burning Brighter with Jesus as our Light” (Short Study on Jesus as Light in John’s Gospel), which will look at 4 episodes in the Gospel when Jesus is referred to as light. In the 1st episode, we will see that Jesus, the Word (“logos”), is the light that “shines in the darkness” (John 1:4b) & “the true light that gives light to everyone” (1:9a). What does this truth (i.e., Jesus is our light) brings for us?
I. AS LIGHT, JESUS GIVES US LIFE (John 1:1-9)
Jesus is introduced at the beginning of the Gospel as the Word (literally “message, speaking, words,” God’s ultimate self-disclosure), who was with God & who is God (1:1) & through whom all things were made (1:2). Jesus is the light (see 8:12; 9:5) of all humankind (1:4b), the light that shines in the darkness (1:5a), & the light that gives light to everyone (1:9a). As light, Jesus reveals God & illumines our mind & heart that leads to believing in Jesus. Jesus also gives life (1:4a; see 11:25; 14:6), which brings newness, abundance, & eternity. Despite the darkness (1:5b) & the world not recognizing & receiving Him, Jesus light still shines brightly & in life-giving ways.
II. AS LIGHT, JESUS SHOWS US GOD’S GLORY & GRACE (John 1:14)
The Word, who was self-existing in eternity, “became flesh & made his dwelling among us” (1:14a). Jesus was incarnated (“tabernacled” or “pitched a tent”), revealing the divine shekinah glory visible in the tabernacle of the Old Testament. John the Beloved and the disciples of Jesus “beheld” (studied carefully, not just see or look at) the glory of God in Christ. The glory of God is fully revealed in Jesus, who is full of grace & truth. Jesus continues to reveal the fullness of God’s glory.
7-May-2023: Celebrating God's Greatness - by Pastor James Diolanda
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Celebrating God’s Greatness
(1 Chronicles 29:10-20)
After a lengthy sermon series, we are closing the book on First Chronicles. We have seen David’s growth from a shepherd to a king; from guiding sheep to leading a nation. We’ve seen the ups and downs of his life and how God has been in the midst of everything. Today, we will end by celebrating God’s greatness and goodness. How do we celebrate the victories God has allowed us to have? How can we show our gratefulness for all the blessings He has provided us. Let’s dig in on how we can celebrate our success that is pleasing in God’s sight.
1. With our Success, Let’s Practice Humility
David didn’t boast about his accomplishment but rather he acknowledged the Great Helper in all his successes. In this world, it’s easy to be proud with all we’ve achieved but we must not forget to stay humble. Let’s always remember the Giver of all good things for He is faithful and His goodness lasts forever.
2. With our Success, Let’s Point to His Majesty
David always gave God the glory He deserves. During His many victories, He never failed to proclaim the power of the Almighty God. We must also remember to do the same whenever we’ve experienced a breakthrough in our lives. Let’s put the spotlight on our Heavenly Father for He is great and worthy to be praised.
3. With our Success, Let’s Pass it to the Next Generation.
David made sure the following generation would know of God’s greatness. He publicly praised Him so the people will know who delivered them from their enemies. He even asked God to guide and lead his son, Solomon, as he becomes the next King. In this world, we must pass the faith to the younger generation so they too will know the magnificence of God and His everlasting love.
30-Apr-2023: Providing Generously for God's Work - by Bro. Therren Shelton-Szmidt
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PROVIDING GENEROUSLY FOR GOD’S WORK
(1 Chronicles 29.1-9)
1. God chose you for some work in His kingdom just as He chose Solomon to build the Temple.
Consider how great the work of the kingdom of heaven truly is.
Who do we work, care, live for more? Things below or above?
2. David was more concerned for the house of God than his own. Are we? Haggai 1.2-9
3. David led by example as every true prophet must, and not as the false.
4. What was it that brought naturally selfish people (as we all are) to give so willingly?
The true secret to success, is sacrifice. If we seek to keep and find our lives, we shall lose it and all, but if we lose our lives in a willing surrender to the Lord and His will, He shall save it for life eternal and give us all things freely.
23-Apr-2023: Preparing Well for God's Plan - by Ptr Narry Santos
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PREPARING WELL FOR GOD’S PLAN
(1 Chronicles 28:9-21)
Today, we resume our series on “What Real Success Means in God’s Sight” (Study on David’s Life in Select Passages from 1 Chronicles). This episode relates to David’s succession plan or passing of the torch to his son Solomon as instructed by God, especially as it relates to the building of God’s temple (1 Chron. 22:6-10; 28:2-3). God in His providence is making His plan happen (28:4-6, 10a). To make this baton transfer & plan successful, we need to understand how the divine & human partnership works. What is God’s part & our portion in this partnership?
I. SEEK GOD & PERSEVERE WITH GOD’S PRESENCE (1 Chron. 28:9-10, 20-21)
David exhorted Solomon to know & serve God with all his heart & mind (28:9a), to seek God (28:9b), to be strong & to do the work of the temple (28:10b, 20a; see 22:13b) because of God’s presence & His faithfulness until the temple is completed (28:20b; see 22:11; Phil. 1:6), along with the people’s presence to help & obey Solomon (28:21; see 22:18-19a). The foundation of such knowing, seeking, & persevering is consistent obedience of God’s word (28:8b; see 22:12-13a). We can be strong & courageous & do God’s work because He is with us. Note the similarity of the charge of Moses to Joshua (Deut. 3, 6; Josh. 1:5) with the charge of David to Solomon (28:10b, 20a). So, we seek God & persevere with God’s presence.
II. SEE GOD PROVIDE AS WE PREPARE WITH GOD’S PLAN (1 Chron. 28:11-19)
David explained to Solomon the detailed plan for the temple & all the meticulous instructions for its construction (28:11-19). Why did David take extensive time, energy, & resources in preparing & planning for the temple? Because he wanted for the Lord to be “of great magnificence, fame, & splendor in the sight of all nations” (22:5) & because “this palatial structure is not for man; this house but for the Lord God” (29:1b). Note that these detailed instructions came from the Lord: “plans of all that the Spirit had put in his mind” (28:12a) & “All this I have in writing as a result of the Lord’s hand on me, & he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan” (28:19). So, we do our best to prepare for God’s work because He provides His plan for us.
16-Apr-2023: Prayer of Praise to the Promise Keeper - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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PRAYER OF PRAISE TO THE PROMISE-KEEPER
(Enjoying God’s Promises: Part 2)
1 Chronicles 17:16-27 (NIV)
After two Sundays of studying the passion of Jesus Christ when we celebrated the Lenten season, we are now going to resume our series on “What Real Success Means in God’s Sight: Study on David’s Life from Select Passages in 1 Chronicles.”
1 Chronicles 17 can be divided into two parts: (1) God’s Promise to David – presenting a REVELATION (vv.1-15); and (2) David’s Prayer to God – which is a godly RESPONSE (vv.16-27). David’s reaction to God’s promises exposes his beautiful inward character and full trust in God. David had a remarkable plan for God, i.e., to build His temple. But God had a better plan and the effect of it extends to all generations.
The Bible contains more than 7000 promises and many of these stems out from the covenant that God has made with David. Reflecting on the Davidic covenant, which is now a fulfilled promise, can cause us to thank and praise God even more. Today, we will study the magnitude of this covenant that can move us to praise like David praised.
The PROMISE
1. EXPLAINED – What it meant to David (vv.7-8).
2. EXTENDED – How it affected Israel (vv.9-13).
3. EXPRESSED – What it means to us now (v.14).
The PRAYER
1. PRESENT – David’s character of humility and submission (vv.16,18-20)
2. PAST – Israel’s redemption and protection (vv.21-22).
3. FUTURE – The world’s spiritual blessings in Jesus Christ, the Messiah (vv.17,23-27).
9-Apr-2023: Resurrection Reflections on the Road of Difficult Discipleship - by Ptr Narry Santos
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RESURRECTION REFLECTIONS ON THE ROAD OF DIFFICULT DISCIPLESHIP
(John 21:1-17)
Today, as we celebrate the joy of Easter Sunday, we take time to reflect on the resurrection. To do this, we will focus on Peter’s road of difficult discipleship after he denied Jesus thrice & when Jesus showed up in His third post-resurrection appearance to the disciples (John 21:1-17). The message of Easter brings hope to those who find little hope, brings healing to those who feel hated, & brings health to those who feel hurt. What lessons do we learn from Peter’s episode of difficult discipleship found in the epilogue of John’s Gospel?
I. APART FROM JESUS WE CAN DO NOTHING (John 21:1-14)
In the context of Peter’s three-time denial of Jesus (18:15-18, 25-27) & despite the 2 post-resurrection appearances of Jesus to the disciples (20:19-31), Peter told 6 other disciples, “I’m going out to fish” (21:3a)—implying a return to his former occupation. He influenced the disciples to go fishing with him (21:3b), but they caught nothing (21:3c). It was only when Jesus showed up that they had a “large number of fish” (21:6b) & “large fish, 153” (21:11). This episode in the epilogue of John’s Gospel (which resembles the miracle of the large catch of fish in Luke 5:1-11) shows the reality of Jesus’ words: “apart from me you can do nothing” (15:5b).
II. JESUS IS THE GOD OF SECOND CHANCES (John 21:15-17)
Despite Peter’s earlier denial of Jesus, we see Jesus give Peter a second chance. He restored, reinstated, & recommissioned Peter in fulfilling the call of God for him. Just as Peter denied Jesus 3 times, Jesus asked Peter 3 times & gave him his renewed mandate 3 times (21:15-17). We also see in this refreshed responsibility for Peter a shift from becoming a fisher of people to becoming a shepherd of people. Just as Jesus was his personal pastor (Luke 22:31), Peter was now commanded to be a pastor to those who were given under his care (people who also fall short, mess up, & fail Jesus). Peter learned this lesson so well that he told other pastors later in his life & ministry to also do the same (1 Peter 5:1-4).
2-Apr-2023: Triumphal Entry: The Way to Victory - by Ptr James Diolanda
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TRIUMPHAL ENTRY: THE WAY TO VICTORY
(John 12:12-19)
As we start the Holy Week or Passion Week, we will look into this grand entrance of Jesus Christ to Jerusalem. This is a glorious event and a momentous occasion for Jesus. Today, we will look deeper into the significance of Palm Sunday and how it could help us with our relationship with Jesus Christ. We will turn back the hands of time and return to the Triumphal Entry and see what we can learn from this event. May this serve as a pathway towards a victorious life in Jesus Christ.
1. Jesus’ Entry filters the Crowd
With a large crowd cheering and celebrating Jesus, it was indeed a great welcome party. However, as we look closely to this moment we will see the real motivations of the crowd. What made them shout and praise Jesus? Were their actions genuine or misguided? As we look at the crowd’s reactions, may we check our faith and realize the seriousness of having a personal relationship with Jesus.
2. Jesus’ Entry fulfills His Calling
This event was predicted many years ago in the Old Testament. The Triumphal Entry is another fulfillment of prophecy that highlights the glory and sovereignty of God. He knows what the future brings, and everything will happen within His grand plan. May we surrender to God’s will and allow Him to direct our lives according to the purpose He has for us.
3. Jesus’ Entry features the Cross
This moment paved the way for the inevitable display of His love on the cross. At that moment, no one knew what was about happen, except for Jesus. The crowd, the disciples, the Pharisees, Pilate, and others had no idea what was about to transpire. As Jesus entered Jerusalem, He carried the weight and sin of the world. May we remember His great sacrifice for us which gave us ultimately victory over death.
26-Mar-2023: Worshipping God for His Blessings - by Ptr Narry Santos
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WORSHIPPING GOD FOR HIS BLESSINGS
(1 Chronicles 16:23-29, 34-36)
Today, we focus on the God whose nature is to bless (1 Chron. 23:13; Num. 6:24-26). When we see God as the God of blessings, we worship God (1 Chron. 16:29b). When we worship, we praise God, thank God, & pray to God (1 Chron. 16:4, 35). The context of our passage shows the blessing of having the ark of God (showing God’s presence) finally brought to Jerusalem (1 Chron 15:1-16:6). With joy, David gives a psalm of thanksgiving (1 Chron. 16:7-36), which is a combination of selected segments in 3 psalms (Psa. 105:1-5 [for vv. 8-22], Pa. 96:1-13 [for vv. 23-33], & Psa. 106:1, 47-48 [for vv. 34-36]). In the hymn of David, we will see what is included in true worship.
I. WORSHIP INVOLVES PRAISE (1 Chron. 16:23-29, 36)
The call to praise is repeated emphatically (16:23-24, 28-29). The reason for the call to praise is because of God’s greatness, worth, & being above all (16:25-26), splendor, majesty, strength, & joy (16:27), & glory (16:10, 24, 28, 35). How do we praise God? It is by telling & testifying of His great acts (16:8b, 9b, 23b, 24). Worship unashamedly & relentlessly declares what God has done.
II. WORSHIP INCLUDES THANKSGIVING (1 Chron. 16:34)
The hymn is called a psalm of thanksgiving (16:7), with clear calls to “give thanks to the Lord” (16:8, 34). How do we thank God? We do this by remembering God & His wondrous works: “remember the wonders he has done” (16:12). The basis of our remembering is because God always remembers His covenant with us (16:15-18). Worship keeps recalling, remembering, & reviewing what God has done.
III. WORSHIP INSPIRES PRAYER (1 Chron. 16:35)
The appeal to call on God in prayer is evident in the hymn: “call on his name” (16:8). The nation was in trouble because of its unfaithfulness & disobedience to God. But the hymn calls on the people to corporately come to God in desperate prayer: “Cry out, ‘Save us, O God out Savior; gather us & deliver us from the nations’” (16:35a). It is a cry for help, mercy, & compassion from the God whom the people has forgotten & forsaken. Worship never tires of asking God for help in prayer, we so can again thank God & praise His name (16:35b).
19-Mar-2023: Saying “Yes” to God’s “No!” - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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Enjoying God’s Promises: Part 1
Bible Text: 1 Chronicles 17:1-15 (NIV)
Sermon Summary:
Today we are going to continue what P.Narry has started to share with us last Sunday on the series “What Real Success Means in God’s Sight” – a study of David’s life in selected passages from 1 Chronicles.
David’s life is very important. More has been written about him in the Bible than any other character. In the context of our passage today, David had just won important battles and had become king over Israel after more than 20 years of waiting. He conquered Jerusalem from the Jebusites and had built his home there – he was “settled in his palace” as our text has indicated in the beginning verse (1Chr 17:1). This is when he thought of the disparity between his own “house of cedar” and the ark of the LORD “under a tent.” David’s desire to build the temple was good but God was not determined to build His house under David’s reign.
Interestingly, the man after God’s own heart responded well when God presented through Nathan His plan. How are we to respond when God says, “No,” to our godly desires?
1. PURPOSE: Focus on God’s purpose on You. David was the “shepherd-ruler of God’s people.” (vv.6-7)
2. PROMISE: Remember the victories that God has Done For You. David powerfully defeated his enemies because God was with him. (v.8a)
3. PREPARATION: Welcome God’s plan for the Next Generation. David’s son, Solomon, will “build a house” for God. vv.11-14
12-Mar-2023: Caring for People in God's Presence - by Ptr Narry Santos
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CARING FOR PEOPLE WITH GOD’S PRESENCE
(1 Chronicles 11:1-9)
Today, we continue our new 5-part series on “What Real Success Means in God’ Sight (Study on David’s Life in Select Passages from 1 Chronicles).” This series aligns with the “Burning Brighter in our Lives” 2023 main theme, realizing that those whose lives burn brighter are ones who are really successful in God’s sight. Like David, we are truly successful when we inquire from the Lord of power, when we care for people with God’s presence, when we praise God for His blessings & enjoy His promises, & when we are humbled by God’s honour. Using 1 Chron. 11:1-9, what do we need to learn about caring for God’s people?
I. GOD CALLS US TO CARE ALL THE TIME (1 Chron. 11:1-3)
The people of Israel (v. 1) affirmed God’s call for David to care for God’s flock: “You will shepherd my people Israel, & you will become their ruler” (v. 2b). Though they recognized David as king over Israel, ratified with a covenant (v. 3a), it took 15 years before David became king in Hebron (after Samuel anointed him, 1 Sam. 16:13 & 1 Chron. 11:3b), & another 7.5 years before he became king over all Israel (see 2 Sam. 5:4-5). David waited for more than 20 years in the midst of troubling times (like being hunted by Saul) & served as a faithful soldier to care for God’s people (v. 2a). Even if it takes time amidst troubles, let’s care for people.
II. GOD GIVES US POWER IN HIS PRESENCE (1 Chron. 11:4-9)
God’s power was evident in David’s leadership when he conquered Jerusalem against the Jebusites (vv. 4-5) & with the help of Joab (v. 3). This power was already evident from the time of David’s anointing as king (1 Sam. 16:13). When he finally became king, his power expanded (v. 7): “And David became more & more powerful” (v. 9a). The reason for his power is the presence of God with him: “because the Lord Almighty was with him” (v. 9b). Let’s rely on the power of God as experienced through His presence, as we care for others.
5-Mar-2023: Rich and Famous in God's Eyes - by Pastor James Diolanda
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Rich and Famous in God’s Eyes
I Chronicles 14:8-17
Sermon Summary:
As we start our new sermon series on, “What Real Success means in God’s Sight” we will study the life of King David in 1 Chronicles. King David is one of the most successful kings in Israel. His impressive resume involves numerous victories, expanding land, and establishing the culture of his people. We must keep in mind that behind his fame, God was there. His constant guidance and power were evident in King David’s life. I pray that we will strive to live a life that is pleasing to God. Let’s be Rich and Famous in God’s Eyes.
1. Finding Him in Fierce Situations
With the Philistines marching forward and threatening his kingdom, David inquired of God. He consulted the Lord for his next actions for he knows He is the Deliverer. May we also seek God even before trouble comes and be confident in His ability to give us the victory.
2. Following His Firm Instructions
When God commands, it is clear and certain. As a result, we must obey wholeheartedly without hesitation. When we follow Him; He will direct us to His will and help us conquer the enemy so He will be lifted high. May we have an obedient heart as we allow Him to direct our lives.
3. Focusing on Fame that Fears Him
We must aim to live a life that gives Him honour. King David was a flawed individual but his heart to follow God was inspiring. In all his victories, he made sure to give all glory to the Lord. As a result, other nations respected him and feared the Lord. In this world, may we focus on living a life that seeks to praise Him.
26-Feb-2023: Friend, Follow Me As I Follow Christ - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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Friend, Follow Me As I Follow Christ
Friends Imitate What Is Good
(3 John 11-12)
Sermon Summary:
Today, we will be concluding our sermon series on Friends: Experiencing Love that Breaks Down Barriers based on the shortest book of the Bible – 3 John.
Three characters are studied in this series: Gaius, Diotrephes, and Demetrius.
We are encouraged to imitate two (Gaius and Demetrius) and are warned not to be like Diotrephes who was selfish, gossipy, and harsh.
The Bible says, “No one is good except God alone” (Mark 10:18; Luke 18:19; Matt 19:17; Rom 3:12; cf. Ps 14:3; 53:3).
But a person naturally looks at people (1Sam 16:7b) and imitates those that impress him.
If we imitate God, we will be in the right path and will influence others to do what is good (1 Cor 11:1).
Demetrius in our passage, is one of those who modeled godly living and is worthy of being imitated (3John 11). Why? Because…
(1) He is COMMENDED by the people (v.12a)
(2) He is COMMITTED to the truth (v.12b)
(3) He is COMMISSIONED to protect righteous conduct (v.12c)
APPLY: We are to imitate people as they imitate Jesus Christ. (cf. Phil 3:17; 1Cor 11:1)
19-Feb-2023: Good Friends Walk in the Truth - by Pastor Narry Santos
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GOOD FRIENDS AVOID BEING SELFISH, GOSSIPY, & HARSH
(3 John 9-10)
Today, we continue with the 3rd segment of our 4-part series on “Friends: Experiencing Love that Breaks Down Barriers (A Brief Book Study on 3 John).” Aside from walking in the truth (3 Jn. 1-4, 13-14), good friends are faithful & welcoming (3 Jn. 5-8). Today, we will look at what good friends take pains to avoid. Using 3 Jn. 9-10, what do friends in Christ avoid?
I. GOOD FRIENDS AVOID BEING SELFISH (3 Jn. 9)
The elder John the Beloved describes Diotrephes as an unloving leader of the church (the very opposite of the beloved Gaius): “who loves to be first” (v. 9a). Diotrephes loves himself the most & loves preeminence & authority in the church (see Mk. 10:35-37) to the point of being disrespectful & unwelcoming to John & others (v. 9b). Selfishness is evident in pride (regarding oneself as superior over others; see Rom. 12:3; Phil. 2:3-4). Let’s avoid selfishness!
II. GOOD FRIENDS AVOID BEING GOSSIPY (3 Jn. 10a)
The elder John shows how Diotrephes’ attitude of haughtiness leads to words that hurt: “spreading malicious nonsense about us” (v. 10a) (the “us” refers to John & the itinerant preachers & missionaries). Gossip is the spreading of malicious nonsense to others (literally, the action of water boiling up & throwing off bubbles, showing empty & useless indulgence in useless talk) in order to slander & shame them (bringing false charges with evil words & intent). Let’s avoid gossip!
III. GOOD FRIENDS AVOID BEING HARSH (3 Jn. 10b)
The elder John expresses the cruelty of Diotrephes, who did 2 horrible acts: (1) “he even refuses to welcome other believers” (v. 10b)—being harsh toward the guests; & (2) “He also stops those who want to do so & puts them out of the church” (v. 10c))—being harsh to those who are hospitable to the guests. Note how Diotrephes’ attitude of hubris escalates into words that hurt & finally culminates in harsh actions. Let’s avoid meanness & harshness toward others!
12-Feb-2023: Good Friends Walk in the Truth - by Pastor Narry Santos
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GOOD FRIENDS WALK IN THE TRUTH
(3 John 1-4, 13-14)
Today, we continue with our new series on “Friends: Experiencing Love that Breaks Down Barriers (A Brief Book Study on 3 John).” This series coincides with the “love” month of February (especially Valentine’s Day), realizing that barriers are broken down when friends receive & give love. Friends walk in the truth (3 Jn. 1-4, 13-14), are faithful & welcoming (3 Jn. 5-8), avoid being selfish, gossipy, & harsh (3 Jn. 9-10), & imitate what is good (3 Jn. 11-12). Using 3 Jn. 1-4, 13-14, what do friends in Christ do?
I. GOOD FRIENDS PRAY FOR US (3 Jn. 1-2, 13-14)
The elder (literally, “old man”), whom we see as John (who also wrote 1 & 2 John, Gospel of John & Revelation), calls Gaius as his “dear friend” (vv. 1, 2, 5, 11) (or “beloved”) in this typically friendly letter (vv. 13-14). John even indirectly refers to Gaius as one of his children (v. 4), similar to the way Paul calls others his son (see 1 Tim. 4:2, 18; Philm. 10; Tit. 1:4). His friendship with Gaius is filled with love: “whom I love in the truth” (v. 1b), showing “whom I truly love,” “whom I love as one who is in the truth,” or “whom I genuinely love according to God’s truth.” Love (vv. 1, 6) & truth (vv. 1, 3 [2x], 4, 8, 12) go together. Love & truth are shown best in prayer for the physical & spiritual well-being of friends (v. 2). Let’s be prayerful for our friends & their well-being!
II. GOOD FRIENDS FIND JOY IN US (3 Jn. 3-4)
The elder John expresses his joy for Gaius twice: (1) “It gave me great joy” (v. 3a)—on Gaius’ “faithfulness to the truth” (i.e., commitment to the gospel & the commands of Jesus) & “continuing to walk in it” (i.e., habitually living out the truth) (v. 3b); & (2) “I have no greater joy than” (v. 4a)—on Gaius’ “walking in the truth” (i.e., putting creed & conduct together in practice). This is proof that we love God & others as friends (see 1 Jn. 5:2; Jn. 15:13-15). Let’s find joy in our friends, as we uphold the truth & walk in it together, so we can break down barriers!
5-Feb-2023: You Got a Christian Friend - by Pastor James Diolanda
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You Got a Christian Friend
(3 John 5-8 NIV)
We are diving into a new series on “Friends: Experiencing Love that Breaks Down Barriers”. This is a quick study of the Third letter of John. Have you ever wondered how other religious groups think of Christians? As followers of Christ we must live a Christlike character so others will see how amazing He is. Unfortunately, many view us differently. We need to change their negative opinion about Christians and let’s show them that it’s a great thing to have a Christian friend.
1. We must Help without Hesitation
Verse: 5 Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters,[a] even though they are strangers to you.
Verse 7 It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans.
– John 15:13
– helping others prevents us from becoming selfish
2. We must Honor God for Healthy Relationships
Verse: 6 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God.
– Matt 7:1
– 1 Peter 3:9
3. We must offer Hospitality with Humility
Verse: 8 We ought therefore to show hospitality to such people so that we may work together for the truth.
29-Jan-2023: God's Word Lights Our Path - by Bro. Therren Shelton-Szmidt
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GOD’S WORD LIGHTS OUR PATH
(Psalm 119:105-112)
105
– Here is the sum of the Christian’s journey
– The word of God shines an internal and external light
– We must take the lamp of God’s word in our hand and let it lead us in the narrow path
106
– We should pray for God to make us willing and able before we venture to do His will
– We ought not to live contrary to our prayers
107
– 2 Corinthians 4:8-11, 16
108
– Praise and thanksgiving are the free will offerings of our mouth
– We ought to be lifetime scholars of the word
109
– The greatest temptation is to save our lives using our own wisdom
– The greatest temptation of our Lord was to come down from the cross (Luke 23:35, Matthew 27:40)
110
– The holy resolution, the wisdom of the Lord, and all His faithful servants is not to err from God’s precepts
111
– God’s law is a burden to the unconverted, that are under the law, but are a delight to the sanctified that are in Christ
112
– We must pray for the spirit to incline our hearts when we feel disinclined, for it is the spirit that bends our will towards God
– When we set out to seek, pray, and follow the Lord, we should always conclude with this: “even unto the end”, and not to look back ever
22-Jan-2023: God Lights Up Our Lives - by Pastor Narry Santos
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GOD LIGHTS UP OUR LIVES
(Psalm 27:1, 4-5, 11, 13-14)
Today, we continue with our new series on “Burning Brighter in a Darker World (Studies on God’s ‘Light’ in Selected Psalms).” This series helps us see God as light, what God’s light does for us, and what God’s light of the Word does to our path. Our message today highlights the truth that God lights up our lives. Using Psalm 27, how does God light up our lives?
I. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US CONFIDENCE IN HIS PROTECTION (27:1, 13)
David describes God this way: “The Lord is light & my salvation” & “The Lord is the stronghold of my life” (27:1). Light signifies understanding, joy, life, guidance, protection, & well-being. Stronghold signifies strong, safe place, & defense. The result of God’s light as protection is this confidence (despite the attacks of David’s enemies): “whom shall I fear?” & “of whom shall I be afraid?” (27:1; see v. 13). Let’s live in confidence of God’s protection in 2023.
II. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US COMFORT IN HIS PRESENCE (27:4-5)
David desires to be in God’s presence: “One thing I ask from the Lord, that this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life” (27:4). David uses 4 words to show God’s presence—“house,” “temple,” dwelling, & “sacred tent”—to affirm that where God is where he wants to be, to enjoy God’s beauty (graciousness) & to seek Him (inquire for divine answer). Let’s live in the comfort of God’s presence in 2023.
III. GOD AS LIGHT GIVES US CLARITY IN HIS PROVIDENCE (27:11, 14)
David prays for God’s providential guidance & direction: “Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path” (27:11; see 25:4-5). This attitude, which desires to know God & see His face (27:8) goes with the posture of waiting: “Wait for the Lord; be strong & take heart & wait for the Lord” (27:14; see Isa. 40:31). Waiting with hope gives assurance that God’s answer will eventually come. Let’s live with the clarity of God’s providence in 2023.
15-Jan-2023: Through God's Light We Brighten Others - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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THROUGH GOD’S LIGHT WE BRIGHTEN OTHERS
Psalm 36:5-9 (ESV)
The world we live in is not helpful to our spiritual growth and witness because its philosophy and lifestyle negatively influence us (Ps. 36:1-4). But we can find relief in the knowledge of the glorious character of God who brings abundant blessings to believers (Ps. 36:5-9). The Bible encourages us to continually pray and stay strong in the faith so that the light of God’s love and righteousness would extend to the world through us.
There may be things in the world that challenge our integrity, but God’s attributes are inexhaustible resources for us as Christ followers, and because of them, we are preserved and sustained throughout our life. Two pairs of the many attributes of God will be discussed today:
(1) LOVE that reaches the heavens and FAITHFULNESS that extends to the skies (v.5)
(2) RIGHTEOUSNESS that is as high as the mountains and JUSTICE that is as deep as the oceans (v.6).
Our light may lose its brightness at times, but through the light of God, we still can bring sunshine to the world around us.
8-Jan-2023: Burning Brighter in Christ, Breaking Down Barriers Through Christ - by Pastor Narry Santos
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BURNING BRIGHTER IN CHRIST,
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS THROUGH CHRIST
(Ephesians 1:17-23; 2:13-18)
Our 2023 church theme is “Burning Brighter in Christ, Breaking Down Barriers through Christ.” Whatever may be people’s positive or negative outlook for this new year, our dreams & hopes are anchored on Christ, who is our light & the light of the world, & who broke down the barrier of hostility between God & people, & among people. This is the basis of our new (or renewed hope) & fresh (or refreshed) start this year. Using Eph. 1:17-23 & 2:13-18, how can we burn brighter in Christ & how did Jesus model being our peace?
I. GOD HAS ALREADY ENLIGHTED US IN CHRIST (1:17-23)
In Paul’s 1st prayer for the Ephesian believers (1:17-19a), he gives the basis for the prayer: “having the eyes of your hearts enlightened” (1:18a, ESV), because the verb is in the perfect tense (showing past action with continuing results). With this enlightenment already available to us, we can have “wisdom” (insight into the true nature of things) & “revelation” (unveiling of God Himself) (1:17a), so we can know God better (by experience) (1:17b), & know God’s hope (1:18a), rich inheritance (1:18b), & power in Christ (1:19-21). Paul’s prayer is geared toward the end of highlighting Jesus’ power in the past, present, & future (1:22-23). Since we are already enlightened in Christ, we can now know & experience God more, so that our lights can burn brighter (5:8-11) in 2023.
II. CHRIST ALREADY BROKE DOWN ALL BARRIERS (2:13-18)
From being far away from God (2:11-12), God brought Gentiles near to Him through Christ’s blood (2:13). As our peace (2:14a, 17), Christ broke down the dividing wall between Jews & Gentiles (2:14b-15), created a new humanity out of these two hostile groups (2:15), & reconciled the two groups through the cross of Christ (2:16). Because of this reconciliation, Christ gave to us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:18-20). Since Christ is our peace, we can be peacemakers (4:1-6; Matt. 5:9), so that we can see more breaking down of barriers in 2023.
1-Jan-2023: New Year Resurrection - by Pastor James Diolanda
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NEW YEAR RESSURECTION
(John 11:17-26)
This New Year, everyone is looking for a fresh start, new attitude, and new approach. With all the uncertainty in 2023 may we find the confidence to trust in the Lord. Only He can help us in this new year, only He can provide the peace that we desperately need. This year let’s look to Jesus to renew us and to rejuvenate us. He is the resurrection; He is our Saviour. Using our passage for today, may we realize what Jesus could do for us in 2023!
1. In Jesus, Suffering is only Temporary
This New Year, let’s hold on to Jesus who heals us completely. May we find the strength to face all life’s challenges by relying on Jesus Christ!
2. Jesus is our Saviour who is Trustworthy
This New Year, let’s put our full trust in Jesus. His promises are true and assuring. May we feel secure in believing in Him.
3. Surrender to Jesus’ Timing
This New Year, let’s put our personal agendas aside and submit to the sovereignty of our Lord Jesus Christ. May we focus on following Him and letting Him lead our lives.
2022 Sermons
25-Dec-2022: What is Wise About the Wise Men? - by Pastor Narry Santos
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WHAT IS SO WISE ABOUT THE WISE MEN?
(Matthew 2:1-12)
On this Christmas day, we conclude our Christmas series on “Revisiting Christmas & the Early Days of the Young Jesus” (Studies in Matthew 1-2). The Magi (magoi), traditionally viewed as wise men, were astronomers or astrologers, who served in royal courts in Persia & Arabia. These Gentile pagans were used by God to discover Jesus, “the one who has been born king of the Jews” (2:2). Using Matt. 2:1-12, what wisdom can we learn about what wise people do about Jesus, our Christmas Celebrant?
I. WISE PEOPLE GO AT GREAT LENGTH TO WORSHIP JESUS (2:1-11a)
The Magi, who were interested in dreams, magic, & the future, believed that movements of heavenly bodies & destinies of men were linked. They must have heard from Jewish scholars of Israel’s hopes (like Num. 24:17, a Messianic prediction). They went out of their way to travel to Jerusalem through a star (some call this a comet, conjunction of Jupiter & Saturn, or supernova), which was a supernatural divine guidance (2:2, 9-10a). Why go at great length? To worship the one born king of the Jews (2:2b, 11a), who brought great joy (2:10b). In contrast, Herod pretended to desire worship of the child (2:7-8, 16); the religious leaders knew that Bethlehem was the location of birth for the Messiah but were not interested to worship Jesus (2:4-6). Even when Jesus was a child, His greatness as king is already recognized by Gentiles (“his star”; “born king of the Jews”). Jesus is worthy of worship, especially this Christmas season.
II. WISE PEOPLE GIVE GIFTS FIT FOR KING JESUS (2:11b-12)
Joyful worship leads to the giving of gifts fit for the King Jesus (2:11b). Though there is no mention of the number of Magi, the tradition understanding is 3 because of the 3 gifts of gold, frankincense (an aromatic resin), & myrrh (similar fragrant spice) — gifts that were worthy of a king (but not necessarily showing additional symbolism). These gifts were also divinely provided for cover the expenses of the family in going to Egypt & in staying there until Herod died (see 2:13-15). Even without any miracle or ministry yet, Jesus received kingly tribute & recognition as king. The Magi did not only give gifts fit for King Jesus as their expression of worship, but they also obeyed God’s divine intervention (2:12). Jesus is worthy of our gifts & obedience to Him, especially this Christmas season.
18-Dec-2022: Immanuel: The "God With Us" Celebrant - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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Immanuel: The “God With Us” Celebrant
(Matthew 1:18-25)
We have come to the 2nd message of the Christmas series “Revisiting the Meaning of the First Christmas” based on Matthew’s Gospel. And today, we are going to study the significance of the Savior’s name, Immanuel, as foretold, fulfilled and which will endure forever. What does the meaning of His name entail?
(1) God REVEALS Himself to the world – a Savior is born (v.21; cf. 1Tim 3:16a)
(2) God RESIDES in the believers’ hearts – the Spirit dwells in us through Christ (v.23; cf. Jn 1:12; 1Jn 3:1; 1Cor 6:19)
(3) God REFRESHES us with His strength and grace – Immanuel “God with us” (v.23; cf. Heb 13:5)
11-Dec-2022: The Pedigree of our Christmas Celebrant - by Ptr Narry Santos
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THE PEDIGREE OF OUR CHRISTMAS CELEBRANT
(Matthew 1:1-17)
We will continue our Christmas series on “Revisiting Christmas & the Early Days of the Young Jesus” (Studies in Matthew 1-2). Today, we will look at Jesus’ pedigree, which is valuable to the Jews to affirm His royal identity & kingly credential. Jesus’ lineage also shows hope & grace, which were needed in the 1st-century world & are relevant in our 21st-century reality. Using Matt. 1:1-17, what can we learn about Jesus, our Christmas Celebrant?
I. JESUS IS OUR SOURCE OF HOPE (1:1)
Matthew starts his gospel with a record of Jesus’ genealogy (book of genesis/origins or birth record). What is amazing about this record is the 4-fold presentation of our Christmas Celebrant as: (1) “Jesus” (1:1; see 1:16, 18, 21, 25)—meaning “savior” (from “Joshua” [Yahweh saves]) not just from physical danger or death but from sin (1:21); (2) “Christ” (1:1; see 1:16, 17. 18)—meaning “Messiah” (Anointed One) who represents God’s people & brings God’s reign; (3) “son of David” (1:1; see 9:27; 12:22-23; 15:22; 20:30-31)—meaning heir to the throne & kingdom of righteousness & justice, bringing healing & wholeness; & (4) “son of Abraham” (1:1; see 3:9; 8:11)—meaning related to God’s covenant people that blesses “all nations” (Gen. 22:18; Matt. 28:19). So, Jesus Christ, the son of David & son of Abraham, is our source of hope.
II. JESUS BRINGS HOPE TO THE HOPELESS (1:2-17)
Matthew’s genealogy of Jesus was traced from the line of Joseph (1:16), the foster-father of Jesus. The expression “the father of” occurs 38x in this passage, yet there were 5 unusual women who were included in the list: (1) “Tamar” (1:3)—the woman who played prostitute (Gen. 38:24); (2) “Rahab” (1:5)—the prostitute from Jericho (Josh. 2:1); (3) “Ruth” (1:5)—the outsider woman from Moab (Ruth 1:4); (4) “Solomon’s mother who had been Uriah’s wife” (1:6)—Bathsheba, the woman who committed adultery (2 Sam. 11:2-5); & (5) “Mary” (1:16)—the woman found to be with child through the Spirit (1:18-19). These women, like us, are found to be in seemingly hopeless crises. But Jesus chose to be identified with them by blood. By the blood of Jesus, He brings us hope in our times of hopelessness.
4-Dec-2022: Where's My Present - by Pastor James Diolanda
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WHERE’S MY PRESENT?
(Isaiah 9:2-6 NIV)
Hello Church! We are weeks away from celebrating Christmas. As we prepare for this wonderful celebration, may we remember the real reason why we celebrate this event. December is the busiest month of the year, with all the preparations, parties and presents. I pray that we will recognize and receive God’s wonderful gift to mankind, His Son Jesus Christ. May we unwrap His abilities to give us hope, love, and peace this Christmas! Are you ready to receive God’s present to us?
1. He Provides us with Unending Hope
Jesus Christ is a Wise and Wonderful Counselor who leads us and guides towards the will of the Father. In this hate-filled world, He gives us hope and joy so we may live freely. This Christmas season, may we receive His gift of sound advice and let’s drown out all the negativities in this world.
2. He Presents us with Unconditional Love
Our Heavenly Father knows how to give good gifts. He knows our heart’s desires and He willingly give them according to His mighty plan. May we receive His gift of love this season and let’s share it with others so they too will see His amazing love for us.
3. He Gives us Unimaginable Peace
During the first Christmas, we also received the gift of peace that only He can produce. It’s the kind of peace that’s full and enough. When everything around us is chaotic, He brings calm and peace to our hearts. May we accept the peace of God which passes all understanding.
27-Nov-2022: What About Judging, Prayer and Narrow Gates? - by Pastor Narry Santos
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WHAT ABOUT JUDGING, PRAYER, & NARROW GATES?
(Matthew 7:1-14)
Today, we continue with the 6th in our 7-part sermon series entitled “Living Blessed Lives in a Hate-Filled World” (Insights from the Sermon on the Mount).
In our passage, Matthew presents Jesus’ teaching on judging others (7:1-6), praying (7:7-12), & narrow gates (7:13-14) that further shows how to surpass the righteousness of the Pharisees & the teachers of the law (5:20). Using Matt. 7:1-14, how can we demonstrate righteousness that is not hypocritical?
I. AVOID JUDGING OTHERS BUT BE DISCERNING (7:1-6)
Jesus commands us not to judge others (7:1-2). To judge others is to habitually condemn people, to be overly critical of them, & to be quick in censuring them. Judgmental persons take upon themselves the right to judge others, assuming that they are qualified to judge & perfectly see the imperfections of others & expecting that others be like them. Jesus calls them “hypocrites,” because they could not see the “plank” (hyperbole for something big) in their own eyes but can see the “speck” (what’s too small like sawdust) in others’ eyes (7:3-5a). Not judging others does not mean that Jesus commands us to accept any teaching or approve any lifestyle. Jesus does not also say that we suspend making wise judgments (as in making reasonable assessment, right valuation, sensible analysis, & decisive discernment). But He instructs us that we can judge wisely only after we examine ourselves first (7:5b). In fact, Jesus emphasizes that we become discerning in our judgments (7:6), especially when it comes to “dogs” & “pigs,” which picture what are despised & unclean in the time of Jesus, describing people who are hostile, who mock & reject the wisdom of the gospel or Jesus’ teaching on hypocrisy & judgmental believers. Let’s avoid judging others but let’s be discerning.
II. KEEP PRAYING & WALKING THE NARROW WAY (7:7-14)
Earlier in the sermon on the mount, Jesus already taught His disciples how to pray, using the disciples’ prayer (6:9-13). When Jesus goes back to the topic of prayer, He emphasizes the big need for prayer & persistence in it. This need for persistence is seen in the present tense of the verbs “ask,” “seek,” & “knock.” The present tense implies that when we pray, we need to keep doing it, so that the verbs actually say, “keep on asking,” “keep on seeking,” & “keep on knocking” (7:7-8). Note also the progressive intensity in the succession of actions: from mere asking to more involved seeking to more intense knocking. Though these are to be seen as 3 steps in praying, they show the growing intensity in prayer.
Why can we persist in prayer with intensity? Because God delights in giving us good gifts (7:11; see Jam. 1:17). Note that persistence in prayer does not seek to persuade a reluctant God to give us good gifts nor does it appease a displeased God to look beyond our wickedness. Why? Because God is more than willing to give us good gifts & to answer our prayer according to His will (7:9-10; see 6:10).
After talking about prayer, Jesus summarizes His earlier teaching by mentioning what is commonly called the Golden Rule (7:12), implying that this rule can be done by those whose righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees & scribes. Then Jesus elaborates on the Golden Rule & presents the clear way to access this righteousness (7:13-14): not through the wide gate & broad road leading to destruction (the way of hypocrisy by the Pharisees & scribes) but through the small gate & narrow road leading to life (the way of true piety by Jesus). Let’s keep on praying & following Jesus’ way of true piety.
20-Nov-2022: Shake Up and Stand Up - by Ptr James Diolanda
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Matthew 5:13-16
We are on the 5th message of the 7-part sermon series on Living Blessed Lives in a Hate-filled World. Before Jesus gave the sermon on the Mount, He set up the people by telling them about their responsibilities. The passage laid out our purpose as disciples of Christ. Remember this, we are the Salt and the Light of this World. Now, what does it truly mean? Today, we will unfold the mystery of this task that was given to us, and may we take it seriously as we continue to live for Christ. Are we ready? Will we heed His call? Brothers and Sisters in Christ let’s Shake Up & Stand Up for Him!
1. Keep the Flavour of Godliness in our Lifestyle
Jesus compared His followers as Salt of the World. This substance has so many uses and functions. We need to ask ourselves if we are making an impact in this world, especially to those around us. We are called to shake off the negativities and spread love and let others see the goodness of God.
2. Keep the Flame of Good Deeds Burning
Not only we are like salt in the world, but we are also light! We need to share God’s grace by doing good deeds. Every day let’s be active participant in expanding His kingdom. Simple act of kindness and generosity could go a long way. May we stand out as we proclaim God’s love to mankind.
13-Nov-2022: Living for an Audience of One - by Ptr Narry Santos
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Matthew 6:1-18
Today, we continue our 7-part sermon series entitled “Living Blessed Lives in a Hate-Filled World” (Insights from the Sermon on the Mount). Matthew presents Jesus’ teaching on acts of righteousness (6:1-18) that need to surpass those of the Pharisees & the teachers of the law (5:20). Our acts of righteousness must not only be external (5:21-48) but also be internally evident in our attitudes & must be done for the audience of one (our heavenly Father). Using the 3 common Jewish acts of righteousness (almsgiving, prayer, fasting), what does Jesus teach about our acts of righteousness?
I. BEWARE OF THE WAY OF HYPOCRISY (6:1-2, 5, 16))
The way of hypocrisy refers to practicing righteousness “in front of others to be seen by them” (6:1a), announcing with trumpets (6:2a) the act of almsgiving in synagogues & streets to be honored by others (6:2b), praying by standing in synagogues & street corners to be seen by others (6:5), & looking somber & disfiguring their faces to show others they are fasting (6:16a). The result of such desire for recognition of others is being fully rewarded by people (6:2b, 5b, 16b), but not being rewarded by our heavenly Father (6:1b). Let’s beware of the way of hypocrisy (playing the role of an actor, pretending, with no sincerity & genuineness but full of arrogance & hardness of heart).
II. BEHAVE ACCORDING TO THE WAY OF TRUE PIETY (6:3-4, 6-8, 17-18)
The way of true piety refers to giving to the needy by not letting the left hand know what the right hand is doing (secretly; 6:3), praying by closing the door of the room (secretly; 6:6a), & putting oil on the head & washing the face when fasting (secretly; 6:17-18a). The result of this true piety is being rewarded by our unseen heavenly Father, who sees what we do in secret (6:4, 6b, 18b). The reward here is the expression of God’s grace, not the mathematical relationship between works & rewards. Let’s do our acts of righteousness for the audience of One, whose praise & words of “well done” we seek to hear.
6-Nov-2022: Wisdom About Real Wealth - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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Matthew 6:19-24
What makes you secured in life? Where do you put your trust in? At what things do your life revolve around?
In today’s message, we will discover where we can invest our time and energy wisely to be contented in life. The sin of covetousness is as deadly as idolatry and the Lord Jesus Christ warned us from the sad consequences of this. He challenges us, the people of the kingdom, to:
1. CONSIDER our investments in life (v.19).
2. CHOOSE things that have eternal value (vv.20-21).
3. COMMIT to love God over earthly treasures (vv.22-24).
If we heed to Christ’s call, our worries in life can be handled very well and prioritizing God and His righteousness will never be an issue.
30-Oct-2022: What It Really Means to be Blessed - by Ptr Narry Santos
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Matthew 5:1-12
Today, we continue our 7-part sermon series entitled “Living Blessed Lives in a Hate-Filled World” (Insights from the Sermon on the Mount). The 8 beatitudes (makarios, meaning “happy, spiritually prosperous, to be admired”) in Matt. 5:3-12 set the stage for the whole sermon on the kingdom of heaven (5:1-7:29). These beatitudes reveal to us the qualities of kingdom citizens. In pairs, what do the 8 beatitudes teach us today?
I. BLESSED ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT & MOURNERS (5:1-4)
The poor in spirit are people who acknowledge their spiritual bankruptcy before God & their desperate need for God, His grace, & spiritual resources. In addition, the mourners feel the emotional sorrow for their poverty of spirit, facing with grief their own evil, failings, & errors, & the failings of others. The result of poverty of spirit & mourning of sin is God’s comfort.
II. BLESSED ARE THE MEEK & HUNGRY FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS (5:5-6)
The meek are people who show God’s power under control, just as Jesus exercised it (Matt. 11:28-29; 21:12-13). In addition, those who hunger & thirst for righteousness desire to consistently pursue a right relationship with God & others, demonstrating the desire to right their wrongs, live sanctified lives, & promote righteousness in the world. The result is experiencing God’s fulfilled life.
III. BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL & PURE IN HEART (5:7-8)
The merciful are people who treat others better than they deserve, forgiving their offenders, helping the stranger & those they have no obligation to aid. In addition, the pure in heart (see Psa. 24:3-5) have integrity, displaying singleness of devotion & undivided loyalty. The result is receiving mercy in return & encountering God’s presence & power.
IV. BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS & PERSECUTED (5:9-12)
The peacemakers are people who bring the message of peace from the God of peace, helping in the reconciliation of others to God (2 Cor. 5:18), others & themselves (Rom. 12:18). In addition, the persecuted suffer due to righteousness & for Jesus’s sake, receiving insults & malice because of their identification with Jesus. The result is future heavenly reward.
23-Oct-2022: Live Rightly - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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Live Rightly – “You Have Heard That It Was Said… But I Tell You”
Matthew 5:21-48
The Lord Jesus Christ values the relationships we have with other people and wants us to influence others for Him. We are commanded to be salt and light of the world (Matt 5:13-16) when we started a new life in Him (2Cor 5:17). So, there is this expectation to live consistently for God and for His glory (Rom 12:1-2).
In our passage today, as we start the new series “Living Blessed Lives in a Hate-Filled World” based on the Sermon on the Mount, we will see that Jesus alluded to issues that affect the life of a new believer and corrected the misunderstanding of the Law of God and the reason why it was given. In six subjects, He made a contrast between man-made religion as practised and promoted by the religious leaders and true genuine faith as taught by the Savior of the world.
(1) On the subject of Murder (vv.21-26):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
(2) On the subject of Adultery (vv.27-30):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
(3) On the subject of Divorce (vv.31-32):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
(4) On the subject of Oaths (vv.33-37):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
(5) On the subject of Retaliation (vv.38-42):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
(6) On the subject of Love (vv.43-47):
– “You have heard…….. but I tell you.”
As Jesus has taught, living the faith entails transformation within and not outward showing off that the teachers of the law in Jesus’ time were trying to teach and live, thinking that it was the way God wanted them to live.
16-Oct-2022: Nothing Can Separate Us from God's Love - Pastor Narry Santos
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(Romans 8:31-39)
Today, we go to the last of our 6-part sermon series entitled “Why We Always Need God” (Studies from Romans 3-8). The 6th reason why we always need God is because no one & nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. According to Romans 8:31-39, how do we know that we cannot be separated from God’s love?
I. GOD’S LOVE OVERWHELMS US (8:31-36)
Paul presents God’s overwhelming love by asking 7 rhetorical questions that assume how intense such love is for us: (1) “What, then, shall we say in response to these things?” (8:31a; see 4:1; 6:1; 914, 30)–we respond with awe & praise for God’s amazing works in us; (2) “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (8:31b)–God is on our side who gives full security; (3) “how will he not also… graciously give us all things?” (8:32)–biggest gift guarantees the promise of all smaller gifts; (4) “Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen?” (8:33)–God is our justifier; (5) “Who then is the one who condemns?” (8:34a)–no one because Jesus is our judge; (6) “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (8:35a)¬¬–no one can; & (7) “Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (8:35b)–no obstacles can stop God’s purposes. These 7 overwhelming expressions of God’s love gives us full security.
II. GOD’S LOVE MAKES US OVERCOME (8:37-39)
Paul highlights God’s overcoming love by making us overcoming victors (who keep on being conquerors to great degrees) (8:37), despite 10 contrasting pairs that threaten the security of God’s love in us (8:38-39a; see the 7 things in v. 35 that seek to thwart God’s purposes; note that these are included “in all things” mentioned in v. 28). All these things can never separate us from God’s love found in Christ Jesus, assuring us again of the full security that God gives to us.
9-Oct-2022: Being Thankful for the Unthankables - by Pastor Jonathan Bernardo
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Help is On the Way
(Habakkuk 3:17-19)
It is easier to thank God for the good that comes our way, but it is harder – often unthinkable even impossible that we can be thankful for those that aren’t.
And even when we come to appreciate the blessings that come our way, we sometimes perceive that we are entitled to those blessings. So, more often than not, we take these blessings for granted when they come. But what about the undesirable, unexpected, and unwanted circumstances that we find ourselves in?
It is unnatural to feel grateful for these moments or even people that we want to escape from. The last thing on our mind is gratitude. Rather, we want immediate solutions and a quick way out of them. But it could very well be that our worship of God is refined from a place of hardship. So, what can even make us be thankful for these unthankables? Perhaps, the threshold of our troubles can be the turning point of true thanksgiving – that at the edge of our trials is where we can find our utmost praise to God.
2-Oct-2022: Help is On the Way - by Pastor James Diolanda
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Help is On the Way
(Romans 8:26-27)
1. He steps in when we are directionless
In this life, there will be times when we feel clueless and aimless. It feels like we’re going in circles without a clear purpose. God has given us the Holy Spirit to steer us towards His mighty plans. He stops us from living a meaningless life and redirects us to God’s perfect plan. May we allow the Spirit to guide us towards a life that is pleasing to God.
2. He strengthens us when we are doing God’s work
God wants to partner with His children so others may also know His love, grace and mercy. The task could be overwhelming, but the Spirit urges us to keep going. We may feel inadequate but His provision is more than enough for us. He will equip us and encourage us to serve Him with great excitement. May we keep doing the Lord’s work with passion and perseverance.
25-Sep-2022: Only God Changes Our Lives - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Only God Changes Our Lives
(Romans 7:14-25)
1. See how sin enslaves us (7:14-23)
Paul’s detailed description of our struggles with sin shows the seriousness of sin and how we need to take sin seriously. He accurately presents our sad and sorry state in relation to sin: “unspiritual” (7:14b), “slave to sin” (7:14c), “sin living in me” (7:17b), “good does not dwell in me” (7:18a) and “prisoner of the law of sin” (7:23b). The good we wish to do we cannot do; the bad we hate, we end up doing (7:15, 17, 19 ,20). We learn a few lessons here: (1) our old self or the flesh seeks to gain control over us; (2) the law is “spiritual” (7:14), “good” (7:16), “God’s law” (7:22, 25) that we must delight in (7:22) but sin uses it against us; and (3) even if we desire to do what is right, we are unable to do it on our own. These are hard lessons to learn. Let’s not harden our heart about them.
2. Seek the Saviour of our sins (7:24-25)
Paul summarizes such traumatic struggle with sin this way: “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?” (7:24). Note that Paul asks, “who,” not what will rescue? Then he turns to God and finds “Jesus Christ our Lord” as the answer. Every time sin seeks to enslave us, let’s seek the Saviour. Our Saviour always stretches out His hand of help through the Holy Spirit (8:5-8). Let’s get help from the Spirit fast!
18-Sep-2022: Self and Sin Traps and Trips Us - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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Romans 3:9-24
We all are still devastated by the demise of a dear brother in the Lord. We are tremendously broken. But the event that transpired has given us a much-needed pause in our busy life to reflect on the present world around us in view of the new world before us. Because when we place everything in the light of God’s Word, we find that what we have in Christ, big or small, is much more valuable than what the world has to offer. Being assured of the beautiful future that we have in Jesus Christ, we can rest well and be at peace because of God’s manifested grace.
As we continue on our series on “Why We Always Need God” based on selected passages in Romans 3:8, I will be sharing with you both good and bad news. My prayer is that we will reconsider our lifestyle, reassess our priorities, and recommit to follow Jesus to the glory of His name.
1. BAD NEWS: No One is Righteous: All Will Die. (vv 9-20; cf. 2 Corinthians 5:21)
2. GOOD NEWS: God is Righteous: All May Live. (vv. 21-24; cf. 2 Peter 3:9)
The bad news has become a platform for us to be ready to hear the good news. And the good news, because of the bad news, becomes the best news ever. Are you ready to listen… AGAIN?
11-Sep-2022: Only God Declares Us Not Guilty - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Romans 4:1-5, 18-25
Today, we go to the 2nd of our 6-part sermon series entitled “Why We Always Need God” (Studies from Romans 3-8). The second reason why we always need God is because only God declares us not guilty (or makes us right before God). According to Romans 4:1-5, 18-25, what two truths must we claim so that we can live differently as God’s new creation?
I. GOD IS PLEASED WITH OUR RESPONSE OF FAITH (4:1-5)
Abraham is an excellent OT example of a person who was made right before God by faith (4:3a; see Gen. 15:6). Abraham did not work toward being declare righteous (4:2, 4-5) through the ritual of circumcision (4:9-12) or the Law (4:13-17). He was simply “credited” (an accounting term that means to put to one’s account) as righteous. Since we are made right by God, we need not live under the burden of guilt nor be overwhelmed by our unrighteousness.
II. FAITH TRUSTS GOD WHO FULFILLS HIS PROMISE (4:18-25)
Abraham put his faith on a faithful God, who fulfills His promise (4:20-21). Despite hardships and human limits (4:19; see Gen. 17:17-18, 18:11), Abraham put his hope (4:18) and help in God. He also “faced the fact” (carefully considered the reality) of his old age and Sarah’s barrenness but did not waver in unbelief (4:20a). Instead, he was strengthened (or empowered) in faith (4:20b) and was convinced that God performs what He promises (4:21) about giving Abraham a son and making him a father of many nations. Let’s put our hope in our God who always fulfills His promise.
4-Sep-2022: Being Justified Through Faith - Ptr Marvin Catanus
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Being Justified Through Faith – results in benefits for believers (peace, love, hope)
Message Outline
(Vs. 1-2) Peace and Grace.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Therefore, having been justified by faith:
Peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:
Into this grace in which we stand:
Through whom also we have access by faith:
We have access:
Rejoice in hope of the glory of God:
Justified by faith:
(Vs. 3-4) The Promise of Glory.
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations:
Knowing that tribulation produces perseverance:
Perseverance, character; and character, hope:
(V. 5) Hope: God and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Now hope does not disappoint:
The love of God… poured out in our hearts:
The Holy Spirit who was given to us:
21-August-2022: Joining God in His Redemptive Plan - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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Redemption in Helpless Times
Message Outline
Ruth 4:1-12
For us to appreciate the joy in our relationship with God and others through our faith in Jesus Christ, we need to understand the extent of God’s love to humanity. Are we worthy to be called into His kingdom knowing that we can’t earn God’s favor? The influence we make or the legacy we leave behind will determine how we express our love for God as we join Him in His redemptive plan.
As we continue to study the beautiful love story of Boaz and Ruth, there are three important things that we need to consider to appreciate the grace of God in our lives that gives us the joy of living in this world.
1. The Meaning of Redemption.
2. The Means of Redemption.
3. The Magnitude of our Redemption (vv.13-22).
a) Blessing to our family (vv. 13,15,16).
b) Blessing to our community (vv.14a,17a).
c) Blessing to our country (v.14b).
d) Blessing to the whole world (vv.17b-22)
14-August-2022: Refining is a Reward - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Message Outline
Ruth 3
Introduction
Washing, anointing and wearing
Ruth 3:3
Ruth’s preparation
1) Wash yourself – Eph 5:26
2) Anoint yourself – Ephesians 5:18
3) Put on your best clothes – Revelation 19:8
Leaving it to God
Ruth 3:4-5
Refining
Ruth 3:6-7
Our need: To rest
Ruth 3:8
The Lord’s response
Ruth 3:9
Intimate Relationship
Ruth 3:12-14
Rewards through Refining
Ruth 3:15-18
Conclusion
1 Peter 1:3-9
07-August-2022: Contagious Kindness - by Pastor James Diolanda
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Message Outline
Ruth 2:1-16
As we continue studying the book of Ruth, we will look into showing kindness in Tough Times. Despite of the challenges around us, can we still show kindness to others? Can we still be generous to those around us when we feel miserable? Today, we will look at three (3) characters who were in the midst of tough situations but still managed to share kindness. Brother and Sisters in Christ let’s spread a contagious kind of kindness!
1. Kindness Produces Ripple Effect
Despite of what Naomi’s going through, she chose to be kind to her daughter-in-law, Ruth. She took her in and showed her around the city to make sure she is comfortable to this new land. There is no small act of kindness, every act can create a chain reaction that will touch people’s hearts.
2. Showing Kindness Is Rewarding
Despite of being in a foreign land, Ruth made sure she could give back to Naomi by working diligently. She repaid her kindness by finding a way to provide for both. This generous gesture led her to expected blessings and opportunities. Let’s continue to show kindness for it will surely gives us fulfillment and satisfaction
3. Kindness Reflects the Goodness of God
Despite of being in a tricky situation, Boaz still pursued Ruth. He treated her gently and kindly even though she was a foreigner. His faith in God flowed through his actions and he was able to show compassion to Ruth. May we continue to manifest the Goodness of God in our everyday actions.
4. Kindness was first Rendered by God
Despite of the Three Characters’ Tough Situations, they were able to still find a way to show kindness to others. This is all possible because of God’s kindness to us. While we were still sinners, God gave His son to die for us. This ultimate display of love is what prompt us to spread contagious kindness to others!
31-July-2022: Provision in Dry Times - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Message Outline
Ruth 2:17-23
As we celebrate GCF York’s 11th anniversary, we will continue our 7-part sermon series entitled “Loyal Love: From Emptiness to Fulness” (Series on the Book of Ruth) & we will look at how God provides in seemingly dry or unproductive times. Our provision (whether individually, as a family or church family) surely comes from God, who favors us, takes notice of us & our needs, & blesses us. According to Ruth 2:17-23, how does God show His favor & blessing?
I. GOD’S PROVISION COMES TILL THE END (2:17-18, 21)
God’s provision is evident throughout the narrative (1:6a, 22b; 2:23a; 3:1b; 4:13). In Ruth’s case, the provision for her was more than enough (2:17-18a), to the point that she was able to share it with Naomi (2:18b, see v. 14b). She had assurance that provision would come until the end of the harvest season (2:21; see 2:8a, 9b), even in ways that favored her greatly (2:6b). Whatever be our need, let’s trust God to provide for us until the end (see Phil. 4:19).
II. GOD’S PROVIDENCE COMES WITH PERFECT TIMING (2:19-20)
God’s providence is evident, especially in chapter 2. The field where Ruth happened to work & glean (2:19a) belongs to Boaz (2:19b), who was not just a kind & rich landowner but was also a close kinsman-redeemer of Elimelek (2:20b; see v. 1). God’s providence is seen in 3 occasions: (1) Ruth went to Boaz’s field (“as it turned out” [2:3b]); (2) Boaz came to the field while Ruth was there (“just then” [2:4a]); & (3) Boaz heard about Ruth before he met her (“I’ve been told about what you have done” [2:11a]). Let’s trust God for His divine interventions & divine appointments, so that we can see His plan & purpose continue to prevail (Phil. 2:13).
III. GOD’S PROTECTION SHIELDS US COMPLETELY (2:22-23)
God’s protection is also evident in chapter 2. Boaz took intentional steps to protect Ruth from harm (2:22; see vv. 8a, 9b) & embarrassment (2:15b-16). Naomi also provided protection to Ruth through the shelter of Naomi’s home (2:23b). God provides His protection through people He sends our way to shield us from harm & embarrassment. Let’s trust God for His protection (Pss. 17:8; 36:7; 57:1; 91:1), whatever danger or harm awaits us.
24-July-2022: Loyalty in Lonely Times - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Message Outline
Ruth 1: 14-22
Today, we continue our 7-part sermon series entitled, “Loyal Love: From Emptiness to Fullness” (Series on the book of Ruth). In times of loss and loneliness and in tough, dry, uncertain and helpless times, we can experience God’s hope, loyalty, kindness, provision, love and redemption. In the fullness of time, God gives us fullness of joy. According to Ruth 1:14-22, what can we do to help us experience more of God’s loyalty in lonely times?
1. Show others our loving presence (1:14-18)
We can boldly show the presence of God through our loving presence to others, especially in their times of need and loneliness. Ruth showed this by being loyal to Naomi (1:14b, 16-17) when the latter felt her life was empty (1:11-13). In Ruth’s loyalty (despite being told to return repeatedly to her original family and land), she invoked God, even to the point of death and burial (1:17). Though her loyalty was disadvantageous to her welfare, she still showed loyal love (chesed) to Naomi. Let’s show loyal love to each other, just as God remains loyal and loving to us (even if we don’t feel it).
2. See God beyond our lingering pain (1:19-22)
We can bravely see God in the midst of our lingering pain. Despite her return to Bethlehem, Naomi’s pain lingered to the point that she wanted to change her name from Naomi (meaning “pleasant”) to Mara (meaning “bitter”) (1:20) because she left “full” but returned “empty” (1:21). Though she didn’t lose faith in God (1:8-9, 13), her view of God became clouded to the point that she attributed her emptiness to the “Lord” and “Almighty” (20-21). She forgot to see clearly that God “had come to the aid of his people by providing food for them” (1:6a) and that there is hope because Ruth was with her (1:22a) and that they arrived in Bethlehem “as the barley harvest was beginning” (1:22b). Let’s all see beyond our lingering pain.
17-July-2022: The Greatest Gift - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Message Outline
The Greatest Gift
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Introduction
Love Against The Grain
Tough Love
Holy Spirit Poured Out Love
Christ Love
Conclusion
10-July-2022: Reformation of Spirit: Go Back! - by Ptr James Diolanda
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Reformation of Spirit: Go Back
(Ezra 9:1-6)
As we finish off our mini-series on the Book of Ezra, ask this personal question to yourself: have I been glorifying God with my life? The Israelites thought that they are faithful in worshipping by giving burnt offerings and singing praises. However, God requires more than that, He wants you to live a life pleasing to Him. He is not asking for perfection but a life of obedience and faithfulness. May we go back to putting God at the center of our lives
1. Go Back to Learning God’s Word
Ezra 7: 10 For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
2. Go Back to Leaning on God’s Wisdom
Ezra 7:25 And you, Ezra, in accordance with the wisdom of your God, which you possess, appoint magistrates and judges to administer justice to all the people
3. Go Back to Lamenting Wickedness
Ezra 9:6 “I am too ashamed and disgraced, my God, to lift up my face to you, because our sins are higher than our heads and our guilt has reached to the heavens.”
4. Go Back to Living in God’s Ways
Ezra 10:10-12 Then Ezra the priest stood up and said to them, “You have been unfaithful; you have married foreign women, adding to Israel’s guilt. 11 Now honor the Lord, the God of your ancestors, and do his will. Separate yourselves from the peoples around you and from your foreign wives.” 12 The whole assembly responded with a loud voice: “You are right! We must do as you say.”
3-July-2022: Rebuilding of the Sanctuary: Under Construction - by Ptr James Diolanda
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Rebuilding of the Sanctuary: Under Construction
(Ezra 1:1-4)
We will be going on a mini 2-Part Series on Restoration Through Intercession based on the book of Ezra. We will learn the importance of prayer as we go through the journey of the Israelites back to their homeland. Wherever we are, we must have a constant communication with God as He guides our paths. Today, may we build our sanctuary with Him by realizing He’s our Great Architect.
1. We are Under His Grand Plan (Ezra Chapters 1-2)
The first step towards rebuilding our faith in Him is to know that we are under God’s plan. He meticulously leads people to where He wants them to be to fulfill His for mankind. Let’s surrender everything to Him and allow Him to reign over our lives.
2. We are to Understand the Grueling Process (Ezra Chapters 3-4)
Just like any construction, it will not be a quick and easy process. We need to be all-in on the process of changing our hearts for His glory. As we go through the process, let’s enjoy His presence in our lives.
3. We are to Underline God’s Promises (Ezra Chapters 5-6)
As we live our lives towards His purpose, we need to hold on to His promises. The enemy will do everything in it’s power to discourage us from rebuilding our sanctuary with God. Let’s focus on His loving mercy and His promises to us.
26-Jun-2022: Following the Spirit's Leading - by Ptr Narry Santos
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Title: Following the Spirit’s Leading
(Acts 13:1-3)
Today, we continue with the 5th of our 6-part sermon series entitled “Partnership with the Holy Spirit” (Studies from the Book of Acts). Our 1st message talked about experiencing the Spirit’s empowerment (Acts 6:1-7); our 2nd sermon discussed discerning the Spirit’s direction (Acts 10:9-23); the 3rd explored seeing the Spirit extend our ministry (Acts 11:19-30); the 4th taught us about submitting to the Spirit’s intervention. Today, we will learn the value of following the Spirit’s leading. According to Acts 13:1-3, in what contexts does the Spirit speak & show God’s leading, so we can quickly follow & obey?
I. THE SPIRIT LEADS IN CONTEXTS OF PEOPLE DIVERSITY (13:1)
Antioch (11:19-26), which became Saul’s ministry base of operation, had diverse leaders: (1) Barnabas (Jew from Cyprus; 4:36-37); (2) Simeon called Niger (Jew whose Latin nickname Niger [black] shows that he had dark skin or was African who moved in Roman circles); (3) Lucius of Cyrene (man from North Africa, 11:20); (4) Manaen (like a “foster-brother” with Herod the tetrarch [Antipas]); & (5) Saul (Jew from Tarsus). God’s heart is for all the nations.
II. THE SPIRIT LEADS IN CONTEXTS OF GOD-DEPENDENCE (13:2a, 3a)
The Holy Spirit’s leading became clear when the leaders of Antioch were engaged in 2 spiritual disciplines of dependence on God: (1) worshiping Lord (describing priestly service); & (2) fasting (with passionate prayer). God reveals Himself more when we depend on Him more.
III. THE SPIRIT LEADS IN CONTEXTS OF PAIRED PARTNERSHIP (13:2b)
The Spirit unfolded His method of ministry when He told the leaders to set apart Barnabas & Saul as a team. This reinforces the functional approach of paired partnership (like Peter & John [3:1; 4:1]; Barnabas & Mark [15:39]; Paul & Silas [15:40]). God affirms ministering in pairs or teams.
IV. THE SPIRIT LEADS IN CONTEXTS OF CLEAR CALLING (13:3b, 4a)
The Spirit confirmed that the setting apart of Barnabas & Saul was His own doing: (1) “set apart for me”; & (2) “for the work to which I have called them.” As a result, the leaders “placed their hands on them” & “sent them off.” The Spirit also sent of the 2 on their way (13:4). When the Spirit confirms His leading, God’s people follow & obey right away.
19-Jun-2022: God's Providence... Our Hope - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Title: God’s Providence… Our Hope
(Ruth 1:1-13 ESV)
Introduction
God works in our time of darkness
Naomi and Ruth
Lessons:
– Sovereignty
– Providence
– Purpose
– Freedom
Prov 3:5-6
For fathers:
1. Learn how to need
– salvation, strength, supply, wisdom (James 1:5)
2. Learn to lead
3. Let Holy Spirit work through you
4. Learn to love – God, family, church
12-Jun-2022: Doors of Decisions - by Pastor James DIolanda
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Title: Doors of Decisions
(Acts 16:6-10 ESV)
As we continue with our Sermon series, “Partnership with the Holy Spirit, we will learn how important He is in our Christian walk. Paul and Silas followed the prompting of the Spirit in their missionary journey to share the Gospel. They knew the crucial role He plays in leading them to God’s plans. May we also realize the power and purpose of the Holy Spirit as we become fruitful followers of God.
1. The Holy Spirit Closes Doors That Are Not Within God’s Divine Plan
Paul and Silas were spreading the Good News from town to town. Yet, the Holy Spirit did not let them go on some areas and led them to a different region. This allowed them to learn valuable lessons in their journey. Despite of various roadblocks, they never stopped moving for God. With all the detours, they needed to exercise humility in accepting God’s instructions. As they continue with their mission, they persevered during the challenges before them. The Holy Spirit was guiding them throughout their journey, and they learned to trust in Him
2. The Holy Spirit Opens Doors of Opportunities to Obey God’s Directions
The Holy Spirit’s role is to lead us to God’s glory. He directs us to see God’s will, to stir up the passion to serve Him and to have the confidence to share His Word. We have countless opportunities to obey God, some are hard to follow, and some are easy. We must always have a close relationship with the Holy Spirit to have an open communication with Him. Let’s be more mindful of His presence in our lives.
05-Jun-2022: Claiming Opportunities That Await - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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(John 12:1-9)
Sermon Summary:
Missed opportunities happen to all of us and often times for valid reasons. But those opportunities that will develop and strengthen our relationship with God, should take precedence and become our priority.
The Bible text in John 12 records a special gathering that was hosted for the Lord Jesus Christ. The three siblings were there (Mary, Martha, and Lazarus), and so with Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed the Master with a kiss and 30 pieces of silver (cf. Matthew 26:15, 48-49).
The opportunity to honor Jesus at the moment was claimed by Mary as she expressed her love for the Lord when she gifted Him with precious perfume. Martha and Lazarus also had unique opportunities to serve the Lord at that time.
Today’s message hopes to reveal our stewardship attitude toward God’s purpose and suggest ways to claim the spiritual opportunities that await:
1. BEWARE of being an Opportunity BREAKER (Judas, vv.4-6).
a. Don’t Be Selfish (vv.4-5)
b. Don’t Be Sinful (v.6)
2. PREPARE to be an Opportunity TAKER (Lazarus & Martha, vv.1-2, 9).
a. Be a Good Steward of Life (Lazarus: vv.1-2b,9)
b. Be a Good Steward of Abilities (Martha: v.2a)
3. DECLARE to become an Opportunity MAKER (Mary, vv. 3,7-8).
a. Give Your Best (v.3)
b. Give To Bless (vv.7-8)
29-May-2022: Seeing the Spirit Extend our Ministry - by Ptr Narry Santos
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(Acts 11:9-30)
Sermon Summary:
We are halfway in our 7-part sermon series entitled “Partnership with the Holy Spirit” (Studies from the Book of Acts). Today, we will learn that the Spirit extends our ministry. We see this extension in the way God uses (& wants to use) all God’s people. In Acts 11:19-30, we will discover how the Spirit works in accomplishing different tasks through different people.
I. THE SPIRIT USES LAY PEOPLE TO EVANGELIZE (11:19-21)
The Spirit uses lay people (even unknown & unnamed followers of Jesus) in the context of suffering (11:19a), who traveled far & wide to “spread the word” to Jews (11:19b) & to tell the good news of Jesus to the Greeks (or Gentiles) (11:20). The presence of God was evident with them & the problem led to progress in people turning to God (11:21).
II. THE SPIRIT USES LEADERS TO ENCOURAGE (11:22-24)
The Spirit uses church leaders to send Barnabas (“Son of Encouragement”), who was “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit & faith” (11:24a), to see if God’s work is evident in Antioch (11:22). Barnabas saw the grace of God there & encouraged the people to keep remaining true to God (11:23). The result is the Spirit brought a great number of people to the Lord (11:24b).
III. THE SPIRIT USES MINISTERS TO EQUIP (11:25-26)
The Spirit uses ministers (like Barnabas) to get more help (from Saul of Tarsus) (11:25), who both became partners in equipping & educating the church in Antioch for a year (11:26a). As a result, they “taught great numbers of people” (11:26b), especially the disciples (or Christians) in Antioch (11:26c).
IV. THE SPIRIT USES CHURCHES TO EDIFY (11:27-30)
The Spirit uses the church in Antioch in a time of severe famine (11:27-28) to edify (or build up) the church in Jerusalem through the former’s provision of help & sending of gifts with Barnabas & Saul as emissaries (11:29-30) to benefit the followers of Jesus in Judea.
22-May-2022: See the Spirit Work - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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(Acts 10:9-23)
Sermon Summary:
Introduction and Summary
Pentecost
Humility in your Identity
Don’t Forget to Pray
You Know Enough to Care
Let the Spirit Work
Close and Challenge
Go a Little Further!
15-May-2022: Experience the Spirit's Empowerment - by Pastor Narry Santos
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(Acts 6:1-7)
Sermon Summary:
Today, we continue our 7-part sermon series on the Book of Acts entitled “Partnership with the Holy Spirit.” We want to understand how the Spirit is involved in our daily roles, relationships, and responsibilities. To resume this series, we will look at how we can experience the reality of the Spirit’s power, as we learn from the experience of the Jerusalem church (1:8; 2:4, 38; see 2:41, 47b; 4:4; 5:14) In Acts 6:1-7, when & how can we experience the Spirit’s empowerment?
I. IN DIFFICULT DAYS, GROW IN PRAYER & GOD’S WORD (6:1-2, 4, 6)
The Spirit works powerfully in the context of growth (6:1a) & challenging conflict (6:1b). In response to both, the apostles knew what to do: grow in the ministry of God’s Word (6:2, 4b; see 1:20; 2:16-21, 25, 34-35, 42) & prayer (6:4a; see 1:14, 24; 2:42; 4:24, 31). We create an environment for the Spirit to work powerfully when we are in God’s Word & prayer. In difficult times, let’s grow more in both prayer & the Word.
II.IN DEVELOPING LEADERS, GO FOR GODLY CHARACTER (6:3, 5, 7)
The Spirit works powerfully in the context of raising more leaders (6:3, 5) & causing more growth in God’s ministry (6:7). Difficult days are an opportune time to add more leaders in God’s work. What kind of leaders? Godly ones (“full of the Spirit & wisdom” [6:3]; “full of faith & of the Holy Spirit [6:5a]; see “full of God’s grace & power” [6:8], 6:10). They also chose leaders who can relate with the people who are going through the challenging time (6:5b). We create an environment for the Spirit to work powerfully when we grow in godliness & develop godly leaders. In developing leaders, let’s go for godliness & grow godly ones.
8-May-2022: From Mother’s Faith to Father’s Miracles - by Pastor James Diolanda
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(1 Kings 17:7-24)
Sermon Summary:
As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we will look at how a Mom’s faith unlocked our Heavenly Father’s Miracles in their lives. God used a widow to feed Elijah and in the process she got to experience God’s blessings in full. Today, we will see God’s characteristics as we unfold the 2 miracles He brought to the widow’s life.
1. God’s Provision is Overflowing
The widow was doing her every day task when Elijah approached her and asked for something to eat. This ordinary encounter made way to an extra ordinary experience for her. Her faith enabled her to see God’s provision in full.
2. God’s Power is Overwhelming
From one adversity to another, the widow just couldn’t catch a break. After getting ample supply of flour and oil from the Lord, sometime later she lost her son. She expressed her rage and resentment but God was still in control of her situation.
3. God’s Plan is Outstanding
Everything that happened in the story was perfectly designed by God. He orchestrated the meet up of Elijah and the widow so He could reveal His glory to them. Let’s keep on trusting Him as He is always faithful and loving.
1-May-2022: The Call To Be Witnesses In The Spirit - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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(Acts 1:1-8)
Sermon Summary:
Today, we will be starting a new series on “Partnership with the Holy Spirit” based on selected passages of the Book of Acts. The Spirit’s role in our lives cannot be underestimated. It is important for us to recognize that with the help of the third Person of the Holy Trinity we can grow spiritually healthy and help in the fulfillment of God’s mission in our generation.
After His blessed resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ Jesus showed Himself to His apostles and was with them for 40 days. He spoke about the kingdom of God and taught them many things about Himself and the coming Holy Spirit. In the text that we are going to study, we will learn about three important things that pertain to the Spirit of God that will help us to seriously consider God’s call for us to be “Witnesses in the Spirit.”
1) The PROMISE about the Holy Spirit (1-5). “Wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about”
Acts 1:4-5
Luke 24:48-53
APPLY: Let us gladly receive the promise Jesus gives to those who receive Him personally.
2) The POWER of the Holy Spirit (vv.6-8a). “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you.”
Zechariah 4:6
APPLY: Let us fully depend on the Spirit’s power in our walk with God.
3) The PLAN with the Holy Spirit (v.8b). “…and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Romans 10:9-15
APPLY: Let us expectantly join God in His plan to save the world.
24-Apr-2022: The Value of Spiritual Parent - by Ptr James Diolanda
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(I Corinthians 4:14-17)
As we walk through our Christian faith, it is crucial to have someone who will give us a helping hand. Apostle Paul was the Spiritual Father of many churches and followers. Today, we will take a look at the importance of having a spiritual parent.
1. Caring for Christ’s Followers
In order for us to be an effective spiritual parent to others, we first need to show genuine care and concern for them. This is not a chore that we MUST do, it’s a great privilege to lead someone to Christ. Let’s stir it up in our hearts the passion to serve God by showing compassion to others.
2. Choosing to Copy Christ
When Paul said, “imitate me”, he wasn’t leading them to life of idolatry. Instead, he wants them to see the value of inspirational living. It is helpful to have someone to look up to but it’s dangerous to be too invested in their lives. Let’s always point to God’s glory to avoid directing all their attention to us.
3. Continuing the Christian Faith with Conviction
It’s a great responsibility to be a spiritual parent to someone. This is why, it’s important to keep on growing in Christ. We shouldn’t be stagnant with our faith as we lead others to a fruitful Christian living.
17-Apr-2022: What a Fresh Start with Jesus Brings - by Ptr Narry Santos
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(Ephesians 2:11-22)
Happy Resurrection Sunday! Easter is like a fresh start. The darkness of Good Friday & the death of Jesus on that day & the gloominess of Black Saturday give way with the brightness & gladness of the resurrected life of Jesus. GCF York also has the fresh start of beginning our in-person worship celebration today. We also have the fresh start of meeting for the first time at our new venue & time slot at Langstaff Gospel Assembly. Our desire for all of us today is that we experience our own fresh start that only Jesus brings. But we ask: “What can we experience, if we have a fresh start with Jesus?” Eph. 2:11-22 gives us three answers to this question.
I. JESUS BRINGS US FACE-TO-FACE, THOUGH WE WERE FARAWAY (2:11-13)
Through the blood of Jesus (or His sacrificial death [2:13b; see 1:7]), Gentiles (or non-Jews), who were faraway, are brought near to God & the Jews. Before, the Gentiles were distant from God (“separate from Christ”; “without hope”; “without God in the world”) & from the Jews (“uncircumcised”; “excluded from the citizenship in Israel”; “foreigners to the covenants of the promise). In Christ, we now are not second-rate, alienated, or estranged people!
II. JESUS MAKES US FRIENDS, THOUGH WE WERE FOES (2:14-18)
Through the cross of Christ (or His physical death on the cross; 2:16b), the Gentiles & Jews are reconciled. Jesus destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility (i.e., enmity between Gentiles & Jews; 2:14b), brought peace (2:14a, 15b, 17 [2x]), & created one new humanity called the church out of the two. The Gentiles are not to become Jews nor the Jews Gentiles. But both are now to be called Christians. In Christ, we now have access to the Father by the Spirit (2:18)!
III. JESUS TURNS US INTO FAMILY, THOUGH WE WERE FOREIGNERS (2:19-22)
Through Christ as our Chief Cornerstone (i.e., stone upon which the entire building is lined up with; 2:20b), we are now members of God’s family (“no longer foreigners & strangers”; “fellow citizens with God’s people”; “members of his household”; 2:19). We’re compared to a new building with solid foundation (2:20), sure formation (2:21), & spiritual function (2:22). In Christ, we’re designed to be part of His new family!
10-Apr-2022: How to Leave a Lasting Legacy - by Ptr Narry Santos
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2 Timothy 2:1-3
Today, we continue with our 6th message in the sermon series on “Passing the Baton Well & Wisely to the Next Generations.” In passing the baton of faith well, we need to leave a legacy that lasts long. 2 Tim. 2:1-3 shows us how to leave such legacy.
I. MINISTER WITH GRACE (2:1)
The ministry of Paul to Timothy is based on a close relationship as “father & son” (2:1a; see 1:2; 1 Tim. 1:18a, 2a). This relationship is anchored on grace found in Christ (2:1b; see 1:2b, 4:22b; 1 Tim. 1:2b; 6:21b; 1:14). Paul treated Timothy graciously by speaking highly of him to the Philippians (Phil. 2:19-22), as they both served God together. Let’s ministry with grace to the next generation!
II. MENTOR WITH DEPTH (2:2)
The mentoring in 2 Tim. 2:2 is to occur in 4 generations (Paul, Timothy, “reliable people,” & “others”). Note the faithful pattern of entrusting to Timothy (1 Tim. 6:20a; 2 Tim. 1:14a) what has been previously entrusted to Paul (1 Tim. 1:10b-11; see 2 Tim. 1:12), so that Timothy can guard these things (1 Tim. 6:20a; 2 Tim. 1:14b) & entrust these same things to others (2:2; see 1:13). The guarding of these things involves the practice of what is entrusted (Phil. 4:9). This mentoring by Paul to Timothy is similar to the family mentoring by Lois & Eunice to Timothy (1:5). Let’s mentor with depth the next generations!
III. MODEL THROUGH HARDSHIP (2:3)
The modeling involves enduring hardship together (2:3). Paul reveals his hardships in the ministry (2:9a) when people deserted him (4:16). Despite hardship, he experienced God’s faithfulness (4:17a, c, 18) & modeled faithfulness in proclaiming the gospel (4:17b; 2:9b). Even though some whom he mentored deserted him (1:15; 4:10a, 14; see 1 Tim. 1:19b-20) & though he was about to be martyred (2 Tim. 4:6), Paul still fought the good fight & kept the faith (4:7; see 2:10). He instructs Timothy to also fight the good fight (1 Tim. 1:18b; 6:12a). Let’s model through hardship with the next generation!
3-Apr-2022: Faith That Fluently Influences Others - by Ptr James Diolanda
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Faith That Fluently Influences Others
2 Timothy 3:10-17
1. Look for God’s works in people’s lives
2. Live out God’s word daily
27-Mar-2022: Forming Faith from Generation to Generation
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FORMING FAITH FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION
(Psalm 78:1-8)
Today, we continue with our 4th message in the sermon series on “Passing the Baton Well & Wisely to the Next Generations.” God has made it clear that He wants us to transfer our faith to the succeeding generations and why He wants us to do so. Psalm 78:1-8 reveals to us the “what” & “why” of faith formation & transmission.
I. TALK ABOUT GOD’S WORKS & TEACH HIS WORD (78:1-6)
The “what” of faith formation & transmission is found in Psalm 78:1-6, which reveals God’s intent for His people to transfer their faith in God to the next generations (78:3, 4a, 5b, 6). God wanted 2 important things to be passed on about God:
(1) “praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, & the wonders he has done” (78:4b) – reflecting God’s grace (see vv. 12-16, 23-29, 35, 38-39. 44-51, 52-55, 65-66);
(2) statutes & the law in Israel (78: 5a) — A heritage of God’s grace & obedience to Him is what we are called to tell & teach the next generations.
II. TRUST GOD, THINK OF HIS WORKS, & OBEY HIS WORD (78:7-8)
The “why” of faith formation & transmission is found in Psalm 78:7-9, which reveals the 3 reasons for passing the baton of faith to the next generations. These 3 reasons are:
(1) putting their faith in God (78:7a);
(2) not forgetting God’s deeds (78:7b; Deut. 6:12); &
(3) keeping God’s commands (78:7c; Deut. 5:29).
The psalmist Asaph warned the people to take these 3 acts seriously so that they would not repeat the mistakes of the past generations (78:8; see vv. 10-11, 17-22, 32, 36-37, 40-42, 56-58), realizing that God unleashed His righteous anger to those who dishonored Him, forgot His deeds, & disobeyed His word (78:31, 33, 59-64).
20-Mar-2022: Pass the Baton of Faith - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Pass the Baton of Faith
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Practical and daily ways to pass the faith
Consistently Live Your Faith
Daily Opportunities
Grow Godly Character
Make God Normal
Make Them Depend on God – The Transfer
What to ask to teach them on Faith
PSALM 78:5-8
WHO?
WHAT?
WHY?
HOW?
13-Mar-2022: Beware of Not Passing the Baton Well - by Ptr Narry Santos
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BEWARE OF NOT PASSING THE BATON WELL
(Joshua 24:14-18, 31; Judg. 2:7, 10-13)
Today, we our new 6-part message series this March until the middle of April on “Passing the Baton Well & Wisely to the Next Generations (Studies on Faith Formation & Transmission). Aside from planting 7 churches in 7 years, part of GCF Canada’s Vision 2024 is conducting millennial summits that seek to pass the baton from the “Moses” generation to the “Joshua” generation of ministry. Parents & grandparents will not be around forever, so we need to be involved in intentional intergenerational faith formation & transmission. To understand the need for it, we need to beware of not passing the baton well. What do we need to watch out for?
I. BEWARE OF DECLINE FROM COMMITMENT TO COMPLACENCY
(Josh. 24:14-18, 31; Jdg. 2:7)
Joshua & Caleb represented the generation that left Egypt & entered the Promised Land (Num. 14:30; Deut. 1:36, 38). All the rest of the generation died in the wilderness for 40 years. The second generation who left Egypt was 19 years old & younger & entered the Promised Land (Num. 1:3; 14:31-33; Deut. 1:39). Joshua & Caleb were committed (Josh. 24:15b; cf. 14:9, 10b-11). The next generation wanted to serve the Lord (24:16-18) & actually did (24:31; Judg. 2:7a). But note the shift of this generation from “experiencing” (Josh. 24:31b) God to simply “seeing” God work (Judg. 2:7b; see Josh. 24:7b). They remained complacent & stuck with where they were.
II. BEWARE OF DECLINE FROM COMPLACENCY TO COLDNESS (Judg. 2:10-13)
When the complacent generation passed (2:10a), the following generation got worse, got corrupted, & became cold toward God (2:10b-13). There was massive failure in the formation of the next generation. As a result, the faith of the second generation decreased to a level of no faith in the third generation, & God turned against this generation (2:14-15). Let’s be watch out for the slippery slope of loss of faith. Let’s be attentive to intergenerational faith formation & transmission.
06-Mar-2022: Pass the Faith - by Pastor James Diolanda
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PASS THE FAITH
(Deuteronomy 6:5-9)
As we start our New Message Series on ‘Passing the Baton Well & Wisely to the Next Generations’, may we become aware of how we should live our lives. Let us love God passionately and wholeheartedly. Let us integrate our faith in our daily activities as we show others His faithfulness to us. We have a responsibility to pass on our faith to the next generation. What is the legacy you want to leave behind?
1. Instill it with Passion not through Perfect Living
We grew up in a culture where negative reinforcements were used to instill discipline. Instead of living in fear, we must be submerged in love and kindness.
2. Include it as Part of Daily Living
In everything we do, let’s give glory to God. In this way, others will see His power and love in us. In our Personal and Public life, even during peaceful and productive moments, we must always carry our faith with us.
27-Feb-2022: The Miracle of Acceptance and Sharing of Burdens - by Pastor Narry Santos
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February Theme: Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts
THE MIRACLE OF ACCEPTANCE & SHARING OF BURDENS
(Romans 15:7 & Galatians 6:1-2)
Happy Family Day! Today, we conclude our 4-part message series this February on “Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts (Selected ‘One Another’ Commands in the New Testament”). As a family & church family, we are called to accept one another & carry one another’s burden. The miracle of changed lives & healed relationships happens through acceptance & burden-bearing. How can we be all part of this miracle of change & healing?
I. ACCEPT ONE ANOTHER (Rom. 15:7)
We create an environment of change when we accept one another (Rom. 15:7a), which gives glory or brings praise to God (15:7c). The way toward mutual acceptance is to follow Christ’s acceptance of us (15:7b). Similarly, the “strong” & “weak” in faith are to accept one another (14:1a), without passing judgment (14:1b, 4, 13; see Matt. 7:1-2), because God has accepted us (4:3b). The miracle of changed lives happen when we accept one another.
II. CARRY ONE ANOTHER’S BURDEN (Gal. 6:1-2)
We create an environment of healing when we carry one another’s burden (Gal. 6:2a), which fulfills the law of Christ (“love your neighbor as yourself” [5:14]). The term “burden” refers to a heavy, crushing load—more than what one can carry without help. The context of this burden is sin & failure (1:1a). The way out of being overwhelmed by burden is through burden-bearing, referring to the willingness to carry one another’s burden & the commitment to accept involvement in each other’s difficulties. The miracle of healed relationships happens when we carry one another’s burdens.
20-Feb-2022: The Ministry of Mutual Forbearance & Forgiveness - by Ptr Marvin Catanus
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February Theme: Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts
The Ministry of Mutual Forbearance & Forgiveness
(Colossians 3:12-17)
Sermon Summary:
Having the old and the new
You have been chosen (v12)
Rom 3:24
Rom 5:8
Eph 1:4,6
Wearing the Holy Virtues (v12-14)
Compassion
Kindness and Humility
Gentleness
Patience
Forbearance and Forgiveness
Conclusion
What then has changed from your old person towards your new person “in Christ”
13-Feb-2022: The Medicine for Mutual Love - by Pastor Narry Santos
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February Theme: Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts
The Medicine for Mutual Love
(1 John 4:7-21)
Sermon Summary:
Today, we continue a new 4-part message series this February on “Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts (Selected ‘One Another’ Commands in the New Testament”). In this “love” & “family” month, it’s good to be reminded that we show love as a family through mutual care, especially when our hearts hurt & need healing. The “one another” command we will look at today is to love one another, which is the medicine for mutual care. But before we can love another, we need to understand God’s love for us first. What do we need to know about God’s love?
I. GOD’S LOVE IS COMPLETE (4:7-10)
God, who is love (4:8, 16), makes us recipients of His unconditional & complete love. He loved us first (4:19) to the point of sending His Son to die for us (4:9-10). Since God loved us, we are called to love one another (4:11).
II. GOD’S LOVE MAKES US COMPLETE (3:11-12)
When we love others, God’s love is made complete in us (meaning, love reaches its full potential & fulfills its purpose in us). God’s love reaches its fulness (4:12, 17; see 2:5) when we love His people in the way He loves them. Let’s complete God’s love with mutual love.
III. GOD’S LOVE REMOVES FEAR COMPLETELY (4:13-21)
“There is no hear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (4:18a). This means that God’s love removes in me the dread of God & the fear of punishment & judgment reserved for those who do not belong to Him. Let’s exchange fear with love.
6-Feb-2022: Make Encouragement Our Business - by Ptr James Diolanda
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February Theme: Mutual Care: Health & Healing for Hurting Hearts
(Hebrews 3:12-13; 10:24-25)
Sermon Summary:
Are you tired with all the changing restrictions and proposed lockdowns? Are you reaching a boiling point in regards to this Pandemic? Today we will unlock the power of encouragement just as God has designed it. May we become aware of our fellow believers’ struggles and offer sincere concern and support to one another. Contrary to the world’s MYOB or Mind Your Own Business, let’s MEOB and Make Encouragement Our Business. Are you ready to be an agent of encouragement this 2022?
1. We Don’t Fall for Sin’s Deceitfulness
Satan’s character is to deceive God’s creation. God has called us to watch each other’s back and offer encouragement so we don’t fall for enemies’ lies.
2. We Don’t Feel Disheartened
With piling problems left and right, we need to offer support and motivate one another the best we can. God has given us ideas on how we can encourage others through love and good deeds.
3. We Don’t Falter in our Devotion to God
As we continue to live a Christian life, let’s be aware of each other’s struggles and let’s uplift one another for God’s glory.
30-Jan-2022: Partnership in Unity Needs the Spirit and Wisdom - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
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(I Corinthians 3:16-23)
Sermon Summary:
To thrive in this life, we need to recognize how important partnership is in our daily activities. The Bible declares that “two are better than one” (Eccl. 4:9) and the Word of God has overwhelming stories to prove this truth. But for us to maintain a healthy relationship with God and others, which is essential to succeed, we need a special type of wisdom and a unique power from above.
In the previous Sunday messages, we learned that the goal of partnership among God’s fellow workers is to do God’s mission successfully and in unity. And to overcome the challenges that may arise, our partnership should be built and focused on Jesus Christ, who is the Head of the church (Col. 1:18).
This Sunday we will learn the role and rule of the Spirit and godly wisdom in our partnership with others. As we recognize that there are three different types of people that could influence our relationships (1Cor 2:14-3:3), we will be learning three practical ways to maintain our unity in partnership.
1) SUBMIT to the Spirit in our PURSUIT of unity (vv. 16-17).
2) SEEK the wisdom of God in the PRESERVATION of our unity (vv.18-20).
3) SHOW consistency in our PRACTICE of unity (vv. 21-23).
23-Jan-2022: Partnership with God's Fellow Servants - by Ptr Narry Santos
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(I Corinthians 3:5-9)
Sermon Summary:
We are doing the January series on “Partnering with God’s Fellow Workers in Unity” (Studies in 1 Corinthians 1 & 3). As we saw last week, disunity was one problem of the Corinthian Christians (1 Cor. 1:10-17). To continue addressing this problem, Paul presents a God-focused & godly perspective about partnership in the ministry among God’s people. Using 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, what must be our mindset in partnering as God’s fellow workers?
I. GOD ASSIGNS MINISTRY TO HIS SERVANTS (3:5)
The context shows more evidence of division (3:3-4). To unify the people’s divided & worldly thinking, Paul de-emphasizes what he & Apollos do (“What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul?” 3:5a) & emphasizes that they are mere servants (3:5b) engaged in ministry (see 2:4-5). They needed to focus on God, who assigns specific ministries to each person (3:5c). What is important is not the one who ministers but the giver of the minister & ministry.
II.GOD CAUSES THE GROWTH (3:6-7)
Paul uses agricultural language to specify the ministry he & Apollos are assigned by God to do: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it” (3:6a). Paul started new churches as a missionary in places where the gospel was not present; Apollos did the teaching of new believers in the churches that Paul planted. The planter or waterer is not the important person (3:7a). The important one is God, who makes things grow (3:6b, 7b).
III. GOD OWNS ALL THE WORK (3:8-9)
In fairness, God’s workers are a team (“they work as a team” [3:8a, NEB]) & work for one purpose (“on the same level”; see Eph. 4:12-13 for purpose of maturity toward Christlikeness) & will be rewarded for their labour (3:8b; see 4:5; 9:24-25). But they are not the important ones but the one who owns them as “God’s fellow workers” (they belong to God; 3:9a), along with all the church as “God’s field, God’s building” (3:9b).
16-Jan-2022: Contending with Divisions in the Church - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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(I Corinthians 1:10-17)
Sermon Summary:
Introduction:
Being United v10
Reasons why we unite
Characteristics of unity
Philippians 2:5, 6-8
Forms of Divisions v12
4 groups presented
Exclusive thinking v13
Incomplete picture of the Word
Putting men too high
Focus on symbols v14 -16
Conclusion
Cure to Divisions v17
The Gospel alone
9-Jan-2022: Partnering with God and Others - Ptr Narry Santos
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(Ecclesiastes 4:8-12)
Sermon Summary:
One of the major lessons we learned in the last 2 years of the pandemic is that we cannot make it on our own—that we need God & others. As the old pandemic continues in this new year, let’s resolve to not go through 2022 by ourselves. That’s why the theme for this month & for the rest of the year is “Partnering with God & Others for God’s Mission.” Using Ecclesiastes 4:8-12, what are benefits of partnership with others?
I. PARTNERSHIP MAKES US MORE PRODUCTIVE TOGETHER (4:8-9)
From a context of futile selfish greed (4:8), we see the content of fruitful selfless grace: “Two are better than one” (4:9a). The illustrative worth of working together is seen in its rewarding results. When we share our lives as we serve together, we become more productive: “they have a good return for their work” (4:9b). Remember: serving together is not just fulfilling, it’s fruitful!
II. PARTNERSHIP MAKES US MORE PROTECTED TOGETHER (4:10)
The picture of companionship is traveling together. Going together is beneficial, because of the help we get in difficult days: “If either of them falls down, one can help the other up” (4:10a). Protection does not mean the absence of problems but the presence of God & others in the midst of our problems. Remember: walking together does not only develop faith but faithfulness, too!
III. PARTNERSHIP MAKES US MORE PRESENT TOGETHER (4:11)
The portrait of comfort is meeting a person’s need. When “freezing” endangers one’s health, another person can come along to provide heat: “if two lie down together, they will keep warm” (4:11a). The problem of aloneness (“man all alone” in 4:8a) can bring loneliness & pitiful isolation (4:10b, 11b). Remember: we get joy not in being comfortable but in giving comfort!
2-Jan-2022: Who Will You Serve? - by Ptr James Diolanda
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(Luke 2:8-20)
Sermon Summary:
As we kiss 2021 goodbye, let’s welcome 2022 with rejoicing and thanksgiving! As we go into a new year, may we find contentment and excitement in our hearts. It is important for us to set our hearts straight and determine who we will serve this year. Today, we will look at the New Life that the Israelites were facing as they settle down into the Promised Land. Their leader, Joshua, urged them to make a decision on who they will serve in this new land. What about us? Who will we serve this 2022?
1. God Watches Over Us
When God made a covenant with Abraham, He made sure that his people will be well taken care of. Even during hardships, God was there. This new year, as we face another certainty in the midst of this pandemic, may we find peace in God who oversees us.
2. God Washes Away our Mess
The Israelites were a hard group to please. They would constantly argue and grumble with Moses as they journey to the Promised Land. Despite of their unfaithfulness and disobedience, God still forgave them. In the same way, He knows our sinful nature and yet His love for us is constant and consistent.
3. God Won the War for Us
The Israelites won many battles but not because of their swords and bows. It was through God’s power that they were able to move forward in their expedition. God defeated their enemies along the way giving them victories after victories. This 2022, let’s live a victorious life knowing that God is by our side.
2021 Sermons
26-Dec-2021: Celebrating Christ this Christmas Using the Angel's Eyes - by Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
(Luke 2:8-20)
Sermon Summary:
Merry Christmas! In our December series on “Celebrating Christ This Christmas with Different Eyes” (Studies in Luke 1-2), we seek to view the praise songs of joy Mary, Zechariah, & the angels who appeared to the shepherds. The good news of Jesus’ birth brings great blessings. Using the angel’s good news & the angels’ praise song, what does this good news bring out?
I. GOOD NEWS GENERATES GLADNESS (2:8-10)
An angel of the Lord proclaimed the good news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds (2:8-10). As a social class, these shepherds were despised, considered unreliable, & had a bad reputation. Though they were viewed as outcasts, God still chose them to be the privileged recipients of His good news. Imagine how joyful they must have been to be treated as a special class of people.
II. GOOD NEWS GIVES GOD GLORY (2:13-14, 20)
A heavenly host appeared before the shepherds, praising (2:13, 20), & glorifying (2:14, 20; see v. 9) God: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, & on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (2:14). As a result, the shepherds praised & glorified God, after they saw the baby (2:20).
III. GOOD NEWS GRANTS GRACE (2:11-12, 15-18)
The shepherd’s joy multiplied when they heard the content of the good news (2:11). They would have realized the importance of the One who was born: (1) “Savior” (who would be their special deliverer; (2) “Christ” (who would be their expected Messiah); & (3) “Lord” (who would be their Master or Yahweh [the One Who Is]). These terms of honour described the child who would give so much joy to them & all people who would welcome Him.
19-Dec-2021: Look for Christmas - Ptr Marvin Catanus
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Look for Christmas
(Matthew 2:1-23)
Sermon Summary:
Introduction:
Stories of the Grinch
Parallel with Herod
How we lost Christmas
How to Find it again:
1. Intentional Time
2. Stillness
3. Practice Faith
12-Dec-2021: Celebrating Christ This Christmas Using Mary's Eyes - Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Theme: “Celebrating Christ This Christmas with Different Eyes” studies in Luke 1 & 2.
P. Narry Santos delivers the 2nd message in the series entitled Celebrating Christ This Christmas Using Mary’s Eyes.
Question: What are you celebrating on Christmas?
CELEBRATING CHRIST THIS CHRISTMAS USING MARY’S EYES
(Luke 1:46-55)
Today, we continue our December series on “Celebrating Christ This Christmas with Different Eyes” (Studies in Luke 1-2). Christ’s first coming (or incarnation) yields praise from those who knew about Jesus’ birth. We will look at praise songs from 3 biblical characters in the Gospel of Luke: (1) Mary; (2) Zechariah; & (3) the angels who showed up before the shepherds. In the birth narrative in Luke’s Gospel, these characters end up bursting in worship & extolling God’s character. Using Mary’s eyes and her praise song, what can we learn about God’s character in Jesus’ birth story, so we may also burst in praise to God?
I. GOD’S MERCY LIFTS UP THE HUMBLE (1:46-50, 51b)
When Mary discovered the meaning of angel Gabriel’s announcement of virgin birth, she realized how “blessed” (i.e., a recipient of favour & grace) she was (1:48b; cf. vv. 42, 45). As a result, she worshipped God personally (1:46; cf. v. 64) through the Magnificat (i.e., “My soul magnifies the Lord” in Latin). In worship, Mary highlights God’s mercy (1:50, 54; cf. v. 58, 72, 78) – “loyal or steadfast love” expressed in faithful actions. God is merciful to those who are humble (vv. 48a, 52b) to fear Him (1:50a), reverentially respecting His person. Mary humbled herself before God (1:52b), as His servant (1:48a, 54; cf. v. 38), who recognized her lowly & humble state in the eyes of her “Lord,” “God,” and “Savior” (1:46a). She also recognized that God would lift her & her people from their humble state. For this Christmas, let’s remember God’s mercy & worship Him!
II. GOD’S MIGHT BRINGS DOWN THE PROUD (1:51-55)
Mary also saw the blessing of God to the nation of Israel (1:54a), recalling God’s covenant promises for His people (1:54b). God’s blessing came with His “mighty deeds” (or acts of power; 1:51) over rulers (1:52a), who imagined themselves as mighty (1:51b). God scattered them, brought these rulers from their thrones, & sent away the proud rich empty (v. 53b). As a result, God’s power moved down those who are up. For this Christmas, let’s bow down before God in worship for His mighty works, who reminds us not to walk proudly in our own eyes!
5-Dec-2021: Sing Your Song - by Ptr James Diolanda
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Celebrating Christ this Christmas with Different Eyes” – studies in Luke 1 and 2
Celebrating Christ this Christmas using Zechariah’s Eyes – Sing Your Song
(Luke 1:67-79)
Sermon Summary:
What is your favourite tradition during Christmas? Is it the get-together? The feast? The fun and games? Personally, I like the gift-giving aspect of Christmas. We get to express our appreciation through gifts. This Christmas may we realized that we already got the best gift ever! God gave His son for us so we may have eternal life. Today, we will look at Zechariah’s song and how he prophesied the coming King! This Christmas, what is the song God wants you to sing?
1. Salvation is a Gift from our Sovereign God
God gave us Salvation through His son Jesus Christ. Nothing can compare to the grandeur of this gift. On verse 68, He has raised up a Horn of Salvation to redeem us. Christmas fulfilled God’s promise of deliverance to humankind.
2. Salvation is gained through our Saviour Jesus Christ
Jesus is the essence of Christmas. On verse 74 it says that He was born to rescue us from the hand of our enemies. Without Christmas, there will be no hope for us. Christmas gave us a way to the Father in Jesus.
3. Salvation generates a Servant’s heart
The birth of Jesus Christ opened an opportunity for us to show a servant’s heart. We must continue to serve Him with all our hearts all the days of our lives. Let’s be constant in showing love as He is constant in loving us.
4. Salvation gets rid of our Sins
The birth of Christ puts an end to the sting of sin. Christmas is a reminder that God did everything for us. Let’s celebrate with thanksgiving and praises in our hearts!
28-Nov-2021: Jesus' Model of Submission - by Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Jesus’ Model of Submission
(Mark 14:32-41)
Sermon Summary:
We can summarize the Gospel of Mark according to who Jesus is (the Christ & the Son of God in 1:1) and according to what He did in the narrative: (1) His service (2) His suffering; & (3) His sacrifice. As the Christ & Son of God & in all His services, sufferings, & sacrifice on the cross, Jesus exercised humility. His attitude showed submission to His Father; His action showed obedience to His Father’s will. Based on Mark 14:32-41, what can we learn from Jesus’ model of submission & obedience?
I. BE AUTHENTIC & SUBMISSIVE TO GOD (14:32-36)
At His time of great difficulty & distress during the Passion Week, He was authentic in His prayer at the garden of Gethsemane (14:32). He was intense in His desire to come to the Father that Mark cites the prayer of Jesus thrice (14:32, 35, 39). As Jesus prayed, He was authentic—both to His core disciples (14:33-34) & transparent to His heavenly Father (14:35-36a). Yet, He did not only express intensely His feelings & desire, but He also submitted fully to the Father in His prayer: “Yet not what I will, but what you will” (14:36b). Note how submissive Jesus was from start (1:9-13) to the end of His ministry (15:33-37). Let’s always be submissive to God.
II. BE WATCHFUL & PRAYERFUL TO GOD (14:37-41)
As Jesus prayed thrice, the disciples slept thrice (14:37a, 40, 41). Jesus used that incident as a teachable moment. He taught them to “watch” (to be alert to spiritual dangers) & to “pray” (to acknowledge dependence on God), so that they would not yield to sin. Both are needed because “the spirit is willing” (one’s inner desire or best intent is eager to do what is right), but “the flesh is weak” (one’s humanness or inadequacy is easily overwhelmed in action) (14:38b). Unlike the disciples, Jesus was watchful & prayerful. Let’s always follow the example of Jesus.
21-Nov-2021: What's The Point - by Ptr Marvin Catanus
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
What’s The Point
(Mark 16:1-8)
Sermon Summary:
What’s the Point?
Scripture: Mark 16:1-8
Introduction:
Facts of Mark 16:1-8
“And when the Sabbath was past…”
Darkness and hopelessness
The stone was rolled away
The body of Jesus was gone
Message for Peter
Believing without seeing
Conclusion
Is your hope in Jesus?
14-Nov-2021: How to Grow in Prayer for Jesus - by Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
How to Grow in Prayer for Jesus
(Mark 11:15-17)
Sermon Summary:
We are now in the second half of our Fall sermon series called “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us,” based on the Gospel of Mark. In the Gospel, Jesus arrives in Jerusalem for His triumphal entry (Mk. 11:1-12). Our passage today emphasizes the enacted and passionate teaching of Jesus on prayer, just as He exemplified the value of passionate prayer in His own life. Based on Mark 11:15-17, what can we learn about prayer?
I. GOD’S PASSION PURIFIES OUR ACTION (11:15-16)
The zeal of Jesus moves Him to do what is radical in the temple court for the Gentiles (11:15-16). The high priest Caiaphas authorizes a market there for the sale of ritually pure items (like wine, oil, approved animals, & birds), currency-exchange booths (for the people’s Roman & Greek money in exchange for the annual half-shekel temple tax [Exo. 30:13-15]) with a service charge of 10-12%, & convenient thoroughfare (11:16). Such outer appearance of piety is a façade for the inner reality of pretense & fruitlessness (11:12-14, 20-26). Passion for God prompts us toward purity.
II. GOD’S PURPOSE PROMPTS US TO PRAY (11:17)
The zest of Jesus to act radically is prodded by God’s Word (11:17). This verse is actually a mix of 2 verses (taken from Isa. 56:7 & Jer. 7:11). The purpose of God for the temple area where the Gentiles for stay (court of the Gentiles) is for worship & prayer. Since the Jewish religious leaders were sponsoring such greedy business transactions (as “dens of robbers”), Jesus reinforced the original intent to make that place a “house of prayer” (1 Kgs. 8:28-30) for the nations. God’s purpose prods us to pray.
7-Nov-2021: Not a Game - by Pastor James Diolanda
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Not a Game
(Mark 13:1-11)
Sermon Summary:
Fear of the Future is also called Anticipatory Anxiety. It’s an excessive worry about potential future events. The world is full of question marks and challenges as we do not fully know what tomorrow brings. As we continue our Fall series on “How Jesus Changes Us”, we will look into what Jesus said about the future. Jesus talked about difficult times as we approach the End Times. There will be chaos and crisis all around so being spiritually secure is a must. Life is not a game, the future is uncertain, so let’s take God seriously.
1. Watch Out for Short-Term Satisfaction
Jesus is advising His disciples that none of the worldly things will last. There is nothing our God can’t provide so we should start focusing on eternal things rather than earthly things.
2. Warning on how our Surroundings will be in Shambles
Jesus warned the disciples about the chaos that will be in the world. It will be filled with deceptions, disharmony and disasters. As Christians, we need to stand firm in our faith in God.
3. Wicked Season of Sufferings
Jesus foretold the upcoming trials and tribulations we will face in the future. Our faith will be tested and our devotion in Him will be challenged. It is up to us to remain true and steadfast with our love for Him.
31-Oct-2021: True Greatness is Serving Others - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
True Greatness is Serving Others
(Mark 10:35-45)
Theme: Jesus Christ exemplified true greatness in serving and sacrificing for others.
Sermon Summary:
To the world, greatness is being in a position with prestige and power. But Jesus’ concept of greatness is totally different – it is more of serving. Jesus’ disciples admired the authority and fame of the Roman rulers at that time, and they overlooked the future glory attached to following their Lord and Teacher at any cost. What does “becoming a servant (doulos) of all” entail? What type of greatness did Jesus teach His disciples that we can emulate today? If we are committed to obey Jesus, we need to follow His steps. But how?
In this Sunday’s message we will look at the CONTEXT of the Bible passage in study; the CONVERSATION between Jesus and the two brothers, James & John; the resulting CONFLICT after the request was known by the other 10 disciples. and the CONCEPT of discipleship and leadership that Jesus shared with them:
(1) A Christian leader should not primarily seek a position of power and prestige but wait for God to promote him. (vv. 35-40)
(2) A person who wants to be great has to be the servant of all. (vv.41-44)
(3) Future glory in Christ involves identifying with Him in His suffering. (v.45)
24-Oct-2021: Jesus Wants Us to Grow in Faith - by Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Jesus Wants Us to Grow in Faith
(Mark 4:35-41)
Today, we continue our Fall sermon series called “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us,” based on the Gospel of Mark. We are transformed by Jesus when we grow in our faith in Him. This happens when we understand the authority & power of Jesus over us & over all creation. Based on Mark 4:35-41, what do we grow in Jesus?
1. LEARN THE POWER OF JESUS(3:35-39)
After Jesus taught in parables (i.e., through His words; 4:1-34), He wanted to test the disciples if they learned what He taught them. Through a string of 4 miracles (i.e., through His works; 4:35-5:43), He was teaching more of His authority & power. His power of stilling the storm was displayed (4:39) in the context of the disciples’ powerlessness in the middle of a furious squall (4:37), despite their experience as fishermen, & in the midst of their panic & lack of understanding (4:38b), despite Jesus’ peaceful sleep (4:38a). Let’s learn & claim the power of Jesus!
2. LIVE BY FAITH IN JESUS (4:40-41)
Jesus did not only rebuke the wind (4:39a), He also rebuked the disciples: “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (4:40). Jesus did not only expose their unfounded fear & absence of faith but also revealed their incomprehension of who He is (the powerful God & authoritative Messiah). Their reaction of terror confirmed this: “Who is this? Even the wind & the waves obey him” (4:41b). Let’s live by faith, not by fear!
17-Oct-2021: Jesus Desires to Use Us - by Ptr Marvin Catanus
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Are We Really Following Jesus?
(Mark 8:34-38)
This is our Lord’s outline of the process of discipleship.
First, “If any man [anyone] would come after me, let him deny himself…”
Second, “Let him deny himself, and take up his cross…”
Third, “Follow me.”
Real Christianity – examples:
“Love your enemy,” (Matthew 5:44)
“Pray for those who hurt you,” (Matthew 5:44)
“Forgive those who offend you,” (Matthew 6:14-15)
“Be kind to the ungrateful and the selfish,” (Luke 6:35)
“Bear one another’s burdens,” (Galatians 6:2)
“Freely you have received, freely give,” (Matthew 10:8)
Why?
“For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.” (Mark 8:35 RSV)
Conclusion:
“For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his life [“soul” is the Greek word]? For what can a man give in return for his life [soul]?” (Mark 8:36-37 RSV)
“For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” (Mark 8:38 RSV)
10-Oct-2021: Thanksgiving Sunday Service
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Rejoicing for the Right Reason
Psalm 100:1-5
By Pastors Jon Bernardo, Ferdie Umali & Narry Santos
Just a reminder that the GCF-Peel Weekly Talk blog from Pastor Jon has now resumed! You may visit GCF-Peel’s YouTube channel below so you’ll be able to enjoy these blogs and even the weekly sermons. Please feel free to subscribe.
Message Outline:
I. Because God is Generous (Psalm 100:1-3) by P. Jon Bernardo
– Response Song: Forever c/o GCF-York
II. Because God is Gracious (Psalm 100:4) by P. Ferdie Umali
– Testimony by Sis. Leah Mati
III. Because God is Good (Psalm 100:5) by P. Narry Santos
– Response Song: Thank You Lord c/o GCF-Peel
3-Oct-2021: Jesus Desires to Use Us - by Ptr James Diolanda
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Jesus Desires to Use Us
(Mark 3:13-19)
As Jesus called His disciples, He waited for the perfect time to use them for His glory. He encouraged them and enabled them to be great things in His name. We must keep in mind that His desire is to collaborate with us as He restores His creation to its pristine glory. May we be willing to follow Him and obey His instructions as we take part of this once in a lifetime opportunity!
- When Jesus Uses Us, He Elects Us
Do you remember the feeling of being chosen? Out of the many possibly candidates, you were selected! We need to understand that Jesus picked us to do mighty things for Him. We shouldn’t take this lightly as we go forth proclaiming His love and salvation to others.
- When Jesus Uses Us, He Equips Us
Rest assured that when He gives us a task to fulfill, He will surely supply everything we need. He knows exactly what we need so we can complete the work He has for us. We need to have faith in Him and allow Him to use us for His glory
- When Jesus Uses us, He Empowers Us
When we feel unqualified, inadequate and lacking, we need to look to Jesus as the source of our strength. He will cover us with His righteousness so we may finish the work He started in us. All we need to do is be willing to obey Him
26-Sept-2021: Who Jesus is to Us - by Ptr Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Who Jesus is to Us
(Mark 1:1, 9-11)
Today, we continue our 2 ½ month Fall sermon series called “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us,” based on the Gospel of Mark. We will learn in the story of Jesus how He transformed people in the Bible and how we can also be changed by Jesus. This transformation begins when we know who Jesus is. Based on Mark 1:1-13, what do we need to know about Jesus?
1. JESUS FULFILLS DREAMS & RELATIONSHIPS(1:1)
Mark 1:1 serves as the title & theme of the whole book, which is about the gospel (or good news that shows significant & life-changing impact). The gospel is not the name of the book of Mark but the proclamation of God’s power through Jesus to save all who believe. Mark 1:1 tells us about the beginning of the gospel because the book of Mark covers the story of Jesus’ life, death, & resurrection, while the apostles continued with the proclamation of this good news of Jesus to all who would hear. The verse also informs us that the gospel is about Jesus, revealing how we need to view Jesus (“Saviour”) as the Christ (“Anointed One” or promised Messiah to fulfill God’s promises; 8:29; 14:61-62) & the Son of God (who has a unique, intimate, loving relationship with the Father; 1:11; 9:7; 15:39). Jesus is God’s fulfiller of all His promises & perfect model of flourishing relationships. Let’s know & share who Jesus is!
2. JESUS GIVES PLEASURE TO THE FATHER (1:9-11)
The first significant event about Jesus in the book is His baptism (1:9-11). The Christ & Son of God (as affirmed in 1:1), who was also sent by God (just as John the Baptizer was sent by God as validated by an O.T. promise, 1:2-3) & who is more powerful than John (as attested by John, 1:4-8), was baptized by John. At this baptism, the heavenly Father testifying about who Jesus is: “You are my Son, whom I love, with you I am well pleased” (1:11). This means that Jesus is the Messiah King from the line of David (Psa. 2:7) is God’s unique Son. The pleasure Jesus gives shows His commitment as an obedient Suffering Servant (Isa. 42:1), in whom the Father delights in & who ministers in His name. Let’s follow the lead & service of Jesus!
19-Sept-2021: Jesus Calls Us to Himself - by Ptr Marvin Catanus
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Transformation: How Jesus Changes Us” – studies from the Gospel of Mark
Jesus Calls Us to Himself
(Mark 1:14-20)
12-Sept-2021: Encouraging Faith, Joyful Hope, & Excelling Love - by Pastor Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Developing Faith, Hope & Love.” Studies from 1 Thessalonians
Encouraging Faith, Joyful Hope and Excelling Love
(1 Thessalonians 2:19-20, 3:6-12)
5-Sept-2021: Armed and Ready - by Pastor James Diolanda
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Message Series: “Developing Faith, Hope & Love.” Studies from 1 Thessalonians
Armed and Ready
(1 Thessalonians 5:8)
The Day of the Lord is coming and we need to be well-armed and ready for it. We need to be vigilant as believers since no one knows when it will happen, what exactly will take place and how it will come about. Apostle Paul used metaphors to deliver his message loud and clear. As followers, let’s look at 3 ways on how we can be well armed and ready for the coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus.
- Let’s be Clear Headed and Spiritually Sharp
Since the Day of the Lord is Unexpected, we need to be sober and awake at all times. Let’s make sound decisions and perform actions that will glorify Him.
- Let’s be Covered with our Saviour’s Love
Since the Day of the Lord is Unescapable, we need to put on the Breastplate of faith and love. We need to submerge ourselves into our Saviour’s love for us.
- Let’s be Confident in our Salvation
Since the Day of the Lord is Unexplainable, we need to wear the helmet which gives us hope in our salvation. Let’s focus on worshipping God at all times and to serve Him until Jesus comes.
28-August-2021: The Reality of Death - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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The Reality of Death
(1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
Death is unavoidable (Heb 9:27) and unpredictable (Gen 27:1-2). It is an unwanted visitor in a person’s life but every family is not spared from its visit. No one makes an appointment with death, but every person cannot escape it. It will surely happen.
How do we react when people talk about death? How are we affected by the thought of it? This Sunday’s message gives us biblical truths about death and how we, as God’s children, ought to respond to this reality.
1. DEATH is bittersweet when we are sure that we are with the Lord (Matt 10:28; 2Cor 5:8).
RESPONSE: Let us receive the gift of life that Christ offers (John 14:6; 11:25).
2. DEATH is the beginning (not the end, Eccl 7:2) of a better life in Christ (Phil 1:21).
RESPONSE: Let us persevere in this troubled world (Heb 12:1-2).
3. DEATH separates families (1Thes 4:13-18).
RESPONSE: Let us look forward to the grand reunion in heaven (Isa 25:8; Rev 21:4).
22-August-2021: Faith That Works, Hope That Endures, Love That Labours - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Faith That Works, Hope That Endures, Love That Labours
(1 Thessalonians 3:2-3)
We start a new short summer sermon series called “Developing Faith, Hope, & Love,” based on studies from 1 Thessalonians. The Apostle Paul frequently puts these 3 virtues together (1 Cor. 3:13; Rom. 5:2-5; Gal. 5:5-6; Eph. 4:2-5; Col. 1:4-5; see also Heb. 6:10-12; 10:22-24; 1 Pet. 1:21-22). In 1 Thessalonians, we will look at 3 instances, where the 3 virtues are put, occur together (1:2-3; 2:19-20 with 3:6-12; 5:8). Based on 1 Thes. 1:1-3, how do we develop faith, hope, & love?
1. GIVE THANKS & PRAY ALWAYS (1:2)
Paul was always thankful, “We always thank God for all of you” (1:2a; see 2:13; 3:9; 5:18) & prayerful, “continually mentioning you in our prayers” (1:2b; see also 3:10, 11-13; 5:23-24; 25). There are 2 contexts for sustainable thanks & prayer: (1) when we involve the 3 persons of the Trinity (Father [1:1a, 3a], Son [1:1b, 2c, 6a, 10), & Spirit [1:5b, 6]); & (2) when we suffer (1:6b; 2:14; 3:3-4). Let’s grow in gratitude & prayer in the fullness of the Godhead & despite suffering.
DEVELOP FAITH, LOVE, & HOPE TOGETHER (1:3)
Paul remembered the 3 virtues of faith, love, & hope in the Thessalonian Christians (1:3). Each of these virtues has a tangible expression among them: (1) “your work produced by faith” (the tangible expression of faith [2 Thes. 1:11] is repentance & turning from idols to God [1:8-9a; see 3:2, 4-5, 7); (2) “your labor prompted by love” (the tangible expression of love is service (or toilsome effort) despite persecution (1:9b; see 2:8-9, 10-11; 4:9-10; 5:11]); & (3) “your endurance inspired by hope” (the tangible expression of hope is endurance, which refers to bearing up patiently under a heavy load) (2 Thes. 1:4; see 1 Thes. 1:10). The Thessalonian Christians showed saving faith in Christ in the past; they showed love to Christ in the present; they showed hope in Christ for His future return. Let’s show & develop faith, hope, & love together.
15-August-2021: Today's Good News Heals the Soul - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
8-August-2021: Today's Good News Bring Fresh Grace - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Today’s Good News Bring Fresh Grace
(John 1:14-18)
1. God is the source of all grace
2. We receive grace that never runs dry
GRACE – God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense
3. Jesus reveals the best of God’s grace
Memory Verse
John 1:16
Out of his fullness we have received grace in place of grace already given.
8-August-2021: Today's Good News Bring Fresh Grace - by Pastor Narry Santos
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Today’s Good News Bring Fresh Grace
(John 1:14-18)
1. God is the source of all grace
2. We receive grace that never runs dry
GRACE – God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense
3. Jesus reveals the best of God’s grace
Memory Verse
John 1:16
Out of his fullness we have received grace in place of grace already given.
1-August-2021: His Grace Changes Everything - by Bro. James Diolanda
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His Grace Changes Everything
(John 3:1-8)
Let’s look into this story between Jesus and Nicodemus as we start our new series. We will see how Jesus’s Good News brings forth New Life. Today we will look at some obstacles that may stop us from fully believing in Him. Let’s focus on Jesus’ love and His sacrifice as we try to change for the better.
1. We are Confined with Limited Understanding
Our limited understanding is preventing us from seeing God’s great plan in our lives. Let’s surrender everything to Him and obey His commands with the best of our abilities
2. We are too Caught up with our Past
The pull of our past prevents us from pushing forward to what God wants us for us. We must shake off the shackles of sins and shame so we may fully embrace the saving power of Jesus Christ
3. We Care too much about our Reputation
We may be putting too much importance to our reputation and that’s preventing us from going all-in in our faith in God. Let’s listen to God’s voice and invest eternally.
25-July-2021: God Wants Us to Call on Him - by Pastor Narry Santos
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God Wants Us to Call on Him
(Jer. 33:1-3)
Today, we conclude our short series on “God’s Control of What’s Ahead,” based on selected passages from Jeremiah. Since God’s sovereignty is surely evident today, we can call on Him (see Gen. 4:26b). God’s heart for us is to call on His name in prayer. Based on Jer. 33:1-3, we will learn what happens when God’s people pray, given their confusing and critical time in the history of the nation. How can we experience God’s heart for us?
REMEMBER OUR CREATOR GOD WHO IS OVER ALL(33:1-2)
Jeremiah was in a critical circumstance in his life & ministry: he was in prison accompanied by guards (33:1; see 32:2) & threatened with death (26:8-9), because he spoke God’s word (25:11; 32:3-5). He was in a confusing context as well: God asked him to buy a field (32:6-14) at a time when Babylon was about to conquer Judah (32:2a, 24). What helps Jeremiah navigate this confusion & critical circumstance? It’s remembering his Creator Lord (33:2; see 32:17a, 18b-19, 21), to whom nothing is impossible (32:17b, 27). Let’s remember God in our confusing & critical circumstances.
REMEMBER TO CALL ON GOD WHO KNOWS IT ALL (33:3)
Jeremiah is invited by God in his confusing & critical circumstance to call on Him in prayer (33:3a; see 29:12a). God assures him that He will answer him (33:3b; see 29:12b-14a), & will even do so much more: “& will tell you great & unsearchable things you do not know” (33:3c). The word “unsearchable” means something that is made inaccessible by fortifying or enclosing it. In the context of prayer, God unlocks the secret of Jeremiah’s future along with God’s people (see 29:10-11, 14; 32:37-44). So, God can ask him to buy a field (in view of restoration) despite conquest (in view of discipline). Let’s entrust ourselves in prayer to the God who knows all things.
18-July-2021: The Sovereignty of God - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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The Sovereignty of God
Introduction:
Simple meaning of sovereign
What the Bible says
Revelation 21:6
Colossians 1:16
Romans 11:33
God’s Sovereignty in my life
I need to Submit
I have Comfort
I will Worship
Sovereignty of God—Jeremiah 1:4–10
Over all nations
Over time and lives
Response to His Sovereignty
The 4/2 example
Conclusion
God Focus is the God expectation
11-July-2021: God Knows What's Best for Us - by Pastor Narry Santos
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God Knows What’s Best for Us
(Jeremiah 29:10-14)
Today, we start a short series on “God’s Control of What’s Ahead,” based on selected passages from Jeremiah. God’s sovereignty is surely evident today, as it was in the past. His control will continue over our life, family, church and the world, no matter what happens. This is what Judah (Israel’s southern kingdom) experienced during its exile in Babylon for 70 years. Based on Jer. 29:10-14, what 2 realities help us understand God’s full control, even during this continuing pandemic?
1. THE BEST IS YET TO COME(29:10-11)
Despite Judah’s 70-year exile in Babylon (29:10a; see 25:11), God is committed to fulfill His gracious will & plan for the people (29:10b, 14b). He acts with love & commitment to His people. He knows & does what’s best for them (29:11a). In fac, even in exile, they can prosper by building (settling down [29:5a]), blooming (being fruitful & productive through starting families [29:6] & providing sustenance [29:5b]), & blessing (seeking peace & prosperity in exile [29:7a] & pray for the city [29:7b]). Even in trying times, God wants us to thrive & flourish. Then in the future, God will bring about better times (29:11b). He will initiate things to happen for our best (see Deut. 30:3-5). Claim that the best is yet to come.
2. IT’S BEST TO KNOW GOD BEST (29:12-14)
God told the Jews in exile to come to Him, pray to Him (29:12a) & seek Him (29:13a), assuring them that He would listen (29:12a) & be found by them (29:13b, 14a) when they seek Him fully (29:13c). God allows us to be in exile-like circumstances, so that we would seek Him (see Acts 17:26-27). To know God best, we need to seek Him first (see Matt. 6:33).
04-July-2021: Like, Follow, Share - by Bro James Diolanda
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Like, Follow, Share
(Romans 15:14-22)
As we close out our message series on, Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves, may we develop a Habit of Sharing. Apostle Paul was excited to preach the Gospel of God anywhere to anyone. He understood the source, scope and supremacy of God. He was simply an instrument in partnership with the Lord to share the Good News to others. May we realize the importance of taking part in this mission to reach those who have not heard His love yet.
- The Courage to Share is through the Grace of God
We must understand that we are able to share because of His grace to us. As a recipient of such grace it should motivate us to live for Him and to tell others about Him.
- The Catalyst to Share is because of Christ’s Glory in Us
We must understand that we are able to share because of the transformative power of Jesus Christ. We are able to move for Him because we’ve been moved by Him.
- The Competency to Share is from the Greatness of Holy Spirit
We must understand that we are able to share because of the potency and efficacy of the Holy Spirit. We can’t change people’s minds but He can change people’s hearts.
27-June-2021: Habit of Strength: Becoming Imitators of Christ - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Habit of Strength: Becoming Imitators of Christ
(Romans 15:1-13)
Today, we continue our series on “Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves” (based on Romans 13-15). Aside from the habits of sacrifice, service, selflessness, and submission, we also need to develop the habit of strength. Romans 15:1-13 shows us that the way to develop this habit is by becoming imitators of Christ (15:2, 5, 7). This passage also concludes the way we are called to treat other believers (the first way is in 14:1-2 [without judging them] & the second way is in 14: 13-23 [without hindering their spiritual growth]). How do we become imitators of Christ?
1. Build Up Other Believers (15:1-6)
Paul picks up the language of “strong” (in conviction, conscience, & concession, so that they are free to eat anything [14:2], treat each day alike [14:5], or drink wine [14:21]) and “weak” (who eat vegetables only, consider some days sacred, & not drink wine). We are to not despise the weak but bear with them & not please ourselves (or be self-focused like a self-contained unit) (15:1b). Going beyond ourselves is to think of the welfare & lasting benefit of other believers & to build them up (15:2b, or “edify” them [14:19]) or to love them [13:9]. Jesus is the best example of doing this (15:3; see Jn. 4:34; 5:30; 8:29), as He claims in 15:3b (quoted from Psalm 69:9, referring to Jesus’ suffering at the cross as a result of doing His Father’s will). Jesus’ example (along with other examples in Scriptures) moves us to endure & be encouraged with hope (15:4). This moves Paul to give a benediction (15:5-6) that focuses on God, unity (to think the same, to live in harmony), following Christ, & glorifying God.
2. Accept One Another (15:7-13)
Paul then gives a reflexive command: “accept (or receive) one another” (15:7a; 14:1). The motivation for mutual acceptance is the acceptance of us by Jesus (15:7b), just as God accepts the strong & weak (14:3b, 6-8). Jesus showed this acceptance to all believers, even though we were “powerless” (5:6a) & “ungodly” (5:6b) “sinners” (5:8) before we became believers. Habitual acceptance brings praise or glory to God (15:7c). But the challenge in applying this command at that time was the acceptance of Gentiles by Jews & the acceptance of Jews by Gentiles. They were enemies before they were in Christ. But Paul reminds them again of the example of Christ, who served the Jews (15:8) & benefitted the Gentiles (15:9-12), even though they did not have a covenant from God, they received mercy (15:9) & as a result could rejoice in Him (15:9-11). This moved Paul to again give a benediction (15:13) that focuses on God, hope, joy, peace, trust, and the Holy Spirit.
20-June-2021: Father's Day - Oh Yeah... About Those 7 Things - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Father’s Day Message – Oh Yeah… About Those 7 Things
Philippians 4:8-9
Outline
Introduction:
We are asked to be better
Things to Think about (v8)
Seven things
Things to Do (v9)
Seven things
Conclusion:
Can we say to people we are of Christ?
13-June-2021: Habit of Submission: Give to Caesar What is Caesar's - by Pastor James Diolanda
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Giving to Caesar What is Caesar’s
Romans13:1-7
As we continue our Message Series on “Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves” we will learn how to develop a Habit of Submission. To be more specific, we will learn how to obey the laws of the land. We may have certain disagreements on how the government runs things but we must submit to the authorities as obedience to God’s word. Submission to the earthly authorities is submission to the sovereignty of God. Today, we will look at what it means to surrender to higher authorities.
- Submission Frees us From Fear
3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended.
- Submission Fulfills our Obligations
6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them
- Submission requires Full Respect
7b and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.
06-June-2021: 10th Year Anniversary Joint Service - Remembering to Give Thanks to God - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Remembering to Give Thanks to God
Psalm 136:1-26
As we celebrate today with GCF Peel and GCF Halton the 10th anniversary of GCF York, we remember to give thanks to God. To recall who God is and what He has done is enough reason for us to rejoice. A major church milestone is a call not just to celebrate but also to praise and thank God for the great works He has done for us. Psalm 136, which is often referred to as the “Great Hallel,” reminds us to rehearse God’s character and acts of wonder. Using antiphony (or responsive alternation between 2 groups), this psalm’s theme is to praise the Lord who did great works, and its refrain is because of His enduring loyal love (seen 26x in 26 verses). How do we celebrate together?
1. GIVE THANKS TO GOD (136:1-3, 26)
The psalmist calls us to praise and thank the Lord (136:1a, 2a, 3a, 26a). The basis for this call is the nature and character of God: (1) His goodness (136:1a); (2) His love (136:1b, 2b, 3b, 26b); and (3) His name (Lord [136:1a], God of gods [136:2a], Lord of lords [136:3a], and God of heaven [136:26b]). The Lord’s loyal love refers to His covenant faithfulness to His chosen people whom He loves. Let’s always praise and thank God!
2. REMEMBER GOD’S GREAT WORKS (136:2-25)
The psalmist proceeds from the call to praise and thank God to the cause for the praise and thanks. The introductory summary of this cause is contained in the words “who alone does great wonders” (136:4a). God’s marvelous acts are evident in creation (136:4-9), in history (136:10-24), and in providing food for all (136:25). All of these great wonders are given by God as tangible expressions of His redeeming and sustaining love.
Let’s always remember God and His great works!
31-May-2021: Habit of Selflessness: Love People Sincerely - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves – Habit of Selflessness
Love People Sincerely
(Romans 12:9-18, Romans 12, 13)
Today, we continue our 6-part series entitled “Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves,” based on Romans 12-15. To cultivate this culture, we need to develop 6 habits (of service, sacrifice, selflessness, submission, strength, & sharing). This message in the series focuses on the habit of selflessness (which focuses on loving people sincerely).
Introduction
Romans 13 Overview
vs. 8-10
vs.11-12
vs. 13 and 14
Two Directives from Romans 12
Generosity
Giving to others in need
Kindness
Including kindness to your enemies
The Foundation of Sincerity
Hypocrisy and Genuinity
Conclusion
Simple Truths
23-May-2021: Habit of Sacrifice: Give Everything To God - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves – Habit of Service
Give Everything to God
(Romans 12:1-2)
Today, we continue our 6-part series entitled “Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves,” based on Romans 12-15. To cultivate this culture, we need to develop 6 habits (of service, sacrifice, selflessness, submission, strength, & sharing). This message in the series focuses on the habit of sacrifice (which refers to giving everything to God). Based on Rom. 12:1-2, how do we give our everything to God?
I. OFFER OURSELVES TO GOD (12:1)
Paul begins his practical pleadings based on God’s mercy (i.e., His compassion to deliver us out of sin & misery). Then Paul exhorts us to offer (or yield) our bodies (or total being) as living, holy & God-pleasing sacrifice (cf. 6:13, 19). We then are able to do what worships or serves God. What’s the point here? A life totally lived for God greatly pleases Him. Let us then use every part of us to please Him!
II. OVERHAUL OUR MINDS (12:2)
A dedicated life leads to a transformed life that discerns God’s will & delights in Him. Two commands need to be obeyed: (1) do not be conformed to society’s standards; & (2) be transformed (coming from the word translated “metamorphosis,” meaning total change from the inside out). Transformation (cf. 2 Cor. 3:18) happens with the renewal of the mind (cf. 2 Cor. 11:3; 4:4; Phil. 4:8). The battle is won in the mind. Let’s rethink how we think. When we do that, we prove by testing (or ascertaining) God’s good, pleasing & perfect will. Let’s commit to always mind our mind!
16-May-2021: Give your Gifts - by Bro James Diolanda
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Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves – Habit of Service
Give Your Gifts
(Romans 12:3-8)
As we start a new message series on Cultivating a Culture Beyond Ourselves, we will learn how to develop a habit of service. God has given us gifts to use for others. We need to be actively share it for the benefit of those around us. With Romans 12:3-8 as our guide, we will look at why we were given different gifts to use for others.
- Gifts were given so we can serve with humility
Serving others is one of the most radical habit we could learn today. Putting others’ needs before our wants demonstrate a humble service. Let’s always look to God as we use our gifts to serve others.
- Gifts were given so we can satisfy the needs in harmony
We were given different gifts so we can cater to the different needs of those around us. We must also keep in mind that as a body of Christ, we need to serve in unity. Embracing everyone’s uniqueness and understanding our strengths and weaknesses.
- Gifts were given so we can share them to others happily
Serving could get tiring if we lose sight of the real reason behind our actions. Let’s always have a cheerful heart as we give our gifts for the benefit of others.
- Gifts were given so we can show God’s holiness through us
We must realize that our gifts came from God. They are a reflection of our Creator’s character so it’s our duty to let others see God’s beauty and love in us.
9-May-2021: Mother's Day - Women Who Surpass Them All- by Pastor Narry Santos
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Women Who Surpass Them All
(Proverbs 31:10-31)
In our continuing pandemic, we continue to honour & celebrate mothers, wives, and women on this special Mother’s Day weekend. We will take a sneak peek at how godly women grow & help others grow, as found in Proverbs 31:10-31. It’s interesting that Jewish husbands & children traditionally recited this poem at the Sabbath Table on Friday nights. Today, this poem serves as a picture for godly women. On this Mother’s Day, we’ll discover how women (and mothers) surpass all others.
I. EXCELLENT WOMEN ARE PRECIOUS(31:10)
The strength of a woman who excels is her precious character, which refers to strength, ability, efficiency, & wealth of valuable virtues. Such excellence of character is “worth far more than rubies” (31:10b). Thus, her beauty is not skin-deep, but is found in her deep love for God (31:30).
II. DILIGENT WOMEN ARE ATTRACTIVE(31:17)
Her strength is evident in her diligence. Whether she work in the corporate world or at home, she does no mediocre jobs & leaves no unfinished tasks. What makes her attractive is that she sets her heart to do a great job (cf. 31: 11-16, 18-24). Thus, her beauty of character extends to making bountiful contributions of value.
III. NURTURING WOMEN ARE HONOURED (31:25)
Her strength of value enables her to nurture or take good care of her family. She is responsible at home (31:24, 26-27). She is honoured by her husband (31:28), & her husband receives honour because of her (31:23). Thus, her beauty expands its attraction through the home that she nourishes.
2-May-21: Rooted and Built-Up in Christ- by Pastor Ferdie Umali
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Rooted and Built-Up in Christ
Colossians 2:6-7
By Ferdie Umali
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25-Apr-21: Seeing Beyond Our Struggles- by Pastor Narry Santos
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Soul Care: Cure for the Weary Life – Seeing Beyond Our Struggles
Habakkuk 3:17-19
I. EMBRACE GOD’S REFINING (3:17)
We find hope when we do not only endure refining times, but we are to also embrace them. In Judah’s case, pain came with the total failure of crops (i.e., fig; grape; olive); thus, yielding no fruit & food. Pain also came with their loss of livelihood (i.e., no sheep & cattle). Let’s learn God’s lessons for these times of refining!
II. EXALT GOD WITH REJOICING (3:18)
We find hope, when we are moved to praise God not just because He blesses, but because of God Himself. In Habakkuk’s case, his rejoicing is “in the Lord” & his joy is “in God, my Savior.” That’s why he was able to use the “though…yet” construction (i.e., though there’s no fruit produced, he would still be fruitful in praise). Let’s rejoice in God for the good & bad times!
III. EXPRESS RELIANCE TO GOD (3:19)
We find hope despite our weakness, when we claim that our strength is in God. In Habakkuk’s case, he was weakened by what was to come (cf. 3:16), yet he found his strength in the sovereign Lord (3:19a), who enabled him not just to survive but to also be swift (3:19b). Such enablement is received by faith (cf. 2:4b). Let’s put our faith firmly on God!
18-Apr-21: God Will Change Your Heart If You Let Him - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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God Will Change Your Heart If You Let Him
Haggai 2:1-9
Introduction:
Overview
The Israelites
Haggai
Change
Holiness
Lesson
“’But now be strong, O Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, O Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
Discouraged (1-3)
Lord Encourages
– God’s presence (vv. 4–5)
– God’s covenant(v. 5)
– God’s promise (vv. 6–7, 9)
– God’s provision(v. 8)
Conclusion
“’But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty.”
11-Apr-21: Soul Care: Cure for the Weary Life - Bro. James Diolanda
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Soul Care: Cure for the Weary Life
(Job 1:1-5; 17-22)
– God accepts our exaltation as an expression of gratitude.
– God allows us to experience different seasons not to make us suffer but to strengthen us.
– God allows us to express our despair but not to doubt Him.
– God arranges for us to excel according to His will.
28-Mar-21: Finding Rest When We're Restless - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times Series
Finding Rest When We’re Restless
(Matthew 11:28-30)
Do you feel restless now? Do you badly need to restore rest that has somehow escaped you? If you do, let’s learn together. We will talk about “Finding Rest When We’re Restless,” based on Matthew 11:28-30. We need to find rest. The assuring thing is that Jesus says, “I will give you rest” (v. 28) and “you will find rest for your soul” (v. 29). How can we find this rest in the midst of restlessness? Jesus answers this question in two ways.
I. COME TO JESUS (11:28)
Jesus issues an invitation: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” The weary are those who are tired from hard toil and heavy struggling. They experience fatigue. The burdened are the ones loaded d
II. SUBMIT TO JESUS & LEARN FROM HIM (11:29-30)
Jesus also summons us to reply to His words: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your so
21-Mar-21: Understanding and Dealing with Worry - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
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Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times Series
Understanding and Dealing with Worry
(Matthew 6:19-34)
Introduction: Matthew 6:19-34
Jesus is speaking about materialism
1. Passage Worry Definition
Illustrations (6:26, 28-30, 32)
The birds
The flowers
2. What Worry Can’t Do (6:27)
Destructive anxiety
“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (6:27)
3. Worry Is Sin (6:30-32)
Worry is a sign of little faith
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about these things.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
4. Seeking God (6:32-33)
So what is it you seek?
“The worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke [the Word], making it unfruitful.”
(Matthew 13:22)
Seek God First and Foremost (6:33)
“… that in all things he might have the preeminence” (Colossians 1:18b).
Seeking God’s Kingdom and Righteousness (6:33)
“Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (6:10).
All these things will be given to you as well (6:33b)
“What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:26)
5. Tomorrow Will Worry about Itself (6:34)
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (6:34)
14-Mar-21: Taming our Thoughts - by Pastor Narry Santos
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Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times Series
TAMING OUR THOUGHTS
(Philippians 4:8-9)
We learn to develop a deeper inner life when we learn to tame our thoughts. What agitates the mind and makes the heart restless is worry. What guards our heart and mind is the peace of God, which we experience when we pray (Phil. 4:6-7). In Phil. 4:8-9, we learn the two more ways to not worry (so we can tame our thoughts).
1. PONDER ON WHOLESOME THOUGHTS (4:8)
Paul commands the Philippians to think wholesome thoughts. These thoughts must be: (1) “true”—valid, reliable, & honest; (2) “noble”—dignified & worthy of respect; (3) “right”—just, confirming to God’s standards; (4) “pure”—morally clean; (5) “lovely”—promoting peace, not conflict, agreeable; & (6) “admirable”—positive & constructive, attractive, true to highest standards. Paul describes these 6 wholesome thoughts as excellent & praiseworthy. This kind of thinking also wards off worry. Let’s think wholesome thoughts about people & situations in our lives.
2. PRACTICE WORTHY WAYS (4:8)
Paul commands them to put to practice what they learned, received, heard, and seen in him. We get deeper in our inner life, when we keep doing God’s will. This practice of what they learn results in experiencing not just the peace of God but also the God of peace Himself. This also results in our transformation of worry into a worthy walk. Let’s practice worthy ways.
7-Mar-21: Finding Contentment in Life's Contents - Bro James Diolanda
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Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times Series
FINDING CONTENTMENT IN LIFE’S CONTENTS
(Philippians 4:10-13)
As we continue our series on Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times, we will learn the secret to contentment. Paul is encouraging the Church to be content in Christ. In need or in plenty, whether well fed or hungry, in abundance or in want we need to find contentment with life’s contents. Let’s find it, learn it and practice the satisfaction only Christ can provide.
- In Contentment, We Become More Appreciative
Once we find contentment in Christ, we can become more appreciative of what we have. We need to know the full worth of God’s blessings to us and to focus on what will give glory to Him.
- In Contentment, We Become More Aware
We become more sensitive to our surroundings when we learn the secret of contentment. We will be more sympathetic to others, turn into purposeful servants and be more aware of our Saviour’s provisions.
- In Contentment, We Become More Acknowledging
In all circumstances, we must rely on His power to sustain us. Keep in mind that we can handle all things through Christ who strengthens us. Let’s practice contentment everyday by trusting God with our daily needs.
28-Feb-21: Turning Away from Temptation- Ptr Narry Santos
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Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times Series
TURNING AWAY FROM TEMPTATION
(Matthew 4:1-11)
Today, we continue a new 6-part series on “Developing a Deeper Inner Life in Shallow Times,” based on selected biblical passages. Our inner life deepens when we turn from temptation, deal with deception, tame our thoughts, learn contentment, find rest & solitude, & overcome worry. In Matt. 4:1-11, we learn the three ways on how Jesus handled temptations.
1. BE GOD-SUFFICIENT, NOT SELF-SUFFICIENT (4:1-4)
Satan’s 1st temptation to Jesus is “tell these stones to become bread” (4:3b), which tempts Jesus to be self-sufficient. But Jesus replies with God’s Word: “Man shall not love on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (4:4), which affirms submission to God & His will (Jn. 4:34). We get deep in our inner life, when we submit & obey God.
2. BE STEADY, NOT SPECTACULAR (4:5-7)
Satan’s 2nd temptation to Jesus is “throw yourself down” (4:6a), which tempts Jesus to be spectacular (doing what people expect from Him outside of God’s will). But Jesus replies with God’s Word once more: “Do not put the Lord your God to the test” (4:7), which means not to expect God to do something out of His will but to steadily do God’s will. We get deeper in our inner life, when we keep doing God’s will.
3. BE A SERVANT, NOT SHORT-CUT SPECIALIST (4:8-11)
Satan’s 3rd temptation to Jesus is “bow down & worship me” (4:9b), which tempts Jesus to shortcut the way of the crown without the cross. But Jesus replies with God’s Word again: “worship the Lord your God, & serve him only” (4:10b), which decries compromise and shortcut by continuing to worship & serve God. We get deepest in our inner life, when we continue worshiping & serving God only.
21-Feb-21: Deception to Salvation - Ptr Marvin Catanus
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The Genesis 3 Lesson – Deception to Salvation
Introduction
Life is not fair.
Deception starts with Distortion (vv. 1–3)
She added a prohibition
She deducted from the consequences
Deception from our own Denial (vv. 4–5)
Calling to question God
True for me!
Deception results in Defiance (vv. 6–7)
“good for food”, “delight to the eyes”, and “make one wise”
The result of defiance
God’s Truth vs Man’s Truth (vv. 8–19)
Invitation to confess (vv. 8–13)- “Where are you?”
Shame, Fear, Guilt
Judgment upon the serpent (vv. 14–15)
First Gospel – “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel.” —Genesis 3:15
Judgment upon the woman (v. 16)
Judgment upon the man (vv. 17–19)
Conclusion:
Four Lessons From the Fall:
– Standard Is God’s Word
– Sin Is Our Problem
– Suffering Is Because of Our Sin
– Our Solution Is Christ
14-Feb-21: Showing God's Love in an Unloving World - Ptr Narry Santos
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SHOWING GOD’S LOVE IN AN UNLOVING WORLD
(Ephesians 5:1-6)
As we celebrate this Heart’s Day and Family Day long weekend, let’s focus on God’s love in an unloving world. This world seems more divided or polarized than ever, not just about people’s firmness in talking about their convictions but also about their harshness in trashing the convictions of others. In Ephesians 5:1-6, Paul emphasizes how different we must be from the world. He teaches us two lessons on love that we need to apply to distinguish us from the world.
1. IMITATE GOD’S SACRIFICIAL LOVE FOR US (5:1-2)
Since the Father is the One who dearly loves us as His children (5:1b), we are to be imitators of Him (5:1a; cf. Matt. 5:48; Lk. 6:36; 1 Pet. 1:16). How do we imitate Him? By living a life of love (5:2a; “love” occurs 19x in the letter). How can we live a life of love? By distinctively following Christ and His model of love (5:2b), which is sacrificial and selfless.
2. AVOID UNLOVING WAYS TOWARD OTHERS (5:3-6)
On the other hand, to distinguish our love from the world, we are to avoid selfish acts (i.e., sexual immorality [porneia], impurity, & greed [5:3]) and dirty talk (i.e., obscenity, foolish talk, and coarse joking [5:4]) – all expressions of selfish disobedience (5:6). That’s the way to live in love.
7-Feb-21: Strength in Weakness - by Bro. James Diolanda
Strength in Weakness
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2 Corinthians 12:7-10
As we conclude our 6-part Message series on “God’s Care in Continuing Crises” we will focus our attention on God’s grace. Paul shared a bold statement about his weakness in 2 Cor. 12:7-10. During his vulnerable moment, he relied on God’s grace and power. How about us? What do we do in times of weakness? I pray that we will put to heart these 3 reminders on what God’s grace is all about when we are vulnerable.
- God’s Grace ________ Sufferings
Within the scope of God’s grace, He allows certain sufferings to enter our lives so we could full rely on Him. He wants us to look to Him in times of trouble. He wants us to trust in Him for He will not give us something we cannot handle. God wants us to focus on Him and to have faith in Him.
- God’s Grace is _________ and Sufficient
God wants His children to experience His love and provisions firsthand. When we feel weak, we can turn to Him for He can save us. Let us continue to pursue a personal relationship with Him and let Him lead our lives.
- God’s Grace ________ our Shortcomings
God doesn’t favour the strong and sinless but He has compassion to the weak and sinners. God’s invitation of salvation is for everyone so we can come as we are. We can come to Him without pretention for He accepts our shortcomings. Now, we can come as we are but we can’t stay as we are. We need to turn from our wicked ways and look to the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
31-Jan-21: Living a Life Worth Dying For - by Pastor Jonathan Bernardo
GOD’S PRAISE DESPITE PERSECUTIONS
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2 Corinthians 11:22-33
By: Pastor Jonathan Bernardo
24-Jan-21: God's Perseverance Despite Pain by Pastor Narry Santos
GOD’S PERSEVERANCE DESPITE PAIN
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2 Corinthians 4:16-17
By: Pastor Narry Santos
We continue with our 4 th message in the 6-part series on “God’s Care in Continuing Crises,” based on some passages in 2 Corinthians. This series is anchored on the main theme of “Deep Change: Christlikeness in Continuing Crises.” How do we gain God’s perspective despite our pain? 2 Cor. 4:16-18 tells us how.
I. DO NOT BE FAINT-HEARTED (4:16-17)
Paul concludes the chapter in the same way he started it: “we do not lose heart” (4:1, 16). Despite all his difficulties and suffering in ministry, Paul affirms that he does not give up (because the ministry is from God [4:1], he has the hope of the resurrection 4:14] and his wants to serve the Corinthians for God’s glory [4:14]). He gives two more reasons for not being faint-hearted (spiritual renewal [4:16b] and increasing glory [4:17]). In our suffering, instead of being faint-hearted, be faith-
hearted.
II. FOCUS ON THE ETERNAL (4:18)
Paul gives “not this but this” proposal: fix our eyes “not on what is seen, but on what is unseen” (4:18a), because “what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (4:18b). This is not a negation of the value of the physical and material world, but an affirmation of the greater value of setting our affections on the realm above and on lasting realities. In our weakness, fix our hope on heavenly values and sights.
17-Jan-21: God's Perseverance Despite Problems by Pastor Marvin Catanus
GOD’S PERSEVERANCE DESPITE PROBLEMS
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2 Corinthians 6:1-13 (Focus on 3-10)
By: Pastor Marvin Catanus
Introduction:
The Context
Grace is not to be taken lightly
2 Cor. 6:1-2
Marks of Service to God
2 Cor. 6:3-10
There will be loss in the calling – Apostles example
In the turmoil, God will be manifested
Christian Defense in Battle
2 Cor. 6:8-10
Looking at these Antitheses
Challenge:
How do we persevere?
2 Corinthians 6:7
“by the Word of Truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness…”
10-Jan-21: God's Protection Despite Perplexity by Pastor Narry Santos
GOD’S PROTECTION DESPITE PERPLEXITY
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(2 Corinthians 4:7-12)
By: Dr. Narry F. Santos
This week, Pastor Narry Santos delivers the 2nd in the 6-part series of messages on the theme: “God’s Protection Despite Pressue.”
The series is anchored on the main theme of “Deep Change: Christ-Likeness in Continuing Crises.”
We know that in the midst of continuing crises, deep change is possible, even if we are perplexed and don’t understand many things and why certain things happen. In the context of suffering and weakness, we can experience God’s power.
Message Outline:
Today, we continue our second message in the series on “God’s Care in Continuing Crises,” based on some passages in 2 Corinthians. We know that in the midst of continuing crises, deep change is possible, even if we are perplexed and don’t understand many things and why certain things happen. In the context of suffering and weakness, we can experience God’s power. Based on 2 Cor. 4:7-12, how does God show His power?
- GOD SHOWS HIS POWER IN OUR WEAKNESS (4:7-9)
Paul reveals the contrast between divine power and human weakness through these words: “treasure in jars of clay” (4:17a). This treasure refers to the message of salvation in Christ and the deep change it brings through the Spirit. The jars of clay pictures our ordinariness (in contrast to the special treasure) and unworthiness (1 Tim. 1:13; 1 Cor. 15:9; Eph. 3:8; 1 Tim. 1:16), anchored on God’s mercy & grace. Why does God do all this? To show that all this all-surpassing power is from God, and not from us (v. 7b) That’s why Paul could withstand the weakness in vv. 8-9. For any perplexity or weakness, claim God’s all-surpassing power.
- GOD SHOWS HIS POWER IN OUR SUFFERING (4:10-12)
Paul reveals the contrast between power and suffering through the example of Jesus (13:4). Jesus was humiliated and was crucified; He suffered and died; yet He lives through the power of the resurrection. So, Paul patterns his sufferings after the model of Christ for the sake of Christ, expressed in the words “We always carry around our body the death of Jesus” (v. 10a)–referring to how he suffered intensely for Jesus (4:11b) and bore physical scars from wounds inflicted by beating and stoning (6:5, 9; 11:23-25). Why did Paul endure his sufferings? So that “the life of Christ may also be revealed in our body,” (4:10a, 11a) referring to the evidence of his deep change in spiritual life; 3:18). His suffering for Christ benefitted him through the experience of God’s power for him (12:9-10) and transformation for others (Col. 1:24). When we suffer for Christ, let’s claim God’s power as well.
3-Jan-21: God's Protection Despite Pressure by Pastor Narry Santos
GOD’S PROTECTION DESPITE PRESSURE
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(2 Corinthians 1:8-11)
By: Dr. Narry F. Santos
On this first weekend of 2021, we open with a 6-part series on “God’s Care in Continuing Crises,” based on some passages in 2 Corinthians. This series is anchored on the main theme of “Deep Change: Christlikeness in Continuing Crises.” As we entered the new year, we already felt the pressure of the continuing pandemic. How can we experience God’s protection despite pressure? 2 Cor. 1:8-11 tells us how.
I. DECLARE OUR DESPERATION FOR GOD (1:8-9)
The Corinthian believers were aware of Paul’s troubles but had no idea of the intensity of his great pressure (1:8). It could have been an extreme illness (12:7-8), outbreak of persecution or mob violence (like riot in Ephesus [Acts 19]), or flogging (see 11:23). He felt that he was about to die, knowing that God is the God “who raises the dead” (2 Cor. 1:9b). The lesson Paul learned in this extreme experience is “that we might not rely on ourselves but on God” (1:9a). In 2021, God brings us to a place of powerlessness and desperation to see our need for Him.
II. DEPEND ON THE DELIVERANCE OF GOD (1:10-11)
The Corinthian believers were informed of God’s previous deliverance and the assurance of His future deliverance to Paul (1:10a). Paul’s hope is placed on God’s power to protect. A means that God chooses to deliver His people is through their prayers (1:11a). When God answers these prayers, we see thanksgiving come from many people. In 2021, God will bring us to His place of power and deliverance in answer to many prayers before Him.
2020 Sermons
27-Dec 20: Celebrate Jesus in Your Life Race - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
Celebrate Jesus in Your Life Race
Heb 12:1-3
By Pastor Marvin Catanus
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Introduction
Christianity is being conformed in the image Jesus Christ.
“For me to live is Christ.” (Phil 1:21)
“Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith of the Son of God” (Galatians 2:20).
Enduring Faith
Great cloud of witnesses
Lay aside every Obstacle
The sin which so easily entangles us
Run with Endurance
“But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses” (1 Timothy 6:11-12).
“More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead” (Philippians 3:8-11).
The Goal set before us
Christ-likeness, “that we may share His holiness” (Hebrews 12: 10).
Fixing our eyes only on Jesus
“Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (ESV).
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus”
“Author and Perfecter of our faith”
“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
Perfect example of faith
“Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel” (John 5:19-20).
“I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 5:30).
“Joy set before Him”
“These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full” (John 15:11).
“endured the cross”
“For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit” (1 Peter 3:18).
“Consider Him”
“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).
How are you running?
“For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
20-Dec 20: Christ-Centered Christmas Celebration (Part 2) - by Pastor Narry Santos
Christ-Centered Christmas Celebration
Heb 1:1-3
By Pastor Narry Santos
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13-Dec 20: Christ-Centered Christmas Celebration - by Pastor Narry Santos
Christ-Centered Christmas Celebration
Matthew 1:1-17
By Pastor Narry Santos
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6-Dec 20: Passing the Test of Tomorrow - by Bro James Diolanda
Passing the Test of Tomorrow
James 5:7-11
By Bro James Diolanda
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29-Nov 20: Passing the Test of Trust - by Pastor Ferdie Umali
Passing the Test of Trust
James 4:13-17
By Ptr Ferdie Umali
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22-Nov 20: Passing the Test of Temper - by Pastor Narry Santos
Passing the Test of Temper
James 1:19-20
Ephesians 4:31-32
By Ptr Narry Santos
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15-Nov 20: Passing the Test of Truth - by Pastor Marvin Catanus
Passing the Test of Truth
James 2:14-26
By Ptr Marvin Catanus
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8-Nov 20: Passing the Test of Temptations - by Ptr Narry Santos
Passing the Test of Temptations
James 1:13 to 18
By Ptr Narry Santos
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1. We are the Source of our Temptation (1:13-14a)
2. Fight Temptation by Fleeing (2 Tim 2:22a)
Four Applications
– Name the temptations that entrap us
– Stay out or get out of temptations
– Keep saying “No” to temptations
– Be vigilant to pray and be watchful of our spiritual well-being
1-Nov 20: The Importance of Taming the Tongue by Bro. James Diolanda
The Importance of Taming the Tongue – “Tongue in Check”
James 3: 1-12
By Bro James Diolanda
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As we continue our sermon series on Life’s a Test. Let’s Pass it, we will be focusing on passing the test of the tongue. God gave us a gift of speech and a powerful tongue to use it for His glory. Instead, we find ways to use it to discourage, curse and hurt others. As Christians, we must be a beacon of hope and spread love to others. Let’s build up relationships and be encouragers as we promote peace during this pandemic. Today, we will learn 3 reasons why taming the tongue is beneficial for us and to hopefully we can pass the test of tongue.
- Taming the Tongue is a Staple for Social Manners
Jesus was able to connect with His audience by speaking with love and compassion. He understands the importance of having Social Manners in building relationships. Similarly, we must think before we talk and translate our words thoughtfully so we can reach out more effectively. Will we take our time to say nice things to others?
2. Taming the Tongue is a Sign of Spiritual Maturity
If we are able to hold our tongues and be mindful of our speeches we will then display spiritual maturity. We will be harvesting the fruits of the spirit and honoring God and His creation. Controlling this small part of our body can be a good gauge of our spiritual level in relating to others. How mature are we in taming our tongue?
- Taming the Tongue requires a Steady Strong Mind
Taming the tongue is easier said that done especially if you’re not in the heat of the moment. Once we find ourselves in a heightened moment, will we be able to keep our tongue in check? Hopefully we can constantly be watchful with our words and be strong with our conviction to only use it for His glory. Will we remember to be kind in the middle of a heated conversation?
25-Oct 20: Passing the Test of Trials by Ptr. Narry Santos
Passing the Test of Trials
James 1: 1-8
By Pastor Narry Santos
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Today, we continue our 2-month series on “Life Is a Test: Let’s Pass It!” based on the Book of James. If we view life as a test, then we see what happens to us as opportunities to learn, grow, and develop. God usually tests us to grow in character, faith, obedience, love, loyalty, and integrity. That’s what discipleship is—learning to be Christ-like in all these areas. In the James, we will go through 8 tests in discipleship. For today, we will take the test of trials, based on James 1:1-8?
1. PERSEVERE IN GOD (1:1-4)
We always face trials of many kinds (external trials in the form of tests & internal trials in the form of temptations). These tests put our faith to the test. Will our faith persevere (vv. 3, 12)? Remember that the message of the mess is maturity (v. 4). Though we may never be perfect on earth (or sinless) in our faith, we are still to grow in maturity & be “complete” (growing in many aspects of the Christian life).
2. ASK HELP FROM GOD (1:5)
People who face trials usually lack wisdom (or God-given understanding that makes us avoid sin & live righteously). We are to always ask God for wisdom, because He is generous (v. 5), not a faultfinder. Though He knows our deficiencies, he withdraws nothing good from us. Just ask Him in prayer.
3. BELIEVE IN GOD (1:6-8)
The lack or absence of faith leads to instability (v. 6) & never pleases God (v. 7). Remember the description of a person who doubts: “unstable” (or divided in mind & wavering between 2 options). As a result, that person is indecisive what one does (v. 8). So, whatever our trial is, let us believe God, no matter what happens or does not happen.
11-Oct 20: Thanking God When We Would Rather Not by Ptr. Narry Santos
THANKING GOD WHEN WE WOULD RATHER NOT
(Psalm 46:1-11)
By Pastor Narry Santos
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On this unusual Thanksgiving weekend, we affirm our commitment to thank God, when it is easier not to. Thanking God during this continuing pandemic is a healthy way to celebrate this holiday that is like no other. According to Psalm 46, what can we be thankful for, whatever our crisis or challenge may be?
I. THANK GOD FOR HIS PROTECTION (46:1-3)
We can be thankful for God’s ever-present help in a protective capacity (i.e., “refuge” [or “safe height, strong rock”]; “abundantly available” to aid). It is our confident basis for saying, “We will not fear” (v. 2). This confidence, amid troubling catastrophes, is spelled out by the psalmist in the 1st stanza (vv. 1-3). Let’s thank God for protecting us.
II. THANK GOD FOR HIS PRESENCE (46:4-7)
We can also be thankful for God’s assuring presence, in contrast to the chaos around us (v. 6). The “river” (v. 4a) is figurative of God’s favour & grace to His city (Jerusalem) – symbolic of His living presence. Thus, the comforting refrain is: “The Lord of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is a fortress to us” (v. 7). Let’s thank God for being present with us.
III. THANK GOD FOR HIS POWER (46:8-11)
We can even be thankful for God’s power, as reflected in the vision of the Lord’s final work of destroying all His enemies (vv. 8-9). Thus, the command is to “be still & know that I am God” (v. 10a). We are to recognize His Lordship & authority over nature & history. We are to also cease our efforts to usurp His sovereignty. Let’s thank God for His power in and through us.
4-Oct 20: - Don't Mind the Age Gap by Bro James Diolanda
Don’t Mind the Age Gap – by Bro James Diolanda
I Thess 4:9-12
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27 Sept 20: - Staying Truthful & Trustworthy Where We Work, Learn & Live by Ptr Narry Santos
Joshua 2:1-24
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As we continue our Fall series called “Serving Where We Work, Learn, & Live,” we need to learn how to stay truthful and trustworthy in the workplace, school, and home front—especially if we are exposed to practices that bend, change, or manipulate truth at will. How do we develop into becoming people who tell the truth and not live a lie? In Joshua 2:1-24, we will see how truth plays an important part in trust and trustworthiness.
- TRUTH LEADS US TO TRUST GOD (2:1-11)
Rahab, the prostitute (2:1), was commended for her faith (Heb. 11:31; Jam. 2:25; cf. Matt. 1:5). Despite her questionable background she knew what God did in the past for His people (Josh. 2:10); she was convinced of what God will do in the future for them (2:9); she responded with trust to God in the present (2:11, 24). Though we may question her lying to protect the two Israelite spies (2:1-7), we cannot question her faith, which shone despite the risk to life and charge of treason. Let’s grow in both truth and trust in God!
- TRUTH LEADS US TO BE TRUSTWORTHY (2:12-24)
Rahab demanded trustworthiness from the spies; she wanted “kindness” (or reciprocal relationship of caring; 2:12). In response, the spies pledged trustworthiness (2:14a), as they also demanded the same trustworthiness (2:14b, 17-20), which Rahab also agreed to give (2:21). Note how trustworthiness breeds more trust not just in God but also in one another. Let’s grow in both truth and trustworthiness with each other!
20 Sept 20: - An Achan Example- by Ptr Marvin Catanus
Joshua 7:10-21
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Introduction and Context
Prosperity to Vulnerability
Fear and Self Confidence
Pray before anything else
Part of the Body/Community
Stages of Sin
Conclusion
Maintaining Integrity and Character
Rom 12:2
13 Sept 20: - Handling the Stresses of Work and School- by Ptr Narry Santos
Numbers 20:1-13
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Today, we continue our new series called “Serving Where We Work, Learn, & Live.” When we think of serving God, we usually think of serving Him in church. Serving God this way is part of it, but we can also serve God where we work, learn, and live. Nowadays, it may all be in one place. How can we handle the stresses in this place or spaces and still be able to serve God there? Using the episode in Moses’ ministry in light of Israel’s negative attitudes in the desert, we will learn tough lessons in tough situations.
- DON’T GRUMBLE BUT GET GOD’S GUIDANCE (20:1-8)
At Kadesh, the first-generation Israelites were whining (13:26) and after 38 years the second-generation Israelites came back to it also whining (20:1). The people had gone full circle in their grumbling and quarreling (Exod. 15:22-27; Num. 11:1; 12:1; 14:2; 16:3). Every time they grumbled God dealt with them head-on. But they still did not learn their lesson well. Let’s not grumble from our heart, when we are at work, school, or home.
- DON’T HARBOR ANGER, BUT HOLD ON TO GOD (20:9-13)
At Kadesh, Moses was very stressed, because of the death of his sister, Miriam (20:1b). For 38 years, he led the people faithfully and when they grumbled, he humbled himself, came to the Lord and prayed for them (Exod. 15:25a; 17:4; Num. 11:2; 12:13; 14:5; 16:4:20:6). After this episode, Moses received the added stress of Edom’s harshness (20:14-21) and Aaron’s death (20:22-29). At least twice, Moses was showing some cracks in his stress management (Num. 11:10b-15; 16:15). As a result, Moses disobeyed God (20:9-11). Moses became resentful (20:10), rebellious (20:24; 27: 14), & rash (Psa. 106:32-33). But in God’s eyes, the main issue in Moses’s sin is that he “did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites” (20:12a). Let’s not harbor anger from our heart, when we work or study from home.
6-Sept 20: - How to Keep Greed Away in a Selfie World - Less is More - by Bro James DIolanda
(I Timothy 6:17-19)
Let us start our New Series with this question: How well do we serve God? As we welcome the month of September, we will also be diving into our new Sermon series entitled “Serving Where We Work, Learn and Live”. Today, we will focus on the temptation of having more than we need. What do we do when God blesses us so much? How do we distribute the blessings He has given us? We will learn how having Less is actually gaining More than what we could ask for.
- The Less I Crave, the more _Content_ I am
The world promotes having excess is a good thing. We crave for what’s out there and we think it gives us the satisfaction we are looking for. God is reminding us that He provides everything we need and we can only find true contentment in Him.
- The Less I Get Worked Up, the more I _Give_ Out
If we get so preoccupied with having too much, we will carry an unnecessary stress in our lives. God doesn’t want us to get too caught up with being anxious, but instead He wants us to experience freedom. Let’s be mindful on how we distribute the resources God has given us.
- The Less I Stash on Earth, the more I _Store__Up in Heaven.
Apostle Paul reminds Timothy that Earth is our temporary home so we must start to invest eternally in Heaven. Hoarding material things can only give us temporary happiness. God is encouraging us to save up on Heavenly things.
30 August 20: - Recycling Our Pain - by Ptr Ferdie Umali
(1 Corinthians 1:3-7)
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(2) REFLECT on what God does for us – “comforts us in all our troubles” (v.4a); and
(3) REDISCOVER what God can do through us – ”so that we can comfort those in any trouble” (v.4b).
When we overcome pressures in life and trust God completely, (1) we share the sufferings of Christ and others (v.7); (2) our comfort overflows (v.5); and (3) we ultimately benefit from it (v.6). The positive effects of all of these are experienced for the glory of the triune God.
23-August 20: - Maintain the Momentum - by Ptr Narry Santos
(Mark 14:32-42)
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16-August 20: - Joy From Being Forgiven - by Ptr Marvin Catanus
(Psalm 32:1-11)
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NOTES:
Joy because my sins are forgiven
(Psalm 32:1–2)
Guilt gets in the way of the Joy
There is a connection between guilt and depression
Psalm 32:3–4 – David expresses the emotional pain associated with guilt
Emotional experiences that come with guilt
Being Silent (32:3)
(Psalm 32:3)
(Psalm 66:18)
David cut off communication with God.
Despair and Sorrow (32:4)
(Psalm 32:4)
Running and Hiding
(Psalm 32:5)
David hid his sin from God
For over a year David tried to live with his secret guilt
If you are weighed down by guilt because of your sin, there is hope
Forgiveness for their sins
Joy because God does not charge him with sin
(Psalm 32:1–2)
Confession leads to Forgiveness and Forgiveness leads to Joy
(Psalm 32:5–6)
Confession is to agree with God about them
(1 John 1:9)
Joy Experiences
(Psalm 32:8-11)
9-August 20: - Recovering from Hurtful Habits and Hang Ups - First Step to Recovery - Ptr Narry Santos
(Romans 7:14-25)
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
2-August 20: - Recovering from Hurtful Habits and Hang Ups - Let Go and Let God - Bro James Diolanda
(Matthew 11:28-30)
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26-July20: - Renewing Evangelism - God's Way to Him by Ptr Narry Santos
(Acts 21:40 – Acts 22:11)
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19-July20: - Renewing Evangelism - God Calls Us for a Mission by Ptr Marvin Catanus
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12-July20: -Deliverance in the Midst of Defiance - by Ptr Jonathan Bernardo
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5-July20: -Seek Good, Hate Evil by Bro James Diolanda
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28-June20: Conducting Character Check-Ups for Leaders - by Ptr Narry Santos
(Titus 1:7-8)
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21-June20: Radical Dads - by Bro. James Diolanda
(1 Peter 1:3-11)
Watch the Recorded Worship Service: Watch Now
Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads out there!
It not an easy task to be a dad so we must find the best guideline on how to raise children and build a family. We are blessed to have our Heavenly Father as our example and He has given us His instructions in His Word. Fathers are being portrayed as lazy and unemotional by the media and we must go against this negative perception about that.
Let’s be Radical Dads and learn how to be Christian Fathers just as how God called us to be.
Provide Faith
1. Radical Dads Need to ______ after a Holy Life
Verse: 3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Protect Fully
2. Radical Dads Need to ______ with Godly Values
Verse: 5 for this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love
Lead by Example
3. Radical Dads need to ________ in Character
Verse: 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure; they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.
Love Earnestly
4. Radical Dads need to be _______ Every Moment
Verse: 10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Going Back to the Basics on Fellowship Series (BALANCE)
Click on the Plus sign next to the sermon title to read the sermon notes.
14-June20: Harvesting the Spirit's Fruit in a Fear-Filled Season by Ptr. Narry Santos
(Galatians 5:22-23)
Online Message: Watch Now
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Today, we begin a new series called “Making Character Count in Challenging Days.” In a time of crisis, it’s important to grow in character. And character development happens when spiritual formation occurs. In other words, we are most Christ-like when we are Spirit-led. The leading of the Spirit is evident through the fruit of the Spirit (note: the fruit is singular & character-based, involving our aptitudes, attitudes, & actions). Using Gal. 5:22-23, what do the different aspects of the Spirit’s fruit do to our character?
1. THE SPIRIT’S FRUIT PRODUCES APTITUDES OF THE HEART
The 1st set of 3 “fruit” expressions involves the mind that nurtures the heart: (1) “love” – selfless self-sacrificing concern for the well-being of another; (2) “joy” – great delight & gladness of heart resulting in knowing & serving God; & (3) “peace” – tranquility of soul & sense of fulfillment that comes from God’s presence. Let’s grow in love, joy, & peace in this pandemic season.
2. THE SPIRIT’S FRUIT PROMPTS ATTITUDES OF HARMONY
The 2nd set of 3 “fruit” expressions initiates relationships that aspire for harmony: (1) “patience” – steadfast endurance amidst adversity; long-suffering under provocation with no thought of retaliation; (2) “kindness” – generous aid in times of need; readiness to help with benevolent sentiments; & (3) “goodness” – uprightness of spirit leading to a gracious desire to benefit others. Let’s grow in patience, kindness, & goodness in this pandemic season.
3. THE SPIRIT’S FRUIT PROVIDES ACTIONS OF HABIT
The 3rd set of 3 “fruit” expressions includes actions that result in life-giving habits: (1) “faithfulness” – loyalty; dependability; fidelity to keep promises; dedication; (2) “gentleness” – power & strength under control; tender disposition; & (3) “self-control” – restraint & discipline over one’s behavior; temperate, sober, & clam approach to life. Let’s grow in faithfulness, gentleness, & self-control in this pandemic season.
7-June-20: Developing the Habits of the Heart by Ptr. Marvin Catanus
Developing the Habits of the Heart (Colossians 3:10-14)
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How to Grow in Emotional Health Despite Uncertain Times (Studies from Selected Psalms)
31-May-20: King of Impossible by Bro. James Diolanda
King of Impossible (Exodus 17:8-16)
Online Message: Watch Now
As the government eases up on the restrictions, it feels like things are slowly going back to normal. However there is still the threat of a second wave and a possible bigger outbreak if we are not careful. In this scary and stressful situation God is reminding us of who He is. He is All-Powerful and our Great Provider and when our backs are against the wall, He will give us victory. Let’s look at how He delivered the Israelites against a skilled enemy to show them that He is the King of Impossible.
- In Chaos, Listen to His Instructions
The Israelites were caught off guard by the Amalekites’ attack. So Moses gave people instructions to overcome the enemy. God will surely guide us to victory and all we need to do is to listen attentively.
- In Confusion, Let Him Work
Our minds work in the realm of logic while God works in the realm of impossibility. His thoughts are not our thoughts, His ways are not our ways. Let’s not limit God’s capability by putting it in a box called common sense and instead let’s be faithful and watch Him work.
- In the Cusp of Victory, Lift Him Up
Moses built an altar and called it “the Lord is my Banner” to remind them of God’s power and provision when they were in a stressful situation. Let us not forget Him in every season of our lives.
24-May-20: How to Start Over Again When Things Fall Apart by Ptr. Narry Santos
HOW TO START OVER AGAIN WHEN THINGS FALL APART
(Psalm 130:1-8)
Online Message: Watch Now
Today, we conclude our sermon series called “How to Grow in Emotional Health Despite Uncertain Times,” from selected psalms. Today, we look at Psalm 130 (a psalm of penitence or confession of sins before God). Using this psalm, how do we start over when we fall or when things fall apart (like in a pandemic)?
1. CALL ON GOD’S MERCY & FORGIVENESS (130:1-4)
Sin is described as being in “the depths” (or being alienated from God). From that weight of sin & heaviness of trouble (v. 1), we’re called to cry out for mercy (v. 2). Why? Because God keeps no record of sins (v. 3) & forgives (v. 4). As a result, we can “stand” (or enjoy God’s presence again) & “fear” (or reverently respect) Him. Let’s commit to receive God’s cleansing!
2. CLAIM GOD’S HOPE & LOVE (130:5-8)
Hope (vv. 5b, 7a) waits (vv. 5a, 6)! It anticipates God’s new act of salvation. It deeply longs for God to free the people from the heaviness that sin brings. When we fail, hold on to His unfailing love (v. 7b) and full deliverance (v. 7c, 8) from the sins that plague us. Let’s commit to claim His love & put our hope in Him always!
17-May-20: Praising God - How to Grow in Joy by Ptr. Marvin Catanus
PRAISING GOD – HOW TO GROW IN JOY (Psalm 150)
Online Message: Watch Now
Praising God – Growth in Joy
Scripture: Psalm 150
Introduction
I. PRAISE WHERE?
A. Sanctuary
Verse 1: “Praise ye the Lord; Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power.”
B. Firmament
II. PRAISE WHY?
Verse 2 says , “Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him for the excellence of his greatness.”
A. His Gifts to us – Action
Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if any be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”
B. His Character
III. PRAISE HOW?
Verses 3-5: “Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals.”
A. With Instruments
B. With Dance
1 Corinthians 14:40 “Let all things be done decently and in order.”
IV. PRAISE WHO SHOULD?
A. Heavenly Hosts
B. People
Conclusion
In Philppians 4:6-7
“Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
In John 16:33
“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
10-May-20: Celebrating Moms and Their Ministry in Unusual Times by Ptr. Narry Santos
CELEBRATING MOMS & THEIR MINISTRY IN UNUSUAL TIMES
(1 Thessalonians 2:6b-9)
Online Sermon: Watch Now
As we celebrate Mothers’ Day in these unusual times, it’s important to remember mothers (along with other special women) & their ministry to us. Celebrating moms, special women, & their ministry is a “double” blessing & doubly meaningful, because both mothers & ministry have similar characteristics, & have twin lessons to teach us in our personal life, family life, & church life. In fact, motherhood is a ministry, & ministry must be like motherhood. Using 1 Thessalonians 2:6b-9, what 2 lessons can we learn from both mothers & ministry?
1. MINISTRY & MOTHERS SHARE LOVE & GENTLENESS (2:6-8)
Paul sees his ministry (with Silas & Timothy) of being a blessing (not being a burden [2:6]) to people as similar to the ministry of a “mother caring for her little children” (2:7b). This care of a nursing mother (cf. Num. 11:12) involves showing gentleness (2:7a) and unselfish love (2:8a). Such love does not only relate to the opening of the gospel (2:8a), but also to the opening of their lives (2:8b) to them. The motivation of love is this: “you have become so dear to us” (2:8c). Since mothers (as special women) & ministry share love & gentleness, let’s commit to show love in gentle ways to one another & to those around us (whether in-person or online)!
2. MINISTRY & MOTHERS SERVE AMID LABOUR & HARDSHIP (2:9)
Paul also shows his ministry (with Silas & Timothy) of being a blessing (not being a burden [2:9]) to people (whom he addresses as “brothers and sisters” 12x [2:9a; cf. 1:4; 2:1, 14, 17; 3:7; 4:1, 13; 5:1, 4, 12, 25]) through their “toil and hardship” (2:9a). Their willingness to sacrifice & suffer leads them to work day and night (2:9b; cf. 2 Thes. 3:8; Acts 18:3), as they also preach the “gospel of God” (2:9c). Ministry & mothers both seek to meet the holistic (both physical & spiritual) needs of those under their care. Since ministry & mothers serve amid labour & hardship, let’s commit to serve one another & those around us (even when we’re apart) to the point of suffering & sacrifice!
3-May-20: How to Grow in Faith When It's Hard to Trust by Ptr. Narry Santos
HOW TO GROW IN FAITH WHEN IT’S HARD TO TRUST
(Psalm 46:1-11)
Online Sermon: Watch Now
Today, we continue the new series called “How to Grow in Emotional Health Despite Uncertain Times,” based on our study from selected psalms. So far, we have learned how to grow in wisdom and grief. Through Psalm 46 (psalm of trust), we will now learn to grow in faith, even when it’s difficult to trust that things will be better.
1. ACKNOWLEDGE THAT GOD IS GOD TO YOU (46:10b)
God says, “Know that I am God” (46:10a). The encouragement is that God can be known and wants us to know Him. Note: how can we trust a God whom we cannot and do not know? The context of knowing God is the future vision of wars that God will overcome (46:9) and that will set the stage for God being exalted among all the peoples on earth (46:10b). Since God will finally overcome later, we can fully rust Him now.
2. APPRECIATE WHAT GOD IS LIKE FOR YOU (46:1, 7, 11)
God is our “refuge” (shelter from danger), or fortress (high safe place), showing His protection of us. God is our “strength” & “Lord Almighty” (Lord of armies or hosts), showing His power. God is our “ever-present help” & “God-with-us” God, showing His presence. Since God protects us, is powerful in us, & present with us (46:2, 7, 11), then we can trust Him more.
3. ACCEPT WHAT GOD CAN DO IN YOU (46:2-3, 10a)
God’s revelation of His trustworthiness requires a response from us in two ways: (1) do not fear (46:2) – have resolute faith & confidence in God, despite disturbing catastrophes (46:3); & (2) “be still” (46:10a) – do not panic; do not usurp for ourselves what belongs to God; submit. Since God is trustworthy, we can trust Him always.
26-Apr-20: How to Grow in Wisdom When We're Confused by Ptr. Narry Santos
HOW TO GROW IN WISDOM WHEN WE’RE CONFUSED
(Psalm 1:1-6)
Online Sermon: Watch Now
Today, we start the new series called “How to Grow in Emotional Health Despite Uncertain Times,” based on a study from selected psalms. Mental health refers to the ability to process & understand info & experiences, while emotional health refers to the ability to manage & express feelings based on the info & experiences that are processed. The series seeks to explore how we can develop mental & emotional health, despite uncertain times. Using Psalm 1:1-6, how can we grow in wisdom when we’re confused?
1. NURTURE OUR RELATIONAL LIFE (1:1, 4-6)
We grow in our relational life when we follow the way of the wise. This way has two results: (1) God makes us “blessed” (which means, God brings us to right relationships with God & others), when we nurture healthy relations. Healthy relations are developed when we “walk,” stand,” & “sit” with wise people (1:1); & (2) God watches over us (literally, “knows” us), when we follow the way of the way and not the way of the wicked (1:6). The “way” refers to the whole manner of living. In the midst of the uncertainty & confusion COVID-19 brings, let’s improve our emotional health by nurturing our relationships.
2, NOURSIH OUR INNER LIFE (1:2-3)
We grow in our inner life, when we do 2 things: (1) we “meditate” on God’s Word (1:2b) – to “meditate” means to reflect on God and what He says in the course of our daily lives. This involves study & retention of God’s instruction in our mind; & (2) we “delight” in God’s Word (1:2a) – to “delight” means to desire the study, retention, & meditation of God’s Word. This involves an earnest yearning, not dutiful drudgery. The result of meditating & delighting in God’s Word is an ever-growing life of freshness & fruitfulness (1:3; see Psa. 92:12-15). When we go AWOL (A-Worn-Out Life), let’s replenish our soul by nourishing our inner life.
19-Apr-20: How to Grow in Grief (Lament Psalm) by Ptr. Marvin Catanus
Discovering Christ Series
12-Apr-20: Easter Sunday - Experiencing Jesus in the Middle of a Crisis by Dr.. Narry Santos
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Communion: Watch Now
Closing Prayer: Watch Now
Word of encouragement: Watch Now
EXPERIENCING JESUS IN THE MIDDLE OF A CRISIS
(John 6:35; 8:12; 10:7, 11)
As we reflect on the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, it’s important to explore how we can experience Him in the middle of an ever-expanding crisis. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s reassuring to come to someone we can trust. We can trust Jesus, who despite His passion and death, overcame the world and gave us life. Based on the 1st 4 “I Am” statements of Jesus in John’s Gospel, what do we claim about Jesus?
1. AS BREAD OF LIFE, JESUS SATISFIES US (6:35)
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life” (6:35). It’s a picture of Jesus as the source of satisfaction. As the bread that gives life, Jesus is whom we need, just as bread in His time was “staple” food for survival & strength. In response, let’s find our satisfaction in Jesus by doing His will (6:38) in this time of crisi
2. AS LIGHT OF THE WORLD, JESUS CLEANSES US (8:12)
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (8:12; see 1:9). It’s a picture of Jesus as the source of knowledge & holiness. It reminds the people of God’s presence through the pillar of cloud & fire in their desert experience. In response, let’s walk in the light (12:46) & do God’s work while we still can (9:4-5) in this time of crisis
3. AS GATE FOR THE SHEEP, JESUS SHELTERS US (10:7)
Jesus said, “I am the gate of the sheep (10:7). It’s a picture of Jesus’ protection and shelter. The image is that of a shepherd pasturing sheep. At an enclosure, the shepherd takes his place at the doorway & entrance, giving safety in the pasture & security in the enclosure. In response, let’s listen to God’s voice (10:2-4) in prayer in this time of crisis.
4. AS GOOD SHEPHERD, JESUS CARES FOR US (10:11, 14)
Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd” (10:11, 14). It’s a picture of Jesus’ constant care. As the “great shepherd” (Heb. 13:20-21) & “chief shepherd” (1 Pet. 5:4), Jesus gave His life for His sheep (Jn. 10:15, 17-18). In response, let’s care for others, by watching out for their good in this time of crisis.
05-Apr-20: Palm Sunday by James Diolanda
Online Message Link: Watch Now
I am Jesus
(John 11:25-26; 14:6; 15:1)
Welcome to Palm Sunday! I hope everyone will remember how important this week is to Christians. We will start the Holy Week by knowing who our Messiah is. We will dig deeper into his 7 “I am Statements” in the book of John. I pray that He will continue to reveal Himself to us in this challenging time. Let’s ready our hearts as we discover the Christ in Holy Week.
I. Jesus is the Bringer of Hope
Verse: John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
II. Jesus is the Bridge to the Father
Verse: John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
III. Jesus is the Bearer of Life
Verse: John 15:1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.
29-Mar-20: Ministry of the Spirit who Convicts by Dr. Narry Santos
Online Message Link: Watch Now
WHAT TO DO WHEN THE SPIRIT CONVICTS US IN TIMES OF CRISIS
(John 16:8-11)
In this time of pandemic concerns, we need the ministry of the Holy Spirit. He conveys to us Jesus’ truth (as Spirit of truth), comforts us (as our Counselor), & convicts us (as the Spirit who convicts). For this concluding message, we will look at the convicting (or convincing/persuading) ministry of our Spirit. Based on John 16:8-11, what do we do when the Spirit convicts us?
- WHEN THE SPIRIT CONVICTS OF SIN, LET’S REPENT (16:8-9)
The Spirit convicts us & the world concerning sin (16:9a). The reason for this conviction is because people do not believe in Jesus (16:9b). Of all the sins people can ever commit, the most basic form of sin (rebellion against God) is unbelief (3:18). It’s unbelief not only about Jesus but unbelief in Him (14:6). Crisis has a way of making people open up to God. Let’s share Jesus to others, as the Spirit persuades. When the Spirit also convicts us, let’s repent (Acts 17:30) & change in this time of crisis.
- WHEN THE SPIRIT CONVICTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, LET’S LIVE RIGHTLY (16:10)
The Spirit convicts us & the world concerning righteousness (16:10a). The reason for this conviction is because Jesus was going back to the Father (16:10b), as a reference to His ascension (after His death & resurrection). Since He was going back to the Father, He needed to send the Spirit to persuade people of Christ’s righteousness fulfilled at the cross (people thought Jesus was wicked, since only bad people hang on the cross) & of the availability & vindication of this righteousness now (16:27; 1 Tim. 3:16). Let’s motivate people to live rightly in this time of crisis.
III. WHEN THE SPIRIT CONVICTS OF JUDGMENT, LET’S HAVE HOPE
(16:11)
The Spirit convicts us & the world concerning judgment (16:11a). The reason for this conviction is because “the prince of this world now stands condemned” (16:11b). At the cross, Satan is judged & defeated (Col. 2:15; Heb. 2:14). Though he is still active (1 Pet. 5:8), his execution is coming (Rev. 20:10). Let’s show & share hope to people in this time of crisis.
22-Mar-20: Ministry of the Spirit, our Counselor by Dr. Narry Santos (Online Message)
Online Message Link: Watch Now
RESPONDING TO THE SPIRIT’S COMFORT IN TIMES OF CRISIS
(John 14:25-31)
Today, we continue with the 2nd part of our “Back to Basics” series on the Holy Spirit: “Made New in the Spirit” based on John 14-16. The Holy Spirit’s ministry is to comfort us as our Counselor (Advocate/Helper/Comforter) in times of trouble. Based on John 14:25-31, how do we respond to the Spirit’s comforting ministry?
- RECALL THE SPIRIT’S COMFORT FROM JESUS (14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7)
As our Comforter, the Spirit serves as our Counselor, Advocate, and Helper (14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). As Counselor, He comes alongside us (Paraclete); as Advocate, He represents us before the Father; as Helper, He meets all our need. Note: the Spirit’s mission of involves the fulness of God (the Father & the Son “sent” the Spirit for a purpose). Let’s recall who the Spirit is & what He does in times of trouble.
1. REMEMBER THE SPIRIT’S TEACHING ON JESUS (14:25-26)
As our Comforter, the Spirit teaches & reminds us of what we need to be comforted: all that Jesus has “spoken” while He was still with His disciples (14:25) & “everything I have said to you” (14:26). One key teaching of Jesus is obedience to Him (14:21, 23-24a, 31). We obey even when we don’t fully understand (13:33; 14:28; see 13:22, 25, 28, 36; 14:5, 8) & when we’re tempted to be troubled (14:26b; see 13:18 & 21 betrayal], 38 [denial]; 16:32 [desertion]). Let’s obey the Spirit, even it’s hard to obey.
2. RECEIVE THE SPIRIT’S PEACE THROUGH JESUS (14:27)
As our Comforter, the Spirit brings the peace that Jesus gives and that the world cannot give (14:27). Jesus told His disciples “these things, so that in me you have peace” (16:33), and assured them He has overcome the world, even though in this world they would have trouble (see 20:19-20). Let’s take heart, because the Spirit brings us the peace of Jesus.
15-Mar-20: Ministry of the Spirit of Truth by Dr. Narry Santos (Online Message)
08-Mar-20: Discipleship Is Wherever, Whenever, Whatever Jesus Wants by Dr. Narry Santos
DISCIPLESHIP IS WHEREVER, WHENEVER, WHATEVER JESUS WANTS
(Luke 9:57-62)
Today, we continue with our 4-part “Back to Backs” series on discipleship: “Made New in Discipleship.” Based on Luke 9:57-62, how do we keep following Jesus?
I. FOLLOW JESUS WHEREVER HE WANTS (9:57-58)
The 1st would-be disciples knew the need to follow Jesus (9:57). He wanted to follow wherever Jesus wanted. But Jesus gave a reality check: He had no home (9:58(. In fact, Jesus was headed to Jerusalem (9:51, 53), where He would suffer & die. The basic test is this: Is the disciple willing to give up what are considered necessities in life?
II. FOLLOW JESUS WHENEVER HE WANTS (9:59-60)
The 2nd would-be disciple was called by Jesus to follow Him (9:59). The former wanted to follow Jesus but gave his excuse to first “bury his father” (this implies that he wanted to wait for his father to die & to receive his inheritance from his father). But Jesus told the man to “let the dead bury their own dead (meaning, let the spiritually dead bury the physically dead). In other words, God’s kingdom work is so important that it cannot wait. The basic test is this: Is the disciple willing to give up what he will have to follow Jesus right away?
III. FOLLOW JESUS WHATEVER HE WANTS (9:61-62)
The 3rd would-be disciple also wanted to follow Jesus (9:61a) but gave his own excuse: “let me go back & say good-by to my family” (9:61b). But Jesus replied, “No one who puts his hand on the plow & looks back is fit for the service in the kingdom of God” (9:62). In other words, Jesus wanted no undivided allegiance. His message is more important than anything else. The basic test is this: Is the disciple willing to give up what he considers as important in life?
01-Mar-20: Discipleship Is Surrender to Jesus by Bro. James Diolanda
(Luke 14:25-35)
As we continue our sermon series on Discipleship, let’s look at the extreme demands of Jesus on Luke 14:25-35. Jesus laid out His standards on what it takes to be a Disciple. In order to be one, He requires full surrender and devotion. It’s in our human nature to be in control of everything so the idea of “surrender” scares us. We also view surrender with negative connotation. We think that it’s a sign of weakness, defeat, and loss of control.
Today, we will change our mindset and let’s discover that there is Power in Surrendering to Jesus.
I. We Become more Focused
Jesus insisted for everyone to turn from their old ways in order to follow Him. This involves “hating” their parents, relatives and even themselves. Keep in mind that Jesus was simply making a point on what it takes to be a true follower. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith.
II. We Gain Foresight
Jesus insisted for everyone to look ahead on what’s about to come. Being a disciple is no walk in the park. It’s more than just a feeling, it’s a lifestyle. We need to go all-in as we pursue a life with Him. Let’s make every effort to persevere in obeying Him even when it feels impossible.
III. We Become more Faithful
Understanding what it takes to be a disciple should motivate us to live a Christ-like life. This involves letting go of everything that is holding us back in following Him. Let’s make a stand to surrender everything to Jesus.
23-Feb-20: Discipleship Is Devotion to Jesus by Dr. Narry Santos
DISCIPLESHIP IS DEVOTION TO JESUS
(John 12:1-8)
Today, we continue with our new 4-part “Back to Backs” series on discipleship: “Made New in Discipleship.” The 4 sermons emphasize these lessons on discipleship: (1) it is devotion to Jesus; (2) it is following Jesus; (3) it is wherever, whenever, whatever Jesus wants; & (4) it is surrender to Jesus. Today, we discuss discipleship as devotion to Jesus. Based on John 12:1-8, what does devotion to Jesus demand from us?
I. RELINGUISH OUR ALL TO JESUS (12:1-3)
Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus (12:1-2), recklessly gave up her expensive nard (or imported oil prepared from roots & stems of an aromatic herb from northern India) for Jesus (12:3). She wholeheartedly offered to Him her lavish gift, as an expression of her love, devotion, & gratitude. Let’s do the same!
II. RISK OUR ALL FOR JESUS (12:4-6)
Judas Iscariot, the betrayer (12:4) & thief (12:6), charged Mary of lavish waste (12:5). The charge hid his intent to benefit himself. He did not really want to help the poor. In fact, he showed a high regard for financial values, not human or divine values. Let’s not do the same!
III. RECEIVE RESPECT FROM JESUS (12:7-8)
Jesus, the deserving recipient of all that we have, defended Mary for her sensitivity to His impending death (12:7). He gave honour for her high esteem of Him. His statement about the poor (12:8) is not divine endorsement of poverty nor an encouragement to do nothing about poverty. It implies that poverty has many causes & that people will always have occasions to help the poor (see Mk. 14:7). Let’s prefer God’s honour!
16-Feb-20: Discipleship Is Following Jesus by Bro. Marvin Catanus
(Luke 9:18-27)
Introduction:
1. The most important question you will ever answer is: Who is Jesus Christ?
a. Do others get it?
- Do you get it? Verse 20
- You must know what Jesus’ mission was.3. If you truly know Jesus, you know the mission you’ve signed up for.He outlines five steps of discipleship:
Deny Self.
Die Daily.
Follow Faithfully.
Invest Wisely.
Rewarded Eternally.
Matthew 25:21, 23
Conclusion:
2019 Sermons
Sermon Series
Renewing Evangelism
Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.
Romans 10:17