10 - Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise My God Is a Righteous God Yesterday, Today, Forever Search Me, O God

Transcription

1 NEW LIFE NEWSLINE NEW LIFE BIBLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURC H For the Word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ Rev.1: 9 nlbpc@singnet.com.sg Website: 10 Marsiling Lane Singapore Tel: Fax: Jan 19 Vol. 35 No. 3 Private Circulation Only Church Theme: 1 Peter 3:15 ReachING OUT WITH THE TRUTH English Worship Service PRELUDE: Organist HOLY CONTEMPLATION: The LORD is in His Holy Temple CALL TO WORSHIP: Psalm 18:25-28 *HYMN OF WORSHIP: *INVOCATION: Dn Freddie Tan GLORIA PATRI SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Cor 5 *HYMN OF PRAISE: OFFERING: 10 - Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise 98 - My God Is a Righteous God 93 - Yesterday, Today, Forever *Doxology - Praise God, from whom all Blessings Flow Children to leave for Junior Worship SCRIPTURE MEMORY: 1 Thess 4:3 HYMN OF PREPARATION: PASTORAL PRAYER Search Me, O God Rev Gabriel Gan MESSAGE: The Call for Purity (1) - Rev Gabriel Gan *HYMN OF CONSECRATION: Take My Life, and Let It Be, Consecrated *BENEDICTION: Threefold Amen ANNOUNCEMENTS: DISMISSAL HYMN: Dn Freddie Tan The Lord Bless You & Keep You *Congregation to stand Worshippers are kindly urged to switch off / put to silent mode all mobile phones and electronic devices during worship. Memory Verse for this Week For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication. - 1 Thess 4:3 PASTORS: Rev Gabriel Gan (O) (M) Rev Lim Chee Boon (O) (M) Rev S V Nathan (O) (M) ELDERS: Eld Sim Chee Seng Eld Yap Chee Kian DEACONS: Dn Ivan Lim Dn Tan Wee Boon Dn Ronnie Tan Dn James Goh Dn Freddie Tan Dn Leni S. Hubert Dn William Lee Dn Tan Cheng Teck Dn Lee Meng Kiong CHURCH STAFF Bro Steve Tan (O) Ms Lim Lee Lee (O) Ms Young Yee (O) Sis. Dorcas Chionh (O) Sis. Hannah Nathan (O) Pr Job Yeo (O) Sis Sim Min Ling (O) NEW LIFE KINDERGARTEN Principal: Mrs Agnes Chee (O) nlkindergarten@gmail.com

2 TO SEEK, TO DO & TO TEACH TEXT: EZRA 7:10 (PASTOR GAN) Ezra has to be one of the most neglected books in the Bible. In the last ten years, do you remember even hearing a sermon from Ezra? There are lots of books written on Nehemiah and I have led Bible studies on the book of Nehemiah with the Session. But there does not seem to be nearly as much written about Ezra. It is really a shame, since Ezra is a pivotal figure in the history of God s people. As one of the early leaders of the Jews who returned to the Promised Land from Babylonian exile, he instituted religious reforms that had far-reaching consequences. But Ezra, a faithful teacher himself, also serves as a great example of what it means to be a sound Bible teacher today. Below is a summary of the sermon I preached last Sunday, specifically for our church s SS teachers, but it is applicable for all believers. Notice that verse 1 describes the events of the chapter as taking place during the reign of Artaxerxes king of Persia. Verses 8 and 9 identify the time period more precisely: in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes, or 458 B.C. After the temporal setting is noted, verses 1 5 introduce Ezra by giving his family tree. This long list of ancestors not only emphasizes his importance, 2 but also identifies Ezra as a priest, a direct descendant of Aaron the chief priest (v. 5). We learn more about Ezra in verse 6 where he is portrayed as a skilled scribe in the Law of Moses. The Hebrew states literally that he was a quick scribe, or a fast copier; however, the term implies not only speed, but proficiency in the Law of God as well. The word scribe denotes one who is learned, a Torah scholar. As a whole, the chapter emphasizes Ezra s religious role. Verse 6 also notes that the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of the LORD his God upon him. It does not tell exactly what Ezra requested or how this occurred (contrast Neh. 2), but it is likely that he asked to return to Jerusalem and to function along the lines of his commission in 7: Without supplying all of the historical details, chapter 7 emphasizes God s hand of blessing upon Ezra. This is

3 mentioned three times and without doubt explains his success (7:6, 9, 28). Then verse 10 continues to explain: For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel. The word for is translated from the Hebrew term kı ı which sounds like the English word key. This Hebrew conjunction may also be translated as because. 4 Here it explains why God s hand rested upon Ezra. God blessed Ezra s ministry because Ezra prepared his heart. The phrase translated prepared his heart connotes a whole-hearted commitment of oneself to something. Specifically, Ezra committed himself to three actions. First, he prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD. The verb to seek is a literal translation of a Hebrew verb that also means to study. (cf. 2 Tim. 2:15). It implies an energetic effort to find God s truth as revealed in the Law, the Mosaic Torah. It echoes 2 Tim.2:15. All this takes time and discipline. Second, Ezra committed himself to do the Law. Obedience followed the preparation of careful study. He was not satisfied with mere knowledge of God s Word. Third, he planned to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel. The word statutes here may refer to the general principles of the Law, while ordinances refers to specific principles. Taken together, this phrase means that Ezra planned to teach the whole Law. Following the Example of Ezra Whether we are pastors or elders, Christian school teachers, Bible study leaders, or parents leading family devotions, this verse has much to tell us about teaching God s Word to others. Do you want God to bless you? Do you want God to bless your ministry? If so, then your next step is to follow the example of Ezra. First, you must commit to studying the Word of God. This does not necessarily mean formal seminary training, but it does entail spending time in the Scriptures and thinking carefully about what they say and how they might apply to us. Second, you must set his heart to do the law of God - obey His commands.

4 Sometimes we think it is enough to study God s Word before we teach it to others, but Ezra wanted to make sure he also was doing it before he was teaching it. Third, only when Ezra had studied and done God s law was he ready to teach his statutes and rules in Israel. May we all endeavor to study and put what we learn into practice as we prepare to teach. This will make us more effective teachers - teaching by example. So, seeking to conform our lives to Christ s is particularly important. Conclusion When we get to chapter 9 we shall see that Ezra brought about a reformation in Israel because the people had backslidden. He could never have done this without applying the Word of God and exercising its authority. In fact, the main theme of the book of Ezra is physical and spiritual restoration for a remnant. This is what we desire for New Life BP Church. Challenge Brothers & Sisters, do you see why I emphasize that we read through the Bible to know its content, and also the importance to study God s Word (specific book)? This is how each of us can grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ, and be always ready to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. Will you encourage one another to begin this Bible Reading & Study journey? I hope the parents will set an example and reinforce this practice in the homes, and NBCs & Fellowship Groups will urge their members to do so too. It might be helpful to set up accountability partners (twos or threes) to check on one your progress. May the Holy Spirit renew and transform us as we commit ourselves to doing what we learn as we teach others. God bless.

5 ANNOUNCEMENTS Session Meeting (Today, Room): Session Members please attend. Senior Sun Sch Teachers: Ps Gan would like to meet all senior SS teachers (Sec 1-JC) on 27 Jan at the Conference Room at 12.35pm right after SS. Youth Conversation: All youths age years are strongly encouraged to attend the Youth Conversation with Ps Gan on the 3 Feb at The Potluck Lunch for Reno 2020: Calling for food contribution from members. If you have a dish you can cook. We need you. Please contact Sis Pei Ling for the food you can contribute. Church Camp (12-15 Jun 2019) Venue: Batam View Beach Resort, Indonesia. Theme: Becoming a Healthy & Vibrant Church in the 21 st Century. Speaker: Rev Ho Chee Lai. Prices: Adult $290 per pax, Seniors/Students $235 per pax, Child (w/o Bed) $140 per pax. 1) Registration starts on 10 Feb 2019 at the Fellowship Hall. 2) Church Camp e-invite: Do invite your loved ones for Church Camp too Please pray and apply your leave to join us for a time of spiritual renewal! Information for Giving towards Reno 2020 Fund: By Electronic means : NEW LIFE BIBLE-PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Standard Chartered Bank Current Account : Kindly to church your name, the amount and reference if you need a receipt or you can use PAYNOW UEN NO. S86SS0058G001 Scan QR Code

6 SUN PRAYER MEETING, Week #3: (20/1/19) (Focus: EVANGELISM /OVERSEAS MISSIONS)) Chairperson: Pastor Gabriel Gan Scripture Reading: Genesis 3 Church Theme 2019 Reaching Out with the Truth But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear. - 1 Peter 3:15 Church Activities / Events A. Pulpit Ministry (27 Jan) Rev Charlet Seet (English) Rev Gabriel Gan (Tamil AM) Rev Nathan (Tamil PM) Rev Lim Chee Boon (Chinese AM) Pr Job Yeo (Chinese PM) Pr William Goh (Ju Eng) B. Sunday School: Junior Dept, Senior Dept, Adults. C. Reno 2020 Committee: Dn William (wisdom to work with Architect and Contractor), Dn Cheng Teck (Relocation), Dn Ivan (Fund Raising); God s wisdom and provision and unity of the church in this journey of faith. Evangelism A. ROF to have godly wisdom as they plan and reach out to the neighbourhood. Pray for more members to join them in this ministry. B. BB/GB 1) Wisdom to befriend and connect them to our church. 2) God s wisdom for Ps Gan, Mrs Gan, Mavis, Dn Ivan, Dolly, Daphne, Justin, Timothy, Jeremy and other volunteers as they served in BB & GB ministry. Salvation of Loved Ones A. All our unsaved loved ones who are still outside God s Kingdom. Pray that God will soften their hearts towards the Gospel. B. 1) Mimi s sons & daughters-in-law; 2) Bro Emmanuel s 3 sons & sister Malou Lim & her 3 children; 3) Eld Sim s mom & JB relative, Sim Sing Guan; 4) Beng Suat s neighbour, Jean; 5) Mrs Gan s parents; 6) Bro

7 Sameer s parents, 7) Mohan s mother & nephew, Sanjay; 8) Eileen Eng s brothers, Richard & Robert. Overseas Missions A. India: Pray for 1) Salvation of souls and spiritual growth of the saved; 2) Pr Manokaran s & Pr Rajesh s mission work in Mamallapuram that their ministry will bear fruit for God s glory. B. China: Pray for Bro Zhi Yan & Rev Li Heng Bo - Serving in a local church. C. London New Life: Pray for 1) God s provision of a resident shepherd; 2) Wisdom and guidance for the Task Force. D. Cambodia: Pray for 1) Children s outreach every Sunday; 2) God s direction for E. Philippines: Bro Manny - God s grace to juggle studies and ministry. Mission Trip in 2019 (8-18 Dec 2019). Pray that the church is willing to support our missionaries with prayer and means so that the work of God will be promoted. Thanksgiving & Prayer Requests A. Thank God for: 1) Justin - Meeting with the BB boys last week and for their O level results. 2) Bro Ronnie Pang - For Joel s safe arrival in London and his visit to New Life London. 3) Dn Ronnie Tan - Good Christmas break and journey mercies to Malaysia and back home to SG. B. Please pray for: 1) Wisdom to those who have received their O lovel results as they decide on where to go next. 2) Bro James Pang - Journey mercies to KL from Jan. 3) God s comfort to Michael Chang whose niece passed away last week. 4) Rev Gan - Wisdom and discernment to prepare for a Gospel Service in Life BPC on 31 Mar.

8 9.00am 9.15am 9.30am 9.30am 11.15am 11.30am 11.30am 2.45pm 7.00pm 7.00pm APPOINTMENTS FOR TODAY (20/01/19) Corporate Prayer - Dn Freddie Tan (1 Peter 4:7) Pre-Service Singing (English) ENGLISH SERVICE Sp: Rev Gabriel Gan Cp: Dn Freddie Tan Song Leader: Bro Justin Gumapon TAMIL SERVICE Sp: Dn Leni Pre-Service Singing (Chinese) Sunday School for All Ages CHINESE SERVICE Sp: Rev Lim Chee Boon Ju Eng Chapel Sp: Rev Koh Hock Heng Cp: Rev Peter Yeo + NBC (Marsiling) CHINESE 2 nd Service Sp: Pr Job Yeo TAMIL 2 nd Service Sp: Dn Ivan Lim WEDNESDAY (23/01/19) 8.00pm Prayer Meeting Cp: Eld Sim Chee Seng 9.00am 9.15am 9.30am 9.30am 11.30am 2.45pm 7.00pm 7.00pm NEXT SUNDAY (27/01/19) Corporate Prayer - Bro Steve Tan (John 14:13) Pre-Service Singing (English) - Bro Justin G. ENGLISH SERVICE Sp: Rev Charlet Seet Cp: Bro Steve Tan Song Leader: Dn Freddie Tan TAMIL SERVICE Sp: Rev Gabriel Gan CHINESE SERVICE Sp: Rev Lim Chee Boon Ju Eng Chapel Sp: Pr William Goh Cp: Rev Koh Hock Heng + SAF CHINESE 2 nd Service Sp: Pr Job Yeo TAMIL 2 nd Service Sp: Rev Nathan Tithes/Offerings 13/01/19 English Chinese A.M Chinese P.M Tamil A.M Tamil P.M Total Reno Fund MYR $12, , , , BLESSINGS TODAY! FLORAL GIFT: Kua Family FELLOWSHIP TEA: Kua Family Service Today: Ushering: Dn Ronnie Tan Bro Gabriel Choo Bro Phua Joo Sun Bro Simon Ko Bro Jay Hu Bro Daniel Lio Pre-Service Singing: Bro Steve Tan PA: Bro Henry Lim & Bro Sameer Amburle Pianist: Sis Alissa Goh Service Next Week: Ushering: Dn Ivan Lim Bro Justin Gumapon Bro Isaac Kua Bro Sameer Amburle Bro Danny Yap Bro Sky Yeo PA: Bro Koh Kok Whye & Bro Nathan Ng Pianist: Bro David Lim PAST 3 MEMORY VERSES Ezra 7:10 1 Pet 3:15 1 Cor 4:5