Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church

Pentecost Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 11 May 2008 03:07:00 +0000

Pentecost Sunday
Today - 11th May - is the Pentecost Sunday. What is its significance to us?

In the Old Testament, as an annual festival, Pentecost is the second of the great Jewish national festivals. It was observed on the 50th day, or 7 weeks, from the Paschal Feast, and was also called “the feast of weeks” or “harvest feast.” The festival begins when the first sheaf is offered at the Passover and ends with the offering of two leavened loaves at Pentecost. These events mark the beginning and ending of the grain harvest, and the period in between is the Pentecostal season.

Pentecost commemorates the giving of the law on Sinai (Exodus 12:2,9), the 50th day after the Exodus. It is also considered the birthday of the Christian church (Acts 2:1, 20:16, 1 Cor 16:8) through the Holy Spirit, who writes Christ’s new law on the heart.

The great feature of the celebration was the presentation of the two loaves made from the first-fruits of the wheat harvest. With the loaves, two lambs were offered as a Peace Offering, and all were waved before Jehovah, and given to the priests; the loaves being leavened, could not be offered on the altar. The other sacrifices were a Burnt Offering of a young bullock, two rams, and seven lambs, with a meat and drink offering, and a kid for a Sin Offering (Leviticus 23:18 – 19). The whole ceremony was a dedication of the harvest to God as its giver, and to whom both the land and the people were holy.

The lesson to Israel was, God “maketh peace in thy borders, He filleth thee with the finest of the wheat” (Psalm 147:14). The people were especially exhorted to rejoice before Jehovah with their families, their servants, the Levite within their gates, the stranger, the fatherless and the widow, in the place chosen by God, for his name, as they brought a free-will offering, of their hand to Jehovah their God (Deut. 16:10 – 11).

In the Exodus, the people were offered to God as living first fruits; at Sinai, their consecration to him as a nation was completed. The typical significance of the Pentecost is made clear, from the events of the day recorded in the Acts chapter 2. Just as the appearance of God on Sinai was the birthday of the Jewish nation, so Pentecost was the birthday of the Christian Church.

The Christian Pentecost marks the official end of the 50 days of the Easter Season (hence “Pente”). It celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the disciples and into the world. It is formally known as the “Birthday of the Christian Church.”

The key lesson at Pentecost is: the disciples were empowered by the Spirit to share the Gospel. Up until then, they had been keeping it to themselves. It is the gift of sharing the Good News boldy, and in such a way as it makes sense to those who hear it. It is not the gift of “speaking in tongues” as some mistakenly think. The apostles spoke in known languages. It is a powerful metaphor for the Church today - it is about who we are supposed to be toward others and what we’re supposed to be doing - its about sharing the Good News.

In Christ,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 11 May 2008 02:28:00 +0000

1. We welcome Dr Robert Rapa from Asia Baptist Theological Seminary of Cornerstone University as the Lord’s messenger to our 1st and 2nd Worship Services today.

2. 6th Youth Mission Trip to Cambodia, 7th to 14th June, 2008: We thank God for the progress made in our preparations. With your support and prayers we raised last week $1735. (Target $6000). Keep also in your prayers our last two training programs and the needed funds. Thanking God for your love and prayers.

3. Moriah 10th Anniversary Thanksgiving Lunch (FREE). Sembawang & Moriah Church Session invite all members and friends to our 10th Anniversary Thanksgiving lunch at Bliss Garden Restaurant, Singapore Expo. We will be celebrating this with a quiz on Moriah’s past events, singing,etc. Register today. Forms are available at the lobby. Fill in your group or individual details and drop it in the box provided at the lobby. Thank you for being a part of our family.

4. Evangelism Workshop: “ Why Evangelize Straightaway?”
Date: 17 May 2008, Time: 7pm ~ 9:30pm
Speaker: Rev Goh Seng Fong, Location: Mandarin Santuary.

This workshop will address the common myths of evangelism, provide compelling reasons why we should evangelize now, give us some expert tips on how to overcome our barriers to evangelism, and help us better relate and reach out to the people of other faiths. All are welcome to join. Register at the E-Booth now ! For more information, please contact Cherie (90889242) or Eileen (98899810)

5. Central Prayer Meeting: God hears and answer prayers. When the outlook is bad try the uplook. Join Central Prayer Meeting every Wednesday, 8:15pm.

Youths For Missions

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 04 May 2008 07:24:00 +0000

Youths For Missions

In Matthew 9:35 we learn from Jesus the pattern for missions. Jesus reached not only to the neglected people who lived in concrete jungles of cities but also the neglected people in the real jungles. Youth Fellowship of Moriah B-P Church had tried to fulfill Jesus pattern both locally and globally. Locally, they spread the gospel in the Simei neighborhood every Sunday and globally, by going for the Youth Mission Trip.

This year’s Youth Mission Trip is our 6th attempt to involve our young people to acquire a love and skill for the global mission work of our Lord Jesus Christ. We thank God that in a short time after the announcement was given our 22 youths responded so quickly to the call to mission work. On this 8-day mission trip we will be reaching out with the gospel to the Cambodian people in Kompong Som and Battambung. Our first stop will be Kompong Som. Rev Moses Hahn, a Life BPC missionary and also a Korean has sacrificed tremendously to start the Kompong Som Bible School. Today the fruits of his labor are evident. Many hundreds came to know Jesus Christ and 17 BP churches planted throughout Cambodia. Our second stop will be Battambang. Evangelist Paul Sokha, our missionary based there from 2001 is doing a great youth work for the Lord and has started 2 mission stations.

The Youth Mission team will have a full week packed with many activities. One of the highlights is for the young people to do hands-on work in the fields erecting fencing and painting the mission house, swings, building hut of straw. We will also be conducting a 2-day seminar for 40 youths in Battambung. Our youth will also be leading children in songs, games and story-telling, house-to-house evangelism and sharing of testimonies & teaching English lessons to school children.This trip which will further develop many aspects of our youth’s availability, capabilities and abilities to reach out.

While God has opened this wonderful door for us to develop a greater heart of compassion for His people around the world, the exciting part is that you will be able to share in this compassion in two ways. First, you can help pray for us that God will grant us journey mercies, good health, and bless all our efforts as we minister to the people of Cambodia. We will also need prayers that our financial needs will be met. The total cost of the Youth Mission trip is above $10,000. We pray and hope to raise $6000/- to cover the expenses on travel. Another way you can be involved is to help provide that financial support.

Whether you feel led to contribute financially, through prayer, or both, all of your support is appreciated. We thank God for our members and friends usual support for missions.

The Great Commission in Mt 28:19,20 is an everyday commission. No matter where we are we should be involved in reaching out to the unreached. As some one has said ‘ Every heart with Jesus Christ is a missionary and every heart without Jesus Christ is the mission field’. May God bless our mission endeavours.

In Christ, we serve together,
Pr. Mathews Abraham

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 04 May 2008 07:09:00 +0000

1. Rev Robert Chew brings the message to our 1st & 2nd Worship Services today.

2. Evangelism Workshop: “ Why Evangelize Straightaway?”
Date: 17 May 2008, Time: 7pm ~ 9:30pm
Speaker: Rev Goh Seng Fong, Location: Mandarin Santuary.

This worshop will address the common myths of evangelism, provide compelling reasons why we should evangelize now, give us some expert tips on how to overcome our barriers to evangelism, and help us better relate and reach out to the people of other faiths. All are welcome to join. Register at the E-Booth now ! For more information, please contact Cherie (90889242) or Eileen (98899810)

3. 6th Youth Mission Trip to Cambodia, 7th to 14th June, 2008. We thank God for our 22 youths’ enthusiasm to be a part of the global mission work. They have already started their 4 part training program. They will be doing a host of activities like conducting a 2-day youth seminar, fencing the 4 hectare mission compound, painting of the Bible School in Kompong Som, construction of a hut, teaching English & Sunday School etc. Do support the youths in their efforts to raise $6000 towards the costs of the mission. Please keep the youths and their preparation in your prayers. Thanking God for your love and prayers.

4. Moriah 10th Anniversary Thanksgiving Lunch (FREE). Sembawang & Moriah Church Session invite all members and friends to our 10th Anniversary Thanksgiving lunch at Bliss Garden Restaurant, Singapore Expo. We will be celebrating this with a quiz on Moriah’s past events, singing,etc. Register today. Forms are available at the lobby. Fill in your group or individual details and drop it in the box provided at the lobby. Thank you for being a part of our family.

Reminder: You Are A Pilgrim! (1 Peter 2:9~12)

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 04 May 2008 01:43:00 +0000

Title: Reminder: You Are A Pilgrim! (1 Peter 2:9~12)
Speaker: Rev Robert Chew

Home Care Group (HCG) Ministry

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Although there were several Bible Study groups in existence, the Moriah HCG Ministry was only formally established in 2005.

The aims of the HCG ministry are fourfold:

Build and strengthen the bond in Christ for mutual encouragement and support through regular gatherings
Equip with the truth from God’s Word for spiritual growth and perseverance in the Christian faith
Thanksgiving and intercession for one another, for the Church and the Body of Christ as a whole
Extend pastoral care and feedback for pastoral ministering and prayers

Currently, there are 6 HCGs, most with different group profiles and programmes. With an average membership of 15 to 20 people (some including children) per HCG, the programmes vary from having special guests sharing with the group on communication, parenting, mission, etc to topical studies on faith, parables, biblical marriage/ parenting and commands of Christ. In some HCGs, the children participate actively in the main HCG programme while in other HCGs, separate programmes catering to the children may be held

In a Church, there is always a need for closer fellowship to be fostered, particularly as we lived in troubled end times. It is my prayer for more members and friends to commit their time and hearts to be involved in this small-group ministry and for God to raise more leaders to meet this need.

As we celebrate God’s goodness and grace to Moriah for the past 10 years, may we all desire to know the blessings and responsibilities that comes by being a member of the Body of Christ.

Colossians 3:14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness (unity).

Join Us!

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:00:00 +0000

Interested to visit, join or get a new HCG started?
Please contact Dn Lim Chien Wei at chien7@singnet.com.sg

Leader: William Ong
When: Every 1st & 3rd Fri , 8 pm
Where: Members’ homes
Profile: Adults
Program/Activity: Bible study, prayer & special outings

Leader: Dn. George Jhoon Tang
When: Every 2nd & 4th Fri , 8 pm
Where: Church Library
Profile: Adults
Program/Activity: Bible study, prayer & annual gathering

Leader: Elder Handson Fu & Ya Yin (Brothers’ Keepers)
When: Every last Friday, 7:15 pm
Where: Members’ homes
Profile: Adults
Program/Activity: Potluck dinner, Bible-based activities, corporate prayer & special outings

Leader: Paul Wong & Lim Tow Ee
When: Monthly, Fri or Sat
Where: Members’ homes
Profile: Young Adults
Program/Activity: Bible study, prayer & special outings

Leader: Max Tsang & Lim Chien Wei (Northern Pathfinders)
When: Every Sat, 7:45 pm (except last Sat. of the month)
Where: Members’ homes
Profile: Adults/ Children
Program/Activity: Adult and junior Bible study, prayer & special outings/ activities

Leader: Vincent Chong (Pilgrim Partners)
When: Every 2nd & 4th Sat, 7 to 9 pm
Where: Members’ homes
Profile: Adults
Program/Activity: Bible study, prayer & special outings

Testimonies from HCGs

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 16:00:00 +0000

1. Fu Ya Yin (Brothers’ Keepers)

Our first meeting in Aug 2005 was a gathering of 18 members and friends of Moriah. Named “Brothers’ Keepers” some months later, the group today has grown to 22 family members and couples. We continue to meet every last Friday of each month starting with a time of potluck dinner fellowship followed by a planned programme. This typically would consist of a time of singing, followed by a Bible-based activity involving drama, reading of a story or game, always with the aim to enhance members’ learning and appreciation of the Bible and broader spiritual issues. A short message or devotion by invited guests or by Elder Hanson Fu would follow with the meeting ending with a time of corporate prayer, enthusiastically participated by all members. All members, young and old, would lead independently in different parts of the programme. The aim is to nurture and hone skills of members to enable them to lead others to Christ.

We thank God for the approach of our own “third anniversary” this August 2008. May the Lord continue to sustain Brothers’ Keepers with unique and interesting meetings for many more years ahead!

2. Diana Voun (HCG under Paul Wong / Lim Tow Ee)

I always thank the Lord for bringing many people into my life so as to mutually encourage, uphold, edify and love. After becoming a child of God, I count myself blessed as I am always able to fellowship with my fellow brethren in a comfortable manner. I truly want to thank our Church for establishing this Home Care Group (HCG) Ministry. As a member of a HCG, the feeling is just like belonging to an extended family in our Christian walk as we take turns to visit one another’s home and family. We also care enough to listen, pray and love one another with a sincere heart.

I thank the Lord for sustaining our group without fail and enabling regular meetings to be held. Our group is made of married couples with children, newly weds, soon to be wedded as well as the singles and available. Most of us are working adults; so in short, you can called us the mature and steady group. Despite our busy schedule, all of us will commit a day in a month to meet and to learn God’s Word together. During our sharing, we will challenge one another to serve God and to be a doer of His word so that we would be able to grow to be more like Christ.

People may come and go. What remains is our love and bond with one another and the sweet memories in our hearts. This beautiful friendship that we have formed through the years is really a special gift that God has given to everyone of us and this is definitely more precious that anything that we could buy with money.

3. Evelyn Tsang (Northern Pathfinders)

Walking right with God requires one to stay “on-track” in the straight and narrow path for broad is the way that leads to destruction but narrow is the way to eternal life (Matthew 7:13-14). How does one do so amidst a wayward world that is drawing you into the rat race and compromises? Well, for us, being in a Bible-believing Church and a Home Care Group serves as a “plumb line” in one’s walk with the Lord. Indeed, the Father rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). Through sharing, encouragement, praying and growing together in the Lord, our faith is strengthened as we sojourn together on this straight and narrow path. Remember, a threefold cord is not quickly broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12).

Our Northern Pathfinders HCG first came together as a Bible-study group in 1987/88 during our old Sembawang days. God’s sovereign hand has sustained our group through the many challenges and changes for the past 20 years. At the start of 2008, for the very first time, we held a prayer retreat for all 3 distinct groups in our midst: men, ladies & children. We are also very thrilled about the Junior Pathfinders programme that we incorporate this year to lead our children in studying God’s Word and Christian fellowship.

I treasure the strong bond in Christ and I can’t imagine how life would be without such a group supporting me through the years. Till today, this HCG still serves as my “plumb line” in my walk with God. I can testify of the countless moments where God had been and still is real to each one of us in the group. As we look at today’s world, some choose to complain to God for the thorns among the roses; I choose to thank God for the roses among the thorns. To all my soul mates in my group, thank you all for being a bunch of roses to me. All praise and thanks to our Heavenly Father.

4. Vincent Chong (Pilgrim Partners)

“These all died in faith… and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” Hebrew 11:13

All praise and glory be ascribed to our God for bringing like-minded Christian brethren to fellowship together in our new Home Care Group established at the start of 2008 with seven families. We begin each meeting with an opening prayer and some songs of praise, follow by an hour of in-depth study of God’s Word and His principles by the adults. The children have their “Biblical Character” lessons in a separate setting. We end each meeting with a time of prayer and thanksgiving followed by supper.

The name “Pilgrim Partners” was chosen for our HCG to remind us that we are fellow brethren in Christ sojourning together as aliens and strangers on earth as we await our heavenly home and inheritance when our Lord appears again in His glory. Our theme song “Make Me a Stranger” reinforces the biblical conviction that our inner disposition, thinking and affections should point towards heavenly things in the light of our Christian pilgrim status. Our theme verse for 2008 is taken from Ephesians 4:13-15 which exhorts us to pursue Christ likeness in every area of our lives.

We are committed to building a genuine God-honouring fellowship whereby Christian living is experienced through honest sharing, unselfish love, practical serving, sacrificial giving and sympathetic comforting. Though our group is new, we are grateful to the Lord for uniting us in His Son that we may use our spiritual gifts to edify one another so that we all conform to the image of Christ our Lord to the glory of His name.

Brothers' Keepers HCG

Northern Pathfinders HCG

Dn. Paul Wong's HCG

Pilgrim Partners HCG

Dn. Jhoon Tang's HCG

"Occupy Till I Come" Luke 19:13

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 07:03:00 +0000

“Occupy till I come”
Luke 19:13

All ability and talent come from God and are to be used to gain more.

In the parables of the Ten Minas (Luke 19:11 - 27) and the Talents (Matt. 25:14 – 30), the servants given the “minas” and the “talents” who did not produce the expected gain were respectively described by Jesus as “worthless” and “lazy.” This is not something sincerely enthusiastic believers of the Lord Jesus Christ would like to hear about themselves. But there it is, as clear as daylight. Those who do not use their God-given ability to produce more gain are worthless and lazy! Why?

First, let us recognize that all ability and “talent” come from God; given to us out of His mercy and grace: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights...” (James 1:17). These grace gifts are dispensed according to His sovereign will, Ecclesiastes 2:26 and Romans 12:6 confirm this truth: “For God giveth to a man that is good in his sight...” and “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith.” And they all come through Jesus Christ, as the verse “unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ” (Eph. 4:7) confirms.

Regrettably, there is an inward looking aspect to the God-given “talents” to which we fall easy prey. Ecclesiastes 5:19 says that they are also given to man for him to “eat thereof ... and to rejoice ... it is the gift of God.” However, if we stop there selfishly, then I fear the words “worthless” and “lazy” would be apt descriptions of our stewardship.

For us, undeserving believer recipients of His grace and blessings, there is a grand, noble purpose which we have to rise to. All our God-given ability and talent are to be used and directed to two areas. Internally, (i.e., within the Church, the body of Christ) to “minister one to another” (1 Peter 4: 10), and externally (i.e., to those outside the church) to “go ... teach ... baptise...” (Matt. 28: 19).

In summary, that is the purpose of the God-given ability and talent (spiritual gifts) - to be used in ministry to one another. They are not given to us so that we will have a spiritual superiority complex nor to draw attention to ourselves. None of us can ever say that he is more spiritual than a Christian brother or sister simply because God has given us a gift which they do not possess.

“Minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” That is the highest calling of the Christian—to so live under the lordship of Jesus Christ that we acknowledge that He alone is our Master. Then we are called to serve Him and His people. We are the willing servants of Christ who have the delight of dispensing His grace in its varied forms. We minister to each other and build up the body of Christ by using the grace gifts that God has entrusted to us.

In Christ,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 07:00:00 +0000

1. Pr Mathews Abraham brings the message to our 1st & 2nd Worship Services today.

2. Praise God for the big turn-out of members at our ACM last Sunday, the smooth and expeditious conduct of the meeting, and the unanimous endorsement of the new Constitution. Pray for expeditious approval by the Registrar of Societies for its implementation.

3. Elders Handson Fu, Ernest Heng and Phua Chor Kok and Deacon Jimmy Wee were re-elected for a further of 3 years. Pray that the Lord will grant them wisdom, strength and joy to continue their service.

4. Baptism & Membership Class resumes today.

5. Evangelism Workshop: “ Why Evangelize Straightaway?”
Date: 17 May 2008, Time: 7pm ~ 9:30pm
Speaker: Rev Goh Seng Fong, Location: Mandarin Santuary.

This worshop will address the common myths of evangelism, provide compelling reasons why we should evangelize now, give us some expert tips on how to overcome our barriers to evangelism, and help us better relate and reach out to the people of other faiths. All are welcome to join. Register at the E-Booth now ! For more information, please contact Cherie (90889242) or Eileen (98899810)

6. 6th Youth Mission Trip to Cambodia, 7th to 14th June, 2008. We thank God for our 22 youths enthusiasm to be a part of the global mission work. They have already started their 4 part training program. They will be doing a host of activities like conducting a 2-day youth seminar, fencing the 4 hectare mission compound, painting of the Bible School in Kompong Som, construction of a hut, teaching English & Sunday School etc. Do support the youths in their efforts to raise $6000 towards the costs of the mission. Please keep the youths and their preparation in your prayers. Thanking God for your love and prayers.

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Power Of Words

A careless word may kindle strife, A cruel word may wreck a life,
A bitter word may hate instill; A brutal word may smite and kill,

A gracious word may smooth the way; A joyous word may light the day.
A timely word may lessen stress; A loving word may heal and bless.

The Awesome Power Of The Tongue (James 3:1~12)

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 01:51:00 +0000

Title:The Awesome Power Of The Tongue (James 3:1~12)
Speaker: Pr Mathews Abraham

The Global Flood: Fact or Fiction?

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 02:16:00 +0000

Title: The Global Flood: Fact or Fiction?
Speaker: Dr David Catchpoole of Creation Ministries

Exercising Your Right As Members of A Presbyterian Church

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 02:50:00 +0000

Exercising Your Right As Members
of A Presbyterian Church

Today members will be called to attend the church’s Annual Congregation Meeting, in which they will exercise their right to vote for church leaders, approve the revised Constitution of the church, and the annual budget. I pray that they will exercise this right with diligence and understanding.

It may thus be appropriate for me to say a few words to you on Presbyterianism (our denominational structure) and what is the basis for it. This I hope will provide the background to what you are called to do today. I’ll be as brief and simple as possible.

There are three basic types of church government: Episcopalian (e.g. Anglicans), Presbyterian (Rule by Ministers and Elders), and Congregational (Independent, rule by members). They all agree that Jesus Christ is the King and Head of the Church, but they differ on how Christ, who is now in heaven, administers His headship.

Episcopalians hold that authority comes from Christ, through the Bible, and is administered by a hierarchy of Archbishops, Bishops, and lesser subordinate officers, and finally governs the laity (members of the churches). Presbyterians hold the view that, under Christ the Head and King of the Church, there is but one class of rulers – Elders and Ministers (who are also the ordained teachers of the church). “Presbyterian” comes from the Greek “presbuteros” which is translated “elder” in English.

Obviously, we hold the view that Presbyterianism is closer than the others to the biblical model. Here is one reason why.

Rule by elders alone is found in the Bible. Of course, after Christ’s resurrection and His ascension shortly after Pentecost (Acts chapters 1 and 2), the Apostles ruled. The Apostle Paul took it upon himself to declare what the will of Christ was for the church. In Ephesians 4:11& 12 he says, He (Christ) gave (to the church) some as apostles, some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ. These were the gifted men that Jesus raised up to build the New Testament Church.

In true Presbyterian churches, all rule is by elders (including ministers or “teaching elders” and non-teaching elders). The only higher office in the church is that of Head of the Church, held by Jesus Christ. And under the teachers and elders (the “Sessions” of the church) are the members, including teachers and elders.

So it goes without saying, all elders need to be well qualified and to know the Bible in order to honour Christ in their office. They must know the Scriptures so as to rule righteously. Some elders, however, are called to teach or preach the Word. The distinction is clearly set forth in 1 Tim. 5:17.

Therefore, this is the part you play in exercising your right in our church: you choose, support, vote for, and more importantly, pray for people who give their lives and time to serve you.

In Christ,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 02:47:00 +0000

1. We welcome Rev Tan Choon Seng of Shalom BP Church as the Lord’s messenger to our 1st and 2nd Worship Services today.

2. Members, please be punctual for today’s ACM and register your attendance at the main sanctuary entrance by 1.00 pm. For those who have ordered, lunch will be open from 12.00pm for the first and Mandarin services, and 12.30pm for the second service. Please come prepared with your ACM booklet and Financial Report & Budget. Those who are unable to stay for the whole length of the ACM may be excused at any point after voting on the Constitution and the re-election of Session members.

3. There is no Junior Sunday School today, due to the ACM.However, Junior Worship will carry on as usual.

4. There will be no Baptism & Membership Class today due to the ACM. Class will resume on 27th April.

5. Did “Noah’s Flood” really happen? Come for this Friday’s evening seminar on “The Great Flood: Fact or Fiction?” by Dr. David Catchpoole of Creation Ministries International, 25 April 8.00 pm at Moriah church sanctuary and see for yourself the amazing evidence from a science perspective.

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Rise Up, O Church of God

Rise up, O Church of God!
Have done with lesser things;
Give heart and soul and strength.
To serve the King of Kings

Lift high the cross of Christ!
Tread where His feet have trod;
As followers of the Son of Man,
Rise up, O Church of God!

- William F Merrill (adapted)

Approval of God (Matthew 3:13~17)

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 02:45:00 +0000

Title: Approval of God (Matthew 3:13~17)
Speaker: Rev Tan Choon Seng

In The Service Of The king (Matthew 21:28~31, 1 Cor 3:5~15)

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 07:07:00 +0000

Title:In The Service Of The king (Matthew 21:28~31, 1 Cor 3:5~15)
Speaker: Elder Phua Chor Kok

Idolatry, Pride, And The Lesson of Babel

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 06:53:00 +0000

Idolatry, Pride, And The Lesson of Babel
The Apostle Paul describes the origin of idolatry in Romans 1: 21 as: “when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”

Idolatry originally meant the worship of idols, or the worship of false gods by means of idols, but came to mean in the Old Testament any worship of false gods, whether by images or otherwise, and finally the worship of Yahweh through visible symbols. In the New Testament idolatry came to mean, not only the giving to any creature or human creation the honour or devotion which belonged to God alone, but giving precedence to any human desire over God’s will.

Pride on the other hand is a hindrance to seeking God; Psalm 10:4 states: “The wicked, through the pride of his counternance, will not seek after God.”

When left to themselves, men seek their own glory. Anxious to gain power and be remembered, they build cities, fashion artefacts, and congratulate each other. But fame is fleeting. Memories fade, people scatter, and the achievements of today become tomorrow’s ruins.

Genesis 11 tells the tale of the rise of a great metropolis. Babel, founded by Nimrod the “mighty man,” enjoyed success as a cultural centre. One language and group thinking produced an impressive collective identity. As a result, it also gave men undue pride. Pride gave way to arrogance which led to the cheer “let us make us a name” (v. 4). The chosen mechanism for human glory was a tower. By building up and out, these people sought to preserve their own legacy and cultural power.

By building the tower and centralizing their cultural efforts, the people of Babel defied God. In the creation ordinance, God mandated that humans should multiply, spread out, and cultivate the earth. The Lord intended that the earth be filled with representations of His glory; but men despised this desire and shunned dispersal. Concentrating in Babel alone, they demonstrated contempt for the divine cultural agenda.

The architects of Babel quickly found themselves opposed by God. By seeking to exalt their own name, they elicited a divine response. God intervened in the midst of Babel’s self-glorifying plans, confused their ability to communicate, and dispersed them throughout the earth. God’s act of judgment was also an act of grace. Had the sons of Nimrod succeeded in their bid for human glory, they would have believed the lie that human beings are sovereign and not God. Under such conditions, no sin would be unthinkable for them. God does not share His glory with men, but rather displays His glory among the nations for His own name’s sake.

The story of Babel holds a lesson for modern man. God will oppose those who are puffed up (James 4: 6). The term James uses means God will “range in battle against” the proud – a frightening thought!

In Christ,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 06:51:00 +0000

1. Elder Phua Chor Kok brings the message to our 1st and 2nd Worship Services today.

2. Calling All Members: If you have not done so yet, please collect your ACM pack at the front lobby desk today for our ACM next Sunday (20th April). Do read through, pray for the Lord’s guidance and blessing and be sure to bring along the ACM pack to attend and participate in this important meeting which concerns all of us and our church. We need an attendance of at least 137 to vote on the new Constitution - we need YOU.

3. Elders Handson Fu, Ernest Heng & Phua Chor Kok and Dns Jimmy Wee & Eric Lee, complete their 3-year term at this ACM. Except for Dn Lee, they humbly submit themselves to the members for re-election. Do uphold them and all our Session members in your prayer support. Our appreciation to Dn Lee for his faithful services over the years, may God bless him.

4. For those who wish to have lunch (12pm) on the ACM day (20 April 2008), please order your lunch packet after the worship service at the Tea fellowship area.

5. There is no Junior Sunday School next Sunday, 20th April due to the ACM. However, Junior Worship will carry on as usual.

6. There will be no Baptism & Membership Class next Sunday, 20th April due to the ACM. Class will resume on 27th April.

7. Moriah & Grace BP Churches are organising a special talk on - “The Global Flood: Fact or Fiction ?” by Dr David Catchpoole of Creation Ministries International on Friday, 25 April, 8pm at Moriah BP Church Sanctuary. We encourage you to come and have your knowledge confirmed and faith strenghted. For more information on the seminar please take a copy of the brochure from the lobby table.

8. 6th Youth Mission Trip:
Date: 6th to 13th June 2008, Destination: CAMBODIA, Cost: $150, Eligibility: all youths aged between 13~25 yrs of age.
Sign up: Closes 1st week of May. For more details, please contact Pr. Mathews @ 98779779 or Janice @ 90218660.

A Passion For Souls (Matthew 9:35~38)

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 02:31:00 +0000

Title: A Passion For Souls (Matthew 9:35~38)
Speaker: Rev Robert Chew

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? -Matthew 16:26

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 02:22:00 +0000

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26

What do Jesus’ words in the verse mean in the light of our church theme for this year – Walk Worthily?

The verse here is Jesus’ call to us to a cross-bearing discipleship. It was uttered in the context of verses 24 to 28 of chapter 16 of Matthew’s gospel. The context of this paragraph of scripture is Jesus’ counsel to us that if we were to follow after Him, we ought to “deny” ourselves and “take up” our crosses.

The lifestyle of the people of God, the church, is to be aligned with Christ in His suffering. The disciple is called to be a servant, to bear the identity of the Cross in living for Christ and His kingdom. Peter wrote later of our taking the “death route” saying, “He that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God” (1 Pet 4:2). And Paul writes of our break with the old man, a break as decisive as death, and of the old man being replaced by a new man (Col 3: 9 – 10). This break from the old life he calls the crucifixion of the old man. As we read in Romans 6:6, our old man is crucified by identification with Him, so that the sin-nature may be “destroyed.” These references deal with the nature of the inner transformation wrought by the grace of Christ. But in the passage in Matthew 16: 24 – 28 Jesus is expressing the nature of His calling to discipleship.

Discipleship, in the sphere of conduct, means saying no to the sinful ego; it means being prepared to suffer in the company of Christ; it means giving up selfish ambition and, in so doing, finding one’s true self in the fellowship of Christ.

On these verses, Mathew Henry, the classic bible teacher says, “A true disciple of Christ is one that does follow him in duty, and shall follow him to glory. He is one that walks in the same way Christ walked in, is led by his Spirit, and treads in his steps, whithersoever he goes.”

If self-denial is a hard demand, it is no more than what our Lord learned and practised to redeem us and to teach us.

The world, the devil, and a man’s own heart are opposed to his salvation; therefore it is difficult. The soul was made for God, and can never be united to him, nor be happy, till saved from sin: therefore it is necessary.

In Christ,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 02:18:00 +0000

1. Rev Robert Chew brings the message to our 1st and 2nd Worship Services today.

2. Calling All Members: Please collect your ACM pack at the front lobby desk today for our ACM in 2 week’s time (20th April). Do read through, pray for the Lord’s guidance and blessing and be sure to attend and participate in this important meeting which concerns all of us and our church. We need an attendance of at least 137 to vote on the new Constitution - we need YOU.

3. Elders Handson Fu, Ernest Heng & Phua Chor Kok and Deacons Eric Lee & Jimmy Wee, who were last elected in 2005, complete their 3-year term at this ACM. They humbly submit themselves to the members for re-election. If re-elected, God willing, their will continue to serve till the ACM in 2011. Do uphold them and all our Session members in your prayer support.

4. For those who wish to have lunch on the ACM day (20 April 2008), please order your lunch packet after the worship service at the Tea fellowship area.

5. HPF 10th Anniversary. Paris Ris Park (Pit #38) For Games + BBQ
Theme: Walking In Love, Speaker: Rev Robert Chew
Date: 12th April (Saturday)
Meeting Time/Place: Meet 2:30pm in Church (HPF Room).
For those interested, please approach any HPF Committee members or Weijian (HP 90071337) or Daniel (HP 96951558)

6. Moriah & Grace BP Churches are organising a special talk on - “Global Flood: Fact or Fiction ?” by Dr David Catchpoole of Creation Ministries International on Friday, 25 April, 7pm at Moriah BP Church Sanctuary For more information on the seminar please take a copy of the brochure from the lobby table.

7. 6th Youth Mission Trip:
Date: 6th to 13th June 2008, Destination: CAMBODIA, Cost: $150, Eligibility: all youths aged between 13~25 yrs of age.
Sign up: Closes 1st week of May. For more details, please contact Pr. Mathews @ 98779779 or Janice @ 90218660.

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. Corinthians 1:18

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 03:48:00 +0000

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
1 Corinthians 1:18

Today is the second Sunday of Easter; and with the historical events of Christ’s death on Good Friday and His resurrection on Sunday, it is perhaps appropriate for us to take stock of where we are today, and on what do we stand.

In the verse above, Paul says, “the preaching of the cross” is “foolishness” to “them that perish”, but it is “the power of God” to those who are saved.

In making this argument, the apostle Paul is reminding the church that while its gospel does not measure up to the world’s standards (that is why it is “foolishness”), it is nonetheless the only word of salvation to those who believe.

The church in every century has had to resist, sometimes not too successfully, the temptation to try to augment the gospel. For the first-century Jew, dying on a cross signified that one was under God’s curse. The Old Testament idea was that God showed His happiness with an individual by pouring out material blessings and His unhappiness by sending judgment in the form of illness, loss, or trouble. The ultimate form of loss was death, and only criminals of the worst sort were crucified. Then Paul came along and proclaimed that the Cross was not a curse but God’s special revelation of His love and grace. Quite naturally the Jews stumbled over this.

What is meant by “the preaching of the cross...is the power of God”?

Adam Clarke, the classic Bible commentator, says that where the preaching of the gospel is concerned, there are tow classes of people: first, the unbelievers and gainsayers (those who speak against or dispute the gospel); and second, the obedient believers, those “who are in a state of salvation.”

Therefore, the “preaching of the cross” must mean two things: (1) That Christ died as an atoning sacrifice for the sins of people; and, (2) That people can be reconciled to God, pardoned, and saved only by the merits and influence of this atoning sacrifice.

The expression “the power of God” means that it is the way in which God exerts his power in the salvation of people. It is the power which goes forth to save, and by which all the obstacles of man’s redemption are taken away.

After the first resurrection Sunday, all believers are equipped with this power to preach the cross.

In Him,
Rev Robert Chew

News & Announcements

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 03:40:00 +0000

1. We welcome Mr Gn Chiang Tat to our pulpit today, as he brings the Lord’s message to our 1st and 2nd worship services.

2. Members, please collect your copy of a letter from the Church Session at the front desk today which gives all an update on a few further amendments to the Church Constitution, resulting from feedback received at the presentations made at the end of last year. These will be included in the revised Constitution to be adopted at the coming ACM.

3. The ACM will be held on Sunday 20 April 08 at Moriah, which will also include the election of Elders and Deacons for those whose 3-year terms are up. We urge all members to make it a point NOT to miss this very important meeting which requires your full support. More details will follow from next week on.

4. There is no Junior Sunday School today. But Junior Worship will carry on as usual. All children from Nursery to Primary 6 to gather in the courtyard today for Junior Worship. There is a meeting today for all teachers in the Junior Worship and Junior Sunday School. Meet in Grace classroom at 11:15am.

5. HPF 10th Anniversary. Paris Ris Park (Pit #38) For Games + BBQ
Theme: Walking In Love
Speaker: Rev Robert Chew
Date: 12th April (Saturday)
Meeting Time/Place: Meet 2:30pm in Church (HPF Room).
For those interested, please approach any HPF Committee members or Weijian (HP 90071337) or Daniel (HP 96951558)

6. Teachers’ Workshop by Children Ministry - ‘Engaging Your Students’.
Calling all in the Children Ministry and those who are interested. Learn how to engage your students through process skills used in facilitation conducted by our very own in-house facilitator, Ms Jennifer Tan.
Date : 5th April 08 @ Aranda Country Club ( 8.30a.m to 5.30p.m.)
Cost : $5 (students) $10 (adults) (inclusive of lunch, tea breaks and starter kit for facilitators)
Registration : last day today at 11:15am in the courtyard.
Person-in-charge : Mrs Grace Seah

God Is Our Ultimate Audience - Matthew 6:1~18

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 02:44:00 +0000

Title:
Speaker: Mr Gn Chiang Tat

The Resurrection: A Witnessing Power !

noreply@blogger.com (Moriah Bible-Presbyterian Church) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 04:08:00 +0000

The Resurrection:
A Witnessing Power!

Christ is Risen! He is risen indeed!

Today we can with grateful hearts exclaim that !

Let me adapt a lesson from John Wright’s book, Golden Grain, to share with you on what practically the resurrection means to all of us.

The resurrection of Jesus was God’s seal and act of approval signifying that His death was sufficient. God the Father was pleased, and satisfied with His victorious life and death. In raising Him from the dead, God gave testimony that all was satisfactory.

In 1 Cor 15:51, Paul, in speaking of the resurrection says, “Behold, I show you a mystery...” He did not try to define or explain it. It is a mystery that is meant to be shown.

In Acts 1:8, the Lord does not use the word “witness” to just mean someone who gives a testimony. He is saying “witness” is a person who, with the power of the Holy Spirit, is willing to let his life be slain in order that the life of the Christ may be lived through him. He becomes a witness, a testimony of the power of God. That is when the individual life becomes a witness, a testimony. The word “witness” here means “martyr”; one who is willing to let his very life go for the sake of the Truth.

The power of His resurrection possessed the disciples, and the power of the resurrection is always a witnessing power. The resurrection is a witness. The power that God uses in raising Jesus from the dead is resurrection power unto a witness. When does He say, “I will pour the Holy Spirit upon you”? After the resurrection, for now there is resurrection quality in the power that is to come upon them. They are now ministering in resurrection power.

The Lord’s Supper provides another indication of this. It is a type of regeneration and resurrection. The emblems of bread and wine decompose and ferment, speaking of death. Then comes a higher form of life both in the bread and wine. The process is the same in both. In the bread we have the yeast, the leaven, which speaks of sin. This is no longer active as it decomposes, and is changed. In the wine there is also fermentation - death, showing that its old form is changed.

The Lord’s Spirit is given for a very special purpose. Jesus now makes that clear: “Ye shall receive power … and ye shall be witnesses unto me.” The power would be given specifically for being witnesses. Power here means supernatural power of the quality revealed in Jesus’ own life. Why do we need that kind of power? Look at His own awesome promise in John 14:12 – 14. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.”

He clearly tells us that He will continue to do what He did in His ministry. That means love without limits; primary concern for people; communication of truth; healing of minds, emotions and bodies; and foot-washing practical service.

May this Easter be truly a blessed one for you.