Yishun Christian Church (Lutheran): Recent Episodes
Yishun Christian Church (Lutheran)
Yishun Christian Church (Lutheran) is a member church of the Lutheran Church in Singapore (LCS). This channel contains recorded sermons delivered during the Divine Service at our church every Sunday morning from 11am.
You are most welcome to visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/YCCLutheran.
We hope that you will find our channel useful and we look forward to seeing you at our Divine Service, or at any of our ministries or events.
The Lord be with you!
Are you serving in the church yet finding yourself distant from God? Have you been hiding from Him, even though He is ready to help you? God has not given up calling us, even if we keep Him at arm's length, often replacing Him with our work and family. In today’s sermon, Rev. Dr. William Chang explained how guilt paralyses us, preventing us from moving forward and keeping us lukewarm in our faith. Are we hiding from God? Are there areas of our lives that we need to confess and seek His forgiveness? Return to God, who desires us as His own and repeatedly calls us back to be His children.
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Today's Sunday Service was a celebration of Father's Day, underscoring the profound sanctity of fatherhood. Preacher Allan Ng, in his sermon, drew parallels between God the Father's relationship with Jesus and earthly father-son dynamics, discussing how aligning the latter with the former could achieve God's vision for spiritual revival. The highlight came when our young adults and youths expressed their love and gratitude for their fathers. The service culminated in a moving prayer led by Rev Dr William Chang, who blessed and honoured all the fathers in our congregation.
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"Living in alignment with God's will leads to a flourishing life, or a life of shalom, where we experience peace with God. However, a flourishing life is not a perfect life; challenges and difficulties will still arise. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can understand the troubles we face and remain steadfast in the place where God intends us to be. When we honor God and prioritize Him in our lives, others will be drawn to us. In doing so, we become the salt and light of the earth, leading people to Jesus."
Excerpt from today's sermon by Rev Dr William Chang on how the Holy Spirit can lead us to live victoriously as Christians.
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How does the Holy Spirit empower us? Can we walk with Christ without the Holy Spirit? How do we know if we have the Holy Spirit? These are the important issues addressed by Pr Allan Ng at today's Pentecost Season Divine Service. Be assured that the Holy Spirit is given to all believers, already dwelling within us, for without whom faith in Christ would not have arisen!
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VZefmvUCPs4
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yFBWqmqyiFs6MxXz9FtIEyMuI4-A8_nY/view?usp=sharing
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1FM5FMq0jYjICVXRURoOCWyqg_Ep0XR0t/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Jesus did not dwell on the disbelief and weaknesses of the disciples but looked into their future spiritual maturity when He prayed for God the Father to strengthen the church in His Name. It is inevitable that even believers sin and are tempted by the devil. Do we therefore wish that our problems would go away or ought we to pray for the power to overcome them? Br Lim Geok Seng at today's sermon explained the relevance of Jesus' parting prayer to our walk with Christ. May God empower us to be the salt and light of the world, even though we are not of this world!
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Br Cheng Eng Hwa's Mother's Day sermon today highlighted the extraordinary privilege of motherhood, bestowed by God. He emphasized that a believing mother's duty extends far beyond providing for her children materially or ensuring secular success. Her greatest responsibility is to nurture their faith and instill in them godly values. The Divine Service also included touching expressions of gratitude and love toward mothers by both the young adult and children ministries.
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Join us in reflecting on Rev Dr William Chang's sober message today! 🕊️ The church is God's chosen instrument to spread His love across the world. Love, as taught by Christ, is not merely a feeling but a proactive willingness to seek the best for others. This active love is a direct outcome of our obedience to God's Word. Remember, the way we love others reflects the true state of our faith. If we fail to love actively, it reveals a distortion in our faith. Let's not take this lightly—perfect love fulfills God's purpose. Embrace this call to love and let our lives be transformed! 💖
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In today's Good Shepherd Sunday sermon, Ps Cheng elaborated on the essence of God's love for us.
- He painted a relatable picture of God as our shepherd, offering perfect knowledge, guidance, and protection.
- Ps Cheng highlighted the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who died to redeem us from sin and its hold on our lives.
- He emphasized the gift of the Holy Spirit, empowering us to resist temptation and live a life pleasing to God.
- Most importantly, Ps Cheng emphasized the message of unity. We are not just forgiven, but invited into a deep and personal relationship with God. Regardless of denomination, we are all part of one flock, united by our faith in Jesus Christ.
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Performance by YCCL choir at the Divine Service on 14 April 2024.
Words and Music by: Laura Story, Matthew Merker, Matt Papa, Kristyn Getty, Jordan Kauflin
Arranged by: Mary McDonald
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Develop the habit of scripture reading, to talk to and be intimate with God. How to be witness of Christ if we have not known Him personally? Today's message by Br Lim Geok Seng is about experiencing the reality of the resurrected Christ. Unlike the early disciples, modern Christians are privileged to have the Bible. Do we then place engagement with the word of God above worldly distractions or are we feeding our mind with mundane ideas that lead to doubts? Therefore, put in effort to pursue, check and verify, to touch, feel and to experience firsthand the risen Jesus!
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The message of Pr Allan Ng's sermon today: He who believes without seeing has eternal peace. It is through spirit-filled believers that Christ touches the world. Jesus has already accomplished the perfect peace for us on the cross, bridging the gulf of sin that separates mankind from God. We are subsequently dispatched to share peace with others. Meanwhile, the church holds the power to absolve those who truly repent. Holy Baptism and Holy Communion are also means of grace that enjoined believers with the mercy and peace of God.
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15wznOLiA51o3sWAKvIl17CuJJ6PvQ2Um/view?usp=sharing
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Our church's choir rendition of "Without His Cross" and "And Can It Be" Good Friday service, 29 March 2024.
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How many of us have fully entrusted ourselves to Jesus? The early disciples were radically transformed the moment they placed their lives in the hands of the resurrected Christ.
Rev Dr William Chang at Easter Sunday's sermon today challenged the the congregation to understand the seemingly abrupt end to the gospel of Mark in spiritual light. It is an invitation to give God our sense of uncertainty and fear, to experience the living power of Christ's resurrection!
Listen to the sermon: https://open.acast.com/public/streams/62ef556524f5cd0012edcbc8/episodes/66090a487aefcb0016576799.mp3
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q5WBmdjdhAS1aK_qx4UtwEK0m0tQlXI6/view?usp=sharing
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Jesus died to ratify the New Covenant with His blood. This is the message of today's Good Friday sermon as espoused by Br Cheng Eng Hwa. It is by the blood of Christ that we now have the ability to obey God's commandments. Let us resolve to commit our lives to Christ that His will be done through our lives!
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What does true love look like in action? Pr Allan Ng's Maundy Thursday sermon, centered on John 13:1-17, 31b-35, dives deep into the essence of Christ's love through His humble act of washing the disciples' feet. Highlighting four perspectives—illustration, resistance, revelation, and imitation of love— the story of love that serves, sacrifices, and sanctifies, unfolds.
Jesus not only models a love that initiates and embraces all, including Judas the betrayer, but He also challenges us to overcome our resistance to receiving and giving such love. Through the washing of feet, Jesus reveals a deeper cleansing, pointing to His ultimate sacrifice on the cross for our sins, illustrating that true love involves profound humility and service.
The sermon concludes with a compelling call to action: to imitate Christ's love in our lives by serving others. As we reflect on Jesus' command to love one another just as He has loved us, let's consider how we can actively demonstrate this love in our daily interactions, serving and caring for those around us in humility and grace.
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OLvHxQe07PvN6vo4mjnjI9h_1l2xndxQ/view?usp=sharing
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What does true leadership embody? Jesus' choice of a humble donkey over a majestic horse for His entry into Jerusalem prompts us to rethink leadership through the lens of humility and peace. This act, fulfilling ancient prophecies, contrasts sharply with the expected symbols of power, inviting us to question assumptions about authority and service.
Pr Allan Ng's sermon today navigates this paradox, highlighting the deliberate nature of Jesus' actions: His humble request, the disciples' faithful execution, and the crowd's jubilant yet misunderstood welcome. Each element of the narrative invites us to reflect on the essence of Jesus' kingdom, one that prioritizes servitude over sovereignty.
Let us consider how we might embody servant leadership in our daily lives, transforming our understanding of power into actions that reflect love in a world that often prioritizes strength over kindness.
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t_u-5H4fdKaUYYTkXDTy1O0zkhEnp7pT/view?usp=sharing
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/10x8w4sBQVbl4sj0mb_fFG3xeb9jQwOnh/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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In today's sermon, Rev Dr William Chang delved into the Theology of the Cross, a centrepiece of reflection during this Lenten season. At first glance, the Cross—a symbol of suffering and death—may appear as a mark of defeat and despair. However, through the lens of faith, it reveals the depth of God's love and the powerful enactment of His commitment to humanity. The resurrection of Christ three days later embodies the hope that has been promised to us. In emulation of Christ, we ought to patiently await God's timing. Let us pray for the eye of faith, so we may recognise the glory that follows our sufferings in Christ.
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What is parallel significance between the Bronze Serpent raised by Moses and our Lord's crucification? Why does rejection of Jesus equate turning down God's gift of salvation?
Br Lim Geok Seng at today's sermon weaved the narratives of the Bronze Serpent, God's Love and the Judgment to illustrate the multifaceted ways in which divine love manifests and calls for our response. Salvation from this fallen world can only be received through obedience to the Gospel. Just as the Israelites were saved by looking at the Bronze Serpent, so too are we offered salvation through believing in Jesus Christ. This act of faith is not passive; it demands a conscious, continuous decision to trust in God's provision for our salvation.
God's love on the other hand, is not merely an emotional sentiment but an active, giving love that sacrificed His only Son for our redemption. This profound expression of love demands a response from us - to accept or reject the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Belief in Jesus will shift us from a state of condemnation to one of mercy. Thus, God desires not to condemn but to save.
Let us respond to God's love with a faith that transforms, a belief that saves, and a life that glorifies Him.
(We apologise for the poor audio quality; for a clearer understanding of the sermon, please read the transcript at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Do8pUBGXn7Ha3-F63kWcPv0X4NyU13whQIEOzMLTlE8/edit?usp=sharing)
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If we abide by God's commandments, we will be His treasured possession! This is the promise God made to His people in Exodus 20:5-6. At today's sermon, Br Cheng Eng Hwa explained how the Ten Commandments can be more intentionally interpreted to suit today's context, so that Christians can lead lives that are aligned with God's will for us.
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In today's sermon, Br Allan Ng reminded us of the profound message in Mark 8:31-38, urging all to embrace our call to discipleship this Lent season. As we reflect on Jesus' passion, persistence, and the ultimate profit of following Him, let's recommit to living a life marked by self-denial, bearing our crosses, and wholeheartedly pursuing Christ. This journey, while challenging, promises the incomparable reward of eternal life and a deep, personal relationship with God. Let us seize this opportunity for spiritual growth, embracing the full intensity of God's love and the calling He has placed on each of our lives.
Read the transcript of this sermon: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xsBST7dfW3EhW32p64AX-krjec4GS7CA/view?usp=sharing
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1I7s-8aB0L2S0X0Lzx0JylBJmdGiGEojr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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At today’s sermon, Rev Dr William Chang elucidated the lessons that can be learnt from Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, thrice documented in the gospels, on keeping our faith in God against the distractions of this world, a timely meditation for the start of this Lenten season.
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The Transfiguration of Jesus, encapsulated in Mark 9:2-9 and framed between two healings of the blind, not only marks a journey from spiritual blindness to enlightenment, but also serves to prepare the disciples for Jesus' impending crucifixion in Jerusalem. At today’s preliminary sermon leading to Ash Wednesday, Br Lim Geok Seng explained how Jesus’ divine glory is revealed, and the presence of Moses and Elijah, representing the Law and the prophets, confirms His mission and death. God's voice from the cloud, affirming Jesus as His beloved Son and commanding the disciples to listen to Him, underscores the necessity of faith and obedience. These narratives together stress the importance of spiritual insight and faith in navigating the journey from recognising Jesus as God to the hope of eternal glory for us believers.
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The congregation at the Divine Service held this Sunday witnessed Batin Antonette Francine Balusdan, Choong Zhi Jie Caleb, Choong Zhi Yang Emmanuel and Leong Boon Jie underwent the rite of confirmation. Presided by Rev Dr William Chang, the candidates confessed their faith in Jesus and professed greater commitment to the mission of the church. Listen to the testimony of Antonette (Tanya) here.
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Listen to Anaiah Nyo, Henry Lee and Florence Wong (from Queenstown Lutheran Church) recount their reflections over the Cambodian mission trip from 5th to 11th December 2023.
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o be saved by God is to receive an invitation to know Him. Know God intimately so that we can walk closely with Him. Our God is the uncreated Creator of the heavens and earth, sovereign over all nations of the world and the only one true God.
Ps Cheng Eng Hwa at today's sermon assured the congregation that God knows what we are going through as He watches over us without ceasing, strengthening us in our weaknesses, renewing us when we wait on Him. Therefore, strive to know God as our faith is dependent on our knowledge of Him.
Listen to the sermon: https://open.acast.com/public/streams/62ef556524f5cd0012edcbc8/episodes/65bf273d5424de0018fc33bb.mp3
Subscribe to YCCL podcast channel at Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/6EDvlhbdHxg0mY21XPwauA) and Apple Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/yishun-christian-church-lutheran-recorded-sermons/id1638880282).
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An unclean status is not necessarily a sinful state. Definitions of uncleanness in the Old Testament are often governed by ritualistic requirements as well as designed for hygiene reasons. The notion that one's spiritual state is directly determined by observance of cleanliness is a latter day obsession of religious clergies during Jesus' time. Rev Dr William Chang at today's sermon stressed that no one is clean in spiritual terms. All of us need Jesus. As members of the church, we should be inclusive to embrace the imperfections of our brothers and sisters in Christ. We must also reach out boldly to pre-believing residents in our community who have yet received God's grace of redemption through the Gospel.
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Repentance is not merely about feeling sorry for our misdeeds. Repentance is about turning our lives around to align with God's will. We cannot remain in our own ways and please God.
Br Lim Geok Seng at today's sermon challenged the congregation on the authenticity of their discipleship to Jesus. He encouraged a deep, introspective examination of whether we are genuinely following Jesus or resisting His will. Following Jesus requires an active decision and a readiness to leave one’s current spiritual or life situation to align with where Jesus wants us to be. True discipleship is a transformative journey that often demands leaving familiar grounds, habits, or beliefs.
The central message is a call to action: to make a conscious, deliberate choice to follow Jesus now. Reflect on our current spiritual standing. Consider the necessary steps we must take to genuinely follow Jesus.
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"I am lousy. I'm not as good as the other person. God does not forgive me because I am a terrible sinner." Do these thoughts recur in your walk with Christ?
Today's sermon by Br Allan Ng emphasised the importance of listening to God correctly. The Holy Spirit convicts and encourages us to grow in our relationship with God, to be assured of our identity in Christ, and not to believe in the lies of the devil. We are called to overcome these lies by the blood of the Lamb and the Word of our testimony. Believe that God, who has perfect knowledge, can make us more like Jesus. Trusting that God can make our ordinary being extraordinary, strive therefore to know, love, and serve Him faithfully.
Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ex-Av-Cf6yRJI_midAre-hhjnmlqjNdk/view?usp=sharing
Slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1y5wo8ZORBQ0IIVOXXkgg8gyqQASPjQDU/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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What is the distinction between the baptism conducted by John the Baptist and our Christian baptism? If our sins are forgiven, why do we still need to confess and repent?
Ps Cheng Eng Hwa in today's sermon stressed the need for for us to lead lives pleasing to God. Realign ourselves with God regularly. John the Baptist's unique role, originating from a priestly background yet serving as a prophet like Elijah, challenged the established priesthood, heralding the advent of Jesus. The baptism of Jesus by John symbolises God's identification with humanity, underscoring the necessity of repentance and unity with the Holy Spirit within us. We are in Christ as Christ is in us. All Christians should therefore strive to establish heartfelt communication with God, praying through the Holy Spirit in us.
Listen to the sermon: https://open.acast.com/public/streams/62ef556524f5cd0012edcbc8/episodes/659a50b545848e0016915b3c.mp3
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During the combined service held on New Year's Eve, the church rejoiced over the blessings and favours bestowed by the Lord on our labour for His coming kingdom in 2023. Listen and be inspired by the thanksgivings, testimonies and prayers delivered by the various ministries!
Children Ministry starts from the beginning, by Br (Dr) Nyo Yoke Lin.
Women (Dorcas) Ministry starts at 07:00, by Sis Yew Chin.
Youth Ministry starts at 13:03 - Sis Celyn.
Sis Diana Ho's testimony starts at 16:46.
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Delineating the church's vision for 2024, Rev Dr William Chang unpacked the first and second verses of Romans 12 to explain why and how YCCL should embrace our calling as "An Intergenerational Spiritual Community Reflecting the Glory of God".
Congregants were reminded not to be insensitive to God's Word. We should not lead lives that do not prioritise God. Know the Bible well. Hold on to the Word faithfully. Adhere also to right Christian living without compromise. Navigate this increasingly deceptive world with Jesus our beacon. Families are the basic unit of YCCL. Biblical values must be transmitted and role-modelled to keep our children from being taken in by prevailing worldly beliefs. The word discipleship is derived from discipline. Submit therefore to family and church hierarcies, building ourselves up into a more spiritually grounded community.
Listen to this highly important sermon to appreciate YCCL's revitalised strategic direction.
Read the transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18sl6eobSNVDM0ZxDS_KnUTuBFZQZvyyrpqxgQ3N-ZTc/edit?usp=sharing
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At today's Christmas celebrations, before the church and many pre-believing visitors, Rev Dr William Chang delivered a convicting two-part message on the spiritual significance of Jesus' birth as well as on the pertinence of inviting Christ into our hearts. Attendees at the service were treated to a light-hearted yet thought-provoking musical, which together with the sermons, challenged the audience to rethink the dimensions of space, both physical and spiritual, in acknowledgement of God as the Creator of our shared reality. The congregation was treated to a sumptuous fellowship lunch after the conclusion of the special service.
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1QBucG8VAJRLC952aO4W1ZxcsezFNpX0U/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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"It is meaningless to celebrate the birth of Christ (Christmas) if we do not commemorate His crucification, death, (Good Friday) and resurrection (Easter Sunday). On the other hand, it is impossible to commemorate Good Friday and Easter Sunday if there is no Christmas."
"The coming of Jesus (first Advent) has little meaning if we have not received God's grace through Christ into our souls (second Advent); and for those of us who have received Christ into our hearts, live out His purpose for us in this life as we await His second coming (third Advent)!"
As Christians, have we renounced all ungodliness and strived to live solely for Jesus? Are we zealous in doing the good works that are in accordance with His will?
This spirit-filled recording also includes two powerful prayers led by Br Cheng Eng Hwa: one on receiving the salvation offered by Jesus, the other on strengthening our walk with Christ.
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Christmas is a joyous celebration that commemorates the coming of Jesus as the Lamb of God to redeem the world from sin and evil. In today's sermon, Br Lim Geok Seng reminded the congregation to be witnesses of the light, and like John the Baptist, we should devote our lives to drawing others towards Jesus.
(The YCCL media team apologises for the poor quality recording! Summary of the sermon is as follows:
In today's sermon by Br Lim Geok Seng, the focus was on being witnesses to the Light, drawing inspiration from the passage in John 1:6-8,19-28. The passage begins with a profound declaration about Jesus, describing Him as the Word, the Life, and the Light in verses 1-5. However, the narrative takes a sudden shift in verses 6-8, introducing John as a witness to the Light.
John, often known as John the Baptist in the Synoptic Gospels, is uniquely referred to as John the Witness in the Gospel of John. His role was not merely to baptize but primarily to serve as a witness to Jesus Christ. This aligns with the prophecy from Malachi 3:1, foretelling the coming of two men – one to prepare the way (John), and the other, the Messiah.
The distinguishing factor emphasized is that John was not just sent by God but sent from the very domain, heart, and will of God. He served as God's messenger and ambassador, representing divine purpose and power.
John's humility is evident as he clarifies that he is not the Light but a voice, a reflector of the divine Light. Drawing parallels from Isaiah 9:2 and John 5:35, the contrast is made clear: Jesus is the essence of Light, while John is a lamp, deriving light like an oil lamp.
John's mission was to bear witness to the Light, testifying and giving evidence, never seeking to become the object of belief himself. This aligns with his self-proclamation as "the voice of one crying out in the wilderness," quoting Isaiah's prophecy. John saw his role as being a voice for the Word, directing attention to the right object of belief – Jesus Christ.
The sermon also delves into the question of why John baptized. John's response, explained later in the passage, reveals that his baptism was a means to reveal the One who would baptize with the Holy Spirit, pointing to the Spirit descending on Jesus and confirming His identity as the Son of God.
The climax of John's testimony comes when he declares, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" This proclamation highlights Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, emphasizing His purpose to die on the Cross for the redemption of humanity.
In essence, today sermon stressed the importance of being witnesses like John – sent from God, not seeking personal glory, but humbly pointing others to the true Light, Jesus Christ, who alone can take away the sins of the world.)
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Ever wondered about the end of the world? Br Allan Ng at today's Divine Service delved into the St Peter's revelatory exposition, that the conclusion of our sin-stricken world is to be initiated by God and not through any human action. Christian responses to the day when our Lord returns should be as follows:
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Get Right With God (vv. 8-10a): Br Allan highlighted the urgency of aligning ourselves with God. The world's end is delayed by God's mercy, not indifference. Confess our sins daily, rely on Christ, and embrace His forgiveness through the means of grace!
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Look Forward To That Day (vv. 12a, 13, 14a):** The sermon encourages us to anticipate the Day of the Lord. It's not just about destruction but also a new creation. By living holy lives, sharing the Gospel, and praying, we actively hasten God's purposes!
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Don’t Be A Scoffer (vv. 11, 14-15a cf. vv. 3-7): Br Allan warned against being practical scoffers—those who mock moral principles. The Day of the Lord is certain, and living as if it won't happen is akin to mocking God's promise. Let's us be diligent in living with all godliness!
Live therefore as strangers in this world. Make every effort to be at peace with God. Share the Gospel, knowing that the Day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night!
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Kz7Y99hLULdGaSK_x5TmxRXbu7X3whkp/view?usp=drive_link
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TWXnq5HwYGLpYis5hfJaStJttJBAgMC0/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Today's service marked the start of Advent, a new beginning in church calendar, leading to Christmas celebration as well as in anticipation of Christ's Second Coming. The first candle was lit by Gejo's family, symbolising the hope and joy this season brings. This is followed by Br Cheng Eng Hwa's sermon, which reminded the congregation to be watchful for the signs of the end times. In a world filled with uncertainties, the message resonated deeply – a call to be God's vigilant and faithful servants, lest we be caught unprepared by His sudden arrival. The church also celebrated and prayed for members embarking on the Cambodia mission trip from 5 to 11 December. Let us therefore not lose sight of our duty to serve God and our neighbours as we enter Advent.
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Are we the sheep or the goats in the parable? Do we face the possibility of hearing Jesus say, "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire"?
Rev Lim Kim Hock, in today's sermon, steered the congregation away from a simplistic view of salvation based on actions versus inactions. Emphasizing the need to recognize who Jesus is, he depicted Him as both a compassionate shepherd and a righteous king. Jesus cares for our needs, yet also judges us. He knows the pains of this world and identifies with its sufferers.
Our response to Jesus therefore surpasses a mere checklist of dos and don'ts. Be obedient to His will. Appreciate the depth of His mercy. We are His sheep if we hear and respond to His guiding will for us.
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Is the well-known parable of the talents solely a call for Christians to utilise their gifting faithfully in service to God? In today's sermon, Rev Dr. William Chang delved into a deeper understanding of the parable, revealing its nuanced significance to the audience of Jesus' era. Talents were a unit of measurement in Hebrew, approximately 33kg in today's terms. The talents of gold and silver, as perceived by the Jewish mindset, were symbolic of the weighty glory of God. Each believer, upon receiving salvation, is bestowed with a substantial measure of God's grace and mercy.
The pivotal question arises: Have we invested our share of God's glory in the advancement of His kingdom, illuminating the lives of others with the abundance of mercy that God has filled us with?
The exhortation is clear – serve the Lord with what He has freely given, so that we would stand unashamed before the day of reckoning!
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1o-KWc8jCcwQXRkw_fjsSEESS85VzZGqo/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Keep our lamps burning lest the bridegroom arrives this night!
At today's sermon on the parable of the ten virgins, Br Allan Ng explained why and how we ought to be vigilant in our walk with God:
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Intentional preparedness - wise virgins brought extra oil to keep lamps burning, representing God's Word fueling faith.
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Non-transferable preparedness - oil/faith cannot be shared or borrowed from others. Each person must nurture his/her own faith.
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Watchful preparedness - being ready at all times for Christ's return, not procrastinating.
Let us be prepared by striving to grow in the Scripture, remembering our baptism and through the constant partaking of the Holy Communion!
Download the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1anpT36APdAOR3eTvJ1khMJdHhJ1y0JCQ/view?usp=sharing
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The theme of Br. Cheng Eng Hwa's sermon today centered on the idea of living a life in alignment with God's expectations. Walk in a manner befitting the salvation that we have freely received, seeking neither worldly status nor approval. While God does not demand perfection, our service to Him should reflect our best efforts. Be faithful. Live in a way that honors God. It is our divine calling to enliven our own faith through serving.
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God's creative Word which has commanded the universe into existence is also present in His promises to believers. Rev Dr William Chang at the Reformation Sunday's sermon today explained how God's Word gives life and creates order. Bible reading together with prayers are not mere mental exercises. We must also come before God in a spiritually restful state. Stay focus and block out external distractions. Pour our hearts out to Him. Confess our sins. Wait for the Lord as we deepen our spiritual connection with Christ in the posture of prayer. Then can we hear the comforting Word that bestows life as well as the order leading to the sanctification of our lives.
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Should Jews pay taxes to their Roman overlords? Jesus, referring to the emperor's inscribed image on a Roman coin, replied, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matthew 22:21 ESV) By turning the argument in abstraction into a logical deduction based on material observation, Jesus silenced those who have hoped to entrap Him verbally. Like Jesus, we need God's wisdom to present the Gospel in truth and without ambiguity. Avoid fruitless debate that would often diminish the efficacy of our mission. Br Lim Geok Seng also reminded the congregation today that since we are made in God's image, we belong to Him, who in turn ought to be the only focus of our worship.
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"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice." (Philippians 4:4)
Why should Christians rejoice even in the most trying of times? What are we rejoicing about given the many unfilled gaps in our lives?
Rev Dr William Chang today explained why when confronted with internal troubles, external persecution and even with the imprisonment of their beloved Apostle Paul, the Philippians were still urged to rejoice continually. For our "names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20), therefore rejoice! Nothing is more important than this. Give thanks and honour God. Proclaim His gospel with ourselves as living testimonies for Jesus Christ!
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The Parable of the Wicked Tenants serves as a mirror to humanity's sinful nature and a window into God's loving heart, revealing the three reasons behind God sending His Son:
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To demonstrate His grace to the world.
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To proclaim His righteousness before the nations.
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To present the choices for our eternal destiny.
Br Allan Ng at today's sermon encouraged the congregation to appreciate the depth of God's sacrifice and love for us through Jesus. Strive to share the Gospel with others. Do not lose heart. Press on and press in with gentleness and respect to be the salt and light of the world!
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God knows our deepest thoughts. We may be able to deceive other people, but we can never fool God. At today's Divine Service, Br Cheng Eng Hwa explained how Christians could live truthfully. Do not make empty promises. To repent and obey is better than mere words.
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/13-zCoaR80JSYzHM4lAbb3qyLsKpr3FVz/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Entry into the Kingdom of Heaven is solely dependent upon God's grace, not on our so-called meritorious works. At his farewell sermon to the congregation today, Ps Soh Guan Kheng highlighted from the given scripture, on the parable of the vineyard workers, two principles that are key to appreciating our walk with Jesus: no one deserves God, who has been labouring tirelessly to seek and save us; and none deserves the gifts offered by Jesus, namely, the forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
Let us not be pretentious and have misplaced faith in our own strivings. Trust God and praise Him for His mercy!
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Christian spirituality is not an end in itself; it is a means to a higher end. Do we judge other believers by the piety they exhibit, based on our own standards of Christian spirituality? Or have we exercised scriptural understanding, cognisant of the fact that we are all brothers and sisters of dissimilar personalities placed within the unitary body of Christ, growing under God's gracious blessings? Rev Dr William Chang at today's sermon reminded the congregation not to be judgemental. Seek to build one another up in the fellowship of our local church. Be Christ's ambassador of love and forgiveness as we unite to bring the light of gospel into the lives of others in the world!
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EZs3zq1ZSZU25Y7S9GMqqZ8zfYGEJxyl/view?usp=sharing
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The true mark of a transformed disciple of Jesus is a life characterised by Godly love. This love should be practiced with a sense of obligation, insight into God's purpose, a sense of urgency, a heart of purity, with an eye on Jesus. Br Allan Ng at today's Divine Service urged the congregation to seek envelopment in Christ. Using the moving anecdotal account of his own father accepting Christ prior to his passing about ten years ago, Br Allan explained how church members could support one another in challenging times with love. Let Jesus direct our thinking and conduct as we await His Second Coming!
Listen to the sermon: https://www.yccl.lutheran.org.sg/podcast
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u1iNWkuiNGwLhFMVVYTzaNu0REGMPWwN/view?usp=sharing
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1_fiiim8alq7BrKS0Gg5Q9H7Mcln8FMdu/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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The elders, chief priests and scribes killed Jesus because they were deeply offended by His teachings. Do we also kill Jesus in our hearts when His words do not agree with our human sensitivities? As disciples of Christ, we must check to ensure that our thoughts align not with the ways of this world. Since our understanding of the Scripture is never perfect, we must be open to reproof and correction by those who know better. Br Cheng Eng Hwa at today's sermon also shared tips on developing intentional daily habits that deepen the surrendering of ourselves to Jesus. Set our mind on God so that our redeemed existence can be lived out to its fullest.
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/18V_cE8zEtOtPM2kspvWtjmL9SwGITyoL/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Embrace sacrificial living, which is our logical response to the grace of God that we have freely received. Since we have found freedom and purpose in Christ, depart therefore from our previous life of slavery to sin. Renew and orientate our mind along God's thoughts in order to live righteously.
Practical steps such as meditating on Scripture, speaking out God's Word, and taking thoughts captive to Christ, are also elucidated at the sermon delivered by Br Allan Ng today. The congregation is exhorted to live and serve in communal harmony, to appreciate the diverse spiritual gifts each member possesses, which in turn are to be exercised for building the church, in faith and humility.
Read the transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GZ-brnwDKtlfs66cLEhPdueE7v5bShKz/view?usp=sharing
Download the slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1aOCwyh5gX-5ggBTCTiQXxamjQh7pD90X/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=110561836372338415540&rtpof=true&sd=true
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Faith is not just theological knowledge. It is a grounded trust in God's goodness and faithfulness even in the most trying of times. Our faith in God must be based on an objective understanding of who He is. It should not be premised upon our own projection of what God should be. At today's sermon, Rev Dr William Chang contrasted the faith exhibited by the humble Canaanite woman with the fastidious Pharisees and Jesus' closest disciples. The Pharisees, obsessed with external piety, could not accept Jesus because He did not conform with man-made traditions. The disciples doubted Jesus repeatedly as they have mistakenly assumed the Messiah to be a worldly king endowed with political might. The Canaanite woman in Matthew 15 however, gave Jesus the benefit of doubt. Despite Jesus' initial rejection, she persisted in supplication and her daughter was eventually healed. Faith in Jesus was not contingent on her personal experience but anchored in trusting God. Therefore, it is only when faith is rightly oriented that our relationship with God can be enduring and intimate.
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Like the terrified disciples buffeted between the storm and raging sea (Matthew 14:22-24), we are unsettled by sin and death. Do we in trying moments trust God's gift of salvation? Have human vulnerabilities limited our experience of God's boundless grace? Pastor Soh Guan Kheng at today's sermon reminded the congregation that only God saves. The reality of God's grace has been defined in His Word and Holy Sacraments, bestowing upon us peace and comfort. Commit to daily prayers in order that we be tethered to Jesus, who will empower our walk on the waters of life's turbulence.
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O, what peace have we forfeited, what needless pain do we undergo, if we do not check in with God (in prayers and supplications) from moment to moment in our everyday life?
As baptised Christians, we are given the privilege of bringing our problems before God and to cast our cares upon Him. This was the message of Br Cheng Eng Hwa's sermon today. While nothing is too big for God to handle, neither are our issues too small nor insignificant for His attention. Jesus did not overlook the needs of His followers even as He undertook the mission of universal redemption in personal anguish and pains. Therefore check in with Jesus daily. God cares. He knows what we need. For those who wish to serve, discern what God's will is and submit to it. Be assured that our Lord has the abundant resources to support your obedience.
Download the slides: https://shorturl.at/yJQ27
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Some Christians came to the faith because their prayers are answered; there are also many others disappointed by unanswered prayers. How should we therefore pray so that our prayers are realised?
At today's Divine Service, Rev Dr William Chang delivered a compelling sermon on the significance of prayer in the lives of Christians. Prayer is central to Christianity. It enables followers of Christ to seek and to live in God's will, not falling away from our walk with Him. Through prayer, Christians are empowered by the Holy Spirit to remain steadfast in their faith.
According to St Paul's epistles, there are three phases to Christian growth: in Christ, with Christ, and being like Christ. Since, as baptised believers, we are already situated in an intimate relationship with Christ, we should therefore seek to know God's good and perfect will through prayer. Seeking God's will in everything we do allows us to remain in Christ and to become more Christ-like. Like Jesus' extreme distress at the Garden of Gethsemane, we too will struggle to submit to God's decree; but as Jesus through prayer, found clarity and eventually embraced the Father's heart, we shall also have the strength to surrender to God's holy will for us. Thus, rather than changing external circumstances, the focus of prayer lies primarily on transforming our hearts to be more like Jesus'. Full obedience to God leads to unimaginable blessings as we are drawn deeper into understanding His love and purposes.
Towards the end of the sermon, Rev Dr Chang invited the congregation to come forward for prayer, providing an opportunity for all to seek a deeper connection with God and embrace His will in our lives.
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At today's Divine Service, the congregation was blessed by Br Allan Ng's message on how Christians should walk with Christ in the light of the parable of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-43). While God at present permits the coexistence of both the good and the evil, the righteous will eventually be separated from the wicked at the end of days. We must therefore strive to live in accordance to God's teachings and to follow His ways. Grasp firmly the assurance that Satan's defeat is certain. Empowered by Christ's victory, fear not the devil's schemes. Living as children of God, we are also tasked with upholding His Word, embodying His love, compassion, and righteousness in our conduct. Align with God's will in preparation for the glorious second coming of Christ. Be a testament to the transformative power of Jesus' presence within us. Spread His message of hope and salvation to people around us actively.
Finally, Br Allan Ng exhorted the congregation to look at the Word of God beyond denominational differences upon the Holy Baptism and the Holy Communion as sacraments, to know that these are means of grace, not symbolic ordinances, ordained by God for the forgiveness of sins and for our salvation.
The sermon was accompanied by Br Joshua Tan's reading of selected passages from the book "The Devil goes for Life Coaching" as well as scriptural and confessional readings from the congregation.
Download the slides: https://shorturl.at/tMNTU
Download the transcript: https://shorturl.at/ajPW3
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Do we inhibit God's Word from working in us by the power of the Holy Spirit? Have we enjoined with the labour to sow God's Word in the hearts of others?
At today's Divine Service, Rev Soh Guan Kheng delivered a sobering sermon on the kingdom of heaven, highlighting its three key elements: the seed, the soil, and the sower.
The seed represents the Word of God, which holds the promise of life eternal in the heavenly kingdom. The soil symbolises our heart, which must neither be hardened, shallow nor be covered with thorns and briars so that the seed may sprout and bear fruit. And the sower, God Himself, lovingly spreading His message, bestowing upon everyone the fullness of His kingdom that is contained in the seed.
Therefore, be mindful of our spiritual state, examine the condition of our heart, and let us submit to God's Word in faith and gratitude, sharing the good news of His mercy with others!
In today's sermon, Rev Dr William Chang expounded on Matthew 10:24-39, conveying a powerful message, reminding the congregation that despite the challenges we may face in spreading the Gospel through living godly lives and evangelism, we should not fear. Pastor Chang highlighted God's watchful care, emphasizing the value He places on His children. He stressed the eternal significance of following Jesus and the promised rewards for faithful discipleship. While acknowledging the potential sacrifices, the congregation was urged to remain steadfast, placing unwavering love for Christ above all else.
Trust in God, find courage in our union with Jesus, reject fear, knowing that our ultimate destiny is secure in Him.
Read the transcript: https://shorturl.at/dkA15
Teach us, good Lord God,
•to serve you as you deserve,
•to give and not to count the cost,
•to fight and not to heed the wounds,
•to toil and not to seek for rest,
•to labor and not to ask for rewards,
•except that of knowing that we do your will,
•through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.
Listen to today's sermon by Br Cheng Eng Hwa on how we can live the Christian life of service with greater depth, authenticity, and impact.
Download the slides: https://shorturl.at/cgBL3
The sacrificial death of Christ on the cross holds great significance for us as Christians. In Holy Baptism, we undergo a profound transformation that mirrors the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. This identification with Christ signifies our union with Him and renders our sins powerless through our crucifixion alongside Him. During today's Divine Service, Rev Jimmy Khoo, visiting pastor from Bedok Lutheran Church, emphasized to the congregation that we are no longer bound by sin, our former master, as we now possess the ability to reject its temptations and live life as God's new creation.
Drown our old sinful nature through daily repentance. Seek renewal through the study of God's Word. Participate in the sacraments for forgiveness. Reflect on our own baptism that we have died to sin and are alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Believers in Christ are God's chosen people. Like the Israelites, who were constantly reminded of their history, identity, and mission in the Book of Exodus, Christians today should remember and give thanks for God's work in our lives. At today's Divine Service, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng highlighted the practical ways in which members of the church can lead their new life stories shaped by HIM (history, identity, and mission). Embrace our identity in God, live out His purposes actively, so that others can also be drawn to the love and grace of our Lord Jesus!
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The early disciples, such as Matthew, Simon Peter, John, and Andrew, were called by Jesus in the midst of their daily busyness. Yet, they responded promptly and without hesitation, willingly leaving behind their worldly pursuits to follow the Lord. These remarkable men later became influential apostles, powerfully used by God.
During this week's Divine Service, Br Lim Geok Seng encouraged the congregation to embrace Jesus' offer of a renewed and revitalised spiritual life. He emphasised the importance of saying "yes" to opportunities available for us to serve the church. Just as Jesus' disciples obeyed immediately and witnessed their lives being transformed, our obedience can bring about profound change in our own lives.
It is crucial to recognise that if we choose to say "no" or to procrastinate in any way, God can still move forward without us as He owns all the resources in the universe. God, through His gracious calling, has invited us to personally encounter His love and power in a direct and intimate way. By heeding Jesus' call, our spiritual life is upgraded, enabling us to truly know and experience Him tangibly.
Saying "no" to Jesus' calling is to reject the high point of our walk with Him, and opting instead to drift endlessly in a life that does not offer any real fulfilment. Therefore, respond positively and say "yes" to Jesus.
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CCL recently returned from a fruitful mission to Cambodia (24th to 30th May). Led by our Senior Pastor, Rev Dr William Chang, the team was infused with a profound sense of joy and gratitude as we undertook the Great Commission as commanded by our Lord Jesus. The trip not only provided us with the privilege to bless Cambodian believers and those who have yet to embrace the faith but also proved to be a transformative experience for our members, who were deeply touched by the warm welcome they received.
Listen to the testimonies of Br Leon, Br Desmond, Br MacLaine, Sr Amy, Sr Grace and Sr Laura on their moving reflection over the mission.
"Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. (Exodus 20:12 ESV)
This is the first commandment with a promise.
Various ministries of YCCL combined to celebrate Parent's Day at today's Divine Service. The focus is threefold: to express heartfelt appreciation for our parents; to acknowledge the profound impact parents have in shaping the lives of their children; to teach and encourage filial piety within the context of Christian spirituality.
At the service, Br. Cheng Eng Hwa encouraged families in the congregation to nurture and strengthen parent-child relations. The teachings of Ephesians 6:1-4 stated emphatically that the cultivation of loving and godly relations between children and parents is dependent on the efforts made by both parties at fulfilling their God-given obligations. We should seek understanding, empathy, and compassion for one another, in order to foster an environment of love and mutual respect within the family.
Today, on Pentecost Sunday, we celebrate the power of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church, as seen in Acts 2. In his sermon, Br Lim Geok Seng reminded the congregation not to overlook the inward preparation of the disciples in John 20:19-23, also known as the Johannine Pentecost, which encouraged, empowered, and sent them on mission.
🚪 Locked in Fear
The disciples were locked behind closed doors, consumed by fear after Jesus' crucifixion. Their hearts were gripped by fear of the authorities and potential persecution. Fear paralyzed them, rendering them inactive. But Jesus showed up, breaking through their barriers, proving that no locked door could keep Him away.
🙌 Forgiven & Accepted
Jesus greeted them, saying, "Peace be with you." He offered peace over fear, demonstrating forgiveness and acceptance. Despite deserting Jesus and denying Him, Jesus did not reprimand or judge them. Instead, He showed them His wounds, assuring them of His identity and dispelling their doubts. Their sorrow turned to joy as they realized that the Lord was truly among them.
🌍 Jesus Sends Them
Just as the Father had sent Jesus into the world, Jesus now sends His disciples on a mission. He proclaims peace once again, signifying the nature of their task. They are sent in the same way, with the same mission, to the same world, and empowered by the same power—the Holy Spirit.
⚡ Receive Holy Spirit
Jesus breathed on them, imparting the Holy Spirit. His breath symbolizes the life-giving power of the Risen Christ. The Holy Spirit proceeds from Him, and through the Spirit, the disciples receive authority. They are empowered to proclaim forgiveness to those who believe in Jesus and to withhold forgiveness from those who reject Him.
🌏 Preparing for Mission
So, on this Pentecost Sunday, let us reflect on the lessons from John 20:19-23 as we prepare for our mission in the world:
A. Peace over Fear: Embrace the peace that Jesus offers, allowing it to replace our fears and anxieties.
B. Jesus Sends Them: Understand that just as Jesus was sent, we are also sent into the world. Our mission is to propagate the message of Christ, not our own preferences.
C. Receive Holy Spirit: Seek the empowering of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to proclaim forgiveness and share the love of Christ with others.
As we go forth, let us remember that we are not alone. The same Jesus who appeared to the disciples through locked doors stands with us today, empowering us for the mission ahead. May we boldly proclaim His forgiveness, mercy, love, and peace to a world in need. ✨
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At the Divine Service today, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng preached on Jesus’ prayer in John 17:1-11.
Ps Soh noted that the word “give” in its various forms such as “gave” and “given” occurred many times in this prayer. Jesus regarded His disciples as gifts, given and entrusted to Him by the Heavenly Father. And He gifted the disciples with the Word of God so that they would love, trust and serve Him, and be kept holy. Hence the sermon title: The Gifts of Jesus’ Prayer.
This divine prayer bestows upon us three gifts:
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Gift of Jesus Himself as our divine intercessor. Sinless and unhindered by death, Jesus can plead before the Heavenly Father for believers from all places and of all times perpetually. It is through the gracious mercy of Jesus' perfect intercession, that the prayers of sinners like ourselves are heard by God. As Jesus gave Himself to be our intercessor, we as His disciples should give ourselves to pray for one another, and for the world.
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Gift of an exemplary prayer. In this prayer Jesus modelled an overarching desire to glorify God. Jesus' concern for God's glory encompassed His great concern for the good of His disciples, and this was reflected in Jesus’ prayer for God the Father to give them the good gifts of eternal life, holiness and more. By reflecting on the glory God in our prayers, we will be led to pray for the good of ourselves and others.
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Gift of unity. Jesus prayed that the disciples would be one, just as He and the Father are one. Unity amongst followers of Jesus Christ brings glory to God, and is a powerful witnesses for Christ. This unity is a gift from God. In our flesh, we will never attain such perfect oneness. We are united as one only in Christ. This perfect unity will only be fully seen with the second coming of Jesus. However, it is expressed and celebrated in the corporate reception of the Word, partaking of the sacraments and our common confession of the Creeds of the Church. In response, let us put aside divisive attitudes and conduct that may dishonor the gift of unity in Christ, and seek His forgiveness when we fail.
Thanks be to God for the gifts of Jesus' prayer!
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Everyone experiences suffering in life, but have we ever contemplated the purpose behind it? How should we respond to our own sufferings? With reference to the selected scriptural passages from 1st Peter chapters 1 to 4, Rev Dr William Chang at today's Divine Service explained why sufferings endured by Christians under persecution are not meaningless; rather, they serve God's righteous purpose in purifying and refining our faith. Through these trials, we are steered away from false hopes and the ungodly distractions of this world.
As witnesses of Christ, it is inevitable that we will suffer for the sake of the cross. However, by remaining steadfast and faithful in the midst of our trials, our endurance may lead pre-believers to embrace the Gospel of our Lord. Drawing from the biblical principles found in St. Peter's exhortation to the persecuted Christians in the Asiatic provinces of the Roman Empire, Pastor Chang reminded the congregation that we are all sojourners passing through this world, rather than its permanent residents. Each day brings us closer to the promise of eternity that God has given us.
Like Jesus, we must not compromise nor bow before the growing persecutions we may encounter in our daily lives. Be confident that God is with us. We should neither overreact nor be hostile towards those who dislike or oppose our profession of faith. Instead, we ought to respond with gentleness and meekness, trusting that God will vindicate us. God sees the righteous and hears their prayers, and we can find solace in His faithfulness.
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At today's Divine Service, Br Cheng Eng Hwa reminded all that every believer is a living stone in God's spiritual temple. Like the defences of Sparta, where every soldier was considered a brick of its "formidable wall", every Christian is a living stone of God's sacred building. Although believers may be rejected by this world, we remained God's chosen people, hence precious in His sight. We have been born again through the living and abiding word of God. Our salvation is sealed with the Holy Spirit. As living stones, believers should pursue God in Christ by putting away negative behaviors and attitudes such as malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander. Instead, we ought to desire God more, like newborn infants longing for pure spiritual milk, so that we can grow spiritually and experience more of God's goodness. The church is also built with Christ as the cornerstone. Christians are set apart as priests offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. These sacrifices are our offering of praises to God, doing good, helping, and sharing the gospel with others. Finally, Br Cheng emphasized the importance of proclaiming God's excellencies. As believers, we are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a treasured possession of God. We are called to be His witnesses, to share our personal testimonies, demonstrating God's boundless mercy and goodness to the world. By doing so, we fulfill our divine purpose and reflect the glory of God's love to those around us.
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Three personal testimonies on God's faithfulness delivered during the Divine Service on 30th April 2023.
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The sermon delivered by Rev Dr William Chang at this week's Sunday's Divine Service was centered around the hymn "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" written by Thomas Obediah Chisholm. The hymn was based on Lamentations 3:23, which speaks of God's unwavering love and mercy that are renewed every morning, with emphasis on God's faithfulness to His people. Senior Pastor Chang highlighted that understanding the phrase "Great is Thy faithfulness" in the context of Lamentations is crucial to our understanding of the whole hymn. The book of Lamentations was written by Jeremiah in response to the Babylonian invasion of Jerusalem in 587 BC. The situation was dire and filled with many extreme horrors of war. It may seem that God have abandoned his people and even sided with their enemies. Despite the terrifying circumstances, Jeremiah expressed a profound faith that God in His goodness, would not desert them. Like Jeremiah, we should trust in God's goodness even in the face of undesirable experiences and the many setbacks of life. We ought to recognize that God's ways are always higher and perfect. The fact that life does not happen in a vacuum, and is supported by highly intricate and complex interdependency of countless conditions, perfectly timed and situated to support human existence, already points to the presence of an almighty Creator. This context should give meaning to our lives and our walk with God, bestowing us with strength and perseverance to overcome our daily challenges.
The sermon was followed by the personal testimonies of Brother Lester Lim, Sister Amy Yuen and Sister Diana Ho on the faithfulness of God in their lives. (Please refer to the next episode for the recording of these testimonies.)
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The narrative of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-35 is a lesson on how human despair can be restored by God's presence and assurance. The disciples were leaving Jerusalem, formerly the city of hope, but turned into a place of pain and disappointment, following the crucifixion of Lord Jesus. They were on their way to Emmaus, seeking escape and comfort. Many of us can relate to having a Jerusalem in our lives, a place of pain and despair that we never want to visit again. It could be a failed relationship, a lost job, a health crisis, or any other devastating event. We try to escape to our Emmaus, thinking that we can find comfort and relief, where instead we continue to experience sadness and despair. The issue is not the place, but our heart. We need to open our hearts to God's Word and the breaking of bread, just like the two disciples eventually did.
As they were walking and discussing the events that had happened, Jesus himself drew near and journeyed with them. However, their eyes were kept from recognizing him. Sometimes, our assumptions and mindset prevent us from seeing the gracious hands of God working in our lives and healing us. We become like Mary Magdalene, who did not recognize Jesus because she saw him died and buried in the tomb. Jesus patiently explained the scriptures to the disciples and interpreted the things concerning Himself. He reminded them that the Christ must suffer and be glorified. The disciples' failure to believe was not a matter of the mind, but of the heart. They could understand, but they would not believe. When they arrived at Emmaus, they urged Jesus to stay with them. He took the bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes opened, and they recognized him. This breaking of bread was symbolic of communion with Christ. It was also the moment of their restoration. We need to believe that Christ's suffering was necessary and ordained by the Father. It had to happen, so that we could be reconciled to God and receive salvation.
As Br Lim Geok Seng reminded the congregation during today's Divine Service, it is only through opening our hearts to Christ, through His Word, and the breaking of bread that we can experience true restoration. This requires a deepening of our faith, a willingness to let go of our assumptions and mindset. With an open heart, we can invite Christ to walk with us on our road to Emmaus, thus bringing healing and restoration to our lives.
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Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29 ESV)
The Gospel of John gives the longest account of Jesus' appearance after His resurrection. It is also a remarkable narrative on genuine faith grounded in truth and not in seeing. True faith as such, more precious than pure gold, will see us through the dark moments of our lives. At today's Divine Service, Rev Lim Kim Hock recounted how fear of reprisals from the Jewish authorities, grief and sense of helplessness have diminished the confidence of Jesus' disciples. Even the sight of the empty tomb and Mary witnessing the resurrected Christ could not restore fully their faith in God. It was when Jesus suddenly appeared, standing amongst them behind closed doors, that the disciples' faith was renewed. Their walk with God was changed forever. Jesus gave the disciples peace and the certainty of faith. As Christians, we are therefore saved by having the faith that can only come from God. Jesus also bestowed unto them authority. With the anointment of the Holy Spirit, ordained Christian ministers now have the power to forgive sins. Finally, Jesus infused in them the conviction that nothing was impossible with God. Thus, as we undergo trials and tribulations, we can take comfort in the fact that Jesus has risen. He knows what we are going through. Like gold shining brighter after purification with fire, our faith too becomes precious when it is tested in challenging times. Take heart as we soldier on in our walk with Christ, knowing that God is also with us in every step of our life.
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"Christ has risen and He is risen indeed!" This powerful declaration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of our faith. In the Gospel of Matthew, two Marys set out for the tomb early in the morning after Sabbath, to mourn and anoint the body of their beloved Teacher, our Lord Jesus Christ. One of them has been delivered from demons by Jesus, and the other was presumably the mother of James. These women were witnesses of the crucifixion of Jesus. Soon they would be the first witnesses of His resurrection. As the women approached the tomb, an earthquake occurred, followed by an angelic appearance. The reality as they knew quickly dissipated and collapsed before their eyes, leaving them with pervasive fear. Nevertheless, they were immediately assured by the angel that Jesus had departed as a man alive again. The women who had come in grief and despair left the empty tomb full of joy and hope. Their experience reminds us that Jesus' resurrection brings tremendous blessings to all who believe in Him. A new era has dawned upon this fallen world of pain and suffering. Like the women who overcame their initial fear at the unusual spectacle of the angel and empty tomb, our fears over life's uncertainties can also be dispelled by the hope and grace of the risen Christ! At the Easter Sunday sermon, Rev Andreas Latz reminded the congregation of the profound significance of Jesus' resurrection. It is the historic moment where death was defeated, and the power of sin broken. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are assured of a life with purpose and the hope for eternality.
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Good Friday is a day of solemn remembrance in the Christian faith, commemorating the day when Jesus Christ willingly gave His life on the cross. This act of ultimate sacrifice conquered death and sin, and is central to our belief as Christians. The reality of death entered the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden, causing chaos and violence. Death reigned from Adam to Moses and continues to do so in our present day. However, Jesus, our Great High Priest, offers a new way out of this fallen world through His death and resurrection. In the Old Testament, the high priest would enter the Holy of Holies once a year to offer sacrifices for the people's sins. But Jesus, through His obedience to God the Father, entered the heavenly Holy of Holies once and for all, securing an eternal redemption for those who believe in Him. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate expression of His love for us. He willingly took upon Himself the punishment for our sins and declared, "It is finished!" signifying the completion of the work of redemption. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus conquered death and destroyed the power of the devil. As believers in Jesus Christ, we have the assurance of eternal life and the hope of victory over death. Brother Lim Geok Seng in his Good Friday sermon, emphatically reminded the congregation of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus and the hope that it brings to our lives. May we always remember and cherish the gift of salvation that was made possible through Jesus' death and resurrection.
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Today is Maundy Thursday. At the service, Brother Cheng Eng Hwa began his sermon with the reminder to all that death is inevitable for everyone. Even Jesus died. However, before his death, Jesus knew who he was and where he came from. Similarly, we should try to find the answer to the question "Who am I?" before we die. Brother Cheng identifies three ways in which we can answer that question.
Firstly, you are a beloved child returning to the Father. Using the Gospel of John, Brother Cheng emphasizes that Jesus knew that he had come from God and was going back to God. In the same way, we are all beloved children of God returning to Him after death. The question is whether we are returning as sons in Christ or sinners in Adam. Brother Cheng reminds his listeners that the Father knows them before they are born and Jesus has promised to bring them home to the Father.
Secondly, you are shaped by Jesus. Brother Cheng focuses on Jesus washing the feet of his disciples as an example of how Jesus shapes us. Jesus's washing of the disciples' feet, a task that would normally be done by a servant, was a humbling act of service that also symbolized spiritual cleansing. Jesus was not just washing their feet but also shaping them in his likeness. Brother Cheng emphasizes that only those who have faith in Jesus will allow him to shape them. To reject Jesus's shaping is to reject faith in Him.
Finally, you are becoming like Jesus. In fact, Jesus is shaping us to become more like Him. This process of sanctification will continue until we reach heaven. We are not perfect, and we all make mistakes. However, Brother Cheng reminds us that we should not be discouraged by our failures but instead see them as opportunities to grow closer to Jesus. By allowing Jesus to shape us, we become more like Him and can fulfill our purpose in life, which is to love and serve Him.
In conclusion, Brother Cheng encourages his listeners to reflect on the three ways they can answer the question "Who am I?" and to let Jesus guide them in their journey of faith. By recognizing that they are beloved children of God returning to the Father, allowing Jesus to shape them, and accepting the process of becoming more like Him, they can find their true identity and purpose in life.
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Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, marks the start of Holy Week, which commemorates the suffering of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion on Friday. The long Gospel lesson, from Matthew 26:14 – 27:54, speaks of two different deaths: that of Judas Iscariot and of our Lord Jesus. Judas, overcome with guilt for betraying Jesus to the Jewish authorities, ultimately took his own life. However, it is worth noting that Judas died spiritually before his physical death. He lost faith in God and he decided to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. Judas expected the Savior to be a mighty king and conqueror, but Jesus spoke of the kingdom of heaven. Jesus talked about His own death, and chose to win over enemies through debate and persuasion instead of military conquests.
Over time and with unmet expectations, Judas allowed his faith to die, culminating in his own tragic death. Do we, like Judas, expect Jesus to meet us on our terms, and when He doesn't, do we begin to lose faith in Him?
Unlike Judas' death that was shrouded in darkness, Jesus' death was announced, accepted and accomplished for us to His glory! Jesus' death was announced as the giving of His body and blood to us, along with His promises to forgive us our sins and to give us new life. Jesus also accepted his Father's will that He should die for all sinners. When Jesus finally gave up His spirit on the cross, He cried out not in defeat, but in the accomplishment of His mission to save us from our sins.
During the Divine Service, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng provided a succinct summary of the important differences between the two deaths. While Judas' death was life-ending, Jesus' death is life-giving, and while Judas' death represented a death of faith, Jesus' death and resurrection creates and sustains our faith. One brings despair, while the other brings hope and life. Judas' death serves to drive us to cling on to Jesus’ life-giving death and resurrection.
Pastor Soh also congratulated the baptismal candidate, Chau Qi Xun Wilbert, along with Chau Ying Ming and Luan Chu Fang, who affirmed their baptism for reception into YCCL membership this day. He urged them to never bury their God-given faith as Judas did, but through repentance cling to our Savior who died and rose again for us.
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Is life limited to our physical existence, or does it continue beyond death? In the story of Lazarus (John 11), Martha, Mary, and the Jews believed that death was the end of life. They mourned Lazarus' passing and lamented Jesus' belated arrival. Unbeknownst to all, Jesus has delayed His coming out of love. While it is natural to feel upset when our prayers are not immediately answered, what we consider good timing may not be the best from God's perspective. The prerequisite of resurrection is death. Death must take place before resurrection. Jesus knew that dying from illness does not signify the end of life, because life goes beyond physical existence.
Is our faith in God theoretical or real? Martha's initial faith in Jesus was knowledge-based. After the Lord asked if she believed that He is the resurrection and the life, Martha instead responded that she believed Jesus is the Christ. We witness a God moment that underscores real faith when Jesus commanded the stone to be rolled away despite objections that Lazarus' corpse would smell. He then called out to Lazarus, who walked out of the tomb alive. By then, the followers' faith was no longer vague and general but fully convinced, practical, and specific.
Is our response to God's revelation that of rejoicing and believing, or alarm and rejection? Many Jews would rather bury the loving grace of God under their self-interest and political orientation. At today's Divine Service, Br Lim Geok Seng exhorted the congregation not to let ourselves remained at the level of having untested belief. We should ask God for the experience to encounter Him face to face, so that our walk with Jesus may be based on genuine faith.
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Are we qualified to serve God? Do we measure ourselves against the standards of the world or God's criteria? As we learn from the story of Samuel and David, God's standards are not based on outward appearances and human considerations. Although Samuel thought that Eliab and David's other brothers were God's chosen ones due to their physical stature, God chose David, a humble shepherd boy with a heart that trusted in Him. David's faith was empowered by the anointing of the Holy Spirit, and he served God solely by His grace.
Jesus, a descendant of David, was born as God's perfect servant in this world. The world however only saw a carpenter's son who was sentenced to death on a cross. Yet, in Jesus, the wisdom of the world is confounded. Despite our sinfulness, Jesus has qualified us to serve God as we are given new hearts and the power of the Holy Spirit.
At today's Divine Service, Pastor Soh encouraged the congregation not to disqualify themselves based on external factors such as age, education, or physical appearance. David did not let his youth or occupation prevent him from submission to God's commissioning. Similarly, all believers are called to serve God, who has in turn qualified us through the redemptive grace of Jesus Christ. Let us have trust in God's mercy and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us to fulfill His purposes.
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During life's many crises, it's easy to find ourselves in a lonely and dark place. But rather than sinking into despair, we can cry out to Jesus, who serves as the anchor of every believer. Just as a boat needs an anchor to remain steady amidst turbulent waves, we need Jesus as our refuge and peace. With God's faithfulness, we can rest assured that when we call upon Him, He will hear us and provide us with the peace that surpasses all understanding, guarding our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
The Boys Brigade emblem is an anchor. Its motto "sure and steadfast" is derived from Hebrews 6:19a: "We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul." During his sermon at today's Boys Brigade (19th Singapore Company) Enrolment and Re-dedication ceremony, Rev Dr William Chang shared his own experiences as a committed member of the Boys Brigade and explained the meaning behind their motto and the purpose of Boys Brigade. He encouraged all Boys Brigade members to continue relying on Jesus as the captain of their lives.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16 ESV)
Despite our best efforts, none of us can ever fully meet God's impeccable standards. However, as sinners, we are not beyond the reach of God's all-encompassing grace. Our ultimate hope of salvation does not rest on our own merits, but on God's mercy. While believers in Christ are no longer condemned (Romans 8:1), we must not take God's grace for granted and ignore His commandments. Instead, God desires that we continually grow in godliness during our earthly lives, in preparation for our eventual glorification when Christ returns. Drawing on his extensive experience in the faith, Br Cheng Eng Hwa emphasized in today's Divine Service the importance of holding both God's mercy and His expectations for our spiritual sanctification in balance. As Christians, we must not withdraw from God's presence, but instead, confess our sins and seek forgiveness even in our flawed and sinful state.
Although Christians, like everyone else, experience suffering, our response to pain is different. In Christ, suffering and glory are not opposing realities; instead, we become more like Jesus when we endure life's tribulations with faith and obedience to God. Jesus transfigured before his closest disciples, in which he took on an incredibly glorified appearance. This momentary glory was a glimpse of the victory that came with his sacrifice on the cross. Unlike Moses, whose glory faded after withdrawing from God's presence, Christians are inheritors of the new covenant through the grace of Christ, and as we live by faith in his goodness, we grow in glory (2 Corinthians 3:12-18). As apostle Paul wrote, "(for) this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure" (2 Corinthian 4:17 ESV). Today, Rev Dr William Chang urged members of the congregation to depend on the support provided by church ministries as we strive to emulate Jesus in honoring God by remaining steadfast amid life's trials and tribulations.
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“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1 ESV
The Ash Wednesday message by Pastor Soh was thus, following Jesus’ commandment, be watchful of the intent behind our acts of piety lest they should turn us from God. Desiring to impress others, our works are immediately stained by our deep sinful nature, rendering seemingly spiritual and charitable deeds into acts that incur God’s displeasure. Instead, we ought to live out the new heart that we have received upon Holy Baptism, and strengthened through Holy Communion, bearing fruits of love and service to the Lord, as living trees bearing good fruits, rather than like dead trees appearing to be alive. Before God, we are dust and ashes made alive by the blood of Jesus. Continue therefore to pray, fast and help others in need, with humility and love for God, as the new creation made in Christ Jesus our Lord.
The temptation of Jesus by Satan in Matthew 4:1-11 is a narrative of deep spiritual significance. The fact that our Lord was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil, shows that it is only with God's permission that there can be trials in our Christian walk. Unlike the first Adam who succumbed to the lures of Satan, Jesus was victorious over the temptations. Br Lim Geok Seng through his sermon at the Divine Service today called on the church to learn from Jesus. We should trust God's goodness and be obedient to His perfect will so that our walk with Him may be victorious.
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God has set before the Israelites two choices: to obey and trust Him, or to stop believing and be estranged from Him; the former leads to life, while the latter leads to spiritual death (Deuteronomy 30:15-18). As Deuteronomy 30:19 instructs, we are encouraged to choose life. However, history has repeatedly shown how difficult it was for the Israelites, who were often overwhelmed by their own sinful tendencies, to make the right choice. But for baptized Christians, who have received a new heart from God through Jesus Christ, the help of the Holy Spirit allows us to choose obedience and trust. Today, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng at the Divine Service encouraged the congregation to make walking with God a natural part of their daily lives through consistent repentance. He emphasized the importance of trusting in God's promise of forgiveness when we come to the Lord's Table and living with the hope for eternity.
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The Holy Spirit is not merely a force. He is the third Person of the Holy Trinity. It is important for us to know the Holy Spirit intimately so that we can relate to Him personally. The Holy Spirit who dwells in baptised Christians has raised Jesus from the dead, created all things, performed miracles through the apostles, gave St John the futuristic visions in the Book of Revelation. At the sermon during the Divine Service on 5 February, Sr Shirley Cheng exhorted the congregation to seek continual infilling of the Holy Spirit through submitting and consecrating our lives to God, to seek and draw closer to Him on a daily basis. It is only when our being is permeated with the presence of the Holy Spirit that we can lead victorious Christian life, walking with and working out the will of God powerfully.
This recording also includes Rev Dr William Chang's prayer for believers to grow in the Holy Spirit.
Rev Dr William Chang, at the combined service on 29 January 2023, promulgated YCCL's vision of becoming an intergenerational spiritual community that reflects the glory of God. In his sermon, examples of famous personalities from the Old Testament, whose families have been attacked and divided by the schemes of Satan, were emphatically examined to illustrate the point that the family unit is fundamental to God's Church. It is upon our reverence and love for Lord Jesus that relationship with our loved ones can be set right before God. The congregation is also encouraged to rely on God's mercy and grace to build stronger spirituality within our family.
As Christians, we should heed Jesus' call to follow Him. Christianity is more than just knowing a set of spiritual teaching and coming to church. It is about developing an intimate relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, to surrender our lives to Him. At the Divine Service held on the first day of the Lunar New Year, Br Lim Geok Seng encouraged the congregation to lead a more purposeful Christian life, that we should, in the coming year, endeavour to devote quality time daily to studying the Bible and prayers, in order to draw closer to God. Jesus has all the power, authority and resources to enable us to be fishers of men. Not by our own effort, resolve and ability, but purely dependent on God's unfailing promise and unlimited power, that we are able to glorify Him with our lives. Our part is simply to follow Christ, trust His grace, yield to His will, walking His way, living out His Life in us.
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Everyone needs God. Many will strive to seek God on their own but fail. Our God is therefore not a product of human imagination. He is who He is regardless of what we project Him to be. Christianity is God's revelation. God has chosen to reveal Himself to Abraham, and through the Israelites, His covenant people, Jesus was raised up to be the saviour of the world, bringing us back to God sinless, free from condemnation. Meanwhile, every disciple of Jesus was drawn to Him by the word of an earlier follower. As such, connecting others to the revelation and grace of God is part of our Christian spirituality. We are in fact commanded by Jesus to spread the gospel, to lead all to the saving knowledge of Christ. Evangelism must stem from our love for God. We must live out our faith in God's heartbeat. Pray to be sensitive to the needs and cries of others around us, for God to give us watchful eyes and listening ears, so that God may use us to bring the light of Christ into their lives. - a summary of Rev Dr William Chang's sermon delivered at the Divine Service on 25 January 2023, exhorting the congregation to participate more actively in outreach activities.
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What does Jesus mean when He said baptism by John the Baptist would fulfill all righteousness (Matthew 3:13-14)? Is Holy Baptism an end in itself, that thereafter Christians are entitled to a life of spiritual complacency? At the Divine Service on 8 January in YCCL, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng explained how righteousness is a theme that undergirds Jesus' entire ministry. Righteousness can be understood in two ways: Jesus is the righteous one because He conformed to God's will; He is identified with and has been baptised like all sinners should. It is also through Holy Baptism that Christians are made righteous before God. Meanwhile, Jesus is baptised for spiritual action and mission. As Christians therefore, we should not rest on our laurels. Holy Baptism marks the start of our lifelong spiritual sanctification and service to God. The congregation is encouraged to take the significance of their own baptism more seriously by participating actively in church programmes, and to share the Gospel with their loved ones during the new year.
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The name 'Jesus', a transliteration from Greek 'Iesus', itself derived from the Hebrew name 'Yeshua', means the Lord saves (or the Lord is salvation). Bearing the name Jesus, Christians enjoy direct access to God in our prayers. We can have God's blessings and goodness before His holy presence. This privilege however comes with responsibility. As Christians, we must also surrender our lives, allowing Jesus unimpeded access into all aspects of our being, transforming us into the salt and light of the earth. At the Divine Service on new year's day, Senior Pastor Rev Dr William Chang exhorted the congregation to lead God-centred lives. 2023 is the Year of the Lord for YCCL. Individually and corporately, members of the church should strive to live the will of God. Pray to God to reveal and convict us of the areas of our lives that ought to be surrendered. Instead of dwelling on personal plans, seek to know what God's plan for us is. Let Jesus, our redeemer and saviour, be the Lord over all our endeavours in the year 2023!
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Many good things in life come in small packages. The world is transformed by the cellphone in our pockets; while World Cup 2022 was won by the Argentinian team under Lionel Messi, a footballer of below average built. Using highly animated analogy to illustrate the profound spiritual significance of Christ's birth, Rev Soh Guan Kheng at the 2022 Christmas Service, explained how a small baby born in Bethlehem carries the tremendous hope of mankind’s salvation. Christ’s superiority, as confessed in Hebrews 1:1-4, was proclaimed using 3 summary words - Speaker, Substance and Saviour. Unlike prophets of the Old Testament who spoke about God, Jesus Christ is God speaking to us directly. As the exact imprint of His nature, Jesus is, in substance, God Himself. Jesus is also the Saviour who has redeemed us with His precious blood shed on the cross. Finally, before His ascension, Jesus left us two seemingly "small" gifts, i.e. Holy Baptism and the Holy Communion, with the immensely powerful promises of the forgiveness of our sins, the strengthening of our faith and the assurance of His constant divine presence in our lives.
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Tithing is an act of faith based on the divine principle that everything we have comes from God. Tithing is also an act of obedience to and honoring God by putting Him first in our lives. At the Divine Service on 18 December 2022, Sister Shirley Cheng expounded on the biblical origins and principles of giving tithes based on the verses framed within the context of the Scripture. The commandment to tithe is accompanied by God's invitation to test Him and His promises to bless. As Christians, we should not deprive ourselves of God's additional blessings that come with cheerful tithing.
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Four vivid imageries indicative of spiritual transformation for God's people are described in Isaiah 35:
- Barrenness covered with greeneries and shouts of joy. (Isaiah 35:1-2)
- Conversion of weakness and fear into strength. (Isaiah 35:3-4)
- Healing has come to the handicapped and lifeless. (Isaiah 35:5-6)
- Highway constructed over destruction and desolation. (Isaiah 35:7-8)
Pastor Soh, at the Divine Service on 11 December 2022, exhorted the congregation to walk in holiness on the highway that is Jesus Christ Himself (Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6). Guided by His Word, cleansed by the washing away of our sins through Holy Baptism, forgiven at our daily repentance and partaking of the Holy Communion, Christians are invited to walk on the "Way of Holiness" where "even if they are fools, they shall not go astray" (Isaiah 35:8). On this blessed occasion, the church celebrated the baptism of Ong Jian Yong Alex, the confirmation of Matthew Ng and Johan Gejo George, as our fellow sojourners on the highway of holiness.
John the Baptist delivered the baptism of repentance; Jesus baptised for the remission of sins. "Make straight the way for the Lord," cried John. Have our heart been made straight for the advent of Lord Jesus? As Martin Luthur pointed out, all Christian believers should lead a life of repentance. Daily repentance prepares our heart for the Lord, deprives the Devil of having strongholds, even the most tenuous footholds, unto our lives. Rev Dr William Chang at the Divine Service on 4 December 2022 explained the importance of distinguishing between intellectual and relational faiths; he emphasised that it is the latter that we should strive to develop. The sacraments that we receive every Divine Service can grow our love for and submission to God. On this second Sunday of Advent, confess and repent in accordance to God's word, to make straight path for Lord Jesus in our heart. Make our faith real by inviting Jesus to walk with us every step of our lives.
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As to when heaven and earth will be destroyed, Jesus elaborated, "But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only." (Matthew 24:36) At the Divine Service on 27 November 2022, Pastor Soh explained how Christians should not be indifferent to Christ's second coming. The signs are clear. Like Noah's ark, the cross of our Lord is both a warning and a vessel of salvation. We must be spiritually prepared for the end days. While Noah's Ark was visible to all till the great flood came, where is the wooden cross upon which Jesus was crucified? The artefact has perished after 2,000 years. Instead, the cross is to be found in God's word and the holy sacraments. After regeneration through baptism, Christians ought to live a life of repentance by God's grace through the sacraments and fellowship of the church. As we witnessed the baptism of new members today, we must not forget our own baptismal profession, that we should endeavoring to lead God-centred lives, love our neighbors, be members of the community of saints in our commitment to care groups.
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Jesus does not fit into our worldly perception of what a king should be like. When our Lord was crucified, He displayed neither the honor nor power of a monarch. Hanging naked on the cross, He was in excruciating pain and publicly shamed. How does this match our common idea of a king? However, all but one of the thieves crucified beside Jesus knew that He is the Lord. Jesus' Kingdom shall come, he confessed, and his prayer for salvation was immediately accepted by Jesus. At the Christ the King Sunday's Divine Service on 20th November at YCCL, Bishop Lu delivered a sermon on the importance for Christians to understand their reality through the lens of faith. While Jesus might not fit into our worldly notion of kingship, He is definitely the King everyone needs. The thief on the cross has no works to show for; all he has is faith; and he is saved. Let us be good stewards of all that God has entrusted us with and come to His rest with faith.
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In Luke 21:5-19 Jesus spoke of 3 sets of signs regarding the end times: deceptions (Luke 21:8); destruction (Luke 21:9-11) and hatred towards Jesus’ faithful followers (Luke 21:12-17). Christians in particular are to remember that earthly things will end, and that we should cling on to His eternal promises, especially when our faith is being severely tested. Jesus promised that not a hair on our heads will perish, even under intense troubles (Luke 21:18).
At the Divine Service on 13 November, Pastor Soh assured us that trusting Jesus, we are confident that we can endure to the end, not because of our strength, but by the strength of Jesus' promise. The "hair promise" is a promise of eternality. A promise that is also found in His Word and the Sacrament, the body and blood of Jesus, raised for eternal glory, of whom not a single hair has perished.
Listen to the sermon at: https://open.acast.com/public/streams/62ef556524f5cd0012edcbc8/episodes/63708307cc535100112cbfa4.mp3
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At the Divine Service on 6 November, Care Group Sunday, Pastor William Chang explained the Biblical importance of small group ministry. He urged members of the congregation to commit to a care group of the church. Using references from the book of Acts, he explained how care groups, being skeleton of the larger church, have been responsible for the rapid expansion as well as the sustainability of the highly vibrant evangelical movement in the Apostolic era. Small group ministry is also key to the spiritual growth of individual Christians, as we worship, enjoy fellowship, undergo discipleship and instruction in Biblical teachings, embark on evangelism, with brethren whom we are spiritually connected to.
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At the Divine Service today, Br Joel Choong from Singapore Youth for Christ, YCCL's guest speaker, delivered a sermon on the importance of having kindness in our daily walk with Christ.
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What is the meaning of having faith in the Christian context? What does being faithful to God entail? Why is our God known a faithful God? At the Divine Service on 16 October, Br Varian explained, through anecdotes from his rich experiences in youth evangelism, the prerogative of knowing God in order that we may live lives of faith that glorify Him.
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"The church is an organism not an organization", "growing in the body of Christ and growing the body of Christ are not the same"... These are some thought provoking ideas shared by Brother Lim Geok Seng at the Divine Service on 9 October 2022. But what do they actually mean? Christians should not be just passive audience during church services. We must partner with God and participate in the ministries. It is therefore our responsibility to grow in spiritual maturity, as individuals, so that God's grace could permeate through us corporately, inducing the church to grow in glory! The Word delivered during sermons also must be meditated upon and received with faith. So that, unlike children who are tossed to-and-fro by false doctrines, we as a church will grow, anchoring solidly upon Christ our cornerstone!
Subscribe to YCCL podcast channel at Spotify (http://shorturl.at/hlnt1) and Apple Podcast (http://shorturl.at/rSU78).
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At the Divine Service on 31 July 2022, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng delivered a sermon on nature of greed as a sin and how our possessions are gifts of God, entrusted to us for blessing his kingdom and people.
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Wouldn't it be nice if our faith can uproot trees and move mountains?
The apostles asked Jesus for greater faith to help them forgive fellow disciples who have repeatedly trespassed. And Jesus responded with an enigmatic reply (see Luke 17:5-10), that a faith the size of mustard seed can uproot tree and plant it in the sea, followed by the parable of the unworthy servant. Rev Soh, at the Divine Service today, explained how even faith the size of a mustard seed can produce great works because it's power is ultimately anchored on our limitless God. Serve the Lord and stand against sin with the measure of faith we are given, however limited it may seem, for it is not our works but God's glory and grace that triumph!
At the Divine Service on 24 July 2022, Bro Lim Geok Seng explained with scriptural references on the principles of praying to God, who is also our Father in heaven.
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Sermon Title: Welcoming Jesus
While the service rendered by Martha to Jesus and His disciples was essential, even laudable, her sister “Mary has chosen the good portion”, by submitting herself at the feet of the Lord to receive the gospel of salvation. At the Divine Service on 17 July 2022, Pastor Soh Guan Kheng shared how we as Christians should not lose sight of the primary importance of Christ in our faith, even as we render our time and talents to serve the church.
Sermon Title: Living As Covenantal People
At the Divine Service held on 10 July, Rev Dr William Chang reminded all on the imperative of staying together as a church, as God's covenantal people, to be faithful and obedient to His commandments. Through rendering service to the church, with active participation in CGs, we can grow ever stronger as a spiritual community in a world permeated with darkness and sin.
Full transcript of the sermon: https://docs.google.com/.../1XIrkNlnqoh5h3z1Ea3gI.../edit...
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In this sermon delivered by Sister Or Lee Hwa at the Divine Service in YCCL on 25 September, she explained the attributes and origin of Christian patience. The congregation is encouraged to strive for Christ-likeness, building closer relations with God through reading the Bible and prayers, thus developing in us meekness and patience (that can only come from God), that are key to the triumph of Christians over the challenges of everyday life.
https://open.acast.com/public/streams/62ef556524f5cd0012edcbc8/episodes/632ff0bd3afd150012ed0d63.mp3
Subscribe to YCCL podcast channel at Spotify (http://shorturl.at/hlnt1) and Apple Podcast (http://shorturl.at/rSU78).
At the Divine Service on 3 July 2022, Rev Soh Guan Kheng delivered a sermon on how we, upon becoming a Christian after Holy Baptism, should make use of our spiritual freedom to live a life without sin. In the words of St Paul, our liberty from the bondage sin should be directed towards serving God and doing good without weary, that in time we shall reap the fruits of our labour on this earth.
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YCCL commemorated Augsburg Confession Sunday (26/6) with pulpit exchange of LCS Pastors. We are indeed privileged to have Rev Andrew Thinagaran from Queenstown Lutheran Church (QLC) deliver a sermon on discipleship! At the service, Rev Andrew urged the congregation to reconsider the significance of discipleship, that it should be about Christ and the Holy Spirit, and not about the world. In fact, it has cost God much more to make us His disciples than it is for us to follow Him.
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Our Lord Jesus and the Father will reveal themselves to whoever loves, hence holds the commandments of God. This is a revelation that is both heavenly as well as spiritual. But how can man in his or her sinful nature love God and keep His word? However, Jesus is not describing an act of human striving. Love for God is a natural response of anyone who has accepted Christ. It is also God’s promise that He will dwell with us and to live in us. When God decided to set up a new home in us, our old sinful self and the debris of our lives must be cleared.
In this sermon delivered during the Divine Service on 22 May 2022, Rev Soh Guan Kheng explained how lives of Christians are ordered in God’s design after we have invited Him to inhabit in us.
Full Divine Service: https://youtu.be/hz_Z-vsRNC0 (sermon starts at 36:40)
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What is Christian peace? How do we have peace with God and our neighbors? Do we forgive readily? Are we slow to anger? As believers, we ought to love God and live peaceably in all our relationships. In this Biblically-based sermon delivered by Br Zhou Hong Guo, our guest speaker from Singapore Youth for Christ at the Divine Service on 18 September, invaluable insights are shared on how Christians can live in peace with others in some of the most challenging circumstances in life through praying for and relying on God's grace.
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At the Divine Service on 1st May, Pastor Soh delivered a sermon on the parallel between Saul (later Saint Paul) sudden conversion to Christianity on his way to Damascus and Saint Peter’s reaffirmation of his love for Jesus (John 21:15-17) after he has denied Christ thrice immediately before his crucification. Our salvation always begin with God’s initiative and there is no sinner, regardless of the depth of his/her sins, who cannot be saved by Christ’s embrace.
Click on https://youtu.be/enXos0kOS8Y for the full Divine Service. The sermon begins at 39:40.
“A New Commandment” (John 13:31-35)
Summary: The glorification of Jesus only came after His crucification, resurrection and ascension; without which, we would not have received the Holy Spirit who would in turn enable us to adhere to God’s commandments, especially the “new commandment” that we should love each other as Jesus has loved us. The “old commandment” that we ought to love our neighbours as ourselves depends on our own efforts and ability, which often results in failure and frustration. Under the “new commandment” however, our love for others is the outcome of the overflow of Jesus’ love for us. This is only possible when we allow Jesus to have full authority over our lives. It does not depend on how hard we try, but rather on how far we have submitted to the Holy Spirit, to allow Him to work His love through us.
This sermon delivered by Brother Lim Geok Seng at the Divine Service on 15 May 2022, reminded the congregation that only with active loving as such, we are therefore clearly distinguished as Christ’s disciple. Knowing this, our daily priority will therefore be to stay consciously aware of Christ’s presence and submit to His enabling to love so as to act in His power.
“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35 ESV)
Full Divine Service: https://youtu.be/_Tb-KNiKsBE (sermon starts at 26:00)
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The Feast of Dedication or Hanukkah celebrates the restoration of the temple of God from its desecration by the Roman pagans. While the building was cleansed, the temples that is in the hearts of believers remained cold and hard. Have we who are Christians today become like them of past, failed to consecrate ourselves, going beyond our comfort zone to live the spiritual reality that God has called us to believe and profess? Have obsession with doctrinal divisions turned us into an exclusive people? Do we still love our neighbours who do not necessarily agree with us? Have church life become ritualistic?
At the Divine Service on 8 May 2022, Rev Dr William Chang called upon the congregation to reexamine their Christian life and to walk in the perfect will of God.
Divine Service: https://youtu.be/SJ_o0yvbt8w (sermon starts at 36:25)
Full transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O6yjvBawvkJY0Zd-HltL1fUItb1PUxRL/view?usp=drivesdk
PowerPoint slides: https://docs.google.com/file/d/1E8VcoOPVEdE1jOlMsdYxmp8Q1F5b6aVF/edit?usp=docslist_api&filetype=mspresentation
At the Divine Service on 4 September 2022, Rev Dr William Chang explained why God's Word should become our spiritual defense. The humanistic world, operating on a different set of priorities, can challenge the God-centred order, which cannot be compromised in its absolute terms. We are reminded constantly to reexamine our values to align ourselves with principles ordained by God. The younger generation must grow into Godly men and women so that they are lost in a world that is gradually losing its anchor.
Subscribe to YCCL podcast channel at Spotify (http://shorturl.at/hlnt1) and Apple Podcast (http://shorturl.at/rSU78).
Sermon Title: The Post Easter New Normal
(Texts: John 20:19-21 and Acts 5:27-32)
The sermon text takes place on the evening of the first day of the resurrection, when the disciples were gathered together with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, and Jesus came and stood amongst them, and said: “Peace be with you.” The word ‘fear’, which is ‘phobos’ in Greek, was mentioned thrice in the Gospel of John and five times in the Book of Acts, but their meaning and significance have changed. In the former, fear was invariably directed towards the threats and harms that would come from the Jews. In Acts however, the fear of the Jews has been replaced by the disciples’ fear of the Lord. Having received the gift of the Holy Spirit, the disciples were no longer hiding behind locked doors ‘for fear of the Jews;’ instead they were out there, intentionally and willingly disobeying the high priest’s instructions and obeying God’s command to preach the good news of Jesus Christ. The power of Christ’s resurrection and the Holy Spirit transformed the reality experienced by early Christians. It is through this transformation that our lives begin to focus on God and not unto ourselves. When this happened, not only is our eternal life guaranteed, and we will also become great witnesses of God to others and to the spreading of the gospel as well.
Delivered by Rev Dr William Chang at the Divine Service on 24/4/2022
Complete transcript: https://drive.google.com/.../1Xy17cCVOCvrMshQmWmm.../view...
Slides of the sermon: https://docs.google.com/.../1x.../edit...
Full recording of the Divine Service: https://youtu.be/-5YrDLTVATQ (sermon starts at 37:40)
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Be inspired by the sermon delivered at the Divine Service on 17 April 2022 on the hope and power that come with the resurrection of Christ!
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Sermon title: All are invited! Come! (Isaiah 55:1-9)
God has invited all who are spiritually poor to partake at His grand feast prepared for everyone! This feast is not for free, and God knows that there is no way we can pay for it with either a grand offering or with good works. The feast is not only free for all to partake, it benefits us eternally. This is a feast of salvation meant for all nations around the world. The good news is that Jesus has foot the bill for this feast! How do we partake this feast? We listen to God's word! Do not miss this rare opportunity for salvation!
Delivered by Pastor Soh Guan Kheng at the Divine Service on 20/3/2022.
Palm Sunday Sermon - Facing Your Crosses Victoriously (Text: Philippians 2:5-11)
On Palm Sunday, Jesus rode on a donkey into Jerusalem, bringing the shalom peace of God to mankind as prophesized in Zachariah 9:9 -
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion!
Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem!
Behold, your king is coming to you;
righteous and having salvation is he,
humble and mounted on a donkey,
on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
Eventually He would undergo a most excruciating and shameful death known to the world in perfect obedience to God the Father.
Spiritually speaking, we too ride with Christ into Jerusalem, we share in Christ’s victory and in His suffering, know that there are several crosses, big and small ones, in our life journey waiting for us just as the BIG ONE was waiting for our Lord. Our crosses are situations beyond our control that cause great physical and mental suffering, and disruption to our lives.
When confronted with these crosses, do we set our mind on ourselves, our wants or fears? Or should we take on the mind of Christ who puts God first, who empties Himself of all honour and glory, and who is willing to suffer and die according to the heavenly Father’s good and perfect will?
God can salvage these situations by turning what is bad to good and evil to blessing, just like what he did for the world through Christ’s death on the cross. God does not will that we suffer but that through sufferings we be built up and blessed to His glory and honour.
As Christians, we must be prepared for the inevitable crosses along our life journey. It is of paramount importance that we learn from our Lord Jesus when he was preparing to face the greatest cross in human history, in His absolute humble submission to the perfect will of God, knowing that God did not create these situations but intervenes to make good these situations for our blessing, for His glory and honour.
In fact, much of our blessing and reward are kept for life eternal. Remember our Lord’s words that we are in the world but not of the world. We should not therefore have confidence only in the things of this world and forget that we are creatures elected for eternity. Because God is in charge, there is a mission in our suffering as God often work through submissive people to witness to His love and power. And in this way God is glorified and honoured and at the same time, the person who suffer and the people around him or her would be greatly blessed as well.
Therefore, let us have this mind of Christ as we face the crosses in our lives that we may be victorious.
Amen.
Delivered by Rev Dr William Chang
Download the complete sermon: https://drive.google.com/.../1QiVZIGZxlukBg55EVaQ.../view...
Slides for the sermon: https://drive.google.com/.../19CYSIG0hPxTznsY8dAM.../view...
Full Divine Service: https://youtu.be/JFOdJ6iJGz0 (sermon starts at 38:00)
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At the Divine Service today (21 August 2022), Rev Dr William Chang explained the significance of Sabbath to the congregation. The Sabbath, which is observed by the Jews from the sunset of Friday to the sunset of the following day, has since been replaced by the Lord's Day, which falls on the Sunday, the day where Christ was resurrected. This is the reason why Sundays have been the churchgoing days for most Christians. We should however not take Sundays as an ordinary rest day. On Sundays, we ought to rest in the Lord, through our attendance at the Divine Service. It is through this renewed Sabbath rest that Christians are spiritually regenerated to overcome the challenges in our lives as we partner with God to build His kingdom.
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Sermon title: Jesus is worth it! (Gospel reading: John12:1-8)
The expensive perfume poured to anoint Jesus feet was an act of supreme reverence Mary has displayed for her Lord and Teacher. Mary was not concerned with worldly opinion when she cleaned and wiped Jesus feet with her hair. She trusted and worshipped Jesus to the utmost without hesitation. Unlike Judas who was hypocritical and cynical, Mary knew that Jesus was worth it! Subsequently, Jesus would anoint us from head to toe with His blood at the cross, assuring us of salvation and eternal joy. How much is Jesus therefore worth to each and everyone of us? Have we offered Him our best in terms of our talents, resources, time and efforts?
Delivered by Pastor Soh Guan Kheng at the Divine Service on 3rd April 2022.
https://youtu.be/39S6LTtV8Nc (sermon starts at 35:50)
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Summary of the Sermon, “Sharing God’s Joy & Burden”, by Rev Dr William Chang:
While Luke 15:1–3 11b–32 is widely known as the parable of the prodigal son, and that its theme commonly understood as that concerning repentance, focusing on the turning back of the younger son, Jesus’ intended audience was however the Pharisees and the priests, which in the parable were represented by the persona of the elder son, who upon knowing the celebrated return of the younger son, became greatly displeased with the father, owner of the estate. God loves it when people return to him and all those that love God should also celebrate when sinners are saved. This must be an important core value of the faith community at YCCL. Our soul must leap for joy when one person comes to know God.
Christian spirituality is first corporate and communal then individual. True individual fulfilment, life meaning and spiritual growth come through one’s active participation in the life of the faith community. When one soul is saved through our faith community, I pray that all in our faith community will celebrate and leap for joy and give all praises and thanksgiving to our heavenly Father in heaven.
This parable, like the previous two, teaches us about feeling the mission heartbeat of God. Feeling God’s urgency in bringing back His lost children.
God is urgently and actively seeking out His lost children. Loving God is to feel God’s heartbeat and act upon it individually and as a church.
Acting on God’s heartbeat is not confined to traditional mission work which is important, but it should be part of our spirituality. By spirituality, I mean the way we live out our faith, which should include a big heart for God’s lost children who are not back home yet.
As individual Christians, this is our daily burden and passion as we meet people. Our spirituality would propel this burden and passion to the forefront of our interaction with people. We may not be able to share the gospel with someone but we could facilitate opportunity or support in any way we can for a non-believer to hear the gospel. Everyone has a role or a supportive role in bringing God’s lost children home.
That’s why outreach ought to be an important ministry of YCCL and no church of God dares to be inward looking or self-serving.
Amen
Download the complete sermon: https://drive.google.com/.../10FeL-AVEjHCBE.../view...
Full Divine Service: https://youtu.be/PtHdVuy3KCg (sermon starts at 27:48)
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During the Divine Service on 14 August, Br Lim Geok Seng explained the indivisibility of truth, hence the inevitable choice of Jesus as our only Lord and Saviour. Like Jesus, we too submit ourselves to the will of God. Our love for God therefore cannot be superseded by any other objects of devotion.
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(*sermon becomes more audible after the one minute mark)
How to stand firm as citizens of heaven? Who can be the role model in our walk with God?
It’s interesting that Paul did not highlight Jesus as the role model as one would expect. But instead put himself and some other godly believers up as role model. Paul knows his theology and is a practical person. He knows that the faith community is an important spiritual environment and place for Christian’s growth.
The place to look for role model is indeed in the faith community, be it the faith community at YCCL or the wider faith community of Singapore or even the world.
Our role model must be within the Kingdom of God.
It is for this reason why there is a great urgency to resume the youth service and to establish a young adult ministry at YCCL, in fact to rejuvenate the whole church for that matter. It is the church’s responsibility to provide everyone in YCCL faith community with godly role model to nurture and guide us so that we may stand firm as citizens of heaven and as people of the Kingdom of God.
Complete Transcript -> https://drive.google.com/.../1kDuA5_-7IFitW.../view...
Full Divine Service -> https://youtu.be/QRynyprRG9k (Sermon starts at 29.06 minutes)
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Matthew’s Gospel tell us about the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus went up a hillside to teach the people. The Gospel of Luke tells how people from all over had come to Galilee looking for Jesus. Luke tells us that Jesus sat down with them on a level place. So we call this one the Sermon on the Plain. So when Jesus starts teaching, he is teaching about what life is like in the kingdom of God.
If we compare the blessings and the woes, we will notice that they form pairs.
A. Blessed are you who are poor. Woe to you who are rich.
Jesus is telling us that the comfort and security that money can buy does not last. We hear plenty of stories about people losing their wealth in the course of their lives. Jesus is saying more: our wealth has no eternal value. Jesus is telling us that we can receive his blessings even when we are poor. His blessings are received through trust in him, and our trust may grow when our needs are greatest.
B. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry.
Again, in the second pair, most of us would think of hunger as one of the great evils of our time. And one of the blessings that we give thanks for every day is our food. Once again Jesus is exposing the human greed that makes food into a god, and thinks that life is all about feeding ourselves. Jesus says that we might be well fed now, but we might hunger later, because that food does not last. Another time Jesus spoke about food that lasts. He was talking about himself as the bread from heaven. He promised that he is the one who feeds our hunger for the deepest human needs, and gives life now and life that is forever. He is speaking about those who have learned to trust him, to trust his promises, who know that they are provided for, now and forever.
C. Blessed are you when you weep now, for you will laugh. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep.
Again, Jesus contrasts life now, and what life will be, what Jesus makes of our life. If our life is all about enjoyment, then that life is empty, and our enjoyment will come to an end. Jesus says that when we face the cruel realities of life, including the sorrows of sin and suffering and death, we can receive his relief, his release. Then we will be given the new life that is life with our God. Then we will have the real joy, the holy laughter, the celebration of life with God.
D. Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you and insult you, and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. Woe to you when everyone speaks well of you, for that is how their ancestors treated the prophets.
Jesus calls on us to be prepared to take the consequences whenever people turn against us as messengers of the truth, as those who stand up for all that is of God. His word of blessings is a word of promise. He promises that if and when people turn against us because of our genuine faith in Christ, God remains faithful to us. The insults and persecutions are not blessings. But in the middle of insults and persecutions God continues to bless us with his strength, with God’s own Spirit, with the assurance of his grace. No one can take that from us.
Delivered at the Divine Service on 13 Feb.
Complete transcript -> https://drive.google.com/.../1pj8KEb9QJ9QrnS8oLov.../view...
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Summary of the sermon:
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One of the struggles of Christians in this life is suffering. There is always this mindset that suffering is bad and if God is good and almighty, why do Christians have to suffer? The event of the transfiguration of Christ however leaves us with the kingdom perspective that “There is no Glory without the Cross (suffering).”
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Jesus' suffering on the cross is the most glorious act of love enacted by Jesus for us. Suffering and glory are no longer opposites. Similarly, our glory in Christ and our suffering in this world is no longer opposites as well. We share in the same battle field as our Lord Jesus Christ.
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Christ won the War for us but the battle is still on, which Christians of all ages continue to fight this battle in two ways: suffering actively and passively. We suffer actively by countering the temptations and ploys of Satan that aims at causing us to distrust and doubt the existence or the goodness of God. We suffer passively by suffering the consequences of sins: we get sick, we die, affected by natural calamities etc.
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Saint Paul said, “So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away (through suffering), our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).” Suffering and glory in Christ are no longer opposites. In our suffering we are transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another to become like Christ more and more.
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Suffering itself does not accomplish anything spiritually. But our response in suffering does. Christ was obedient to God’s will, even unto death on the cross. In his suffering, he died and was resurrected, which brings hope to humanity. Like Christ, our response in suffering is to trust and obey God’s will, which brings about transformation.
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The church also helps us in our struggle to honour and glorify God in suffering. Let our brethren walk and empower us to honour and glorify God in our suffering. Our suffering would become meaningful and bearable as we gain greater Christ-likeness. Amen.
Delivered at the Divine Service on 27 Feb by Rev Dr. William Chang.
Full transcript -> https://drive.google.com/.../1TPZfdgzo3L1L9Cg1fPF.../view...
Divine Service -> https://youtu.be/vrtQnYPcz8Y
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At the Divine Service on 5 June 2022, Sister Shirley Cheng delivered an engaging sermon on the need for Christians to share God's heartbeat through endeavoring to evangelise. Click on the audio to understand why we must be on fire for God!
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At the Divine Service on 5 June 2022, Rev Dr William Chang gave an inspiring overview on YCCL-led missions to Cambodia. Filled with moving anecdotal details, this sharing, together with Brother Leon Cheng’s presentation, highlighted the need for Christians to evangelise and heed our calling by Christ.
Click on the audio and be immersed in YCCL’s evangelical legacy!
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At the Divine Service on 7 August 2022, Pastor William Chang explained how as stewards of God's gifts to us, Christians should devote their time, resources and efforts to the glorification of His Kingdom rather than for our own personal gratifications. We should give to God what we can based on the spirit of the Gospel, which is that giving should be an expression of love and gratitude for our Creator, rather than to give by compulsion, or worse, reluctance. The sermon ended with Pastor Chang's call for the congregation to give and serve the church.
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