Island ECC Podcast: Recent Episodes
Island ECC
Weekly audio messages on the world-changing Gospel of Jesus Christ and the life-changing love of God from Island ECC in Hong Kong. For more resources and to get connected with us, visit our website at www.islandecc.hk
How can singleness become a season of purpose and service? What if marriage is more about sacrificial love than personal happiness? How can we understand parenting as a mission to raise God-centred children? Today we explore how to glorify God and reflect His love in every stage of life by realigning our priorities with His Word.
The topics of life and death are some of the weightiest realities we are all called to carry as humans. And despite our inclination to look away and avoid, the healthiest thing we can do is face these questions head-on while in the safe presence of a loving God. His words will keep us from regret and rewire the way we think about these vital topics.
There are many sacred texts which provide inspiration for how to live. How is the Bible unique, and how does it demonstrate reliability?
Like a pair of glasses, your worldview is the lens through which you view life. It forms your values, determines your decisions, and reveals your priorities. But so many don’t even realise what their worldview is.
What triggers you? Chances are, you’ve got some things that just really annoy you, and invoke in you a response that you might not be proud of... But what if you became un-triggerable? What if you were able to manage your reactions in a way that revealed a confidence in God more than an easily triggered reaction?
Finding contentment has always seemed elusive. Try as we might to be satisfied with our current life, we still have ambitions and goals. It’s a natural human instinct to have those. But oftentimes that leads to undue stress and anxiety, and can drive others away from us. In this sermon, we will explore different ways of finding true contentment in our lives.
Like fish in water, most of us don’t realise that we swim in a world of shame. We are unaware of its presence and even more unaware of its effect on our lives. However, we are told that Jesus “despises the shame” in His own life, a principle that could unlock freedom and joy in our lives like nothing else.
Empathy is vitally important when it comes to experiencing a full life. It helps us to be compassionate and caring, while building connections with others and expanding our worldview. We can’t fully understand what everyone goes through in life, but we can imagine what it would be like to be in their shoes. And when we take those steps, we encounter a vast diversity of people who are made in God’s image.
God’s invitation to the abundant life goes well beyond simply becoming unabrasive when we think of self-awareness. It is instead a call to discover and pursue what it means to be made in His image, and the people we will be forever with Him.
Does Jesus desire us to be happy? We know that we are to consider all our circumstances “joyful”, but what about happiness? Is that the same thing? Happiness is a journey, but the path isn’t always easy to navigate.
It’s easy to miss the work of God in our lives. But in the big picture, it’s the most important thing we can ever notice.
Most of us assume a very passive posture toward our faith. Our unspoken approach is “let go and let God”. Even as we are ambitious in our careers, our studies, and our relationships, often our spiritual life gets the leftovers. Just a slight shift in our priorities can make a world of difference in our spiritual experience.
There is a shared desire among all Christians to share their faith and win people over to the gospel. However, it comes with many challenges and difficulties. Especially to those who really immerse themselves with the people they are trying to reach. In those circumstances, how can one keep their own faith?
Our culture conditioned us to look only to the future for things that are bigger and better. The Bible, however, teaches us to look back. By remembering how God helped us in the past, our hearts will be infused with gratitude and hope for the future. Thus far the Lord has helped us. He was faithful in the past. He will continue to be faithful in the future.
Our world is full of stressors. We are constantly bombarded with emails, text messages, and news alerts. So many things happen at the speed of light and they can cause our anxiety to skyrocket. Today, we’re going to look at a bookmarked Bible verse that helps to alleviate this stress and keep us on the right track.
We all live by hope and for hope. Then, too often, hard reality impacts that hope. In chapter 5 of the book of Romans, Paul shares a fascinating process that God has woven into our lives that can help us maintain and even deepen our hope in the midst of suffering.
At its core, our need for approval is a God-given longing. It points to a deeper need we all have for a right standing before a holy God.
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 16
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 15
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 13
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 14
One of the most difficult passages to interpret is Romans 13, because of its call to submit to authority. It has become a flashpoint for and against civil disobedience. So how should we as Christians interpret the passage and how can we abide by it when it comes to respecting authority?
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 11
Based on the mercies that God has shown us in Chapters 1 to 11, Paul in Romans 12 teaches us how to live out a truly counter-cultural life. Christians can be different. In fact, Christians should be different. Not because we are better, but because we have experienced God’s mercies and forgiveness.
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 12
Romans 7-8 contain some of Paul’s most personal reflections and utmost convictions about our Christian lives. This message dives into the heartfelt centre of Paul’s theology, which is based in his utter faith in God’s love to us in Christ.
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 10
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 9
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 7
In this section of Paul’s letter to the Romans, he is explaining that now that we have been justified by faith, we now have peace with God and freedom in Christ. But as he builds his argument, he can see the questions coming at him. Questions that are only natural to ask. His eloquent explanation helps us understand what it truly means to be free – a total dependance on God.
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 8
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 5
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 6
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 3
The gospel of Christ is the greatest information one can even comprehend. And it is so counterintuitive that we easily drift away from it. Our default setting is often to live by inner rules of behaviour, rather than the freeing life in Christ. Romans reminds us of who we are in Christ, and how our righteous standing before God compels our life in new directions.
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 2
Listen through the book of Romans and follow along with our “When in Rome” sermon series. Chapter 1
Jessica and John will be sharing about the compatibility of Science and Faith. Through the sermon they will explore the rich history of science and faith and share how science provides us a way to cope with our existence, but it is our faith in Jesus that provides us with hope, meaning, and purpose.
It can be difficult to wrap up our minds around two things we believe to be simultaneously true, an all-powerful God who directs steps and history, and an intangible sense that we are free to make choices that impact the present and future. Join us as we explore how much free will we have in our lives.
Why should we even ask for things, if God already has a plan and has made up His mind? This question is essential to answer if we ever hope to have a robust and exciting prayer life. We dive into the story of the first prayer of intercession in order to answer this question.
What do you imagine when you think about the afterlife? That’s a huge question that could be answered a plethora of different ways. Even amongst Christians, the idea of what happens after we die is met with confusion. But what we think about our future is very important for our present. Today, we will look into scripture to understand what happens after we die.
It’s been a charge against Christianity for ages – how can Jesus claim to be the only way to God? Is Christianity really that exclusive? And what about those who’ve never had a chance to hear?
Why do bad things happen to good people? What happens when your world goes off balance? What
part does believing in God play in your life when nothing seems to make sense? Come and discover
what God has to say about this through His own words – The Bible.
Our confidence in our Bible will greatly affect the level of reliance we place upon it.
People die differently, because people live differently. In the last scene of Jesus’ life, He is surrounded by two thieves, both having equal access to see and observe Jesus. But their response is very different. How can we cultivate a tender heart, one that sees and receives all that Jesus has for us?
The unexpected help from Simon of Cyrene on the way to the cross gives vast insight into the message and method of God in ways we might not have considered.
The story of Barabbas is often overlooked because it is such a short story. Despite its brevity, Barabbas’s story holds deeper layers that go beyond being known solely as the one the crowds chose instead of Jesus. In this sermon, we embark on a journey to explore the untold aspects of Barabbas’s life, revealing surprising parallels that mirror our own experiences.
It’s possible to act like a christian, but not actually be one. It's feasible to be close to the things of God, but never actually have a converted heart. Judas serves as a stark warning that true conversion is always lasting.
Mary Magdalene is a very well known figure in scripture with very little known about her. She had the incredible honour of being the first person to see the risen Jesus, but that wasn’t their first encounter. Mary’s larger story is an encouraging one that gives us a perfect picture of what it means to be gratefully faithful.
The way to greatness is backward. When the world tells you to base your life on achievement, income, image, or power, Jesus offers us a life-giving alternative.
Our negative assumptions about our family members prevent us from pursuing reconciliation, resulting in only a “disguised harmony” or even conflicts in our family. Learning from the reconciliation of Esau and Jacob, we should put our trust not in our own assumptions but in God’s power to change hearts, and practice “forgetful forgiveness”, because we too have been forgiven by and reconciled to God through Jesus.
Lotus seeds represent the blessings of bringing forth offspring one after another. This applies to our spiritual community as we think about how to serve the community better. Today, we study how Barnabas multiplies spiritual leaders (Paul and John Mark) and how we, both as individuals and as a church, should do the same thing.
What is your relationship with money? Is it your master or a servant? A bridge or barrier between you and God? What is God’s design for money and what is his invitation to us on how to live in freedom with it?
Happy New Year! The desire for happiness is a universal phenomenon. But what gives you real long-lasting happiness? In this sermon, we will explore the surprise source of happiness that God has already shown us.
We all want to be more Godly. But it’s hard to know exactly what to do in order to be more Godly. We put our effort into trying many things, but are there specific things that we can place greater emphasis upon? We explore Peter’s letter to find out what those things are.
The world says “Get wealth!” to find your purpose. This pursuit enslaves us to greed. In contrast, the Word says “Get Wisdom!” When we apply it, we not only find a new purpose. In practicing generosity, we take hold of life!
Prayer is foundational for our spiritual lives. This message focuses on how important it is to have intentional connections with God, giving scriptural principles and practical help.
Both science and theology tell us that our thoughts are powerful. Our brain synapses create neural pathways that make our thoughts more and more powerful, causing mental problems, or if nurtured by God, liberating joy.
How would you like to have the “eyes of your heart” enlightened this year? It’s a weird phrase, but it describes a prayer that all of us would benefit from—-the ability to increasingly view life in the realm that is unseen.
With the new year quickly approaching, many people take the time to set new goals for themselves. Some set goals to be physically healthier, others set goals to learn something new. But what about our spiritual lives? Are there ways we can grow spiritually as we head into the new year? We kick off this sermon series by looking at different rhythms that will help us grow in our spiritual lives.
As we exchange gifts to one another at Christmas, don’t neglect to see the gift that God has for you at this time.
What is the difference between hope and wishful thinking? And how do we access this “hope that doesn’t disappoint”?
Have you ever dreamt about your future? Or may be you already have a vision for your life? In this sermon we will look into the character of Joseph, Jesus' earthly father, and see what we can learn from his life and how he made room for God’s dream!
Make room is a call to open up your heart and your life because of the King. As we enter into the Christmas season, we take a look at how God made a grand announcement of the coming King to lowly shepherds and their beautiful response to the news.
Our Christian is a deeply personal faith, but we don’t stop there. God’s heart is for us to bring health and well-being to the people we are in touch with and even to the the city where we live and called home. So, what is God’s plan for us and the city?
In Hong Kong, families are struggling as couples shy away from having children while marriages face unexpected difficulties. Even though our homes are experiencing challenges, it’s important to remember that to God, families matter. Not only are they essential for the well-being and thriving of society, but they also play a vital role in advancing the work of God's kingdom here on earth.
Over 60% of our waking hours are spent in the workplace. If we aren’t flourishing there, then we aren’t flourishing in life. Unfortunately, many people in Hong Kong have an adverse relationship with work. What is the solution to the problem of work? Work less? Work a job that you have passion for? Work a job that compensates well? In this sermon we explore this question at length, and discover how God’s framework for work can change everything.
A flourishing city is comprised of flourishing neighborhoods and workplaces, which is comprised of flourishing individuals. Your best contribution to a healthy city is a healthy you.
In this concluding message on the book of Habakkuk, we see the progression of a man who struggles well with his doubts and confusion. He lands in a place of genuine worship, with doubts still present, but a faith that is even greater.
We may often misunderstand God’s timing or His methods. The prophet Habakkuk did as well. But he learned that instead of letting confusion rule our hearts, we can find confidence even amid our doubts.
Let’s be honest. Sometimes God is hard to figure out. Sometimes our expectations are not met, and we are left confused, disappointed, and maybe even, spiritually numb.
So what are we supposed to do with our doubts? How can we honestly turn our doubts into sincere faith?
In Luke 8, Jesus takes His disciples out on the water for an experiential lesson they will never forget. Distraught from a storm overtaking their boat, the disciples turn to Jesus as they witness His full humanity and divinity on display.
It seems like an absurd question – ”Do you want to get well?”. But tucked away inside that probing question is an invitation to examine what our true motives are. To follow Jesus is to not just seek His blessings, but to recognise His lordship as well.
It’s easy to give lip-service to the idea that God provides. It’s another thing to actually believe it with our lives. How do we really grow our belief about the provision of God? In this sermon, we look at Jesus’ question “Do you still not understand?” to see if there is a secret ingredient to having greater faith.
At the conclusion of the Sermon on the Plain in the sixth chapter of Luke, Jesus poses a poignant question to His listeners. In summary, He asks them, “You’ve just heard me give you clear commandments, so why do you not do what I say?” On top of that, His question puts every listener and reader on the spot by making us all ask ourselves, “Do I really trust Jesus? If so, how can I know for sure?”
Jesus asks His disciples, “who do you say I am?” It is a question that they struggle to answer with great clarity. We take a deep dive into their answers and examine what contributed to their misunderstandings, before we assess how we might also answer the question incorrectly.
Who among us doesn’t have moments of doubt? Does God hear all my prayers? Is Jesus really the only way? Is my salvation secure?
Spiritual stagnation plagues many Christians. The excitement and passion we once had for God slowly gives way to apathy and complacency. By looking at the story of Lydia, we try to discover the secret of her lasting fire and unwavering faith.
Drift always moves toward chaos. It takes intentionality and focus to ensure spiritual drift doesn’t occur in your life. Demas is a man who started well, and sadly ended in desertion. What can we learn from his life to prevent the same disaster in our own?
Some names are included in scripture as warning signs for us. Diotrephes is such a man. His ungodly character was a nemesis to Paul, and a stumbling block to the growth of the church. So don’t be like him. But first you’ve got to understand what makes him so unsavoury.
Do you feel encouraged or disheartened today?
Are you an encouragement to those around you or do you discourage others?
Come and learn from Barnabas, a micro character in the bible that has a major impact in the world.
Come and discover the undeniably amazing power and influence of encouragement!
We kick off the sermon series by looking at the life and actions of Onesiphorus. We will examine what he does that makes him such a loyal companion to the Apostle Paul and wrestle with what that might mean for our relationships today.
Are you content with how often you hear from God? Do you think it’s possible He’s speaking more than you are aware? How can we tune in, to make sure we are hearing all that God is saying as He leads us in this life.
As a follower of Christ, there is the possibility of living above the fray. Choosing to tether your sense of confidence in the goodness of God, rather than the goodness of life.
How does knowing Christ affect the way we talk? How does the gospel message change our conversation?
We know that gossip can be dangerous, but it also feels really good. Gossip helps us vent our frustrations and gives us something interesting to talk about. Is gossip really all that bad? And if so, how seriously should we fight against it? We look to the book of Proverbs to find wisdom about this neglected topic.
We communicate with people every single day, but the person we talk to the most is ourselves. And the words we choose to speak to ourselves are some of the most powerful words we encounter. How do we formulate our thoughts? What lies are we telling ourselves and how can we overcome them with the truth? Today, we will look at a Psalm that deals with this exact situation.
The ability to receive feedback well is the mark of Christian maturity. In this sermon, we will explore why people often reject feedback, and what we can do to improve our capacity to receive feedback well.
Our words make worlds. Whether good, bad, plentiful, or rare, the content from our mouths leaves lasting effects on those around us.
Baptism is a beautiful symbolic representation of the death and resurrection of Jesus. Today we will explore what it means that we have been baptised into the death of Jesus and united with Him in resurrection.
Today is the first of two Baptism Sundays! It’s always a great celebration in our church. While baptism is an outward expression of an inward faith, it is also a snapshot of a bigger story, or testimony, of what God has done in our lives. Today, as we celebrate the stories and baptisms of our brothers and sisters, we are going to look at two of the greatest testimonies ever told and how God changes lives with His graceful gift of salvation.
Many people desire to have mentorship relationships. However the sad reality is that many of us have no idea how to engage in that form of discipleship. We look to the story of Elijah and Elisha to learn about the building blocks of successful discipleship.
The book of Ruth usually – and rightfully so – highlights the relationship between Ruth and Boaz. This story is a powerful tale of redemption that points to our ultimate redemption in Christ. Today, however, we will focus on the journey of Ruth and her mother-in-law Naomi and how we can glean some great truth and encouragement from this beautiful relationship.
Work relationships are among the most important ones we have. Unfortunately, these too often are also among the hardest ones. Examination of the hierarchical relationship between Saul and David, as recorded in 1 Samuel, yields applicable principles for making the best of problematic work relationships.
Perhaps the greatest force for change in your life is your friends. You become like those you surround yourself with. So for Christ followers, friendship is more than a collection of good people, but rather a spiritual discipline to bring about the change God desires for you.
From the earliest of times, every human being has learned how to let themselves off the hook. We are adept at providing reasons for our behaviour (or misbehaviour). But instead of making excuses, what would our life be like if we were simply honest with ourselves and those around us?
We all have people we want to evangelise to. Problem is: we don’t know how to. What do we do when the people we love and care about don't want to hear the gospel message? We kick off our “it takes two” relationship-focused sermon series by studying Paul’s unique relationship with his jailer.
The parable of the lost sons gives us great insight into the depths of our own souls, and offers a freedom and understanding that transforms our religion into relationship. The resurrection was never intended to make us religious.
For many people, being righteous is an unattainable goal. As much as we try to live a holy lifestyle, we still make mistakes and sin. But Jesus actually gives us clear instructions on how to live a righteous life, and it’s not how we might expect. In this parable we learn about the devastation of sin and the importance of humility.
One of the most direct parables taught by Jesus, the story of the rich man and Lazarus calls us to love God from the inside out. Even with its tough teaching, the calling of Jesus was magnetic to the sinners of the day because it emphasised a judgement based on what was real instead of religiously superficial, something we all long for.
Is your faith entrepreneurial? Jesus teaches us about the danger of a faith that is stale and predictable.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most well known parables Jesus ever told. It has become ubiquitous in our language and society. But why is this parable so important for us? Today we’re going to look at how shocking the story really is and how powerful it can be for us if we actually put it into practice.
What lies at the heart of our greed? Is it simply a desire for more things, or is there a more sinister problem at the root of it all? We look to Jesus’s parable of the rich fool for answers and seek to find practical ways to combat the problem of greed.
Jonah was rebellious and then he was reluctant. How can we learn from Jonah and simply live in alignment with God’s heart?
Most of us would readily agree with the notion that God loves us. But to take that truth in and be totally changed by it, we need to really let it sink in. We need to stand in awe.
The state of our world demands an urgent response, and Jesus provides the only lasting hope. As Christ followers, our lives are not our own, and we have both the joy and the responsibility, to bring the light of the gospel to the world in which we live.
You were made to be instrumental in the purposes of God. Regardless of your profession, your ultimate calling is to discover how God wants to use you for His greater glory.
While everyone is wishing you great blessings of good health & wealth during CNY, what do you really wish for? Maybe at the end of the day, you just want to be happy – that’s it! “Don’t worry, be happy”? Then again, the Bible says, “Rejoice in the Lord always!” It never said, “Be happy in the Lord always!” So, what’s the difference between being happy and being able to always rejoice? Come perk up your ears, this might just be the greatest “Year of the Rabbit” blessing you’ve been searching for!
Lunar New Year brings in a season of renewal. It’s time to leave behind things that hinder us, and pursue good things that God has in store for us in the future. So, how does renewal work?
The great Christian hope is heaven. However, many of us don’t like to think about heaven because it either scares us or seems boring to us. But how much of our conception of heaven has been influenced by Hollywood, and how much is actually Biblical? As we look into the final chapters of the book of Revelation, we will attempt to discover what God teaches us about heaven, and why it can be our great hope.
Hagar’s encounter with an angel provides the framework for a good start-of-the-year inventory of our lives. What should you leave behind? What is your direction? What can you expect from God?
This series offers three personal ways to move beyond resolutions to having consistent resolve in vital matters. This first sermon uses the life of Daniel to delve into how resolve is worked out in our past, present, and future.
Who among us couldn’t use a greater dose of peace? This Christmas Day, allow God to gift to you a greater sense of this peace that surpasses human understanding.
Christmas is almost here and as we celebrate this season once again, we are reminded of the power of Christ’s entrance into our world. His birth was foretold centuries before the first Christmas day and this message will look at how the prophecy of Isaiah describing Jesus being the Everlasting Father impacts our lives today. While it may seem somewhat confusing at first, it is one of the most reassuring characteristics of Jesus that we could ever know.
Isaiah points us once again to a beautiful truth about God, that He is a mighty God. Together we’ll look at how the authors of Scripture came to understand this, and explore if we’ve really allowed such a big God into the small parts of our lives.
In this first of a 4-part series, we look at the arrival of Jesus as our Wonderful Counsellor.
Tithes and offerings. We don’t like to talk about it, and we get uncomfortable when the topic comes up. Yet the Bible has a lot to say about it, and even portrays it as something that will bring joy. How can that be true? In our final week of “Dear Future Me” we discuss how giving is a choice you won’t regret making.
Most of us feel grateful. But if others don’t know we are grateful, we communicate ingratitude, and it damages relationships. An attitude of gratitude isn’t enough. We need to express it.
Anxiety is at an all-time high in most spots in the world. With more convenience and affluence than ever before, we also have higher levels of stress. Our faith really can make a difference.
All of us have blindspots. Areas of our lives that we don’t see that could cause problems for us in the future. In order to do the work on these faults, we need to be open to God’s loving (and convicting) Word.
Paul uses his final words to give us one final command. What is it, and how should we live it out? In the final week of the Mic Drop sermon series, we explore the implications of this final command for our lives.
The world around us impacts us immensely. If we are unaware of it, we are surely squeezed into a mould we may not like. So rather than being slowly influenced by forces around us, we are invited to be the ones who influence our world. But it takes dedication and discernment to pull it off.
Endurance is hard. But a lack of endurance will make life even harder. Paul cheers on his protégé Timothy by inspiring him to dig deep and develop spiritual grit.
We’ve all had seasons of spiritual slippage… times when our faith seems vulnerable and could use a boost. Paul tells his protégé Timothy to “fan the flame” as a remedy for a despondent faith.
In our information-saturated age, there are good reasons to get lost in wonder and there are real benefits to our spiritual life when we do.
There is a constant pull to dwell on the past or focus on the future, but God calls us to live in the present – the only place He is actually with us. Studies show that without intention, we spend almost half of our waking hours daydreaming and that, regardless of whether or not these are happy daydreams, if you’re not living in the present it leads to diminished happiness. Joy is found by seeking God in your present circumstances. “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
When Jesus entered into a temple in Jerusalem, we were told He got so angry that He started “driving out” people and “flipping tables“ of the merchants. But what exactly happened inside the temple? What made Him so angry? We will look at Mark’s account to find out the reason behind.
The Bible tells us that Jesus is the all-powerful one: the still point around which everything turns.
Do we believe it? Do we live it?
“Satan”, “Devil”, “Lucifer” – many thoughts and images come to our minds when we see these names. Images could be from movies, TV shows, video games, or maybe even individuals you know personally. However, no other image of him is more empowering than the biblical image of Satan being crushed under your feet. Paul leaves with this as his final encouragement to the church in Rome so that they will be secure in the good news of Jesus’s victory which we share and participate in.
Kindness is a powerful tool that can truly change the world. Through an act of kindness Rahab the prostitute was able to save the lives of two spies and her whole family. Her act of kindness changed the trajectory of not only her life, but the life of anyone who calls themself a Jesus follower, since her kindness led to the birth of Jesus. Kindness has the power to change the world because kindness changes our eternity. It is the kindness of God that leads to our repentance and our kindness towards others makes the earth look more like Heaven.
There is a growing sense of anger and discontentment in the world. Groups at odds with one another are growing more radical and extreme. Caught up in this fervour is the Church. How do we remain the Church in an increasingly polarised society? How can we find wisdom in this age of rage?
Lies and Money. It sounds like a scandalous TV show. But in reality it’s the potential scandal of your own life. If you don’t recognise the lies you are susceptible to, and the undercurrent of power that money has on you, your very life could be the scandal you never intended. Proverbs gives us great insight into how to overcome these powerful forces and live in freedom.
Every day we speak, write, and text thousands of words to people around us – and to ourselves. Words have power. But where do our words come from and how are we using them? Are we honouring God and our neighbour with the things that we say? Proverbs gives us some great words of wisdom to live by.
Envy doesn’t play favourites, but is a subtle disease that affects us all as it works its way from our eyes and thoughts into our hearts. Today we’ll explore wisdom from God’s Word so that we can recognise its deceit in our life and step into greater freedom and contentment.
Pride is so easy to spot in others, and almost impossible to detect in ourselves. But since it’s so devastating to our lives, we should take time to root it out, and find the surprising freedom of genuine humility.
Some decisions in life are trivial, but others are drastically life-changing; who we marry, where we live, what we choose as a profession, are just some of the choices we have to make. We want to get those decisions right. But does the Bible tell us what we should do? We look to the book of Proverbs for answers.
If Psalms teaches us to worship God, Proverbs teaches us how to live on earth. Wisdom, though often mistaken for knowledge, is the key to a rewarding life and a genuine joy.
We are all thirsty. We long to have our deepest needs and desires satiated. And so often, we settle for the temporary rush of a new purchase or other temporary pleasures to soothe our aching souls. Jesus offers a better way.
When we put our faith in Christ, we are given a new life. We receive so many blessings from God. The gift of mercy, grace, freedom, and forgiveness. So wouldn’t it make sense that we honour God by serving Him and His people? Today we’re looking at how to practise the discipline of serving God and serving others.
Choosing to be involved in others’ lives is a discipline. There is an attractive lure to isolation and independence. But when we understand that there is a deepening to our faith that we only experience with others, we make the community a priority.
The Word of God is like a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path. It’s not just a book that tells us something “about” God, it’s a means through which God speaks directly to us. Learning to listen, appreciate, and practice the Word of God is instrumental for us to experience God to the fullest.
What is the role of spiritual disciplines in our lives? How do these spiritual disciplines actually lead to our spiritual formation? We dig into the book of Romans to get an overarching understanding about why the spiritual disciplines are important for our daily living.
Which one of us doesn’t want less drama in our lives? The apostle Paul writes practically about how to live our lives with less stress and greater contentment.
In following Christ, we embrace an “upside-down economy”. So the path to greatness is actually the path of humility. In this message, we explore ways in which we can embrace a mindset of service.
One of our greatest needs as humans is to be seen and known by others. But we fight it. We build walls. We make excuses. We keep people at a distance. Choosing to make genuine fellowship a non-negotiable in our lives paves the way for our souls’ deepest longing for connection.
If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s ok to judge others or not, the answer in the Bible seems to be both yes and no. In this message, we’ll explore together as we try to discern what kind of judgments are holiness issues, and which ones are heart issues.
Forgiveness is foundational to our Christian faith. We are told to forgive one another multiple times throughout scripture. But why is it so hard to do? Today we will look at teachings from Jesus and the Apostle Paul to understand why forgiveness is so crucial to helping us love one another well.
If God knows all of our sins and has forgiven us, why do we need to confess our sins? Is confession an outdated practice that no longer applies to us? We look to the book of James for answers and discuss practical applications for our personal lives and our communities.
All kinds of things get stirred up in our world and our lives – both negative and positive. This message, from Hebrews 10:24-25, looks at the “one another” that tells us to stir-up, and even provoke, three positive, practical things in each other.
Most people spend their lives in pursuit of comfort. Working hard is often viewed as only a means to obtaining greater ease in life. From mattresses to shoes to toilet paper, advertisers tell us their products are “more comfortable”. We are seduced by the notion that our life must be made more comfortable.
Yet comfort is found not in greater convenience, but in living a life in harmony with our soul – with an awareness of a blessed hope that awaits us. Simply put, there is more to this life than living and dying.
Our new testament faith should be marked by one thing: Our love for God and for one another. But sometimes we complicate it with rules, traditions, and Old Testament ways. This message kicks off a 6-week look at how we can make loving others the central expression of our faith.
In the garden outside the tomb, the shocking evidence of an empty tomb sets in, and the movement of Christianity gains momentum.
We conclude our sermon series by looking at the miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead. The final sign miracle Jesus performs will leave no doubt that He is the Messiah. The question for all of us is, do we believe it?
In contrast to the public miracle earlier the same day in front of thousands, this famous sign miracle of Jesus occurs in the middle of the night where only his closest followers would see. As we dive further into John 6, we’ll see not only did John want to reveal to us who Jesus truly was, but also the unexpected way He prepared His disciples for their calling.
We focus a lot of energy on meeting our physical needs but often our souls are left unattended. We seem to be doing so well on the surface, and yet on the inside, we are running on empty. Jesus said, whoever comes to me shall hunger and thirst no more. As we look at the miracle of Jesus feeding the 5,000, may we invite you to explore and to eat the bread of life which Jesus promised is the answer to satisfying your soul… completely!
What could be worse than 38 years of paralysis? Jesus heals a paralytic, but then He reprimands him. A stern reminder that physical healing is not our only need. Our souls need healing too.
We continue our series based on the 7 sign miracles in John’s Gospel with the second of these, a miracle by Jesus done from a distance. This miracle has important application to family life and to the importance of faith in Christ.
There are seven “sign miracles” in the book of John. These are miracles that hint at who Jesus really is, but sometimes we misunderstand these signs and it causes us to have a distorted view of the person of Christ. We examine the first miracle of turning water into wine and try to understand what it really signifies.
What does your life look like at present? Are you labouring for nothing or achieving something satisfying and meaningful? So, what is God’s calling in your life? In this sermon, we will explore God’s calling for us, and how we may engage in a life that is satisfying and meaningful.
If January is a month of fresh starts, February is a month of excuses. Well-crafted, plausible, and oft-repeated, these excuses often keep us imprisoned to being and doing all that God desires. It’s time to find victory instead of excuses.
Everyone everywhere understands basic plant biology, even in a concrete jungle like Hong Kong. The Parable of the Sower shows us how we can cultivate a faith that doesn’t easily wither and die, one that lasts and bears fruit for Christ.
Stumbling and falling is the #2 cause of accidental deaths. As dangerous as a physical fall may be, Jude gives us advice on how to not fall spiritually.
We’ve been through a lot over the last few years - and our world has been through a lot since the dawn of time. Every generation has struggles and hardships. However, the key to navigating these challenges is by remembering the hope we have from God.
Jesus invites us to come to Him in our weariness in order to receive rest. Let’s face it, many of us are exhausted and on the brink of burnout. However, when we try to come to Jesus, we don’t feel rested. In fact, many of us feel more burdened and stressed. So is it possible to find our rest in Jesus? If so, how can we practically do it?
We deeply crave connection. Both to God and to people. But most of us settle for a cheapened version of life, leaving us disappointed and disjointed. Don’t settle. Make Christ your life.
A Woven Story concludes with Mary, “the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.” Mary is one of the greatest examples of faith in all of Scripture. Her faith is a key part of the Christmas story and in God’s plan for the salvation of all humankind.
It’s a chapter we’d rather skip. A sordid tale that blemishes a hero and leaves us traumatised. But the sin of David and Bathsheba is redeemed, reminding us that there is no regret in our lives that isn’t covered by our repentance.
Continuing in this series that looks at the women woven into the story of Jesus’s birth, we examine Ruth, one of the most memorable Bible heroines. Known for her loyalty to her mother-in-law and her loving relationship with Boaz, there is much more to Ruth for us to encounter.
Among the 5 women listed in the genealogy of Jesus, Rahab makes a surprise appearance. Her story is sordid, but her faith is exemplary. Sometimes standing up for your faith means standing alone with your convictions.
To kick off our sermon series on the important women in the genealogy of Jesus, we focus on Tamar. Tamar’s story is filled with prositution, death and incest. Her actions are not examples of the way we should live, yet at the end of her story she is regarded as “righteous.” How is that possible? And what can we learn from her story so that we can live righteous lives?
Aswe wrap up our Open series, we’re talking about a faith that allows for open skies living. Dismantling the borders of fear and sin in our life enables us to live the abundant life designed for us by God, one that is embodied by openness and freedom.
When God closes a door, He opens a window. Hmmm. Is that true? It’s not actually a bible verse, but how does God use open doors to lead us in our lives?
Having a vision for life helps us navigate times of difficulty and times of triumph, it also helps us understand the purpose of our existence. For some of us though, we’re unsure of what that vision is. This sermon will look at Ephesians chapter 1 to see what the Bible says about the vision we are to have for life, and how we might start integrating it into our lives.
Most of us live our lives with emotional caution. Editing our emotions and nervously navigating relationships with fear of rejection or other misguided motives. But real freedom in Christ ushers in a lightness of living that is marked with emotional openness.
Following Christ demands our life and our all. He calls us to be fully surrendered to Him, but we hesitate. We make our own plans and try to control our destinies. Today we will see how we can be open to God by releasing the grip on our lives.
In an increasingly intolerant and screaming world, the church has a great opportunity to be a refuge for those weary of the tension. By being teachable, we exhibit an awareness of who we are in Christ, able to take on new input and ideas without being threatened or diminished.
If we sense a lack in our lives, we are tempted to create alternate systems (idols) to fill in the gaps, but this never works. Living in our completeness is the only way to live a life without striving and insecurity.
Control is a chameleon idol. It’s sometimes hard to spot. It can be particularly deceptive when it comes to ministry or actions with a spiritual purpose. When we learn to be secure in Christ, we can let go and let God be in control.
Our lives are short. Many of us spend our whole lives seeking approval from the society or people around us, not knowing that we are already approved by God and ready to do great things. How can we live our lives so that when we look back, we will not regret?
Often the word power comes with negative connotations, and understandably so. However, a look at how God uses and intended power to be used will give us a hopeful framework to not miss the gift that it is.
The idol of comfort plagues all of us as it is a desire to be without pain. However is that the life that God has called us to live? If not, what is the calling that He has placed on us and how should we pursue it?
Few of us would say we struggle with idolatry: bowing down to another god isn’t likely your greatest temptation. But if you view idolatry as more subtle – as replacing God with other greater loves – then maybe idolatry is a temptation after all.
Jesus commended people for being able to predict the weather. But in stark contrast, He points out that they are incompetent in predicting the greater things of life.
Spiritual dryness can occur even when our outward circumstances look just fine; but how do we climb out of a spiritual drought?
We all experience certain “not-so-wild fires” in our lives that God uses to refine our souls; but how exactly do they show up? Through the story of Jacob, we learn about what the discipline of God can look like and how we should respond.
Life can be confusing. Surprisingly, sometimes life with God can be confusing too. Still, there are some keys in knowing how to navigate life when the way forward is unclear.
In our lives, we will encounter all kinds of weather. Most of us look forward to the sunny days and clear skies because those are the days where we find the most enjoyment. But just like the weather, life is unpredictable and sometimes frustrating – as the author of Ecclesiastes points out. Today we’re going to explore this perplexing book to find the key to happiness in our days “under the sun.”
Bad weather, storms, and hardships happen! What can we do to prepare for these? This sermon uses the lens of weather to show two foundational spiritual principles that can be applied to all types of storms in your life.
We each bring a vibe to every situation we’re in. People often adapt to your very presence. They become more at ease, more uptight, more nervous, more joyful. Knowing your vibe, and managing it, can be a great blessing to every circle you enter.
Enoch is a character that has scant biblical presence. We know very little about him, but what we do know is noteworthy: He walked with God.
Humility is easier said than done. Sometimes our pride creeps in subconsciously and we don’t even know it. How can we rethink the concept of humility in a way that would be attainable and practical? This message explores the idea of “walking humbly” by breaking down the text of Micah 6:8.
You can’t love something you are not familiar with. So when we are told that we are to “love mercy”, we need to make sure we are well-acquainted with it in our own lives.
As we continue in our What’s Good series from Micah 6:8, we’ll continue to build our foundation by complimenting our growing understanding of justice with a fresh look at mercy. What better way to celebrate Father’s Day than by celebrating the Father of mercies.
The prophet Micah reminds us succinctly what the natural response should be to a God who has been gracious and kind: a life that is purposed on justice, mercy, and walking with God.
Micah 6:8 is an inspirational verse about justice and mercy. It inspired a mellow, folksy worship song in the 80’s. But the actual tone is more of a kick in the butt: don’t pretend to be ignorant of injustice around us. Justice matters to God and therefore it should matter to us.
Greed creeps. Studies show that the more we have, the more we want to keep. We become enslaved to worldly wealth unless we choose to be shrewdly generous
Sometimes before we can find contentment and joy, we must become aware of our flimsy approaches to life.
Sun Tse famously said, “Know your enemy.” Jesus would agree. The key to standing strong in your faith is knowing how your enemy is plotting your destruction.
We continue to look into insights from the book of Ephesians about our identity as Christ-followers. This message turns to Chapter 5 with an emphasis on how God has gifted us, as His beloved children, to be light in the midst of darkness.
If you don’t know how you are made, you won’t know how to manage your life. Self-leadership is the hardest, but most important.
What is the church supposed to be about? If there is one target for the church to hit, what would that target be? This sermon from the book of Ephesians will define what the church is supposed to be doing.
What is the church supposed to be about? If there is one target for the church to hit, what would that target be? This sermon from the book of Ephesians will define what the church is supposed to be doing.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ has never been more relevant. For it alone provides credibility for Christianity, but more than that, it provides confident hope for all who follow.
One of the last people to encounter Jesus during His final week in Jerusalem was Simon of Cyrene, a man conscripted from the crowd to carry Jesus’s crossbeam to Golgotha. Recorded briefly in all three Synoptic gospels, there is much we can learn from his eventful interaction with Christ.
As one of Jesus’s disciples, Peter was bold, loyal, and devoted. But, like all of us, he made mistakes. On the night before Christ’s death, we see multiple encounters that Jesus had with Peter that showed how even a disciple of Christ can fail. But as we’ll learn from Peter’s example, God uses our weaknesses to show His power.
Everyone has an opinion, but opinions don’t have the power to set you free. Only truth does that – and Jesus offers a life based on the counterintuitive notion that truth, like it or not, is actually the source of real freedom.
Judas is known as the worst traitor the world has ever known. He is so villainised that many can’t find any way of relating to him. What could have possibly motivated him to betray Jesus in the manner that he did? How might we learn from his mistakes?
We all tend to prop up little gods in our lives – “must haves” we cling tightly to for fear that losing them would devastate us. But our resistance is futile. Eventually, these counterfeit idols prove not to be harmless or neutral, but destructive to the very stability we thought they would bring. Surrendering to God is surely frightening but it is the only thing that opens us to the freedom and stability our insecure selves crave.
Blessings and the “fei chun” calligraphy are everywhere at Chinese New Year as they are an essential part of the holiday. But what is the biblical meaning of “blessing”? And what is the secret to living the “blessed life”?
There is a time for everything. As we begin the Year of the Ox, God is calling us to focus on sowing seeds and trust Him to bring us a joyful harvest in His time.
We are all desperate for approval and recognition, but this misdirected craving is exhausting and unfulfilled. Life with Christ offers a truly satiating alternative.
Spiritual scarcity is a real problem today. Unaware or ungrateful for our spiritual wealth, we settle for a spiritual life that is dumbed down, reduced, and anything but vibrant. Though our experience is common (thank God for those disciples!), it is far from what God desires. Living in abundance is a beautiful and available alternative.
God often uses the people around us to speak wisdom, correction and care. Thus, cultivating a teachable spirit is key to unlocking the voice of God.
Doubt is something that every person must deal with. It is a normal part of the human experience and can be a great tool to propel us towards seeking truth, yet unfortunately it is something that fills us with fear and dread. In this sermon, we will study the life of John the Baptist to see how we are to deal with our doubt.
Our natural tendency is to resist change in order to find comfort from predictable control, but real freedom comes through a Gospel-centred life that is constantly in flux.
As we get ready for a “new normal”, we desperately need wisdom to discern our way through the uncertain future. Even if we cannot be certain of what 2021 holds for us, we can be clear on how to live it out.
As 2020 comes to a close, we look at one piece of wisdom from Job 23:10. This message encourages you to more fully reflect on your current path, and provide purpose and hope for the future.
The gifts of the magi were not only a provision for Jesus’s family for their years in Egypt, but more important, also prophetic in nature. In this message, we will look at the gift of frankincense to see what it said about the baby Saviour back then, and what it means for us today.
The most awkward of magi gifts is definitely the myrrh, yet its significance is the most profound.
The King of kings, Jesus, holds all things together. To the degree that we live under the kingship of Christ, He will hold your life together as well.
What does it mean to “find our joy in Jesus”? This is a phrase that is thrown around a lot, but few of us can truly make sense of what it should look like in our daily lives. We dive into Philippians chapter 3 to try and understand what it means.
Sometimes we chase peace, thinking it is just around the corner or a soon-to-be-enjoyed relief if we can just hold on a little longer. Paul reminds us that the peace of God is actually closer than we think.
All across the world there is increased hostility and decreased tolerance. Opinions are spouted often and without flexibility. How is a Christian to engage a world that is polarised and embittered?
All across the world there is increased hostility and decreased tolerance. Opinions are spouted often and without flexibility. How is a Christian to engage a world that is polarised and embittered?
Don’t settle for a faith that is afraid of facing the brutal realities of life. Instead, develop a depth of insight that is honest about the pains of life, and still remain hopeful.
We look back at an unprecedented ministry year and from it, draw encouragement, as we continue to press on toward the goal.
A life of faith has often been compared to running a race, but how exactly should that look? In this sermon, Kevin will explore what it really means to live our life like a race, and what we should do to ensure that we run the race well.
Here at Island ECC, we naturally associate “Seek First” with Matthew 6:33. It’s easy to remember because it’s also our street number. But Seek First is more about 18-12 than 6-3-3: Matthew 18:12 tells us that our Good Shepherd leaves the 99 to seek after the one sheep that’s gone astray. Before we seek His kingdom, it’s God who seeks us first, and outreach is our response to His love.
In this final letter from John, we are going to see a straightforward comparison of what to do and what not to do. It’s a very short, simple, and to-the-point letter that encourages us to always be hospitable to our neighbours. But the question is, how do we imitate this?
The letter of 2 John was written by the beloved elder to a community struggling to hold on to the earlier established truths of faith in the midst of deceivers. John proclaims a simple, direct message about the need to walk in love and protect the essential truths of Christ.
Towards the end of his life, John pastorally and affectionately speaks hard truth to fellow believers. After personally watching love personified in Jesus, John claims that God is love itself, and anyone who knows Him will live a life that reflects that in the way they treat others. Love for God and love for others is inseparable.
This message centres around 1 John 3 where the Apostle John explains we are loved by God as His children.
God is the light that shines into every area of our lives if we allow Him. John reminds us that it’s impossible for us to say we’re following the light while we still harbour darkness in our lives.
Jesus, the Word of Life, is central to our faith. He is here not to give us more information about God, but for the transformation of our lives! We will look at three things that the Apostle John wants us to know about Jesus and three things he wants us to do.
Life can be a little monotonous. We can get into routines and feel like things are boring. That’s why we escape into movies, books, and video games! Walter Mitty had his vivid imagination and wild daydreams. He wanted more to life, and I think we all do. Today, we’re going to see an amazing adventure that we can all go on together by trusting in God’s leading.
If you’re reading this, then you’re not blind, but you still might have a blind spot. We often have a blind spot for people. We pass by several people a day - but do we notice them? Do we see them? The Blind Side is a heart-warming movie about learning to see people as Jesus does.
Today’s feature presentation is “Frozen 2.” One of the beautiful sides of films, even animated films, is the opportunity to watch characters navigate universal struggles that mirror our own. In Frozen 2, Anna finds herself in a helpless state that many of us can relate to, and the wisdom that draws her out of it captures the way God asks us to trust and follow Him.
Today’s feature presentation is “The Pursuit of Happyness”. It’s the true story of Christ Gardner and his son trying to make it through life together while overcoming tremendous challenges. We all face challenges and this year seems to be overwhelming. But even in the midst of these tough times, we can still find contentment by pursuing God.
Welcome to the Island Summer Movie Festival! Movies can be exciting, funny, serious, and heartwarming; and they can move us by telling amazing stories. Our hope is that we can look at movies and see themes of the Bible coming through the screen. This sermon dives into the film, Lion, and explores the extraordinary story of Saroo and how his search for his family relates to our connection and position with God.
Samson is divinely conceived, divinely dedicated, divinely blessed and divinely endowed with the Spirit. He had every capability of doing great things for God; however his insistence on doing what is right in his own eyes and neglecting his Nazirite regulations results in conflict and loss. In this sermon, we examine how to live up to our potential and how to live a life that is not wasted.
The story of Jephthah, with his heroic yet tragic life, provides another example of Israel's cycle from wrongdoing to oppression to repentance to deliverance to peace. As we look at his fascinating account in Judges 11, we will find four key principles for our lives, including how cultural pride can lead to undesired devastation.
With examples all around us of power gone bad, sometimes the most dangerous is the appetite for power within us all.
Gideon started well. He was a man of humble origins who obeyed God to help orchestrate one of the most incredible victories in Jewish history. However, as he sought to glorify himself in the aftermath of the victory, he became the very evil God sought to deliver Israel from. In this sermon, we look at what the dangers of taking credit for the accomplishments of God are, and how we can keep ourselves from doing the same thing.
In this sermon, we study the narrative of Barak, Deborah and Jael. In a time of great distress, two unlikely heroes stepped up to take on the responsibility of leadership. How were they so brave? And how can we learn from them so that we can have a fearless faith?
In the longest recorded prayer in the Bible, we see the entire human experience. Our successes are often followed by failures, which is always met with God's inexhaustible goodness.
Rebuilding the city walls was only part of the story. Nehemiah knew that externals were not enough and that there would also need to be a rebuilding of the heart.
Rebuilding requires a strong vision and the ability to stay focused until completion. Chapters 5 and 6 of Nehemiah recount fascinating details of how he persevered in his passionate calling. Four key insights are lifted from this account.
In the face of opposition, Nehemiah demonstrates a brilliant strategy that each of us can take heart in as we face the battles in our own lives.
Using 1 Peter 1:3-12 to answer the question, ‘How can I find a hope to face anything?' Peter says the Christian hope is sure and lasting. This hope gives us joy through suffering, and assurance through uncertainty.
Understanding and walking in the will of God is perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of a Christian journey. Nehemiah shows us that when we take the time to seek God, He will show us His plan and we will be able to discern His fingerprint. Walking in the will of God is a beautiful human partnership with the divine!
We are living in a new normal; and before we simply leap into our former rhythms of life, we now have an opportunity to evaluate what the new normal should be. Nehemiah offers practical approaches to rebuilding a nation that transfer to our own personal rebuilding project.
Two criminals were on either side of Jesus. Both understood their guilt, but only one understood the way to deal with it.
Jesus's last week on Earth is the most important week in our history. So much happened and the Gospel of John gives us great detail about it. In Jesus's final words to His disciples, He helps them understand that things are going to be tough for them, but that they are not to lose hope.
Perhaps the greatest battle Jesus ever fought in His earthly ministry was the battle of Gethsemane, where He battled His sorrow. We currently live in a broken and hurting world that causes us to feel immense sorrow, and the problem is that we don't know how to handle that sorrow. This sermon explores what we can learn from Jesus and how we can find hope in prayer.
If we misunderstand or misapply the message of the gospel, we will find ourselves distant from God. Like Peter, who shocked himself by not even admitting he knew Jesus, we too can be overconfident and underestimate our own weakness.
We've all done it: made promises to God if He'll get us out of a mess, reminded God of our good behaviour so we can get a prayer answered, and so on. It's natural, but it's not healthy – and it never works.
In the sixth sign miracle in the gospel of John, a man is healed of blindness, while the lack of vision in those that see is exposed for what it is.
We all have hopes and dreams. But for the Christ-follower, there is an invitation to go beyond mere wishful thinking and to live in faith.
If our faith is built on God's willingness to deliver us from circumstances, then we more have a superstition or good luck charm than faith. Circumstantial faith will disappoint us—and there is a better way than that.
Fear can be a good thing. It keeps you safe from danger. But to be paralysed by fear is not. Jesus said, "Fear not" to his disciples repeatedly, and yet they were racked with anxiety and fear. Until they weren't. Something changed their ability to trust, and that can give us the courage we need as well.
"Love your neighbour as yourself", you knew this commandment! But you can't live it out! Not even with the person you love the most! But now you know you can!
"Love your neighbour as yourself", you knew this commandment! But you can't live it out! Not even with the person you love the most! But now you know you can!
It can be a challenge to tie our day-to-day faith with our life's journey, but there's a simple first step. Start with God.
God loves us and wants us to participate in His miracles. Let's learn how and why God performs miracles through us by looking at the account of Jesus and the miraculous catch of fish in John 21:3-14.
God places more importance on how we journey than with the destination we are shooting for.
Exploring what it means to be a blessing of God. We will take a journey through the story of the Bible and explore what it really means to be a blessing.
Gratitude honours God and makes the world a better place. God's desire for us to live a life characterised by gratefulness is not a burdensome command. Rather, it sets us free, enables us to experience life in a deeper way, and even help those around us to live a better life.
Our opinions, if held too tightly, can be barriers for friendships, or worse, excuses for others to not embrace faith. Unity must be fought for, even amid polite disagreements.
Every single day, you make hundreds, if not thousands, of decisions. Some you make with great confidence, but some are shaky, at best. Some decisions you make have little consequence. But some have massive consequences and therefore we need to know the mind of God to guide us well.
Predicting your future is really not as hard as it seems. In fact, it's pretty scientific. If you know your direction, you can know where you'll end up. So why do so many of us not pay attention to our direction in life?
As we enter a new decade, expect the wondrous. This message builds on the events in Jesus' life recorded in Mark's gospel that clearly indicate two foundations we can build into our lives for wonderful things to happen by being intentional.
Christmas time is a time where we tend to feel joyful. Gifts are exchanged, meals are shared, carols are sung, and decorations are sparkling. It's what some people call, "the most wonderful time of the year," and it comes and goes every December. But is that it? Should we only "feel" joy just once a year? In this message, we'll discuss what true joy looks like.
We all need an a-ha moment with God. An understanding, or maybe just a deep reminder, of the significance His light shines on our lives. Without it, we are fumbling around in the darkness.
As our church celebrates Baptism Sunday with many stories of life change, we'll go to the book of Mark to explore a man who had a dramatic life change and received a surprising rejection from Jesus. As we listen closely to Jesus's reasoning, we just might discover He'd say the same to us.
There is no shortcut to an elevated faith in God. Valleys of doubt are necessary on the journey to the summit of great faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Your real identity is more than the facts about you. And knowing who you are, frees you to fulfill your God-given purpose in life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we are reminded that the coming 20 years will be even more crucial for the grounding of faith in Hong Kong. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We are bombarded with images and messages that stir our discontentment. The key to finding contentment is not to avoid or abstain, but to change what we chase.
Grief is an emotion that all of us will feel at some point in our lives. There are many aspects to this emotion and ways to manage it. The hard part is when we feel alone and that no one understands. In this message we will look into the Bible and discover that God walks with us through our pain and even knows what we’re going through.
Fear has a way of gripping our souls and shaking our confidence. The answer is not always courage, but rather a deconstruction of what makes us afraid in the first place.
Our own anger, if left un-analysed, can bring us to faulty conclusions and irrational responses. Made in the image of God, who is “slow to anger”, means we should all feel anger as He does, and yet control its pace and place in our hearts.
Anxiety, stress, worry. Are these just a normal part of our lives, or does our faith offer an alternative way of dealing with tough circumstances?
Living Kindness in a Polarized World. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Unity isn't always easy. In fact, it rarely is. But it is always worth fighting for. This message takes a practical look at how we can arm ourselves with tools for preserving unity amid differing views and opinions. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We are whole beings with emotions, thoughts, and decisions. If we attempt to worship God in only one of these dimensions, we are left confused and disappointed. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
His promise of rest is extended to us in the midst of our trouble, not in exemption from it. Our troubles often provide the fulcrum for our faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It's easy to lose our confidence or to let confusion cloud our faith. Psalm 16 serves as a guidepost for deepening our trust in an unshakeable God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Psalm 23 is perhaps the most famous of the psalms. David gives us incredible hope and insightful warning for dealing with life "among our enemies". Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Hope rests on the memory of God’s goodness to us and is strengthened by assurance that He sees our situation and knows what we need. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As we begin our new sermon series "Songs of Hope," we are in a time that doesn't feel "normal." Our world is changing by the minute and we are feeling tensions rise in our city. Today we will study Psalm 46 to find our grounding and discover messages of encouragement, comfort, and hope. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus did not hide the fact that following Him would mean His disciples will face real trials and persecution. Remaining faithful and true to Christian righteousness in the world is bound to bring challenge and opposition, so how do we cope with this and how do we realise the blessing in our lives that Jesus promises? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Peace is in short supply these days. Wars abound, divorce is on the rise, and literally, conflict is in the streets. We are called to make peace in every environment we find ourselves. But how? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Growing old doesn't guarantee growing wise. Jesus declared that to comprehend God more fully, we need to guard our hearts along the way. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Matthew 5:7 is the fifth beatitude of our series and in it our attention is drawn to the importance of mercy in the kingdom of God. It plays an integral part in the way the King has related to us, and in turn, should inform and inspire the way we relate to each other. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Appetites are powerful. Whether they be for food, power, control, or money, our inner compulsions can drive us to have distorted views of life. In a single statement, Jesus gives us wisdom on how to direct our appetites in life, so that we yearn for that which will actually satisfy. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The Beatitudes are both encouraging and challenging. An examination of the one beatitude: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth," (Matthew 5:5) reveals the nature and benefit of Godly meekness and humility. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What do you do when you do something wrong? How do you manage your guilt? Some dismiss it while others deny it, but the reality is that unmanaged guilt leads to a heavy, burdened and bitter life. There is a better way. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
You are part of a kingdom and it can only be one of two. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus describes, in detail, what each of these looks like and entices us to seriously live our lives in His surprisingly satisfying ways. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Sometimes we need to back up to see the big picture: God has been at work throughout history to draw people to Himself and never before has Asia been so responsive. We live in exciting times and in an exciting place. It's a privilege to partner with His work in our great city.. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Passports bring privileges. And so when Paul writes about being a citizen of heaven, he speaks into the great privilege and access we now have as followers of Christ. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Many of us travel with unnecessary weight – it slows us down and makes us sluggish. A careful look at your life can reveal what is slowing you down. A streamlined faith awaits you. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What does it mean to live in freedom? Does it mean that we are free to do anything our hearts desire? In Galatians 5:13, Paul says "For you were called to freedom," but then he continues, "Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh." So then, what is true freedom?. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As we travel through our lives, sometimes we look to our left or right and compare ourselves to others. Many times, that can weigh us down and even divert our path. In this message, we will look at how to drop off some of the baggage we carry so we can have a good journey.. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Guilt is a powerful thing. God can use it to bring about repentance and new life, yet the enemy can use it to paralyse us with shame. In this message, we explore Psalm 32 to see what God has to say about guilt, forgiveness and true freedom.Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What does it mean to "reign in life" as the apostle Paul describes? How far does our Christian freedom go? A deep-dive into Romans helps us understand where freedom in Christ begins. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We use the word "hope" a lot in everyday conversation: "I hope the traffic isn't bad", "I hope the weather is nice tomorrow", and "I hope my vacation is the best ever." But most of the time, our hopes are little more than just wishful thinking. Real hope, or at least biblical hope, is grounded in something greater. The beauty of the Easter story—a risen Christ—is that death is defeated. And so our hope is not just a fingers-crossed, knock-on-wood, wishful thinking, but a grounded hope based on a Saviour that overcame. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Giving is related to love, and both are at the heart of Christianity – John 3:16 is the perfect example of that. We give as an expression of thankfulness for everything we have received from God, not out of guilt or obligation or out of the mistaken motive that it will make us richer. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Our technocratic age presents a challenge to the relevance of faith that causes many in the Western world to reject established religion; yet there remains a deep spiritual hunger for meaning and purpose. The Bible clarifies the limits of our knowledge, points us to the creative wisdom of God, and proclaims the eternally relevant truths of faith, hope and love. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The church and Christians are too often viewed in society as rule-bound and uptight about life. Our relationship with Christ should be joy-filled with freedom as we follow the guidebook God has given us – the Bible. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Many times Christians misrepresent the faith. By either being silent or obnoxious, many are left bewildered and confused about the truths of the Christian faith. The apostle Peter provides us great instruction on how to be winsome as we represent Christ to a world in need.Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Most people believe that Jesus said not to judge; however, that is not all He said about judging. Although, exactly what did He say? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We all face potential faith blockers in our life… justifiable excuses that can dampen our faith. Zaccheus demonstrates focused resolve to meet Jesus against all odds. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
When facing pain, both anger and blame are typical responses. Jesus offers a better option. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It's commonly referred to as the "woman at the well" but the real story is about the Saviour at the well, who replaces shame with gracious acceptance for the most unlikely of characters. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
When Jesus heals a paralysed man, He carefully instructs him to take his mat and go home. In a remarkable story of faith, healing, and the power of friends' faiths, we get great insight into what we need to always have with us on our journey of faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
If you live in Hong Kong, you know something about crowds. Subway rides, Causeway Bay, and maybe even your own flat have a sense of being crowded. The "crowds" in the gospels play a unique role all their own. Matthew speaks of them as the bystanders, the fickle onlookers. Yet Jesus calls us out of the crowd to be a follower, something entirely different, and way better. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
How's your heart? The "Big Cleaning Day" before Chinese New Year is a time when we deep clean everything to prepare for a new year. As Christians, perhaps we should have a deep clean of our heart as well. Is your heart at peace with God? Or it it full of noise? What is God trying to tell you? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Living counter-culturally can be tough, and yet God invites us to have lifestyles that are distinctively different; but not freakishly weird. How do we find the balance of being "in the world" but not "of the world"? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
In a world where we are bombarded with messages of self-indulgence, Jesus offers a time-tested escape and a soothing solution: deny yourself. In this message about generosity, we find that God welcomes us to test Him in giving with faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Pain is inevitable in life. We shouldn't be surprised by it but often we are. However, having a strategy to deal with pain will help ensure that it produces good results in us rather than bitterness, resentment, or numbness. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Power is intoxicating, and surprisingly, doesn't lead to the successful life that we would expect. Jesus repeatedly rejected the temptation of power in His own life as He points us to the path of real fulfilment. In an upside-down approach to life, Christianity says true power is found in realising the security of servanthood. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A closer look at the prodigal son's older brother will show us the more we understand our self, the more we are able to love others. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
To go deeper in our spiritual life, we need to carve out a space to listen. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
I know Hong Kong's manic pace isn't good for me, but why can't I slow down? In 2019, I need discipline to create more margin in my life so I can be still before God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Patience is a symbol of love; Persistence is a sign of faith...how can these qualities of God be display in your life? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Most of us like to believe that the older we get and the more experiences we endure, then the wiser we become. The problem I face getting older is that I haven't gotten wiser. According to scripture wisdom isn't based on age nor experience but rather hinges on our relationship with God. What may seem unwise to man, may be deemed wise for God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
They came bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But the visit of the magi, reputed to be the wisest and most sophisticated of the day, shows us our need and our source of true wisdom for life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The story of the shepherds and the nativity is a familiar one that is known well. However, the writer Luke packs into this brief account some amazing truths often overlooked. This message shares these to make Christmas even more meaningful. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Imagine this: You're a young teenager and one day an angel visits you and tells you that you are tasked with a duty that will change the world. How would you respond? We're going to look at a story about Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how she was able to accept her responsibility because of her great faith in God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
At the beginning of our December Christmas series, we turn our attention to the less-famous parent of Jesus, Joseph. Described as a righteous man, his life was inalterably changed when he learnt of a surprise and premature pregnancy. But God's plans for Joseph then are fundamentally the same as His plans for us all. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This part of The Lord's Prayer can be troubling if we don't know the heart of God. Yes, God does lead us into temptations and trials – not to see us fail, but to build us up. Temptations and trials are never easy but if we truly know and trust our Heavenly Father, we can go through them with the hope of grace and reward at the end of it. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Living in a constant state of being forgiven brings freedom and power into our lives. But too often, we allow destructive narratives to drive our attitudes ("I don't deserve it", or "I don't need it"), and we miss the beauty of a grace-filled life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
God's will. Some see it as a tricky game of hide-and-seek where God demands we pursue Him relentlessly in order to discover His will. Others speak of God's will freely with "God told me" before many a phrase. This message explores how The Lord's Prayer provides guidance in knowing the will of God for your life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Some of us have it memorised, most of us would recognise it if we heard it read, but few of us actually realise the power of The Lord's Prayer to guide us into a deeper, experiential relationship with God. Raise your prayer life by understanding afresh the heart of Jesus behind the words of this famous prayer. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus had a lot to say about making sure we don't view something as permanent, when it is actually temporary. He instructed us to have an attitude of watchfulness and alertness, knowing that the end could come at any time. Though this sounds morbid and even fanatical, the message actually provides clarity and a proper perspective of our faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus spoke very little about heaven, but nonetheless told his followers that knowledge of heaven could comfort them in this life. So what do we know about heaven? And how should that shape our life here and now? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
In our "seen" world, we consider temptation simply as a desire to do bad things. However, in the "Unseen" world, Satan schemes to lure us to follow our evil desire not just to sin, but to turn away from worshipping God to worshipping Satan itself. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The enemy of your soul wants nothing more than to destroy you, but you have been given an effective strategy for overcoming the enemy: it requires your diligent awareness and willingness to fight. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
There are forces in our world that we can't see. Forces that are trying to attack us. What do we do? How do we overcome these schemes that are devised against us? The Apostle Paul teaches us how to be prepared and shows us the equipment we will need to be ready. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Baptism is an event celebrated by Christians everywhere but through the ages, many Christians have held different beliefs. This message clarifies what we believe about baptism, and how it historically came to be a core tenet for all Christians. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
There are 100 uses in the New Testament of the phrase, "one another". Emphasising how followers of Christ are to engage with one another, we are given a detailed account of what our relationships look like. Submit. Confess. Forgive. Bear with. Carry. You simply can't "one another" if you don't have community around you. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
"Failure to launch" is a term ascribed to adults who refuse to take on adult responsibilities. In the Christian life, it's entirely possible to similarly fail and not experience the natural trajectory of growth that God has in mind for us all. Understanding how God works enables us to see God at work in our lives. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Kwen has lived her life in equal measure in Malaysia, England and Hong Kong. She has served as Director of Women’s Ministry at Island ECC since 2014. Kwen is married to Alex and they have 3 wonderful adult children. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jeff is from a small town close to a bigger town you've never heard of in Indiana, USA. His love of music technology and production led him to becoming one of three certified Ableton Trainers in Hong Kong, which has lent itself to the dynamic worship sets he leads weekly. He's married to Leora and has been loving life in Hong Kong for over 10 years this summer. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jared serves in middle school ministry at Island Youth and has been in Hong Kong for 1 year. He was originally from the United States. Jared’s favourite things to do are talking with people, skateboarding around the city, eating all the tasty foods, petting random animals, and doing anything involving adrenaline. If Jared were to describe himself in three words, it would be: crazy, extroverted, and energetic – and that’s just how God made me to be. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Shannon moved to Hong Kong in 2001 to be a part of Island ECC, she is the mother of 4 kids ages 16-23. She is also the mom to two 6-year-old French bulldogs. She worked as the school nurse for HKIS for 10 years and currently serves as the Director of Community Outreach at Island ECC. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Leora is originally from El Paso, Texas, right on the border of Mexico – so she's always loved being in culturally rich and diverse locations. She's served as the Director of Creative Communications and Worship at Island ECC for almost 9 years, alongside her husband Jeff. Her favourite pastimes are writing music in their home studio, camping near the ocean, snorkelling, or watching any movie with sharks. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jeff is likely the most easily recognisable person on Island ECC staff, being the only bald Australian Asian. He spends his time at Island Youth and enjoys spending quality time with close family and friends over coffee and brownies, and pushing his body through running and cycling. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Eric spent his first two years in Asia as a missionary in China to university students before joining the team at Island ECC six years ago. Since then, his wife, Katie, and he have had two awesome and rambunctious little ones who they love to adventure with around this city. In his "spare time," Eric enjoys hiking, photography, cold brew and travel hacking. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jessica Richmond has worked at Island ECC for the last 5 years and has had the pleasure of overseeing its Youth Ministry. She has been married for 6 years to Kane Choy and, as a couple, their motto is: "The couple that games together, stays together." Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
With God, waiting time is never wasted time; but in order to redeem the time where we sense God may not be responsive, we have to ask the right questions to realise how God is at work in our midst. A look at John 4 and the healing of the official’s son reveals not just a miracle of healing, but a guideline for deeper faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What makes your summer better? Is it that dream holiday destination you finally get to go to? Is it because you can take time to chill? While all these sound wonderful, you know that summer is better when you are with God. Summer is better when there is peace and harmony in your heart and summer is better when you are passionate about compassion! Let’s dive in together and see how God can make your summer better than ever! Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Weddings are always a celebration and fun time, but poor planning almost brings shame to the wedding at Cana until Jesus performs a miracle to keep the party going. More than just providing for a good celebration however, Jesus radically introduces His ministry as the source of all great joy. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Perhaps the most insidious enemies of our heart is greed. You’ve met people who will confess their struggle with anger, sexual purity, or almost any other temptation; but rare is the person who sees greed as a looming threat to the health of their soul. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Guilt can be a gift, but only if properly understood and dealt with. If not, it can lead to shame, isolation, and general misery. Embrace the guilt! You can’t be free until you realise you’re not. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Below the surface of our well-maintained exteriors often lies a powerful force of comparison and jealousy. A look at Psalm 73 reveals an insightful analysis of envy and how to offset this destructive force with a genuine contentment. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A few of us would readily admit we have an anger issue mostly because the evidence and witnesses are so plentiful, but more of us likely have a low-grade, simmering anger – one mostly controlled, hidden away, yet equally toxic and ready to destroy. This sermon looks deeper into this anger that we think is under control. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
When promised an "intimate relationship with God", many of us are left either disappointed or wondering what is missing to bring about that experience. This sermon explores two essential elements for drawing near to God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We all have people in our lives that drive us crazy. Their control and criticism can ruin our day, or worse, distract us from the joyful life God has called us to. This sermon shares biblical wisdom on how to address these people in our lives. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We all have people in our lives that drive us crazy. Their control and criticism can ruin our day, or worse, distract us from the joyful life God has called us to. This sermon shares biblical wisdom on how to address these people in our lives. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Most of us will spend more hours each day with our colleagues than with our family and friends. And yet, recent studies show 32% of people are unhappy at work. We will look at how our faith can lead us to be more fulfilled at work and experience a greater level of satisfaction. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message is the third in a five-week series on relational health. It focuses on family relationships, which are shown to be both dynamic and imperfect. The message contains practical help for any family. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
True friendship is a tremendous blessing. We need people in our lives to walk with us and support us through good times and bad. In this sermon, we will look at how the Gospel encourages real friendship. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message begins a five-week series on relationships. It lays out a theological foundation for the series, and gives practical help for how you can relate to yourself. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Extendedly hoping and waiting for something you desire can be extremely discouraging, but active waiting and hoping is perhaps the key for us to experience the Christian life that we desire. Your understanding of God and your readiness will determine how you experience God in the day to day challenges. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
God wants to speak to you and you can hear His voice. But as we see from Balaam’s story, we can listen and still miss the point if we don’t try to know the speaker. God uses Balaam’s donkey to get his attention with a healthy dose of humility. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It’s so easy to get off track. Even a minor miscalculation in charting a course can lead to disastrous results over time. That’s why it’s so important to be able to have spiritual discernment, which is the ability to see the reality of our condition and position. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
In the book of Exodus, we see a story that is a picture of a bigger story throughout Scripture. It displays God’s heart to rescue His people and lead them into freedom. As we investigate the plague of frogs in Exodus 8, we’ll explore how God wants to free us from our rebellious hearts. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Too often, christians play it safe: Risk little, maintain sameness. Preferring predictable routines rather than creative approaches that could fail. But reaching a world in need is too urgent of a need to glibly apply yesterday’s approaches and attitudes. We need to channel our creativity into eternal purposes. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
"Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." These words from Jesus remind us that if we understand our true worth in Christ, we can see and receive the loving care and attention that God is giving us all along. The story of Elijah provides a great understanding to the detailed care God provides. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
In God’s creation, we can understand more fully His character. If we ever wonder about the ways of God, we need to sit in wonder of His creation. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Hope is in short supply these days. But the resurrection of Jesus Christ provides a timeless basis for hope that lifts our spirits and injects our hearts with the promise of things getting better. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The crucifixion and the cross of Christ are of first importance to the Christian faith. In preparing for Easter Day, this sermon examines Christ’s crucifixion and various views of the cross, especially what the Cross meant to Jesus and those who follow Him. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It’s a dark scene, not just because it’s nighttime but also because Jesus comes face to face with the horror of being distanced from His Father for the first time ever – a necessary act so that we could come near to God. In this heavy but encouraging sermon, we enter the Garden of Gethsemane. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It may seem awkward to us, but it was a pivotal teaching moment for Jesus. Mary poured expensive oil on His head and was then mocked by the disciples. Jesus came to her defense and provided for us a deeply challenging picture of what following Christ is all about. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This sermon looks at one of the most inspiring, and perhaps the most perplexing, of all of Jesus’ miracles: the transfiguration. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Have you ever had an idea planted in your heart but never acted upon? Jesus said, "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." (John 10:10) The question is then why don’t we act on those ideas? Are we crippled by the fear of living abundantly? Dive into today’s sermon and learn from the life of Moses to step into a life of abundance. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Who did the Chinese forefathers worship before all the different religions went to China? It might be a surprise to many Chinese that their ancestors worshipped "Shang-Di", the supreme God, whose nature was parallel to the God of the Bible. Characters in the Chinese language also reveal stories told in the Bible; thus, there is nothing more Chinese than to worship the God who their ancestors tried so hard to teach them about. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As followers of Christ, we know our primary role is to love God and love others. It’s straightforward, but we tend to make it hard. We find reasons to avoid it and ways to get ourselves off the hook. Because though it’s clear what we are to do, it’s messy knowing how to fulfil it. This message helps us wrestle with the realities of messy circumstances while maintaining this command of love. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The new covenant brings about massive shifts in our thinking and our roles. With a look at four major categories, this message will challenge you to make sure you are living out your new identity. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Without embracing the work of the Spirit in their lives, Christians will be frustrated in their pursuit of becoming new. As we look at Romans 8, we’ll get a glimpse into a few of the ways the Spirit transforms us. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today, we will be diving into a book in the Bible that people are normally a little cautious to teach on — The Book of Revelation. Simply, "revelation" just means "revealing," and this book is in our Bible to "reveal" to us some beautiful truths about our Saviour Jesus, and what we can look forward to in our lives as Jesus-followers. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus promises us a new heart, not an additional one, but leaving old ways of thinking and behaving can be hard. Yet, ultimately rejecting a new heart is even more difficult. We discuss how we can recognise patterns of old-heart living in our lives here. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus came to bring new ways, new understandings and new capacities but somehow, our love for old ways and old patterns grabs our hearts in deep – and destructive – ways. What does it look like to actually live in the freedom and freshness of this new arrangement that Jesus offers? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The very first Christmas was imperfect. And your Christmas will be too. Mary’s response to undesirable circumstances provides for us a template for finding peace amid our troubles. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Isaiah’s prophecy that a child would be born to us and that He would be called Everlasting Father is a bit perplexing. How can a child be a father? Isaiah wasn’t speaking of the Fatherhood of God here, but rather an insight into the very heart of who we are as people… souls in need of rest. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
When we think about David and Jonathan, it is natural to think about friendship. By understanding the Biblical passages on David and Jonathan, we can learn not just about what makes for a good friend, but we can also understand why Jonathan and David were connected so deeply. Through this understanding, we can be encouraged about how we connect with our friends today. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Greatness is usually defined by power, prestige, or popularity; but for King David, we see that it’s revealed in a much more substantive way. He had all the power but learned how to manage it well. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mephibosheth. It’s a hard name to say. He’s a minor character in the Old Testament but he represents a major theme: grace. And living out a life of grace is even harder than saying Mephibosheth. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As a church, we want to reach out to the world with the good news of Jesus, but many of us don't know where to start. Alister McGrath shares his experience on this topic. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Abigail had a hard life being married to a fool but her wisdom and level-headedness proved an example for us all. If you have any difficult people in your life, you’ll learn how to deal with them by mimicking Abigail. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
David’s biggest sin provides for us a diagnostic opportunity to observe the deceitfulness of sin in a broader sense. His rooftop glance will lead to a breaking of 50% of the 10 commandments! Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
While David is not without sin but he always knew who his God is. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
No one ever sees themselves as greedy and we all want to think of ourselves as generous... But what does generosity actually look like? And how can we cultivate an attitude of "cheerfulness" when it comes to being generous? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
If God has a plan for our lives, it has already started before we were born. If we look back into our stories, we will inevitably see God’s fingerprints sprinkled throughout. He is never absent. In this sermon, we will look at how God guides and helps us to narrow down what we should be focused on in order to leave a legacy. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The wisest man that ever lived, King Solomon, speaks about the secret of finding meaning in life. In a book written over 3,000 years ago, the wisdom in Ecclesiastes is spot-on for our world today. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We’ve all found our location on a map in the mall or at the amusement park. The big red dot that usually states "You are Here" is quite helpful. It’s your starting point so you can find everything else. So, where are you in your relationships? Who pours into you? Who is looking to you for advice? And who is simply running the race with you? Having a clear-cut strategy for your relationships will make a massive difference in the quality of your life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Learning to face criticism requires more than just thick skin. We need to maintain a tender heart as well. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Work smarter, not harder. It’s a pithy phrase but one that is not found in the Bible. However, scripture does help us understand some profound truths that actually does make our lives easier. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The weather is powerful. Even though models of prediction have gotten better through the years, there are still no good ways to prevent a storm. Jesus uses our fascination with talking about the weather to alert us to be spiritually ready and vigilant. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Who doesn’t want to live a life of confidence? In a short parable in Luke 18, Jesus exposes the false confidence that many of us gravitate to and offers a solution that provides deep, lasting confidence. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Daniel Tse is Associate Pastor at Island ECC. He will speak on the power of words. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Jeff Caylor is Senior Director of Worship and Atmosphere at Island ECC. He will speak on staying faithful and willing. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Jessica Richmond is Deputy Director of Youth Ministry at Island ECC. She will speak on having our hearts in the right place. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Jacquie Ronan is Senior Director of Children's Ministry at Island ECC. She will speak on sabbath rest. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Sherman Chau is Pastor of Outreach at Island ECC. He will speak on holiness. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Shannon Hilliard is Director of Community Outreach at Island ECC. She will speak on resting in God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Eric Farmer is Associate Pastor at Island ECC. He will speak on being authentic. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Mixing things up a bit, we’re feature 8 mini-sermons from our staff about what God has been doing in their lives recently. Alistair Chiu is Pastor of Equipping Ministry at Island ECC. He will speak on spending time with God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
There are situations and challenges we experience in life that sometimes drive us to the point to where we wish we could just check out and take a break—to take a "vacation" from life—but the Apostle Paul is going to teach us that these hard times are actually valuable for our faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Foolishness is so easy to spot... in others. The realiry is that we all behave foolishly sometimes—at least according to Biblical definitions. So, the choice we have is to be the right kind of fool. Proverbs provides some great guidance in becoming the best kind of fool. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Transitions can be hard. A new city, a new school, a new job, a new relationship. New settings can be challenging. The Bible is full of transitions and wisdom about how to make the most of them. Joshua takes the reins from Moses and moves from insecurity to confidence as he trusts God through difficult times. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The presence of doubt is pretty normal but how you deal with it is key to how it impacts you. In a raw examination of Psalm 73, this message will help you manage your doubts in ways that will lead you to a deeper and more reliable faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
For the Christian, you have a choice when pain comes into your life because you can actually use it to be a blessing. You just might be the single most effective source of comfort in someone else’s life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Muscles get stronger with exercise. Faith is the same. Just having good theology is not enough; it’s what you do with what you know that builds character and strong faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Believe it or not, we all have blind spots and sometimes, these blind spots get us into trouble. In this sermon, we will look at how these blind spots trick us and how God may redeem these "sour experiences" to bring out the best in us. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Perseverance is in short supply these days. In a world that has increasingly grown used to quick results; a long, steady endurance is rarely seen. In your faith, there will be seasons where a quick fix won’t work, but a decision to persevere will make all the difference. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What can we do to prepare ourselves for setbacks and frustration when life doesn’t go the way we want it to? When we understand this wisdom from the Book of James, we can include the ‘sour’ with the sweet in our lives to experience the fullness of all the good that God has planned for us. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Jesus promises both an abundant life and a life full of trouble. If we don’t adjust our expectations accordingly, we are destined to have either a distorted view of God or a bitter disappointment. Merging both the sweet promises of God and the sour realities of life on earth make for a grounded and hopeful faith. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Everyone is religious. Everyone has some sense of what ought to be done, and what rules people ought to abide by. But everyone breaks even their own standards of what is right. And so everyone lives with uncertainty and guilt. Christianity offers an unreligious alternative. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
You may or may not think of yourself as a powerful person, but really, you are. You have influence and that makes you powerful; but how you manage that power is key to a fulfilling life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
During difficult circumstances we find our faith challenged or shaken by questions we never had before. We often respond by trying to forcibly control events around us, and become worried and anxious when we can’t. But God calls on us to trust Him in times of trouble. When we do, we find that He is faithful and our hope in Him does not disappoint. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Fear is a powerful feeling but it doesn’t have to paralyse us. The humble faith of a woman named Ruth reveals many secrets about fearless living. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The Bible warns us of a spiritual battle that is all around us and it’s a fight for our souls. It’s something that can cause us all a great deal of fear in our daily lives. This sermon will look at the strategies that are being used for this war and how we can be (and already are) victorious. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The principle of "reaping what we sow" is a great encouragement for us. It gives us hope that when we faithfully sow seeds with perseverance today, there will be a harvest waiting for us in the future. As the Bible says, "Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!" (Psalm 126:5). In light of what you want to be in 3, 5, or 10 years time, how do you want to sow your life today? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What forms our identity? How much does fear influence our identity? A solid identity in Christ is vital for fearless being in today’s world. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We all have our kingdoms—an arena in which we feel we are in control. The Easter message is an invitation to know the true King of kings, the One who holds it all together. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
From fake designer handbags to the new term of "fake news", we find ourselves in a world where little around us seems real. And yet Christ, not only accepts us with our flaws, but he makes us real in the process. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Why was Jesus sometimes reluctant to heal? In the healing of a paralysed man, we learn that not all encounters with Christ end well. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Nicodemus came to Jesus with curiosity and skepticism, and his encounter with Jesus was not what he expected. From his story, found only in the Gospel of John, we will learn about what it actually means to be convinced that Jesus is who He says He is, and how that can change our faith today. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
If the key to the Christian life is belief then how do we nourish a growing confidence in God? What is necessary for us to remain as confident believers rather than doubt-ridden cynics? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The gospel message changes everything. In an encounter with a nameless woman at a well, Jesus takes her (and us) on a journey of how that change occurs. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Loving others can sometimes be really messy. And it requires entering into others’ lives in ways that are both graceful and confrontational. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Shame is powerful and can subtly erode our sense of self and hope for the future. But discovering a brave love that only Christ can offer erodes the power of shame and empowers the believer. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message is the second in a three-week series on Brave Love. It focuses on how difficult it is to love those who are unlovable in some ways. Using 1 Thessalonians 5:14 as the major text, the message gives handles on how to respond with love in appropriate ways to people with three major types of problems. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It seems we’ve entered into what seems like a new day of public rage and hopeless despair. What should be the Christian attitude toward the state of our world? How should you engage with those who differ from your beliefs? This message taken from the book of Daniel sheds insight into how we can meaningfully impact our despairing world. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Knowing when to slow down and when to speed up is an art form. Timing is everything. And scripture is replete with wisdom on when to speed up and when to slow down. Sometimes the speed with which we respond is as critical as the response itself. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The roots of the banyan tree are highly unusual. Visible above ground and dropping down to the ground from mid-branch—no other tree is quite like it. Psalm 1 compares a deep faith to a stable tree, with deep roots that provide security and nourishment. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The words Go Beyond are at the heart of the Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations." We're honoured to have our GO conference speakers preaching today and helping us understand our participation in the Great Commission. In this podcast, we hear from Lawrence Tong about God's shepherd heart and this compels us to go and make disciples of all nations. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The words Go Beyond are at the heart of the Great Commission to "go and make disciples of all nations." We're honoured to have our GO conference speakers preaching today and helping us understand our participation in the Great Commission. In this podcast, we hear from Tim Davis about how God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Money. We all want more. Our lust for more money resides in us as an unchecked monster of our soul. And yet money, if properly understood, can be a massive force for good change in the world. A look at an unusual parable in Luke 16 helps us understand the privilege and power we have in our wallets. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Tick, tock, tick, tock. Time is the great equalizer, isn’t it? Nobody can add more to their life. You can make more money, make more friends, but you can’t make more time. So managing time becomes incredibly important. A look at Psalm 90 helps us debunk some myths about time so we obtain a wise approach to how we spend our time. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
When the Christmas story unfolds, we are told that Jesus will be called "Immanuel", which means "God with Us". Though there have been many names to describe both God the father as well as Jesus the Son, this is the only word chosen specifically within the telling of the Christmas story in the Bible. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message concludes a three-week series entitled "Evergreen" that gives attention to three spiritual realities that are forever with each believer, but that we can too often neglect. With Romans 12:3-8 as the foundation, this sermon prepares the way for Christmas Day with exploration of the spiritual giftedness that comes with knowing Christ as Saviour and being part of Christ’s church. Find the Spiritual Gift Assessment at www.islandecc.hk/sgi. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The gift of salvation through Jesus’ righteousness: you can’t see, touch, taste, hear, or smell it; but you can know it through its features! And you can certainly receive it! Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The Holy Spirit is timely gift from God which is often overly emphasized or mostly neglected. How do we maintain a vibrant, spirit-filled relationship with God? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this sermon series and have been able to take some or all of the Biblical truths and put them into action! We will be concluding the series today by looking at our tongue and the power our words have. Ultimately, we all know that words are powerful, so it is imperative for us as believers to really analyse the words that we say so we can be effective ambassadors for Christ. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Conflict seems to be at an all-time high of late, doesn’t it? Political fighting in Europe, the US, and right here in Hong Kong. Whether it's political divisions, marital breakups, or personal depression; there is evidence of unrest all around. James insightfully redirects our attention to the cause of quarrels, and provides a realistic solution. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
James is such an important person who we often miss. His life was such an inspiration that people called him "James the Just." For James, faith doesn’t belong merely in the intellectual realm. Faith is alive and active. It is the engine that drives our legacy. In this sermon, we will explore the topic, "Faith that Works." We hope you will be inspired by James' legacy. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The "image of God" is stamped on every human being. And this knowledge radically changes the way we "speak and act" as Christians. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Our emotions can be powerful. Whether its sadness, fear, anxiety, or excitement; emotions can produce in us high highs and low lows. How do we manage our emotions? Or can we? And how does our faith in God relate to our emotional well-being? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The book of James is known to be incredibly practical: full of tips and instructions on how to live the Christian life. It doesn’t spend much time on why to live the Christian life but assumes that the reader is already convinced. Some things just go together: peanut butter and jelly, bacon and eggs, and yin and yang. James, the half-brother of Jesus, felt that faith and works belonged in that same category—natural pairings. Do you have an equal measure of both? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today, we pause a bit to see what God has done. But we only revel in the past so that we can marvel at the future. God has done much, but there is still so much more ahead. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This final message in the series, The Boat, explores a passage in Mark 6:31-32 when Jesus took his disciples on a boat for a 'getaway' from crowds and demands. We look at the central spiritual themes in this brief account and then apply these to our contemporary lives. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Memories of past victories and answered prayers can help us face the future. This is all the more important when our future is uncertain and the present is bleak. We need to build up a memory bank of God’s faithfulness. Today we’ll see how Jesus takes Peter back to the past to reassure him about the future. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
God calls us to bravery. He beckons us to abandon our commitment to security and to demonstrate trust by taking risks. Oh, you’ll never walk on water, but you might just experience a thrilling encounter with God, if you are willing to get out of the boat. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Storms get our attention and cause us to look beyond ourselves; and sometimes, we are tempted to think that the presence of storms and a loving God can’t co-exist. Nothing could be further from the truth. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A five-fold description of following Christ taken from Luke 5. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The final words of Jesus, often called the Great Commission, are not only a strategy for the ages, but a personal gameplan for a meaningful life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
There are lots of addictions in our culture… Gambling, pornography, alcohol, and many more. But perhaps the greatest addiction in our lives is not at the top of any list nor does it offer any recovery groups; but freedom in Christ speaks to the very heart of it and promises to release your troubled soul from a life of silent addiction. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Living by rules and performance can’t help you experience freedom in Christ. It can only remind you of your need for something greater. And yet, most people choose this inferior way of Christian living. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
It was for freedom that Christ set us free. But what does an ongoing, practical struggle against sin actually look like? How much freedom can we expect to find in our faith with God? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Knowing how to fix you begins with knowing what your problem is. This series kick-off looks at Romans 5 to discover our spiritual ancestry and how to embrace the freedom we are destined to have. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The final message in this series explores the Hillsong worship song, Cornerstone, a contemporary expression of the 1837 hymn, The Solid Rock, which was based on Jesus’ parable in Matthew 7:24-27. The message opens with an overview of the series with reference to the significance of Colossians 3:16 and delves into Ephesians 2:19-21 as one biblical foundation for this song. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This week we take a look at what many consider to be the most famous and beloved of old hymns: Amazing Grace, written in 1772 by slave-trader turned pastor, John Newton. This song captures the core Christian message about God’s grace, a grace sorely needed in the world today. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today, we will focus on a popular hymn that focuses squarely on one theme and one theme only: and that is that we are washed, cleansed, pardoned by nothing but the blood of Jesus. Sometimes just seeing or saying the word "blood" makes us a little queasy but as we’ll see, it is the power of Christ’s sacrifice that we have life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today we are continuing in our Lyrics sermon series and we will be digging into the song "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessings" written by Robert Robinson in 1757. He wrote this song 2 years after coming to faith. Even though some of the lyrics are confusing and were written almost 260 years ago, we will find that the timeless words of this song connect with us and our own spiritual journeys. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Horatio Spafford penned the lyrics of "It is Well with My Soul" after he lost his four daughters in a maritime tragedy. In this sermon, Pastor Albert will share with us how God could use suffering to bring us closer to Him and what we can do when we are going through trial and suffering. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We all view life differently. Yet the way we see life can greatly impact our relationships, faith, and attitudes. Using the hymn "Be Thou My Vision" as a springboard, this message challenges us all to discover our biases and poor vision, and begin to see again as God sees. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Special guest pastor Hank Fortener of MOSAIC Church speaks to us about turning around the way we see love in order for us to be the agape lovers that Christ called us to be. Hank uses visual illustrations to deliver key points. A video version of this podcast is available at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The nation of Israel never seemed to rise above a roller-coaster experience with God. High highs followed by low lows. They did better then worse. They tried hard then forgot God. They made commitments then negotiated the terms. Our life may not be that different. On-again, off-again spiritual life. Promises made, promises broken. But there really is an escape from what seems to be an endless cycle. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Most people, most of the time, live lives of cloaked insecurity. We may appear to be full of self-assurance but usually when certain things are removed (our job, our looks, our respect) then our confidence evaporates. What if there was a better way? Gideon provides a case-study on an insecure man becoming a mighty warrior. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The cycle of sin is certainly powerful as well, but unlike the rising sun or the rotating earth, the cycle of sin is avoidable. Today we’ll have a look at the downfall of Samson, and ask ourselves, "How can we rise above the power of attractive lure of sin?" Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This is the first message in a four week series based on the intriguing Old Testament book of Judges, which recounts the repeated cycles of disobedience and destruction that the ancient nation of Israel encountered. Such cycles remain in the fabric of today’s world. This message delves into this ancient historical book to discover helpful principles for our spiritual lives, with use of the often overlooked story of Ehud. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A christian party. Does that sound like a boring buzzkill? How should a christian party? Or better asked, how hard should a christian party? This message examines reasons for celebration that should raise your party game. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today, we move to the kitchen—a place where our cravings are satisfied… almost. Every day we encounter the feeling of hunger. Our appetites are strong and we have strong desires for many kinds of food. Some provide nutrition to help our body, while some foods, while very tasty, do us harm. In the same way, we hunger and thirst for desires that society offers. Yet, there is so much more beyond what this world has to offer. It’s bigger—and even tastier—than we can even imagine! Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A living room is a wonderful, warm and welcoming room where community happens. We were designed to live in community and we find the perfect kind of community when it’s centred around Christ. Kingdom communities were not meant just for our enjoyment and good times, but also as a witness for the glory of God. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Authentic Community. It sounds good. It sounds like something everyone wants. It is one of Island ECC’s core values. Authenticity is one of those words that gets thrown around a lot. But what does it mean? What does God have to say about it? In this message, we will explore what it means to be authentic and how we can be authentic. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The bathroom always has a mirror. It’s there so you can get a glimpse of what you look like. But beyond your physical appearance, do you like who you are? This message examines how our faith in God enhances our core identity. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The bedroom is essentially where we rest our bodies at night in order to restore energy for the next day. We all need restoration in various aspects of our life. This message focuses on Psalm 43 and our need to continually recharge our spiritual intimacy with God. God desires to provide all our needs for restoration. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
What you think about God will impact the quality of your life. If you are amazed by God, your life will be amazing. If you are confused by God, your life will be confusing. So… be amazed. It’s the only appropriate response. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Unlike many world religions, Christianity demands a thoughtful, mindful engagement. Skeptics point to apparent contradictions in the Bible, and as reasonable believers, we need to be able to defend our faith with gentleness and respect. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The basis of our faith in the Word of God is the eyewitness accounts of people who recorded events as they remembered them. Do the authors of Scripture have the same credibility as any courtroom witness today, and can we trust their testimony? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Preparing for today’s sermon has reinforced the reliability of Scripture to me, and has made me appreciate the miracle that we have in the Bible. The Bible is trustworthy evidence of God, His love for humanity and the way to know Him. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We have a tendency to forget the spiritual wealth that is ours. We live like we’re homeless, when in reality, we are wealthy. Learn to act rich, because you actually are. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Love is in the air! Today is Valentine’s Day. Restaurants will be packed, flowers will be bought and chocolates will be shared among many couples. Many people are also beginning the Year of the Monkey in hopes that love will be found in 2016. Everyone wants to experience love, but sometimes our search is misguided. Today we will be looking at many passages that explore what defines love and we can find the riches of God’s true love. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As Jesus engages with the woman at the well, he promises her "a well of water springing up". Hmmmm. What exactly does that mean, and practically what does it look like in our lives? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Doubt is a common experience to us all. Sometimes it’s a healthy experience, leading to an eventual greater faith, but sometimes it can be the beginning of a spiritual disaster. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message is the first of a two-part series that deal with our salvation in Christ. Is salvation in Christ permanent? Can we make sure that we will spend eternity with God? Is a person’s eternity secure when they place their faith in Christ? Can you be assured that you are heavenly bound? Find out the answers and check out other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
As we become Christians and God becomes more and more of a priority in our lives, we need to ask ourselves how it is that we should re-organize our lives. What does it mean to put God first? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
A new year almost always brings some level of reflection and refocus. Along with your goals to read more, lose weight, drink more water, and save more money, this sermon will help you think more biblically in the coming year. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Supposedly, as the famous Christmas carol "Joy to the World" tells us, Christmas is about joy. Yet sometimes joy seems so far away. If we want joy then we must receive the King—we must focus on Jesus again. If we want joy then we must prepare room in our hearts for Jesus this Christmas season. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Christmas manger scenes portray a story of peace. Perfect sky, doting parents, adoring magi. But the reality of the birth of Christ meant massive chaos, inconvenience, and even infant deaths. So… how is peace brought about in the midst of life’s curveballs? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Elisabeth and Zacharias are the first to hear from God after 400 years of silence. Their "pre-Christmas" story reveals much about the heart of God for the family. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Grateful people are perpetually energised because gratitude is the recognition that we have a God who is engaged in our lives. Gratitude, however, must be expressed in order for it to come into its own and this is why it is also a discipline that we must cultivate. I hope that today you are able to deepen your sense of expressed gratitude, both to God and to others. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The world is seemingly more chaotic and unsafe now than in many years. Daily news articles inform us of terrorism, natural disasters, and other forms of uncontrolled violence. And though Hong Kong is largely exempt from such horror, we still feel the anxiety of a world that is a mess. But beyond feeling safe, do you feel secure? Do you feel a sense of confidence? Today, we’ll examine the longing we all have to live a life of peace, a life based on an unchanging security. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Who doesn’t want to be happy all the time? But a recent study showed the happiness level in Hong Kong is among the lowest in Asia. Jesus gives some straight-up advice about how to develop a happier life. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Today, we will sing about contentment, we will be inspired by stories of contentment, and lastly we will hear what God has to say about the secret to contentment. Let’s journey as a church to live out this secret of contentment. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This is the first of five messages on emotions. It uses the Pixar movie, Inside Out, to dive into the way emotions can control our behaviour and what God’s Word says about this. It applies the rich theological truths found in 1 Peter 2:3-8 to speak to this theme. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Tabernacles, temples, and churches. All are buildings for God. As we launch our Bold Faith building campaign, we want to make sure our understanding of God’s design for buildings is what drives our plans. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Generosity is the antidote to materialism, and therefore a key in our Christian life. But how do we increase our "cheer factor" in giving? If God loves a cheerful giver, how can I learn to enjoy it more? Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Joshua took 12 stones and built a memorial so that generations forever would remember the power of God. This annual report, tucked inside a biblical look at Joshua 4, helps build our sense of awe as well as increase our expectation for a God-filled future. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
You reap what you sow. Plain and simple. And these principles apply to every category of your life: relationships, character development, careers, finances... This survey of scriptural truths on reaping a harvest in your life will help you understand your circumstances better, as well as create your future blessings. Watch this and other messages in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Have you seen any miracles lately? Would you like to? What would a miracle look like in your life? I firmly believe that God is willing and able to perform miracles in our lives. I’m not talking about your televangelist variety of miracle, but genuine, undeniable, only-God-could-do-that kind of miracle. A look at perhaps Jesus’ most famous miracle, the feeding of the 5,000, provides the backdrop for us to discover how we too can prepare for a miracle. Watch this message at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
How would you describe your faith? Or perhaps a better question: How would God describe your faith? Only once in Scripture does Jesus commend stand-out faith. This message examines what it takes to grow a confidence in God through a life of action.
We’re finishing our Back to School series today with a topic that can get a little messy. Temptations. Every human in the world struggles with temptations. And we’re going to see today that even Jesus encountered a very trying time with temptations. It’s a passage of scripture that we can look to for guidance, instruction, but most importantly, encouragement. Watch this message where Pastor Tim LaTour gets down and dirty in an illustration at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
In our quest for spiritual growth, it’s vitally important that we understand some essential principles. How is it, exactly, that maturity happens? What role does God play, and what is our own responsibility? Looking at both Hebrews and Matthew, this sermon reinforces the keys to growing up. Watch this message where Senior Pastor Brett Hilliard eats baby food and performs a head stand at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Nobody likes to endure trials but it’s clear that they are the tool by which God moulds us and makes us more like Christ. Trials are God’s lessons for the sake of our perfection, to make us strong in Christ, so that we will receive the crown of life. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Decisions. Every day you make hundreds of them. Some are small and insignificant, and some are more weighty. But all of these decisions will largely impact your life. So how do you decide? As Christians, we desire to follow God’s will, but how do you know what He wants? Does he really care about everything? Do I need to pray about which restaurant to eat at? If He gives me freedom to decide in certain areas, how do I know when I need to consult with God, or just make the call? Looking at Romans 12:1-2, this message is a fresh look at how we can navigate life’s decisions so that we can "test and approve" His good, pleasing and perfect will. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
The tragedy of Jonah can easily be ours as well. See Jonah actually knew a lot about God. But he refused to let his emotions be ruled by truth. He kept his head and his heart separate. It wasn’t healthy for Jonah, and it’s never healthy for us either. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Chances are you have recent failure. We are broken, flawed, forgetful and self-absorbed, with occasional moments of selfless brilliance. In chapter 3 of Jonah, we see the God of all comfort giving Jonah a second chance. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Life is full of storms, both literally and metaphorically. How you prepare and how you respond can make all the difference. Jonah comes to terms with the condition of his own heart and softens in the presence of his God, something we all can learn from. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Running from God. It’s a foolish notion when you think about it--trying to avoid a God who is everywhere. But our rebellious hearts want to avoid authority and yearn for independence. Our misunderstanding of God makes us think we can do life better apart from Him. And so we run. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Repentance is a heavy word. It is a serious thing but it is not meant to be heavy or punishing. When you realise you have done something wrong, what do you feel and do in response? Repentance relates to your answer to that question and will determine whether you will experience life to the full. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message is the fourth in our summer Rhythm series and examines the value of having a life cadence of celebration from various vantage points. We ought to set aside times to celebrate what is good and gracious, and what God has done for us. This message will provide a strong foundation for authentic God-honouring, Christ-centred celebrations. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We live in a city that is busy 24/7. We consider busyness and lack of sleep as a badge of honour. Yet we all know by instinct that our life is intertwined with a rhythm of work and rest. Quite contrary to our practice, the rhythm of rest is God’s design for us to live a life that is full and meaningful. So how are you doing? Are you rested well physically, emotionally, and spiritually? Is your "tank" full, half empty, or totally empty? Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages. For the full version of this week's sermon intro video, please see Stefan Sagmeister's TED Talk "Power of Time Off" at www.ted.com/talks/stefan_sagmeister_the_power_of_time_off?language=en. For this sermon's outro video, refer to Sermon Spice's "Lord, I Need You" skit at www.sermonspice.com/product/58760/lord-i-need-you.
If we can rediscover His true purpose for our work, we can get in sync with Him. Work doesn’t have to be a grind if we find our rhythm in Him. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
We’re starting a new sermon series today called Rhythm, and today we’re looking at grace. We’re going to explore how to live our lives with a rhythm that both continually receives grace from God, but also shows that same grace to others around us. We then look at how that can get complicated. Watch this message in video format at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
Unprecedented. Have you used that word recently? More importantly, what have you done in your life that is "unprecedented"? God is leading our church to live out a bold faith: one that pushes us past our comfort zones and into unprecedented territory. Stretching, thrilling, and even scary; but most of all, God-honouring. Watch this powerful message in video at www.islandecc.hk/messages.
This message is the fourth in the Trailblazer series and examines from various vantage points the complete transformation that takes place when someone personally accepts and trusts in the person of Jesus Christ.
When was the last time you were afraid? For most adults, it’s probably been a while. We tend to "grow out of" normal childhood fears when we realised that the boogie man really doesn’t exist. But maturity usually just means a shift... from irrational fears to more sophisticated ones. The real question is: Are we fearing the right things?
Everyone needs hope. You may not feel the need for it now, but you will soon. Hope is yearning for improvement in the midst of your despair. Examining a woman in despair in 2 Kings 4, this message shows us a path to hopeful living when circumstances seem daunting.
There are no hidden costs with Jesus because He doesn’t want there to be hidden disappointments. He tells us up-front that He doesn’t want you to be His fan. He does want you to be His follower. And there is a difference.
Celebrating Christmas, Genesis 1:1-4, Psalm 36:9, Jeremiah 31:3, John 8:12,36, John 12:35-36
SHAPE Series - Ability, Ephesians 2:10, 4:7; James 1:19, Philippians 2:3-5, 1 Corinthians 9:21-23