It's Not the End Yet!

Ps Melinda Song

People are intrigued by the mystery of the unknown future. Hence the popularity of astrology, fortune-telling and horoscopes.

So it is no surprise that Doomsday prophecies garner great interest among people, especially Christians when they involve the end of the world and the second coming of Christ.

But belief in end-time predictions seems to require a faith with a very short memory–you have to forget all the previous times the end was predicted that proved wrong in order to get excited about the most recent time-table. It is like the story of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf".

Let us take the example of the latest end-time prediction of the world ending on 23 September 2017. If David Meade had been right, all of us would not be here today.

If you remember, in my last message I spoke of my desire for TOP to be a Spirit and Truth Family Church that honours equally the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit and the authority of the Word of God. As such it is my duty as your Pastor to address this issue that keeps cropping up to see how it aligns with the Word of God and how we should respond to it.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

On 16 September 2017, the headline on the front page of Fox News read, "Christian doomsdayers claim world will end next week."

It's under the heading "Science"!!! When you click on it, the article headline proclaims, "Biblical prophecy claims the world will end on Sept. 23, Christian numerologists claim."

How common are predictions that the end is at hand?

Wikipedia lists over 170 different religiously motivated predictions of the end of the world.

·     The first recorded one dates back to the year 66 and ancient Judea.

·     They seem to be a mostly Protestant pastime.

Why this prediction now? Wasn't there another big "apocalypse now" prediction a few years ago? 

Scholars say doomsday predictions cluster around certain events — the Great Plague of the Middle Ages, or the "harmonic convergence" of the planets, or the year 2000.

And there has been a long string of predictions in the last two decades.

1.   American Christian radio host Harold Camping stated that the Rapture and Judgment Day would take place on May 21, 2011. When that did not happen he recalibrated the date to five months later on October 21, 2011 which was also proven wrong.

2.   Then came the blood moon prophecy which is a series of apocalyptic beliefs promoted by Christian ministers John Hagee and Mark Biltz, which state that a tetrad (a series of four consecutive lunar eclipses—coinciding on Jewish holidays—with six full moons in between, and no intervening partial lunar eclipses) which began with the April 2014 lunar eclipse is a sign of the end times as described in the Bible in the Book of Joel, Acts 2:20 and Revelation 6:12. The tetrad ended with the lunar eclipse on September 27-28, 2015. Again nothing happened.

3.   The most recent prophecy is by conspiracy theorist and self-proclaimed Christian numerologist David Meade made international headlines over his claims that the world would end on 23 September 2017.

His comprehensive theory for the end times based on a mixture of supposed biblical studies and science centres around a non-existent planet Niburu which, he claimed, is due to collide with planet earth.

The suggestion was widely rubbished by experts including NASA with a spokesman saying: 'The planet in question, Niburu, doesn't exist, so there will be no collision.'

Clearly the end has been postponed again as we're all still here, but Meade – whose motivations must remain mysterious – has had an enormous amount of media attention.

Now is he claiming people misunderstood his theory, that Sept. 23 was merely a day of “signs.” He told Washington Post that “the world is not ending, but the world as we know it is ending. A major part of the world will not be the same the beginning of October.” His astrological omen interpretations are now meant to be figurative and foreboding omens to a “beginning of the end” (i.e., the tribulation) and the date was pushed back from a very specific “September 23” to “beginning of October.”

Doomsday prophets ALWAYS do this. Failed doomsday prophets don’t repent – they just dig in, change the date, and turn it into a metaphor.

A LOOK AT DAVID MEADE & HIS CLAIMS

1.   He claims to be a Christian numerologist. Rev. Ed Stetzer wrote in Christianity Today, “There is no such thing as a legitimate ‘Christian numerologist.’”

Numbers do have meaning in Scripture but there are no secret numerical codes that require a profession called “Christian numerology.” No seminary nor do any professional accredited institutions offer such a degree.

Whenever someone tells you they have found a secret number code in the Bible, everything else he or she says can be discounted.

There are numbers in the Bible but they don’t require a numerologist.

·     The number one denoting the singleness of the Creator as a unified being: “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one.”

·     The number three is used to signify perfection in the Trinity as well as completion: Jesus’ ministry on earth lasted three years and his resurrection occurred three days after his death.

·     The number seven—likely the most well-known of biblical numbers—is also used to show divine perfection and completeness. This can be seen in God’s creation of the world in six days and decision to Sabbath on the seventh as well as numerous Old Testament rituals and celebrations.

God uses numbers in Scripture as a means to communicate with his people, they aren’t to be put to inappropriate use, such as making wild claims and trying to predict the end of the world using numbers and planetary motions as Meade and others have.

2.   Meade doesn’t have any biblical training yet he is discussing biblical matters of profound significance and making predictions about events of global importance without any real authority on these topics.

3.   There’s also another strange detail that those touting the September 23 theories have somehow missed: The same celestial arrangement has reportedly already happened in 1827, 1483, 1293 and 1056 — all in the month of September.

BUT WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THE RETURN OF CHRIST?

Mark 13:32-37, NKJV

³² “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. ³³ Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. ³⁴ It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. ³⁵ Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—³⁶ lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. ³⁷ And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

As we look at events in the world today, we may wonder how history is going to turn out. We may even be confused and troubled about end times, ethnic hatreds, volatile economies, international strife, and the warnings of doomsayers may feel very unsettling.

Jesus' words in Mark 13, Matthew 24, and Lk 21:5-36 speak of these issues. The whole conversation started off with the disciples' comments on the solidity and significance of Jerusalem's major urban structure, the temple (Mk 3:1). Jesus replied by noting how temporary such structures actually are (13.2). Later, in a quiet setting (13:3), he entered into far more detail about the end of history as we know it and the stresses believers would undergo (13:4-37).

Rather than avoid he topic, he spoke of:

•      deception, wars, earthquakes, and famines as the beginning of troubles (13:5-8).

•      how his followers would experience testing as his witnesses before courts, rulers, and. kings (13:9-11).

•      how family members would turn against each other (13:12, 13).

•      how distress and deception would eventually reign, but such times would be limited by God (13:14-25).

•      his eventual return for his own (13:15-31).

•      the fact that no one knows precisely when he will return–and thus the need for his followers to be watchful and dutiful in serving God (13:32-37).

The fact that Jesus says no one knows the day or hour of His return means that it's utter foolishness to predict a specific day. Jesus knows the signs of his coming are sure, but the timing is not (Mk. 13:32,33,35,36).

End-time date-setting does not align with the Bible so we should stop predicting specific days or entertaining them.

WHAT SHOULD BE OUR RESPONSE?

Before the Second coming of Christ and the end of the age, Jesus will first come for His Church in what is often called 'The Rapture' that could happen at any moment, when hundreds of millions of Christians are suddenly and stealthily removed from the earth without any definite signs.

Verse 33 – Take heed, watch and pray

Verse 35 – Watch

Verse 37 - And what I say to you, I say to ALL: Watch!”

1.   Since Jesus could come back for His people at anytime, we should always live with readiness to meet the Lord. We must be alert (not sleep) and watchful or vigilant, and not grow complacent thinking that the Lord is going to tarry long.

ARE YOU READY?

2.   Jesus is coming back for a radiant bride so let us say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope–the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ (Titus 2:12,13).

1 John 3;2-3), NLT

² Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. ³ And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure. 

3.   The Master also left his property, his authority, and his work in the hands of his servants. He has given to his servant “each his work” so we should labour with all our might to make an impact for Him in our assigned tasks, since we have only one life to reach our generation.

We are not discounting biblical prophecy. We need to be students of Bible prophecy which should motivate us to live godly lives and do all that we can to reach our generation while we can.

THE NEED FOR SPIRIT AND TRUTH IN THE CHURCH

The apostle John in his first epistle tells us not to believe everything: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 Jn. 4:1). We need to be discerning concerning things we choose to believe in.

We can’t just believe everything in the media; instead, we must think both carefully and critically about what we read, see and hear. We need to consider our sources and, when situations like this arise, be careful to seek out answers from people who actually know what they’re talking about. If those matters are of a spiritual or eternal nature we should look to the Bible for our answers.

Acts 17:11, NKJV

¹¹ These [Jews in Berea] were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.

Gullibility is not a virtue. We need to develop a Christian mind that is able to carefully filter the beliefs and ideas being presented to us. Apply wisdom and cultivate a spirit of discernment.

It’s not crazy to look at world events and ponder whether the signs mentioned in the Bible are, in some form, coming to fruition; but it is bizarre and dangerous to start setting dates in violation of the very scripture you claim to hold dear.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Therefore, as another end-of-the-world prophecy fails, we ought to remember that:

A. WE STAND IN FAITH AND NOT FEAR

"...if indeed you continue in the faith, firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard" (Col 1:23).

The spirit of fear is rampant around the world and we must keep our hearts and minds fixed on God's goodness and His triumphant love. Faith is what pleases God (Heb 11:6). Jesus is coming back for us.

B. JESUS IS RETURNING FOR A RADIANT BRIDE

"Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" (Eph 5:25-27).

It is to the Father's glory that the Bride of Christ is ready for the return of the Bridegroom. He is looking for a Bride that is held in honour (radiant), free of moral faults (without stain), not old and tired (without wrinkle), blameless (holy), and free of any blemish (without moral blame or rebuke). UNTIL we demonstrate this reality, we have work to do. Let us pray that we would become a Bride that is fitting for the King.

C. THE LOST NEED TO BE SAVED

"Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 'The time has come,' He said. 'The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news' " (Mark 1:14-15)!

We must never forget what we were commissioned to do — preach the gospel of the kingdom of God so that the lost will be saved and empowered for eternity. Every day until Jesus returns provides another opportunity for those in darkness to see the light. Let us use this time wisely as good stewards of this good news.

Every time end-of-the-world predictions resurface in the media, it is important that we ask ourselves, "Is this helpful? Is peddling these falsehoods a good way to contribute to meaningful, helpful discussions about the end times?"

Failed date-setting has discredited Christians many times before. It's irresponsible for any Christian to tell an unbeliever when Jesus is coming back or when the world will end. Dates and deadlines don't have the power to save souls—only the gospel can do that.

Our job is to preach the good news. All the storms, floods, fires, earthquakes, riots, political tension, terrorism and nuclear attacks have put fear and anxiety in people's hearts today. But the answer to all this bad news is not a doomsday prediction; the answer is Jesus, who gives us supernatural peace so we can live securely in a chaotic world.

We should tell about the miracle of Calvary and remind them: "Now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2). Hundreds of thousands of people die every day without Jesus, whether or not He returns in their generation. This alone should motivate us to avoid foolish distractions and false prophecies so we can get busy with the task of evangelism.

One of the signs of Jesus’ return is that the gospel shall be preached to the ends of the earth.

D. WE ARE TO DO BUSINESS UNTIL HE RETURNS

"The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst" (Luke 17:20).

" So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’" (Luke 19:13, NKJV).

Let us do what we have been called to do and let God be God. Luther in response to the question of what he would do if he knew the end of the world would come the next day -- something to the effect of "I would plant a tree." This could mean that he would (1) continue to do what God put him here to do, and (2) live with hope.

CONCLUSION

Jesus Himself said all end-times date setting is strictly off-limits.

Acts 1:6-8, NIV

⁶ So when they met together, they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 

⁷ He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. ⁸ But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 

As await the coming of our Lord and Master, our Bridegroom may we continue to:

•      Walk in faith and not in fear

•      Live godly and holy lives to be a radiant bride fitting for a King

•      Get busy with the task of evangelism

•      Be good stewards of the gifts, talents, treasure and time that God has given to us

People who get excited about supposed signs miss the point that Jesus made. Instead of setting dates, we ought to be ready for His return at any moment. Are you ready?

If you are, then you be able respond as the apostle John did.

Revelation 22:20, NIV

He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” 

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. 

All things work together for good

Kenny Song 

Last week my wife said she don't trust technology. I'm the opposite. I embrace technology and I think it makes my life easier and better organised. So I have my iPad here with me this morning. Pray my battery last. If not here's a spare (iPhone).

I am reminded by my wife to keep my sermon short. So today I will obey my wife, and she will love her husband.

And I'm going to copy my wife a little. She loves to tell stories so I have one for you this morning.

There was a story told recently about a king in Africa who had a close friend that he grew up with. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and remarking, "This is good!"

One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition. The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his friend, the king fired it and his thumb was blown off. Examining the situation the friend remarked as usual, "This is good!". To which the king replied, "No, this is NOT good!" and proceeded to send his friend to jail.

About a year later, the king was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. Cannibals captured him and took them to their village. They tied his hands, stacked some wood, set up a stake and bound him to the stake.

As they came near to set fire to the wood, they noticed that the king was missing a thumb. Being superstitious, they never ate anyone that was less than whole. So untying the king, they sent him on his way.

As he returned home, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his friend. "You were right" he said, "it was good that my thumb was blown off." And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. "And so I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this."

"No," his friend replied, "this is good!"

"What do you mean, 'this is good'! How could it be good that I sent my friend to jail for a year." "If I had NOT been in jail, I would have been with you."

Actually, there is a reason I told you that story. How many of you when things don't turn out the way you planned, or problems and difficulties arises in you life, you say "This is good". Becoming a Christian does not guarantee a trouble-free life. Often it's the opposite.

But this passage of scripture is surely one of the most precious we hang on to, especially in times of trial. Romans 8:28 is a key biblical passage having to do with the exalted theme of God’s providential activity in this world. That is because God can see beforehand.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 KJV).

And yet, it appears to be seriously misunderstood by many. To start understanding what this verse means, we first have to know what we mean to God.

Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Whatever you are going through, he loves you. That is a fact.

We will now examine several key elements within this important passage.

“We Know”

The expression “we know” speaks of confidence. In spite of life’s hardships, we must be able to say we know he is a providential companion in our lives. That God is so supremely in charge of the world that all the things that happen to Christians are ordered in such a way that they serve our good.

The problem is we don't always know. When a father sets borders for their children to protect them, often the child sees it as restrictive. We need to be reminded again and again, he loves you and me. And he promises us this.

Proverbs 12:21 "There shall no evil happen to the righteous"

A good example is Job. The devil could only touch Job as permitted by God. 

“All Things”

What does this include? What does it not include?

It is not necessary to conclude that the “all” of “all things” is absolutely unlimited in scope. We are told that “all the people” received John’s baptism, and thereby “justified God” (Luke 7:29-30). And yet, within the same context the reader is informed that the Pharisees and the lawyers did not accept John’s baptism. “All” does not always mean “all.”

Similarly, the “all things” of Romans 8:28 must be qualified by the context in which it is found. The portion of Paul’s Roman letter in which this phrase occurs focuses upon the presence of suffering in the saint’s life.

Then, in a series of pointed questions, Paul asks: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ [i.e., the love Christ has for us]?” Shall tribulation, or anguish, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? No; none of these hardships—no force, visible or invisible—can frustrate the divine plan of Almighty God (vv. 35-39).

This is the meaning of “all things” in context.

But we must comment further regarding the limitations of the “all things.” Note several items:

(1) One should not interpret everything that happens as an instance of providence. There are thousands of trivial things that may not result necessarily from divine activity, or work to one’s good. 

(2) Providence does not overrule one’s free will. If a person chooses to rebel against the Creator and he turns away from the Savior, God will not force him, even through providential means, into submission.

(3) One could never rationalize: “Since God works ‘all things’ for my good, I do not need to refrain from sin, for the Lord will use even evil for my ultimate welfare”. A denominational preacher, in attempting to defend the Calvinistic doctrine of “once-saved, always-saved,” declared that he could commit adultery, and God ultimately would work it out for his good. This is a corrupt misapplication of Romans 8:28.

(4) The good that God works may not be apparent immediately. It may be years before one realizes the benefits that result from heart-breaking events. In fact, one may never—in this life—see the effect of Heaven’s purpose. God is still working good—whether we ever realize it or not!

“Work Together”

The verb “work together” is an active voice, present tense form, which indicates that the activity orchestrated by God is ongoing. The Lord is as providentially active on behalf of his people today as he was in biblical times.

The verb suggest an intricate plan whose components are harmoniously operating toward a grand conclusion.

A good analogy is a mechanical watch. There are many intricate parts to the watch. It's has a role to play in serving one purpose. They all work together to keep time. Often, we can only connect the dots of God's plan and purpose of our lives years down the road. And we see how every circumstances we went through work together for his divine plans.

“For Good”

My wife always like to read the synopsis of a movie or book before she agrees to watch or read it. Why? She say must have good ending or she don't want to waste her time. Hero must always win. Must be happily ever after one.

God is working out things for his people that will result in their ultimate “good,” i.e., heaven, eternal. “The Christian’s journey must have a good ending, because at every step in it he is in the hands of God and is carrying out the Divine purpose”. The man who walks in the will of God and finished his race will always have a glorious ending.

A classic case is Joseph. As a boy of seventeen years, he was sold by jealous brothers into Egyptian slavery. An evil woman lusted for him, and when he refused her advances she bore false testimony against him. He was thrown into prison where he languished for several years. But because Jehovah “was with him” (Genesis 39:21), eventually Joseph was elevated to a place of great authority. By and by, of course, he became the instrument by which the family of Jacob was received into the safety of Egypt, having been spared from a terrible famine in Canaan. All of this intricate maneuvering was providential—in view of the coming Messiah.

There were many evil motives and actions in this amazing chain of events—none of which God was responsible for; and yet, astoundingly, God was able to implement his sacred purpose in all of these distressing matters. One of the most breathtaking verses in the entire book of Genesis is that which records the words of Joseph at the twilight of his life. To his brothers, he confided: “And as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive” (Genesis 50:20).

“For Those Who Love God”

Paul now speaks to the issue of who it is that is in receipt of this divine favor. It is to those who “love God,” and who “are called according to his purpose.” Actually, to use a figure of speech, these are two sides of the same coin.

Who will benefit from this promise? Paul gives two answers, or one answer from two sides.

First by what they do towards God, and second by what God did towards them.

The present tense form in this text indicates that those who live in the hope of this passage are the habitual God-lovers. Love is not a fleeting emotion; it is a way of life. The bottom-line truth is simple: loving God means doing what he says. The faith that avails is that which works through love (Galatians 5:6). We are encouraged by this promise, no eye has seen nor ear heard nor anyone imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.

“Called According to His Purpose”

The opposite side of this coin reveals the divine perspective. The call of God originates in God's purpose, not ours. The call of God is not in response to anything we purposed to do. God has his own high and divine purposes that govern whom he calls.

So what practical values can we learn from Romans 8:28?

(1) An understanding of this text helps the Christian to avoid the murmuring mode, into which it is so easy to slip. The child of God must ever seek to remember that the Lord allows suffering as a means of refining human character.

(2) The wounds of life are “working together” to educate us and to bring us closer to God. 

James 1:2-4 "My brethren COUNT IT ALL JOY when you fall into various temptations, knowing that the testing of your faith PRODUCES patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing"

(3) The “nudging” of these pains of tears help us keep our focus on eternity—knowing his grace is always sufficient for us. 2 Corinthians 4:17 "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, IS WORKING FOR US a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory"

Testimonies

1. My brother in prison as a young believer
2. College mate who failed in business but found the Lord and joined our company until he retired
3. Staff who resigned to form a competing company which folded but he's now a worship leader and cell leader.

Ministering at Calvary Assembly 

Faith - the Ability to See

Rev Benjamin Yeoh

I like how your pastor asked you all to move around and shake one another's hands. I like the phrase he used, cross boundaries. We do that on our church where members will not just greet one another but also to just talk about anything. Sometimes even after 10 minutes, they are still talking and not interested in the sermon anymore. 

I wrote some declarations 2 years ago and I would like you to read it with me. 

I am marvellously made in the image of God. I am unique, one of a kind and precious to God.

God loves me and has a wonderful plan for my life. No weapon formed against me will prosper because greater is God in me than the devil in the world.

I am a spiritual being with a physical body and my spirit being will respond to God and the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

My tongue has the power of death and life and I will choose to use it to build not destroy, to heal not kill, and to bless not curse.

Greater is God in me than the devil in this world. We are more than conquerors in and through Christ Jesus our Lord.

God has brought me to this church for a purpose and I will with God's grace put my talents to work, to win soul and build His church.

The Gospel of Christ is the power of God that brings salvation and I will stand on God's promise and believe that my family members will be saved.

Now that we have just seen the declaration, now let's say it with gusto and believe it. 

Hebrews 11:23-27

By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward. 27 By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.

There was a patient in a psychiatric ward and they put some tests for him and he passed with flying colours. He did so well in such a short time that they were wanting to release him into the real world. But he must answer 2 question before they release him. 

You must remember this is the guy who is in a psychiatric ward. 

The first question was "if I am take a sharp knife and cut off your right ear what would happen to you?" He said he will not hear from that ear. Then the second question. "And what would happen if I cut off your left ear?" To which he replied, oh, then I can't see. Because my spectacles would fall off (laughs). 

Faith is the ability to see. The songs you all sang this morning has 3 songs that talks about the ability to see. 

1. Faith let's you see beyond the natural. 

When Moses was born they saw. What did they see? My son Derrick was born 21 days early. He was always in a hurry. When he was born my wife asked me this question. Boy or girl? Tall or short? Hair no hair? But instead she asked whose eyes. I said sorry but mine. Then she said she was very tired and she went to sleep. That's all she asked, whose eyes. 

They saw that he was no ordinary child. They saw beyond the ordinary. They saw ahead. More than the physical. 

Hebrews 11:1

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

It was beyond what we see. It's what we know. That is so so needed. Moses' faith started with his parent's faith. 

Impact your children's life for God. My children is sold out for God and the church. They grow up seeing us and it rubs off. We never tell our children about problems in the church but they know. Children can hear things. They grow up believing God. When I first came to church I told my members to not put pressure on my children. Don't say how can you do that? You are a pastor's son! Don't do that. If they do wrong they are given permission to discipline them. 

Jesus looked or gazed at Peter. It was a look that goes beyond the superficial. And he said your name is Simon, which is like a reed that flows with the wind, that can bend and break. But he said to Simon you will be called Peter, the rock. 

When Helen Keller was born, many thought she was born blind. She actually lost her sight at a very young age. A reporter asked her what is worst than being born blind and she said to be born with sight but has no vision. No wonder she wrote so many inspirational words. Like poems and greeting cards. 

I was born into the ministry as a 20 year old. In a youth camp. I responded to the altar call but I could not recognise why as I was a Form 5 drop out. Out of 8 papers I only passed 3. In bible school I was put into a special class. I thought I was special only to find out the class was for elementary English. A Form 5 drop out. God worked in me but I had to work hard. Stand in the mirror and taped myself speaking. You only realise how funny you sounded when you hear yourself over the tape. That was how I started. It is by the grace of God that I am what I am today.  

What are your challenges today? Don't be so lopsided. You see only the problems but not God. You see hopelessness. You see no way out. But God will make a way even when there is no way. 

2. Faith sees the bigness of our God. 

Hebrews 11:27

By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw him who is invisible.

The bible says Moses saw God. He saw a God who was invisible. He came to a realisation. For Moses to lead millions of Israelites, he had to go to the king of Egypt. Moses said he cannot but God said I Am that I Am send you. You cannot say I am that I Am. Only God can say that. God existed all the while. He is self existence. And Moses saw the bigness of God. That's how he started his journey. With God he is able. He put God in the equation. 

You can say to God I am not capable but I am available. Just a simple shepherd's rod but that simple rod parted the Red Sea. 

When David fought Goliath, he was putting King Saul on the spot. To find one man to fight one on one and Saul being head above all was afraid to step out. When David stood out, Saul thought he must be joking. He was just a boy? It's like putting any one of us to fight Mike Tyson. Sure die. 

But David was saying the same God that help him fight a lion and a bear will help him fight this Goliath. He came in the name of the Lord God almighty. They may be saying wah Goliath so big cannot die but David say so big cannot miss (laughs). It's my gut feeling that when David released the stones, the hand of God led that stone to Goliath's only weak spot. He slew Goliath without a sword. He ran over took Goliath's sword and cut off his head. 

When we look at our challenges see them small. We need to see the bigness of God. Greater is he that's in me than he that is in the world. Moses was a visionary leader because he saw the bigness of God. 

3. He saw his future in God. 

Hebrews 11:24-26

By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. 25 He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time. 26 He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.

He was looking ahead to his reward. He renounce his royal heritage. He turned his back to his palace life. He chose suffering over the pleasures of life. He gave it all up to follow the promptings of God. Why? He saw his future in God. 

You know a dacing? A weighing scale. On one side you have a weight. On the other side a produce. And you balance things up. In Moses' case, you put the best the world has on one side and the other side you put all the sufferings he will go through. His value system is that he saw his reward in the future in God. God will never short change you. 

I end with this story. 

Remember how Abraham and Sarah have passed the age of child bearing and they wanted to help God by asking Abraham to sleep with her maid. Abraham slept with Hagar and she conceived. Stomach swell, her head also swell and she despised Sarah and thinks she's the mistress of the household. Sarah ran to Abraham but he did not take any action. Men, we cannot do that. We are the head of the house. Sarah made it hell for Hagar and she ran away. In the dessert, an angel found her. God says to her to return back to Sarah and submit herself to her. 

Not one thing have changed. Sarah was still the angry Sarah. What has changed is Hagar had encountered God and she changed. In our difficulties we often think God has abandoned us in our troubles. She saw the God who sees her. 

Trust not in Horses or Chariots

Rev Gideon Lee

I just came back from Klang by bus last night to be with you all this morning. How is your Chinese New Year? I noticed even in Klang that celebration is a bit subdued. I have not even seen one lion dance yet. Have you seen? You have! Wah, I should be in Penang. 

This is the year of the horse. So this morning I have a very horsy message for you. I am going to be talking about the horse. 

What does the horse represents? Success. We want the horse to run faster. The horse is also strong and elegant. Back in those days if you come from an agricultural background the horse is very important. It is also a means of transport. There is so much Chinese movies this New Year especially the fighting ones. When they go to war they depend on the horse. So the horse is very important as you can see. 

I am also going to look at the horse in the bible. Let's look at Isaiah. 

Isaiah 31

The Folly of Not Trusting God

1 Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help,

And rely on horses,

Who trust in chariots because they are many,

And in horsemen because they are very strong,

But who do not look to the Holy One of Israel,

Nor seek the Lord!

2 Yet He also is wise and will bring disaster,

And will not call back His words,

But will arise against the house of evildoers,

And against the help of those who work iniquity.

3 Now the Egyptians are men, and not God;

And their horses are flesh, and not spirit.

When the Lord stretches out His hand,

Both he who helps will fall,

And he who is helped will fall down;

They all will perish together.

God Will Deliver Jerusalem

4 For thus the Lord has spoken to me:

“As a lion roars,

And a young lion over his prey

(When a multitude of shepherds is summoned against him,

He will not be afraid of their voice

Nor be disturbed by their noise),

So the Lord of hosts will come down

To fight for Mount Zion and for its hill.

5 Like birds flying about,

So will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem.

Defending, He will also deliver it;

Passing over, He will preserve it.”

6 Return to Him against whom the children of Israel have deeply revolted. 7 For in that day every man shall throw away his idols of silver and his idols of gold—sin, which your own hands have made for yourselves.

8 “Then Assyria shall fall by a sword not of man,

And a sword not of mankind shall devour him.

But he shall flee from the sword,

And his young men shall become forced labor.

A Reign of Righteousness

9 He shall cross over to his stronghold for fear,

And his princes shall be afraid of the banner,”

Says the Lord,

Whose fire is in Zion

And whose furnace is in Jerusalem.

This morning we just read Isaiah chapter 31. 

This verse one is also reflected in the book of Psalms. You can go back and read Psalms 20:7. 

This morning I want to talk about a very important word called trust. Apart from pride our lack in trust of God comes next. Our trust in God is limited to what we know or experience in God. If God has helped or provided for us then we can trust him. If we have not experienced healing from God it is very difficult to trust him for healing. It is conditional. We trust him when we see him working. But many times God is silent. And we think God is not there. And because he is not there we find it difficult to trust him. 

We must learn to place our trust in God and God alone. 

Proverbs 3:1-6

Guidance for the Young

1 My son, do not forget my law,

But let your heart keep my commands;

2 For length of days and long life

And peace they will add to you.

3 Let not mercy and truth forsake you;

Bind them around your neck,

Write them on the tablet of your heart,

4 And so find favor and high esteem

In the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;

6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He shall direct your paths.

In Proverbs we are told to trust the Lord. 

In Isaiah we see they are considering putting their trust in Egypt. When we talk of Egypt what does it represent to them. It is actually representing their slavery or captivity in Egypt. It is actually a bad place, a place of bondage so how can they go there for help? Their horses and chariots were famous. Egypt's strength lies in the number of horses or chariots they have. So Israel were so desperate going to them for help. 

But Isaiah told them not to put their trust in Egypt. Don't rely on their horses or chariots. But to put their trust in the Lord God. In the Holy One of Israel. I feel this is what the Lord is telling some of us. Don't put our hope in the year of the horse. Or that fire crackers will chase away bad omens. Put your trust in Jesus. 

People were cutting back on their spending. I hope you don't cut back on your coming to church. Thinking that you need to pump petrol to come to church. Instead of coming every week, you come only on alternate weeks. Save petrol. I think this year you should come to church more often. You cannot put your trust in all these things. If you are going to put your trust in your Ang Pows this year you will be disappointed. 

Our trust must be in the Holy One of Israel. This is what you must remember this morning. 

There are some reasons why sometimes people don't put their trust in God. These are three main reasons though there are more. 

1. They are impatient. 

We want to quickly see results but if you have been a Christian for many years you know God don't answer immediately. But often we want a. solution like yesterday. We don't want to spend the time waiting on the Lord. The bible says he makes all things beautiful in his time. We may prefer to go to Egypt because it is quick but it may not be the best for you. Like going to the loan shark to get a loan. They make it so easy for you to get your money. Easy solution to your needs. But it may not be the best solution for you as you will enter a deep deep hole. 

When God helps you it is for your best. When blessings comes from the Lord there is no sorrow that comes with it. Learn to wait upon the Lord. If you want something fast and quick, it may not be the best for you. 

2. They are ignorant. 

They are ignorant of what the Lord can do for them or the promises of God in the bible. And so because they are ignorant they go elsewhere for help. If your children have problems who do they come to first? I hope it's not their friends. I have been a youth pastor and often I tell them if they have a problems they should go to see their parents. Unfortunately many comes to see me. But they should be able to go to their parents as they are the ones that can help you. 

Parents, do you reveal very things to your children? Do you tell them exactly how much you have in your bank account? You don't tell but you have the resources to help your children. Why? Because they are your children. There is a relationship. What if it's other children? Once in a while you may help out of the goodness of your heart. But can you help them all the time? They are not your children. 

But your children are different. But we are ignorant of what the word of God says so we don't go to him. 

3. Unwillingness to pay the price of obedience and holiness. 

We know he can help but we are not willing to live a life without sin. God not only deal with your problems but he deals with you. Because often you are the problem. And we are often not willing to let God deal with us. If you have a financial problem, you may think God want to deal with your circumstances but God wants to deal with you first. Your problem may not be your finance but how God wants to deal with you to be a good stewart of your finance. 

We are ignorant of the help that is available from God. Unwilling to live a life of obedience. Friends, like I mentioned, these are three reasons only but there are many more. 

Like in Isaiah, do not put your trust in Egypt. Only God can deliver them from their problems. He will save and defend their people. Later in that passage it shows what God can do for them. Whatever comes your way in 2014, put your trust in Jesus and Jesus alone. 

Put your trust not only on your material need but also your spiritual needs. During Chinese New Year we often give Ang Pows. Do you know God gave us the biggest Ang Pow? It is Jesus. It is bigger than all the money you will receive. All the Ang Pows you get will finish. Jesus never fails. He is the greatest Ang Pow that I have received in my life. Peace beyond understanding. Money cannot buy wan. More important is that you receive eternal life. The biggest blessing that comes from Jesus. It can only happen when you put your trust in him. This is my message for this new year. Put your trust in God. He can meet all your needs including your spiritual needs. 

You may say you are not so bad. You don't kill, steal or rape. But the bible says we sin in our thoughts or our words. Mankind have been dealing with this problem a long time but no solution. Thank God he gave the solution in Jesus, his Son. He paid the penalty for our sin. We can understand this because in our country there are laws. You drive pass 110 and you get a ticket. For your wrong doing there is a penalty. And the word of God says the penalty of sin is death. But God loves us so much that he paid for your sins through his Son. 

What qualifies Jesus to pay for your sin? Because he is the son of God and he knew no sin. And death paid your penalty of death. All you need to do is put your trust in him. Put your trust in him completely. Put your faith in him completely. You are saying God come and take over. All this while I am driving my own life but now I want you to come in and take over. Don't put your trust in any other thing. 

I end by this story. How many of you know Indiana Jones. It is quite an old movie. There was one in the series that talked about the holy grail. If you remember one scene when they came into a chamber and there was an old knight guarding the holy grail. All the bad guys were also there and the knight asked them to chose the holy grail for themselves. The bad guy picked the one with jewellery and looked so nice so he picked that and drank from the cup which was supposed to give him eternal life but he died. The knight said he chose poorly. 

But Indiana Jones picked an old wooden cup which was the right one. 

This morning who will you pick? I pray the Lord won't say to us you chose poorly. But that we all make the right decision.