Mysteries,

Marvels
& Much More!

uth chronicle
Issue III 2010
Jul - Sept
 Editor’s Note
Heylo dear reader!
Welcome to the third issue of
Uth Chronicle this year, where
we delve into ‘Mysteries,
Marvels & Much More’!
But before we delve into the
articles themselves, it would do
us good to take a moment to
ponder if we have by ourselves
made diligent study of God’s
Word. In Matthew 13:11, Jesus
said that ‘it is given unto you to
know the mysteries of the
kingdom of heaven, but to them
it is not given.’ Have we
exercised this precious gift of
being able to find, understand
and receive the truths contained
in the Bible, or are we doing
ourselves a great disservice by
being slack in our quiet time?
James 1:25 tells us that ‘whoso
looketh into the perfect law of
liberty and continueth therein,
he being not a forgetful hearer,
but a doer of the work, this man
shall be blessed in his deed.’ May
we then eagerly come before
God’s Word daily, ready to
receive instruction and blessing!
Of course, we all know the
importance of following Christ.
Yet we often struggle with the
things of the world, and all to
often we are drawn away. Bro.
2
Joseph has penned a pertinent
article that addresses the
question ‘An hundredfold
interest rate: Why aren’t people
investing?’
Still within the topic of
mysteries is a piece by Bro.
Henry, who explores ‘The
Charisma of Charismaticism’ to God bless your reading! =)
give us a better understanding
of why so many people have Yours in Christ,
been sucked into this movement. Brian
Another marvel contained in the
Bible is the description of the
relationship between a husband
and wife, as exemplified by
Christ’s relationship to the
church. Bro. Simon brings us
through ‘The Mystery of
Marriage’. Along that same train
of thought, Aunty Lisiah shares
about how to be a godly wife in
‘Retrospect’.
Students at local universities
will start a new year soon, and
we may be driven to work
harder for the Lord; the ‘O’ and
‘A’ levels will roll around
towards the end of this quarter;
Poly students will be having
projects or papers to contend. In
the midst of all this, Eunice Ting
provides a timely reminder in
>25 that ‘Our Sufficiency is of
God’.
Let that thought constantly be
on our minds as we forge
through the next three months,
and may our hunger for God’s
Word grow as well! For our next
issue, stay tuned for more
mysteries, more marvels, and
much, MUCH more!
P.S.: To all concerned readers who
have contacted us regarding the
subscription fee for the Uth
Chronicle announced in the last
issue, the team would like to
apologise for giving in to the
temptation of pulling an April Fool’s
joke; a closer inspection of the cut-
out coupon will reveal that the
pricing makes no sense (it gets
progressively more expensive if you
subscribe for a longer period, finally
culminating in a request to submit a
blank cheque) and a tongue-in-
cheek footnote that says ‘All
proceeds will not go to charity’. We
also failed to specify where all the
money and coupons should be
submitted. Once again, our
sincerest apologies for any
consternation caused! But thank
you for the genuine inquiries –
we’re really touched by your love.
=)
UTH TEAM
Advisor: Bro Henry
Chua
Editor: Brian Lim
Secretar y: Jonathan
Tay
Layouts: Grace Auyo
ng
Photos: Samuel Chia
Chasers: Dorothy Ch
iang &
Joel Quah
Special Ops: Jonan Ta
n,
Michelle Chiang & Ye
da Ko

"An
hundredfold
dividend: Why
aren't people
investing?"  houses, lands, relatives, and children?
—Bro Joseph Poon
Mark 10:29-31
(29) And Jesus answered and said,
Verily I say unto you, There is no
man that hath left house, or
brethren, or sisters, or father, or
mother, or wife, or children, or
lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
(30) But he shall receive an
hundredfold now in this time,
houses, and brethren, and sisters,
and mothers, and children, and
lands, with persecutions; and in the
world to come eternal life.
(31) But many that are first shall be
last; and the last first.
THE MYSTERY
With such a promise of a hundred fold
“returns on investment”, why aren’t
Christians responding to the call which
promises such high dividends?
Today’s uncertain economy is
fluctuating rapidly. Since the
“impossible” has taken place with the
fall of Lehman Brothers, with the near
collapse of AIG, and the crash of many
stock markets, many are wondering
where to put their money and life
savings in order to have security. On
the other hand, some are still jumping
into the ballooning property markets in
Singapore, hoping not to miss the
train. And just when parts of the
world’s key economies showed signs of
stability and even pockets of recovery,
there came the Dubai debt crisis and
now the Greece crisis which has caused
the world markets to take a dip once
again. The world has little certainty
and can only hope for the best when
they invest. Some will do some
analysis, while others just simply take a
gamble. But the end for both of them
is still the same - an uncertain hope for
a positive outcome.
As Christians who trust in God’s
promises, there is absolute assurance in
what God says in His Word. The
outcome for us is always certain when
we put our faith in God. Yet why,
despite the promises of Christ in Mark
10:29-31, are there so few who are
willing to give our lives to Him? Don’t
we all hope to see the security of
But Christ promises even more than
the security of these alone. He
promises a hundredfold multiplication
of them which ought to make us sit up
and take attention, if not jump at His
offer. No company in this world can
make a credible offer of a hundred
times returns or provide such a
retirement plan that is truly out of this
world. Yet why are there so few takers,
especially if the promise is also for “now
in this time” (v30)?
Yet why are there so few takers,
especially if the promise is also for
“now in this time” (v30)?
To unravel this mystery, we must look
at the context of how this promise
came about.
Mark 10:17-31 reads,
Mar 10:17-31
(17) And when he was gone forth into
the way, there came one running,
and kneeled to him, and asked him,
Good Master, what shall I do that
I may inherit eternal life?
(18) And Jesus said unto him, Why
callest thou me good? there is none
good but one, that is, God.
(19) Thou knowest the
commandments, Do not commit
adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal,
Do not bear false witness, Defraud
not, Honour thy father and
mother.
(20) And he answered and said unto
him, Master, all these have I
observed from my youth.
(21) Then Jesus beholding him loved
him, and said unto him, One thing
thou lackest: go thy way, sell
whatsoever thou hast, and give to
the poor, and thou shalt have
treasure in heaven: and come, take
up the cross, and follow me.
(22) And he was sad at that saying, and
went away grieved: for he had
great possessions.
(23) And Jesus looked round about,
and saith unto his disciples, How
hardly shall they that have riches
enter into the kingdom of God!
(24) And the disciples were astonished
at his words. But Jesus answereth
again, and saith unto them,
Children, how hard is it for them
that trust in riches to enter into the
kingdom of God!
(25) It is easier for a camel to go
through the eye of a needle, than
for a rich man to enter into the
kingdom of God.
(26) And they were astonished out of
measure, saying among themselves,
Who then can be saved?
(27) And Jesus looking upon them
saith, With men it is impossible,
but not with God: for with God all
things are possible.
(28) Then Peter began to say unto him,
Lo, we have left all, and have
followed thee.
(29) And Jesus answered and said,
Verily I say unto you, There is no
man that hath left house, or
brethren, or sisters, or father, or
mother, or wife, or children, or
lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
(30) But he shall receive an
hundredfold now in this time,
houses, and brethren, and sisters,
and mothers, and children, and
lands, with persecutions; and in the
world to come eternal life.
(31) But many that are first shall be
last; and the last first.
Christ promised “treasure in
heaven” (v21) to the rich man, if the
latter would sell away all of his
possessions and give to the poor. And
he had great possessions indeed (v22).
After witnessing this offer, it triggered
Peter to pose the statement, if not a
bold hint to Christ, as if to ask – so
what about us? What can we expect
since we left all to follow You? It is
from this incident that we read of
Christ’s promise of hundredfold
returns. So if we understand what
caused the rich man to decide not to
take up Christ’s offer, we will see the
answer as to why so few respond.
3
“To unravel this mystery, we must The Lord Jesus was pointing to the anything. He suddenly had so many
idol of desiring the controlling relatives in Christ helping. Then
look at the context of how this ownership of possessions. This too is others came to help him in house
promise came about.” often our nature as we shall see later. renovations because he was away on
The Lord Jesus who knows what Note that it is not so much about mission work.
possesses the most intimate thoughts, possessions but the need to have
intentions, and desires of every man’s control and own these possessions. The ownership of land would then
heart gives us the assessment of why There are two “mini” or “sub” mysteries bring to the Israelites’ mind the means
the rich man turned away from Christ’s which I wish to address at this point. of sustenance and maintenance for
offer of treasure in heaven, the greatest their households, with agriculture as
of which is eternal life. The key issue First, is the Lord Jesus against riches their main economy. Farming would
was “trust in riches” (v24). Though the and rich people? The answer is no. provide them with the needed food and
Lord Jesus’ repeated answer (v23, 24, The issue is not with money but the income. The Lord never fails His
25) had to do with riches, He was love of money that is the root of all evil servants in this respect, providing every
specific about this point – that it was (I Timothy 6:10); we are told to “make need – both for themselves and their
the “trust in riches” that was the key to yourselves friends of the mammon of families. Have we not often heard how
issue of the heart. At this point, we unrighteousness” (Luke 16:9) in other Christians in need in mission fields
must not lose sight of the fact that the words be wise stewards of money; and never lack? We also hear of the
rich man was a genuine seeker, with a while the rich are not to trust in riches kindness of church members that
sincere desire. But though he dashed (1 Timothy 6:17) they are to use it well sometimes exceed what families can
to Christ and enquired upon bended so as to be rich in good works (1 afford. A recent reminder of God’s
knees, he eventually turned away from Timothy 6:17-19) like supporting the faithfulness was at the funeral of the
the offer of eternal life with treasure in work of God by giving financial late Rev Timothy Tow. Serving the
heaven thrown in! support to missions etc. Nevertheless, Lord faithfully till his work on earth
the Bible does warn against desiring to was done, at his funeral service it was
Let us rewind the scene and take a step be rich (1 Timothy 6:9-10) and Christ revealed that he had so little to his
back. What was the “investment” points out the snares of riches (Mark name that no lawyer was required to
required in verse 21? By this, let us be 10:24-25). Someone made a wise handle his “estate”, for he had none.
clear here that Christ was revealing the observation that few are able to walk a Yet, the Lord whom he served – and
stumbling block that prevented him to tight line with a full cup. our God too – never failed in providing
be saved. In sincerity, the rich man his family’s need, whether in sickness or
had attempted to keep the full law, but Second, does Jesus teach that every in health, on the shores of Singapore
he still had idols in his heart, thus Christian must sell all that we own and and beyond. The list goes on.
breaking the first commandment not to give to the poor after salvation? The
have other gods in his heart. This, answer is no. It must be also made Have we not been enthralled and
then, was an outwardly religious and clear that Christ is neither teaching touched by the many testimonies of
probably spotlessly moral man from communism as well since all these those who gave their lives to the cause
man’s perspective – but who in his would contradict Acts 5:4, 1 Timothy of the Gospel and never regretted? Are
heart served mammon. 5:8, and 2 Thess 3:10-12. So, we see in there not ample and frequent proofs of
the Bible voluntary Christian Christ’s promises fulfilled? Is it not
“. . . sell whatsoever thou hast, and communalism and sacrificial and our personal testimony that we have
give to the poor, and thou shalt responsible giving, not communist failed in our promises, but our Lord
ideals. And it behooves Christians to has never failed on His? Herein lies
have treasure in heaven . . .” keep a “hand loose” on our possessions the issue of us not “investing” despite all
and things which will make it hard for these promises fulfilled before our eyes
The first test was about selling all, and us to die to self. – we want the ownership of houses and
giving to the poor. The second, to take lands to be ours, not someone else’s.
up the cross and follow Christ. These We shall move on. Many of us have We want them on our terms. We have
tests were the turning point of the rich heard and seen how the Lord provides our preconceived ideas of what the
man, causing him to turn down the for those who are in the ministry as returns must be like. Yes, Christ will
offer before him with a sorrowful heart. well as Christians in need. We see how provide in greatly multiplied terms, but
And we shall now consider how these the family of Christ in the church give they do not fit how and what we want
same points are related to us, being each other aid and comfort. Many them to be.
unwilling to invest despite the Christians share how Christian
promised returns. families opened their homes to them The rich man could not part with the
when they were alone in foreign lands. ownership of his great possessions.
“The first problem has to do with I know of a Christian who has only one “Treasure in heaven” is not what he
the idol of desiring the controlling sister. But at his wedding, he had so treasured. Instead his treasure was on
many brothers and sisters in Christ the things on earth and of exceeding
ownership of possessions” helping that he hardly had to do priority to him even though he desired
4
to have a part in heaven. If he gave all
to the poor, he would no longer be able
to decide how to spend that money on
earth. Likewise for us, if we did not
own the houses which are opened to us
by brethren in Christ, we cannot
decide how to decorate it, we cannot
decide how to make it to our taste and
comfort or show off that we own the
property. In similar way, food
provided by others is different from
having the means to choose what we
want to eat, at which restaurant, what
desserts should follow etc. The priests
in the Old Testament did not get to
choose what parts of the meat they
received for themselves from those who
came, and neither did the disciples
choose which nice house to stay in but
simply at any home that welcomed
them and to remain there (Matthew
10:11).
Ultimately it boils down to “Hey I
don’t want to live like I am on charity!
I think I’d rather keep the life I have
and my current possessions instead of
“investing” them in the manner the
Bible wants because the returns,
though multiplied, are not my personal
dividends which I can keep and decide
how to use them.” So while having
food and raiment, yet we are not
content (1 Timothy 6:8) because they would put it for this article’s purpose -
are neither the kind of food nor the it is for following Christ (v21), for
fashion we desire. This leads us to the Christ’s sake (v29), and for the Gospel’s
second problem which is what we sake (v29). So it is only when we give
value as returns. up our possessions, time, money, and
life for the right motives that we would
“This leads us to the second value the returns and hence want to
problem which is what we value as continue to “invest” more time, more
money, and more of our lives. Most of
returns.” us are so earthly minded with our
treasures of earthly possessions that
Why do we not give our time, money, things concerning souls and the
and energy to help in church? Why do Kingdom of God are simply not on our
we not give our lives and ambitions to priority list. In such a state, we value
God? Well, simply because the returns returns that we can enjoy in a carnal
are not what we value. So what if there sense not spiritual sense.
are hundredfold returns but I am not
getting back a hundred iPods, a
hundred pairs of limited edition Nikes,
“. . . for my sake, and the
a hundred Ralph Lauren T-shirts etc. gospel's”
Hey, I don’t even like my siblings why
would I want a hundred more of them? But when we do give up our lives, our
Why do we think like that? What is the time, our possessions, and leave loved
solution to both these problems? ones for the sake of Christ and the
Gospel, we will treasure the returns
Christ mentions in v30. In this case,
“What is the solution to when we meet likeminded Christians
both of these problems?” on our pilgrimage on this earth, we will
We find the solution upon careful treasure their fellowship and find them
reading of verses 21 and 29. There, we to be great comfort and
see that to both the rich man and the encouragement, just like we get from
disciples, Christ points the reason for close kin. Also, we will be thankful for
leaving things or “investing” as we a place to sleep and any food because
all we need is bodily rest and
nourishment to serve God
better. When we see houses and
lands, our thoughts would be
how they could be used for
Christ’s kingdom. We will
appreciate God’s providence in
any form and they will come in
many forms.
If we did things for Christ and
the Gospel’s sake, the allure of
the things of this earth will grow
strangely dim, as the hymn
writer puts it aptly. We will not
be lusting after being able to
own and show off a nice house, a
nice car, parade in fashionable
apparels and accessories. Our
priorities will be different.
When we live for Christ, all
possessions will be viewed in a
different light and used for
different purposes. We will not
feel the need to own them
personally so that we can use
them to satisfy our earthly carnal
5
 desires. It is then that we will value the
hundredfold return that Christ
promises on His terms in this life. It is
then that we will be motivated to
“invest” in such a life.
“If we did things for Christ
and the Gospel’s sake . . . we
will be motivated to “invest”
in such a life.”
Please note that money was not
mentioned in the list of multiplied
returns. By the way, it is interesting to
note that the rich man was willing to
live as perfectly as he could but the
moment his possessions were
mentioned, he faltered miserably. He
could not keep the first commandment
and possessions were still his idols.
Was this not also an accusation which
Satan brought against righteous Job?
But Job passed the test. Furthermore,
one must also not miss the point that
when comparing v29 and v30, one will
see that while there is a hundred times
multiplication of items for now in this
time, v30 includes an additional item -
with persecutions. Christ included
this condition of taking up the cross to
the rich man in v21 as well. Here is
where many shrink back.
There is a cross that comes with the
“dividends”. Are you willing to trust
God to control how the returns are
given out or do you only trust in the
possessions in your direct control?
The test of faith is not easy in trying
times. In addition, are you willing to
bear the cross of not having the so-
called fineries of life that the world
seeks after? The “investment” can cost
you a position in society, lifestyles of
the worldly, comforts of luxury, and
other objects of fleshly desires; even in
little things like being willing to use an
ordinary mobile phone while others
have the latest android phones because
you wish to give to some cause of
Christ even as a student, or having to
wear clothes that are on sale because
they are not the latest fashion and
causing your friends think less of you.
How true is the saying that we often
buy things we do not need, just to
impress people who we do not even
6
like or know. Who are we trying to
impress in life at the expense of being Charisma of
willing to please Christ? Brethren we
are not even talking about “resisting
Charismaticism
— Bro Henry
unto blood” (Hebrews 12:4) in
martyrdom but little discomforts in life In a strange way, the Cuban folk song
(which to many less fortunate are
luxuries, not even discomforts). Well
“Guantánamera” is to Guantánamo
Bay what the word “charisma” could be
and fine if we could afford these things to Charismaticism.
but the question is what is the
proportion of how much we are storing Perhaps not many outside of Spanish-
on earth versus laying up treasures in speaking countries know the meaning
heaven? But when our living, of the lyrics to the song Guantánamera.
suffering, and sacrificing are motivated It tells, I’m told, the story of a peasant
by the sole desire to uphold Christ to woman from Guantánamo, with whom
all men, and we have the attitude that if the writer of the song fell in love. This
Christ was glorified and men led to woman eventually leaves him, but that
Him, that nothing else mattered and is not the concern of hearers, for many
everything is worth it, we will only then have this warm easy feel whenever the
begin to “invest” our lives and song is played; it lulls and soothes.
possessions.
Guantánamo Bay is quite different.
The Marvel Until the scandal broke out, not many
know it is a large US detainment
That the Master who purchased facility with a stained past. When the
sinners by pouring out His own Blood truth leaked, it jolted the public to the
should promise such multiplied “wages cruel reality behind closed doors. But
of returns” to His undeserving slaves is the physical setting behind the warm
truly a marvel indeed! And greater easy song is the same as the cold hard
marvel yet, that slaves who owned detainment facility – in the coastal part
nothing in the first place should of Cuba called Guantánamo.
entertain the thought that the houses,
lands, and children entrusted under The word “charisma” has a warm easy
their care belonged to them, and hence feel. It evokes positive emotions, and is
even expect to be reimbursed for often meant as a personal quality
returning them to the Master. I pray attributed to leaders or individuals
that we have a better perspective now. who arouse devotion and enthusiasm.
It reminds one of personal magnetism
For those would refuse to toil in His or charm.
vineyard when invited, it is never too
late, whatever stage in life to respond Until today, Charismaticism is not
in humility and gladness to this call. known by many as some movement
For many that are first shall be last; with a stained past. It has galvanized
and the last first. Think of how you are millions, and ushered in unparalleled
spending your time, your money, and cooperation among what used to be
your life. How would you choose to historic Protestant denominations. In
return them to God from now on? fact, Charismaticism seems to be able
to bridge certain differences among
So I invite you, dear reader, to the foot faiths. There is more than a stained
of the Cross of Calvary, and as you past to Charismaticism; it has a
gaze at the visage marred beyond blemished future. But when would the
recognition, and as you hear His words unsuspecting millions know
“It is finished” for you and for me . . . Charismaticism for what it really is – a
the matter, I hope, is no longer what tool of Satan to promote ecumenism?
the returns are - but simply to return. That day may be too late for many.
Mystery solved. But the question A book I read years ago entitled “Three
remains . . . will you put in your best? Sisters” by Michael Harper alarmed
me. If memory serves, the story
revolves around sisters Evangel
(representing Evangelicals) and Mary
(Roman Catholics) who were not on
good terms. But they had what they
needed - their sister Charis
(Charismaticism) to bridge their
differences. “Charis” is still doing her
job today …
What is the common denominator that
links the personal quality of “charisma”
with the corporate movement of
“Charismaticism”? Charismaticism is
charismatic. That is not circular logic.
In many ways, charismatic churches
exude a form of attractiveness and
warmth many fundamental churches
do not seem to have. Many charismatic
churches are also supportive of social
welfare, an area fundamental churches
appear to be lagging behind. But most
of all, charismatic churches have
hordes of people flocking to them
because, perhaps amongst other
reasons, they champion the use of
modern music in their worship services
and they market the “health & wealth”
pact that accompany easy believism.
Many of your friends who attend
churches would have been influenced
by Charismaticism. Especially for
those who grew up in Charismatic
churches, they would find it very tough
to accept our views that sign-gifts have
ceased and that the Charismatic
movement is not of God. If you have
such friends, it is wise not to trade
arguments over interpretation of
Scriptures, but to pray for them and to
let the Spirit work in His timing.
And Charismaticism is powerful. Held
in Singapore as I pen these words is
the Asia Conference and Church
Growth International 2010, organized
in large by the 33,000 member-strong
City Harvest Church. From 26th to
30th May 2010, thousands will descend
at the Singapore Expo as world-
renowned speakers expound “church
growth strategies”. Guest speakers
include David Cho Yonggi, the
founding pastor of the largest church
in the world – the 800,000 member-
strong Yoido Full Gospel Church of
Seoul. Surely, the founder / senior
pastor-emeritus of such a church is
qualified to teach church growth.
Sadly though, there is absolutely no
basis of such a doctrine or even such
an idea in the entire bible. In fact, the
Lord tells us in Matt 7:13, “Enter ye in
at the strait gate: for wide is the gate,
and broad is the way, that leadeth to
destruction, and many there be
which go in thereat.” Another special
speaker is Reinhard Bonnke,
principally known for his gospel
campaigns throughout Africa, that
has since grown to as many as 1.6
million people in a single gathering!
The final analysis is - many find
charismatic churches attractive; many
deem fundamental churches un-
charismatic or unattractive.
Should we then strive to be “attractive”
or “appealing”?
If “attractiveness” is to be a watering
down of our stand or doctrine, then an
unequivocal “No”! The gospel of
Christ is that of the Suffering Servant,
and cannot be adulterated to suit
modern tastes and demands which are
essentially narcissist. Pandering to
such would contaminate the gospel
message and negate its power, as Paul
warned in 1 Cor: 21-23, “For after that
in the wisdom of God the world by
wisdom knew not God, it pleased God
by the foolishness of preaching to save
them that believe. For the Jews require
a sign, and the Greeks seek after
wisdom: But we preach Christ
crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling
block, and unto the Greeks
foolishness.”
But hand to heart, are there areas we
can learn from charismatic churches?
Of course! I just want to share three
areas where we can improve, and
where you can be a part of.
For one – they have many small groups
with membership often capped at 12.
Whatever names these groups and
structures are labeled, having small
groups in large churches is a good idea.
In Pandan we have a semblance of that
in contact groups. But these are usually
too big for any meaningful level of close
fellowship and interaction. Look at our
Tuesday night prayer meeting. Some
groups are way too big for attendees to
share
and pray one for another. Of course,
some actually prefer large groups for
they rather not share and want the
advantage of incidental anonymity. In
YF, we group the members into a few
groups and have group leaders focus
on helping those in their care. This is a
good thing, and should continue. On
the personal level, focus on a few
individuals. Do not aim for popularity
or familiarity. Real fellowship needs
time and sacrifice, and I suspect not
many of us are able to afford both in
ample measure.
Another thing we can learn is to have
good follow-up. Many Charismatic
churches have elaborate follow-up
mechanisms that actually work. There
is virtually no such ministry at the
church level in Pandan. What we see is
a well-intentioned but feeble attempt
on Sundays to welcome newcomers. If
we were to analyze statistics of
newcomers, I’d not be surprised to see
an overwhelmingly high drop-out rate.
What about this aspect at the YF level?
What do you do when new people
join? Do you reach out to this person
as you’d love to if you were new?
Technology is harnessed by many
Charismatic churches. This could
come in various forms: highly
interactive and attractive websites,
multimedia channels of
communication, live recordings and
broadcasts. The list goes on. All of you
are familiar with the latest in the
techno-market; some are experts. If
this is an area you excel in, why not
serve the Lord in this space? Talk to
Elder Jeffrey Cheong who is in charge
of our church’s website. I suspect there
are many areas where, with the right
skills, we can enhance the quality and
usefulness of the website.
7
 The Mystery of
Marriage
— Bro Simon Chua
In Ephesians 5:32, we are informed of a
great mystery. This mystery is a
mathematical formula beyond the
comprehension of unbelievers, and
even among Christians, one must be
instructed before he can understand it.
The formula – one plus one equals one
(Eph 5:31 – For this cause shall a man
leave his father and mother, and shall
be joined unto
his wife, and they two shall be one
flesh).
The Origin
The parallel text to Eph 5:31 is Gen
2:24, dating back to the Garden of
Eden prior to the fall of man. There,
God caused a deep sleep to fall upon
Adam, took his rib, made a woman for
him, and brought her unto him. Adam
recognized that she is of him, named
her as such, and declared, “Therefore
shall a man leave his father and his
mother, and shall cleave unto his wife:
and they shall be one flesh.” (Gen 2:24)
The Significance
It is important that the Christian
husband and wife recognize that their
marriage is the predestined will of
God. To him who is married, it was
God who said, “Gen2:18It is not good
that the man should be alone”. It is
literally a ‘match made in heaven’ for
God Gen2:18make (you) him an help
meet for (you) him. You met each
other because Gen2:22God brought
her unto (you) the man. You must
recognize your oneness with your wife
because she Gen2:23is now bone of
(your) my bones, and flesh of (your) my
flesh, and we shall look at this
mysterious oneness in more detail in
the next paragraph. Gen 2:24 says you
must now make decisions independent
of your parents, but jointly with your
wife and Gen 2:25 says you must
remain true to each other in Christ,
hiding nothing, ashamed of nothing.
The Great Mystery
8
The oneness between the husband and
wife is clearly expounded in Ephesians
believers can be filled by the Holy
Spirit. The Christian wife is able to
5:21-30. Here, marriage between the
man and the woman is likened unto
submit fully (i.e. according to biblical
standards) to her own husband
Christ and the church, and we have a because God Himself grants her this
clear definition of the respective office – ability. The virtuous woman described
the wife is to submit to the lordship of in Proverbs 31:10-31 is not a fairy tale,
her husband, as the church to the but in every way attainable by every
Lordship of Christ, and the husband is born-again Christian wife. You are in
to love his wife, as Christ loved the the sight of God of great price in your
church. With these two broad strokes, obeying of His words in 1 Peter 3:1-6,
God reveals to us the mystery of following after the example of Sara in
marriage and summarizes for us the verses 5 and 6.
doctrine of marriage.
Husbands, to you God says, “love”.
The Application The Greek word for love in Eph 5:25 is
agapáō, which means to love. This
Wives, to you God says, “submit”. The word is derived from the root word
Greek word for submit in Eph 5:22 is agápē, translated charity meaning
hupotássō, taken from two separate benevolent, sacrificial, unconditional
words; hupό means under, and tássō love. Here, God clearly spells out the
means to order. Together, it means to benchmark in which the Christian
place in an orderly fashion under husband is to love his wife – i.e. even as
something. Here, the wife is Christ also loved the church, and gave
commanded of God to place herself in himself for it. Your headship (1Cor
an orderly manner under her husband, 11:3), lordship (1Pet 3:6), your rule over
which is contrary to the sinful nature in her (Gen 3:16), etcetera, are to be
which she was conceived. During the conducted always in the context of
fall in the Garden of Eden a two-fold love.
sentence was passed upon the woman,
the latter being, “and thy desire shall be There is always the temptation, or
to thy husband, and he shall rule over should I say danger, of you
thee.” (Gen 3:16b) Her sinful nature misappropriating your office. We know
demands that she overrides her that Christ will never take advantage of
husband’s decisions and to challenge His church’s submission to Him, He
his authority. No woman can escape will never abuse His Lordship over
this sentence passed upon her, and she His church. The Christian husband
faces the constant struggle not to must therefore bear this in mind and
challenge the authority of her husband, guard himself against this pitfall. Your
and the Christian woman is no wife is neither your maid, nor your
exception. In fact, many sisters in 24x7 childcare centre. If God gives the
Christ have shared about their both of you a home, you are to jointly
struggles to obey their own husbands maintain it remembering that she is the
and submit to their authority. weaker vessel (1 Pet 3:7). If God gives
the both of you children, you are to
Having said this, it is important for the remember that you hold the greater
Christian woman (and man) to responsibility as father (Isa 38:19, Eph
recognize that our God is a God 6:4, Psa 78:3-8), you
Who is able to turn the curse into
a blessing (Neh 13:2). In order
for this to happen, there must
first be the filling of the Holy
Spirit (Eph 5:18). This means
that although some non-
believers may have happy
marriages, only believer-couples
can have this kind of
relationship that fulfils the
parallel with the Christ-church
relationship, because only
must not be detached but involved,
and to direct in all matters pertaining
to your children (e.g. salvation,
education, career, marriage, etc).
Then there is the other pitfall of
allowing your wife to have the rule over
you. We cannot imagine the church
directing Christ and usurping His
Lordship. Your office demands that
you also reproof and correct in love. If
she fails in her devotion towards God,
if her calling you lord is mere lip
service, if she fails in charity toward
another, if her outward adorning is in
danger of stumbling another, if matters
at home are not in order, you are not to
take to her side but reprove and correct
her in love.
In Pro 31:23, the husband is known in
the gates, when he sitteth among the
elders of the land, because of his
virtuous wife – what a reputation! In
verse 28, her children arise up, and call
her blessed; her husband also, and he
praiseth her, because of his virtuous
wife – what peace and joy! In verses 30
and 31, she is a woman that feareth the
LORD, she shall be praised, oh what
an achievement! This is absolutely
attainable, and the desire of God in
that (you) he might present it to
(yourself) himself a glorious (wife)
church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or
any such thing; but that (she) it should
be holy and without blemish. (Eph
5:27) How do you do it? Sanctify and
cleanse (her) it with the washing of
water by the word. (Eph 5:26)
Conclusion
The mystery of marriage is clearly
expounded by God in His Word, and
many scriptural texts quoted in this
article are well known to many
Christians. However, it is not the
knowledge of the Word that sanctifies,
but the obedience to the Word and
living it out in our lives (Rom 2:13, Jas
1:22). To the youths of our church, be
patient and wait upon the Lord – if it is
His will and He calls you into
marriage, He will lead your
predestined spouse to you in His time.
Until then, you have one task – prepare
yourselves to be the Christian husband
or wife that God designed you to be.
unlocking the mystery of talking to new people
by grace the ancient
hello! So this article would've been better if it came out before the church camp...
but it didn’t. anyway, we meet new people all the time in church! Even those
friends that have been with us a couple of times, but if we haven’t spoken to them
personally, they're new! Remember that we're all in the household of faith, and like
what Rev Quek said a couple of weeks ago, we're family! So here's how to know
the members of your spiritual family better.
See new person?
Try again next time!
Pray first. Pray that the Lord
will use you as a blessing to the
people around you.
And pray for courage.
Be brave, say hello.
Everyone is shy.. but someone's The person is running away.
gotta make the first move. Be that It’s not because of you.
someone. Say hello! You'll be
surprised by the results!
Start with a question. The person gave a
In the YF, you really can’t go monosyllabic answer
wrong with "How's school?" I
know I've used this line many
times, but I meant it every time I Ask another question!
said it.
The person starts sharing The person shared about
exams, ask for the dates +
subjects! I usually try and
You start sharing...remember remember and pray for the
to encourage each other in the person, and ask them about it the
next time I see them!
faith!
Congrats you’ve made a
new friend!
Of course this is an ideal situation, and it won’t happen like that all the time. In
fact, it often does not, but this can serve as a stepping stone for us to get to know
other people. Talking to new people is not a job of an older YFer, or the Exco.
Everyone’s got a part to play in making YF a welcoming place! And use this to
speak to someone you don’t usually talk to in YF too!
(P.S. Remember to be a good witness for Christ. Sometimes we assume that
everyone in YF is already a christian, but this might not be the case. Be ready to
share about Christ to your new friend! Ask if they are assured of their salvation... If
they are, encourage them to trust in the Lord. If they are not, talk to them about it!
Oh, and remember to follow up with your new friend! ) 9
 rosp e ct
Ret n shares about
r Milto
Brothe
teem
God Es
“Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in
Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” (Hebrews 11:26)
One of the commendations Moses received from God was that he considered being reproached by
others for Christ’s sake worth more than the vast treasures of Egypt. In his youth, Moses had been a
prince of the superpower of that day, the empire of Egypt. He would have grown up in the shadow of the
great pyramids, architectural monuments so massive and lasting they still stand today. Each pyramid
honoured a great pharaoh, and every pharaoh was worshipped as a god by all in Egypt, and every prince
would have been similarly lauded a possible future pharaoh. Yet Moses gave up this position of great
esteem by others. The Greek word translated as ‘esteeming’ is ηγεομαι ‘hegeomai’, which is the same word
translated as ‘counted’ in Philippians 3:7 “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for
Christ.” Paul, too, could have basked in man’s admiration, but he esteemed his past accomplishments as
worthless compared to esteeming God instead.

In my teens, I had a major struggle with self esteem. Like Moses, I had many opportunities to build up
my self-esteem. The family business afforded some luxuries and the schools I attended gave prestige, but
amongst my schoolmates I still craved recognition. When no one seemed to notice what I had done that
was noteworthy, I somehow felt small. When I did not accomplish anything noteworthy, I felt smaller
still. I did not realize at that time that self esteem is influenced greatly by others. I also did not realize that
self esteem is like a drug which you cannot get enough of; beneath the bluster of every school bully was a
cowering boy just like me who craved respect from others and kept on bullying to gain more respect.
When I was in primary 5, I remember weeping because I was the only one left out of a soccer match; that
was how affected I was by others. When I realized that my studies were only average, I resorted to other
pursuits in order to gain some recognition, like being good at library cataloging, Chinese chess and
music equipment. I am ashamed to confess that there was one occasion when, in order to gain respect
from one uncle, I ate 222 sticks of satay at one go. I cringe at these memories, but they are true.

Praise God, I was convicted later in my youth by Matthew 6:5 “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be
as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets,
that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” Unlike Moses, the only
reward the hypocritical Pharisees would receive for their deliberate public displays of prayer was what
they already received in being lauded by others for apparent holiness. They would receive no reward from
God for their prayers. Even if their actions were correct, their motive was wrong; God would not
recognize their works. Although the context here is prayer, I knew in my heart this applied to all my silly
attempts to “be seen of men”. All my cravings of recognition by others would not gain me any reward
from my Heavenly Father. Further, my pride and vainglory was robbing Him of the glory that was due
Him for any blessing received.

Since then, I have been trying to glorify Him in everything that I do, to esteem His praise greater than
anything else in my life. Till this day, I am still trying, struggling against my carnal nature so potent in my
younger days. I now question my motive at every decision, to ask myself if I am doing it for God’s glory or
man’s acclaim. Outwardly, I may look confident to many, but I know this confidence is by faith in Christ
alone, for I now count living for self or man’s esteem as vanity. Giving glory to God with my lips is not
enough; even in my forties, I am still learning how to be like Moses, a man who was “…very meek, above
all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” (Numbers 12:3)

Dear YFer, please pray for me, as I also pray that you too will not fall into this sin of seeking the esteem of
man that I fell into in my teens.

Sola Gloria,
Bro Milton

10
 >25: But our sufficiency is of God —  Sis  Eunice  Ting
The  world  around  us  is  driven  by  a   drives  us  toward  greater  and  constant   circumstances  or  relaConships,  the  
mindset  of  insufficiency.  Everything  is   dependence  upon  God  alone.  Through   grace  of  God  is  sufficient  to  carry  you  
not  enough!  I  suppose  most  people   Cmes  of  change,  of  trial,  of  weakness,   through.  Run  to  God  in  prayer  first  and  
are  more  focused  on  what  they  lack   I  have  experienced  the  sufficiency  of   always,  and  refrain  from  running  too  
than  what  they  have  in  abundance.   God  in  my  life  and  tesCfy  that  “[t]he   quickly  first  to  people  for  help  and  
Insufficiency  can  lead  to  a  lot  of   Lord  is  my  shepherd;  I  shall  not   advice.  For  it  is  Christ  who  said  “[m]y  
discontentment.  But  it  may  not   want”  (Ps  23:1).   grace  is  sufficient  for  thee”  and  He  
necessarily  be  bad,  depending  on   knows  our  infirmiCes  because  He,  too,  
what  it  drives  you  to.   God’s  presence  is  sufficient went  through  it  all.  “Let  us  therefore  
When  there  is  change,  there  is  usually   come  boldly  unto  the  throne  of  grace,  
Insufficiency  of  possessions,  man  and   hesitaCon  to  get  out  of  our  comfort   that  we  may  obtain  mercy,  and  find  
self zones  and  submit  to  God’s  will.   grace  to  help  in  Cme  of  need”  (Heb  
The  desire  to  possess  more  intensifies   Abraham  is  a  good  example  for  us.   4:16).  
as  one  moves  from  being  a  student  to   God  commanded  him  to  get  out  of  his  
a  working  adult.  The  lust  of  the  eyes   country  and  leave  his  father’s  house  to   As  we  conCnue  to  wait  upon  the  Lord  
only  gets  heightened  and  the  covetous   a  land  that  He  would  show  him.   in  prayer,  take  heart  that  “[t]here  hath  
spirit  will  be  fanned  like  a  flame  as  you   Abraham  obeyed  and  led  the  familiar   no  temptaCon  taken  you  but  such  as  is  
start  earning  your  own  keep.   because  his  sufficiency  was  in  God  and   common  to  man:  but  God  is  faithful,  
SomeCmes  when  I  have  bad  days  at   not  in  his  surroundings.  Abraham  had   who  will  not  suffer  you  to  be  tempted  
work,  I  would  go  shopping  and  jusCfy   faith  in  God  to  move  on  to  this  next   above  that  ye  are  able;  but  will  with  
to  myself  that  I  need  a  treat.  Sounds   stage  of  his  life  and  to  sojourn  with   the  temptaCon  also  make  a  way  to  
familiar?  Discontentment  drove  me  to   only  God’s  encompassing  presence   escape,  that  ye  may  be  able  to  bear  
find  comfort  in  more  possessions.  But   guiding  him.  So  if  you  are  moving  out   it”  (1  Cor  10:13).  I  thank  God  that  His  
shopping  is  not  the  answer! of  a  comfortable  seeng  soon  to  a  new   Cming  for  that  way  of  escape  is  always  
class,  or  school,  or  place  of  work,  be   perfect,  never  too  early  and  never  too  
AlternaCvely,  we  find  our  sufficiency  in   encouraged  that  the  God  of  Abraham   late,  always  at  the  perfect  Cme  for  my  
people.  As  long  as  we  have  that  close   is  also  your  God  and  His  presence  is   faith  to  be  strengthened  and  to  
inner  circle,  that  would  be  enough.   sufficient.   recognise  His  hand  at  work.  Take  heart  
We  want  to  laugh  and  cry  and  share   and  be  of  good  cheer!
our  ups  and  downs  with  someone.  We   God’s  grace  is  sufficient
want  to  hear  their  words  of  comfort   Whether  the  trials  you’re  going   God’s  power  is  sufficient
and  affirmaCon.  At  work,  that  would   through  have  to  do  with   Some  years  back,  when  I  shared  with  
be  the  boss’s  approval.  In  order  to  fill  
the  void  in  our  lives,  we  look  to  men  
who  are  subject  to  change  and  not  
always  present  with  us.  And  we  end  
up  emoConally  drained.  

Or  we  find  sufficiency  in  ourselves  –  

our  own  strengths  and  experiences.  
Eugene  Loh  from  “A  Slice  of  
Life”  (popular  programme  on  938LIVE)  
uses  self-­‐help,  new  age  psychology  to  
dish  out  advice  to  listeners  –    ‘believe  
in  yourself’,  ‘follow  your  heart’,  and  
‘think  posiCvely’.  Yet  the  inadequacy  
remains,  which  is  why  that  
programme  is  (unfortunately)  sCll  so  
popular.  Looking  to  ourselves  does  not  
help  because  we  are  weak  and  
limited.  So  many  things  are  out  of  our  
control.  

But  our  sufficiency  is  of  God

Insufficiency  is  not  a  bad  thing  if  it  
11
 my  mother  that  I  was  feeling  nervous   God’s  supply  is  sufficient Heavenly  Father  knows  your  every  
about  serving  God  in  a  parCcular   God  also  promises  to  supply  our   need  and  will  look  ader  you.  “But  my  
ministry,  she  told  me  simply  that   physical  needs  and  we  need  not   God  shall  supply  all  your  need  
God’s  work  needs  God’s  power.  I  was   worry  about  what  we  shall  eat,  or   according  to  his  riches  in  glory  by  
both  rebuked  and  encouraged  at  the   drink  or  wear.  “ The  young  lions  do   Christ  Jesus”  (Phi  4:19).  
same  Cme.  Do  you  feel  nervous,   lack,  and  suffer  hunger:  but  they  that  
weak,  and  inadequate  to  serve  God?   seek  the  Lord  shall  not  want  any  good   Sufficiency  to  abound
Does  your  insufficiency  drive  you  to   thing”  (Ps  34:10).  Thank  God  for  His   Dear  reader,  does  your  state  of  
self  and  man’s  approval?  Not  so  for   daily  provision  which  we  oden  take   insufficiency  drive  you  closer  to  God  
Paul  who  needed  no  leoers  of   for  granted.  He  gives  us  enough  to   or  away  from  Him  in  search  of  more  
commendaCon  from  man  to  sustain   use  and  to  give  back  to  Him.  The   possessions  and  the  company  of  
his  ministry,  for  he  tesCfied  –  “And   pocket  money  you  have  as  a  student   man?  I  pray  our  sufficiency  may  
such  trust  have  we  through  Christ  to   will  one  day  be  a  lot  more,  and  if  it’s   always  be  of  God,  and  in  the  daily  
God-­‐ward:  Not  that  we  are  sufficient   hard  to  part  with  liole  now,  what   disciplines  of  prayer  and  mediaCon  
of  ourselves  to  think  any  thing  as  of   more  in  the  future?  We  should  never   upon  His  Word.  And  having  no  lack,  
ourselves;  but  our  sufficiency  is  of   scrimp  on  the  Lord’s  work  thinking   may  we  abound  and  be  fruitul  in  
God”  (2  Cor  3:4-­‐5).   there  might  not  be  enough  for   every  area  of  our  lives  for  His  glory.  
ourselves;  we  are  but  stewards,  and  
We  may  be  weak  and  inadequate,  but   nothing  really  belongs  to  us!  As  He   “And  God  is  able  to  make  all  grace  
God  has  chosen  the  foolish  and  weak   has  freely  given,  so  let  us  freely  give   abound  toward  you;  that  ye,  always  
things  of  the  world  to  confound  the   having  all  sufficiency  in  all  things  may  
without  worry.  God’s  blesses  the  
wise  and  mighty,  “…that  the   abound  to  every  good  work”  (2  Cor  
cheerful  giver  abundantly!  Your  
excellency  of  the  power  may  be  of   9:8).  
God  and  not  of  us“  (2  Cor  4:7).  If  we  
are  feeling  inadequate  about  serving  
God,  may  we  humble  ourselves  
because  it  is  God  who  gives  the   PERSONAL POINTS
increase  and  not  we  ourselves,  so  
that  He  alone  receives  the  glory.  
Full name: Daniel Lim Hua Siang
Age: 18

ex School: Hwa Chong Junior College

Course of Study: Bio/Chem/Math/Econs
TEENS THAT TALK Hobbies: Sports, Baking,
Hopes: Germany wins the world cup :)
Most Saturday afternoons, a group of oops.
30-40 youth gathers (usually in the
Calvary Pandan New Sanctuary
Cryroom) for Christian fellowship (also
known as the Youth Fellowship). The
Name: Yeong Yin Leng
session begins at 5:00pm with a prayer
Age: 17
meeting, followed by singing, a message,
Studying at: Raffles' Junior College
group discussion or games, and dinner.
Hobbies: Playing guitar/piano,
YF is a convenient and appropriate
cycling, badminton, writing, watching
place to learn more from God’s Word,
movies, exploring
discuss issues relevant to a Christian
Hopes and dreams: Be a servant
youth and get to know fellow believers
of Christ always
better.

I enjoy attending YF because the YFers

are friendly and welcoming and are Full Name: Ko Mingying Jehanne
genuinely interested in learning more Age: 17
from the Bible. If you’re unsure about School: Innova Junior College
joining the YF, hesitate no longer! While Course of study: Arts stream
you may feel out of place at first, the Hobbies: Playing the piano
benefits will be great once you get used Hopes: 1. Keep a close walk with God, and
to it. do all things to the glory of his name.
2.To be more disciplined.
— Anonymous
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YF cottage meeting
Psalm  133:1  Behold,  how  good  and  how   about  fellowshipping  with  likeminded  
pleasant  it  is  for  brethren  to  dwell   brethren.  Brother  Henry  touched  on  how  
together  in  unity! to  be  a  good  ChrisCan  friend  to  one  
another,  which  involves  being  sincere  in  
It  was  indeed  a  warm  and  pleasant  YF   our  approaches  and  not  having  any  
cooage  meeCng  (24th  Apr)  at  Brother   ulterior  moCves  in  befriending  and  
Henry’s  house  with  everyone  gathered   helping  each  other.    He  also  menConed  
together  in  the  clubhouse,  away  from  our   that  we  have  to  let  others  in  and  to  
usual  meeCng  place  at  the  new  sanctuary   welcome  right  reproof  instead  of  geeng  
cry  room  in  church.  The  topic  for  the  day   upset;  we  should  instead  be  grateful  
was  “FELLOWSHIP”,  where  Brother  Henry   when  admonished  because  it  shows  that  
talked  about  fellowship  with  likeminded   our  friends  do  care  about  us  and  desire  
brethren,  and  of  course  our  personal   us  to  change  for  the  beoer.  
fellowship  with  God.  
Brother  Henry  ended  the  message  by  
To  be  able  to  fellowship  with  likeminded   leaving  us  with  Heb  10:25  “Not  forsaking  
brethren  is  not  always  easy.  Hence,  true   the  assembling  of  ourselves  together,  as  
fellowship  with  each  other  must  always   the  manner  of  some  is;  but  exhorCng  one  
be  preceded  by  having  the  right   another:  and  so  much  the  more,  as  ye  
fellowship  with  God.  Having  the  right   see  the  day  approaching”.  We  should  all  
fellowship  with  God  means  daily  feeding   indeed  learn  to  edify  and  help  each  other  
on  His  word  and  living  a  godly  life  as  best   spiritually  as  we  strive  to  live  godly  lives  
as  possible.  The  privilege  of   on  Earth.  It  was  a  deeply  thought-­‐
fellowshipping  with  God  as  opposed  to   provoking  message,  yet  an  encouraging  
fellowshipping  with  others  is  that  God   and  blessed  one  at  the  same  Cme!  
will  always  be  available  for  us  when  we  
turn  to  him.  (1  John  1:7)  That  said,  God   It’s  a  pity  I  couldn’t  stay  on  for  jQ’s  quiz  
will  not  be  able  to  fellowship  with  those   and  dinner  aderward  because  I  had  to  
who  are  not  walking  in  the  light.  Hence,  it   rush  off  somewhere  else  but  from  what  I  
was  a  Cmely  reminder  for  all  of  us  to   heard,  everyone  enjoyed  the  quiz  and  
walk  aright  and  be  as  close  to  the  Lord  as   gained  much  spiritual  blessings  that  day!  
possible.   Looking  forward  to  the  next  cooage  
meeCng!  :)
When  the  foundaCon  (fellowship  with  
God)  is  properly  set,  then  can  we  go   -­‐Hannah  Woo
13
 fcm camp 2010

Hello friends! (:
“Parables  for  children  of  God’s  kingdom”  was  the  theme   friends  to  share  and  to  
for  this  year’s  FCM  Camp  and  I  thought  the  theme  song   encourage!
‘Open  my  Eyes  that  I  may  see’  would  have  been  a  very  
good  daily  prayer!  All  the  morning  and  night  messages   The  girls  also  had  a  lovely  
were  taken  by  different  speakers  who  drew  precious   Cme  together  during  the  
lessons  from  each  parable  to  give  us  insights  into  the   Modest  Apparel  Workshop  
heart  of  God,  how  we  ought  to  live  our  lives  worthy  for   led  by  Sister  Sharon.  (I’m  
the  Lord  and  most  importantly,  to  give  us  a  glimpse  into   sure  the  boys  enjoyed  
the  kingdom  of  God.  Like  what  Rev  Quek  said,  all  the   their  session  with  Bro  
different  parables  are  like  pieces  of  puzzles;  when  pieced   Joseph  too!)  Sister  
together,  they  give  us  a  view  of  the  kingdom  of  Heaven. Sharon  gave  us  many  
reasons  why  we  ought  
In  the  opening  message,  Rev  Quek  taught  the  purpose  of   to  dress  modestly  from  
parables  to  the  mulCtude  of  people  that  followed  Him.     a  biblical  perspecCve.  
Based  on  Maohew  13,  he  taught  that  parables  are   The  greatest  part  of  our  
revelaCons  of  God  concerning  His  kingdom  and  they  are   tesCmony  is  based  on  
not  to  be  taken  lightly;  ialways  a  good  gauge  for  ourselves,   our  dressing,  the  
to  find  out  whether  we  are  truly  born  again.  Beyond   external  appearance  –  
doubt,  only  the  true  followers  of  Christ  would  be   the  first  impression  
interested  to  find  out  the  deep  meaning  behind  the   counts  ader  all.  
parables  and  this  knowledge  and  ability  to  understand   Therefore,  it  is  
parables  can  only  be  given  by  God.  It  really  set  me   necessary  that  we  
thinking  whether  I  have  this  interest,  this  desire  for  my   dress  appropriately;  
new  home  above  in  the  Kingdom  of  God,  that  would   also  because  we  
cause  me  to  diligently  search  the  scriptures  to  understand   won’t  want  to  
the  parables  or  even  to  find  out  what  God  would  have  me   stumble  the  boys  around  us  yeah!  
to  do  and  how  He  wants  me  to  live  my  life  for  Him  alone! Another  thing  is,  always  start  with  ourselves,  evaluate  our  
own  wardrobe  but  never  judge  others.  No  maoer  what  
We  covered  many  other  parables  day  ader  day,  from  the   we  do,  how  we  choose  to  dress  ourselves,  we  must  all  do  
morning  devoCons  shared  by  the  brothers  to  the  morning   it  to  the  glory  of  God  (1  Cor  10:31)  Through  it  all,  God’s  
and  night  messages  by  the  many  preachers  of  God’s  word.   name  MUST  always  be  glorified.
The  messages  constantly  reminded  me  of  the  urgency  of  
God’s  calling  to  prepare  for  the  coming  of  Christ  and  to  be   The  thought  of  aoending  camps  with  scary-­‐people-­‐whom-­‐
a  good  soldier  for  the  Lord! I-­‐have-­‐never-­‐seen-­‐before  may  discourage  us  from  taking  
the  first  step  to  indulge  ourselves  in  a  Cme  of  spiritual  
Besides  the  great  spiritual  feasCng  on  the  word  of  God,   refreshment.  However,  if  we  don’t  take  the  first  step,  how  
FCM  Camp  was  definitely  a  good  Cme  of  sweet   can  we  ever  find  out  how  scary  the  scary  people  can  be?  
fellowship!  Camps  are  always  good  reminders  on  the   I’m  sure  the  maximum  they  can  do  is  to  shower  us  with  
goodness  of  God  in  our  lives  and  spiritual  wake-­‐up  calls   soooo  much  love  that  we  don’t  even  know  how  to  react!  
for  the  soul.  Thank  God  for  the  privilege  to  serve  Him  in   Truly  if  God’s  people  are  unwilling  to  support  the  camps,  
the  camp  commioee  this  year!  It  may  have  been  Cring  but   then  how?  What  shall  we  do?  So,  be  brave!  Join  us,  join  
truly  that  was  when  God  really  reminded  and  showed  me   us!!!  :D
that  He  is  always  with  me,  granCng  me  the  strength  to  
serve  Him  daily  –  ‘Faithful  is  he  that  calleth  you,  who  also   Psalm  133:1    ‘Behold,  how  good  and  how  pleasant  it  is  for  
will  do  it.’  (1  Thess  5:24)  No  maoer  how  sad  I  felt  when  I   brethren  to  dwell  together  in  unity!’  INDEED  IT  IS!  
found  myself  not  able  to  stay  fully  awake  during   Yeahyeahyeah!!!  :)  All  praise  be  to  God!
messages,  when  I  realised  the  lack  of  desire  I  have  for  His  
word  during  messages,  or  when  I  thought  how  bad  I  was   Love,  
to  be  always  missing  from  discussion,  God  sCill  sends   Su  Ling

14
combined family camp 2010

Dear me
Church  camp  is  coming  up!  You  have   Sleep  early  at  night.  I  pray  and  hope  that  
been  going  for  church  camp  for  as  long  as   you  are  able  to  apply  what  you  have  
you  can  remember.  You’ve  never  missed   learnt  from  the  messages  every  day.  
a  church  camp  –  not  when  it  was  during   Looking  at  the  theme  of  the  camp,  you  
your  year  of  O’levels  (two  years  actually),   think  it’s  going  to  be  a  series  of  messages  
not  when  you  had  aoachments  during   you  have  heard  so  many  Cmes  before  
polytechnic  period,  not  even  when  you   when  instead,  those  messages  can  
had  an  important  project  to  hand  in  ader   remind  you  of  so  many  areas  of  your  life  
the  holidays  and  all  your  team  members   that  you  need  to  work  on.
said  meeCng  up  was  crucial.  You  told  
them  without  any  hesitance  that  you  will   I  hope  that  you’ll  look  through  the  camp  
not  miss  your  church  camp.  You  always   booklet  before  messages  to  prepare  your  
go  around  saying  “I  have  never  missed  a   heart  and  mind  for  what  you  are  going  to  
church  camp”. learn.  GalaCans  1:9-­‐10  says  “As  we  said  
before,  so  say  I  now  again,  If  any  man  
This  year  is  special.  You  have  a  job  that   preach  any  other  gospel  unto  you  than  
makes  going  for  church  camp  so  easy.   that  ye  have  received,  let  him  be  
There  is  no  worry  of  whether  you  will  be   accursed.  For  do  I  now  persuade  men,  or  
able  to  take  leave  from  work;  no  worry  of   God?  or  do  I  seek  to  please  men?  for  if  I  
how  to  tell  the  principal  that  you  will  be   yet  pleased  men,  I  should  not  be  the  
gone  for  more  than  a  week.  You  also   servant  of  Christ.”
have  your  friend  going  to  church  camp  
with  you.  She  has  never  aoended  a   These  are  only  two  of  the  many  verses  
church  camp  in  her  life  and  you  feel  so   that  you  will  learn  at  camp.  I  pray  that  
excited  that  she  is  going.  You  want  her  to   you  will  learn  that  this  life  is  only  worth  
learn  as  much  as  she  can  from  camp  and   living  because  we  have  God  and  there  is  
you  hope  that  she  will  have  the  desire  to   no  reason  to  stay  on  this  earth  for  long  if  
dig  deeper  in  God’s  Word  and  be  more   not  to  serve  Him.  One  verse  that  means  a  
involved  in  church  acCviCes,  hopefully   lot  to  you  is  “Ye  have  not  chosen  me,  but  
even  treat  it  as  a  church  she  feels   I  have  chosen  you,  and  ordained  you,  
completely  comfortable  and  independent   that  ye  should  go  and  bring  forth  fruit,  
in. and  that  your  fruit  should  remain:  that  
whatsoever  ye  shall  ask  of  the  Father  in  
What  about  yourself,  though?  Are  you   my  name,  he  may  give  it  you.”  John  
ready  for  church  camp?  Don’t  forget  to   15:16.  Make  sure  you  live  out  this  verse  
prepare  your  heart  for  camp,  and  realise   in  your  life  and  may  it  be  a  constant  
what  church  camp  is  really  about.  It’s  not   reminder  for  you  to  bring  forth  fruit  for  
a  Cme  to  go  overseas  on  a  holiday.  It’s  a   the  glory  of  God.
whole  week  packed  full  of  spiritual  
blessings  and  lessons  that  should  be   I  hope  you  enjoy  this  camp  and  come  
applied  in  your  life.  You  have  to  set  a   back  learning  many  lessons  that  you  
good  example  for  your  sister  and  friend   already  knew  but  did  not  apply  in  your  
and  many  others  at  camp.  So  many   life.  Instead  of  only  saying  “I  have  never  
opportuniCes  will  be  given  and  you   missed  a  church  camp”,  will  you  say  “I’ve  
should  make  the  most  of  them.  Don’t  fall   learnt  so  much  from  every  church  camp”  
asleep  during  messages.  Don’t  be  the  last   instead?
to  wake  up  in  the  morning.  Make  it  a   Abby
point  to  write  notes  for  every  message.  

15
combined family camp
I  LOVE  OUR  FAMILY  CHURCH  CAMPS!   family  and  friends  who  were  very  
Besides  the  good  food,  great  fellowship   encouraging  and  prayed  for  me  
and  the  no-­‐need-­‐to-­‐clean-­‐our-­‐own-­‐ constantly.  About  2  weeks  before  the  
rooms  thing,  the  lessons  learnt  from  the   camp,  my  dad  received  a  call  from  my  
daily  messages  through  the  whole  week   course  manager  who  eventually  said  that  
really  are  precious  treasures  that  we   I  could  go  and  that  they  would  waive  the  
cannot  find  anywhere  else.   debarment!  COOL  RIGHT!  So  the  lesson  I  
learnt  from  that  incident  was  that  we  
The  theme  for  this  year’s  camp  was   should  not  take  family  church  camps  we  
“Reinforcing  Sound  Doctrines  in  Perilous   have  once  a  year  for  granted,  and  when  
Times”,  and  it  was  truly  a  good  reminder   we  have  the  opportunity  to  go,  we  
that  we  have  to  stand  fast  and  firm  in  the   should.
faith  believing  that  the  texts  underlying  
the  King  James  Bible  are  the  perfectly   The  family  church  camps  we  have  once  a  
preserved,  everlasCng  Word  of  God   year  is  honestly  the  best  part  of  every  
because  there  will  be  constant  aoacks   year  because  –  as  my  dad  has  been  
against  them.  We  have  to  be  aware  of   saying  –  it  is  a  foretaste  of  heaven,  
what  is  going  on  around  us  and  know   where  we  all  see  one  another  every  
how  to  handle  such  aoacks,  using  the   day,  have  our  meals  prepared  for  us  and  
Word  of  God  as  our  basis  and  foundaCon.   are  greatly  blessed  and  encouraged  by  
one  another.  I  may  sound  like  I  am  
The  other  acCviCes  like  games,  group   exaggeraCng  but  seriously  friends,  going  
discussions,  meal  Cmes  and  even  free   for  our  family  church  camps  can  actually  
Cme  allowed  many  of  us  to  have  closer   be  quite  life-­‐changing.  It’s  not  just  geeng  
fellowship  with  people  in  church  who  we   that  spiritually  charged  feeling  ader  it,  
probably  only  had  “hi-­‐bye”  relaConships   but  in  the  long-­‐run,  there  are  also  the  
with.  During  the  first  night  of  the  camp,   many  precious  lessons  we  learn  during  
Dr  Tow  suggested  that  we  make  at  least  1   that  one  week  can  be  applied  to  our  
new  friend  a  day  throughout  the  camp,   everyday  lives  even  if  we  do  not  know  it  
and  for  myself,  I  can  say  that  I  have  been   right  away.
blessed  to  have  gooen  to  know  many  
brothers  and  sisters-­‐in-­‐Christ  from   SO!  When  we  have  the  opportunity  to  go,  
church!   we  must  try  to  go  okay?  (:  Because  you  
see  right,  there  will  always  be  others  who  
Earlier  this  year,  I  was  so  afraid  that  I   cannot  go  even  if  they  really  want  to.  And  
would  not  be  able  to  go  for  our  church   even  if  our  buddy-­‐buddy  friends  cannot  
camp  and  my  lecturer’s  email  telling  me  I   make  it,  sCll  just  try  to  go!  We  can  always  
could  not  go  confirmed  that  horrible   make  new  friends  right?  RIGHT!  :D  Next  
feeling.  I  really  felt  there  was  no  way  for   Cme,  we  can  go  together  to  bless  and  be  
me  to  go  because  firstly  I  had  aoachment   blessed!  Yeahyeahyeah!!!
and  a  tutorial  class  I  could  not  miss  or  I  
would  get  debarred.  Thank  God  for  my   -­‐Alanna
16
YF outing to Hort Park!
Thank  God  for  the  blessed  YF  ouCng  at   submit  ourselves  to  His  will,  like  in  the  
Hort  Park  on  5th  June  and  the  labour  of   piecing  together  of  the  YF  theme  verse  
love  of  the  AGLs  in  planning  the  ouCng  (:     using  the  toothpicks.  In  the  first  round,  
It  was  truly  a  Cmely  reminder  for  us  to   we  were  allowed  to  arrange  the  verse  in  
reflect  on  our  walk  with  God  for  the  past   ways  we  desired  and  of  course  everyone  
five  months.  The  day  started  off  with  a   found  no  problem  with  that.  Ader  that,  
short  sharing  by  Brother  Henry  from   condiCons  were  added  to  increase  the  
Genesis  5:  21-­‐  31,  learning  from  the  life   level  of  difficulty  and  we  were  tasked  to  
of  Methuselah  and  his  father,  Enoch,  and   rearrange  the  verse  as  instructed.  That  
his  son,  Lamech,  and  how  they  had   was  when  the  inconveniences  set,  since  it  
walked  with  God.   was  not  according  to  our  way,  and  it  
required  Cme  and  effort  to  redo  it.  In  
Following  the  devoCon  was  a  Cme  for   such  a  scenario,  do  we  simply  ignore  the  
games  and  the  theme  of  the  ouCng,   instrucCons  and  conCnue  in  the  way  we  
‘ReflecCon’,  was  once  again  reinforced  in   want  or  do  we  obey  God  and  submit  
the  lessons  behind  the  various  acCviCes.   ourselves  to  Him?  Likewise,  when  we  
We  were  reminded  of  the  need  to  seek   read  God’s  word  and  come  across  words  
God  daily,  to  always  pray  without   of  rebuke,  do  we  disregard  God’s  
ceasing;  not  only  during  difficult  Cmes   instrucCons  for  us  and  conCnue  in  our  
but  even  when  things  are  going  smoothly   sins  because  of  the  effort  it  takes  to  
in  our  lives.  We  must  always  commit  all   change,  or  do  we  humble  ourselves  and  
things  into  God’s  almighty  hand,  trusCng   submit  willingly  to  God?
that  He  is  always  able  to  deliver  us  and  
He  will  not  send  tesCngs  above  what  we   May  we  all  take  some  Cme  to  ponder  and  
are  able  to  bear  (1  Cor  10:13).  For   to  look  back  on  our  lives  over  the  past  
example,  during  the  obstacle  course,  as   few  months  to  check  if  we  have  been  
we  went  through  the  different  stages  and   living  our  lives  according  to  God’s  will  or  
met  with  difficulCes,  as  long  as  were   have  we  been  neglecCng  His  will  and  
willing  to  surrender  and  seek  help,  aid   gone  our  own  ways.  Have  we  drawn  
would  be  rendered  to  us.     nearer  to  Him,  desiring  Him  more,  or  has  
our  love  for  Him  grown  cold  due  to  the  
We  were  also  reminded  of  the  need  to  be   cares  of  the  world?  Pray  that  we  will  
doers  of  the  word  and  not  hearers  only   conCnuously  strive  to  keep  a  close  walk  
(James  1:22),  especially  when  things  are   with  God  despite  the  busyness  of  life  (:
not  going  the  way  we  want  but  the  way  
God  wants.  Even  if  it  may  be   -­‐Wanping
inconvenient  for  us,  we  ought  to  sCll  

17
On  4  May  2010,  Mdm  Tan  Cheng  
strong,  evident  to  all  those  who   those  experiencing  the  loss,  also  
knew  them.  While  at  the  funeral,   being  a  prayer  for  heavenly  comfort.  
Im,  be#er  known  to  us  as  Mrs.  Tow   the  keenest  sense  of  sadness  was   The  rapturous  rejoicing  of  True  Life’s  
Siang  Hwa,  went  home  to  be  with   felt  observing  our  Senior  Pastor.  The   choir  reminded  us  of  the  joy  to  have  
the  LORD.  She  passed  away   sorrow  of  loss  was  barely  hidden   completed  the  race  faithfully.
peacefully  in  hospital,  her  ailing   under  a  Mred  visage.
This  was  yet  again  reflected  during  
frame  unable  to  cope  with  the   But  truly,  the  ChrisMan  funeral  is  an   the  exhortaMon.  When  Mrs.  Tow’s  
trauma  of  an  otherwise  technically   enigmaMc  event.  Even  though  it  is  a   life  story  was  recounted,  I  could  not  
successful  surgical  procedure. Mme  of  mourning,  this  was  only  but   help  but  wonder  whether  my  life  
On  5  May  2010,  the  church,  and   a  minute  aspect  of  it  all.  For   would  echo  the  theme  of  Mrs.  Tow’s  
indeed  many  others,  gathered  in   underneath  the  veneer  of  the  pain   life—that  of  one  well  lived,  given  to  
Calvary  Pandan  for  her  vigil  service.   of  physical  separaMon,  there  was  a   God,  peaceably  led  amongst  men,  
It  was  a  large  event,  with  every  seat   deep  current  of  humanly   unblemished.  I  entered  the  
in  the  sanctuary  filled,  as  well  as   inexplicable  spiritual  joy!  There  was   sanctuary  heavy  hearted,  but  leX  
every  parking  space  in  the  church’s   the  gladness  that  another  had   encouraged  and  joyful.  
vicinity  occupied.  This  was  true  of   faithfully  run  the  race  and  
“Ecc 7:4 The heart of the wise is in
even  the  subsequent  two  services. completed  it,  and  was  now  present  
the house of mourning; but the heart
with  the  LORD,  free  from  all  physical   of fools is in the house of mirth.”
That  many  people  had  disrupted   pain.
their  weekly  schedules  to  a#end   On  Saturday,  8  May  2010,  The  casket  
Mrs.  Tow’s  funeral  services  was  no   The  song  items  presented  by  various   was  lowered  into  the  ground,  and  
surprise.  She  was  a  prominent  figure   choral  groups  were  an  accurate   Mrs.  Tow  was  buried  at  the  lawn  
in  church  through  many   representaMon  of  the  significance  of   cemetary  at  Choa  Chu  Kang,  
generaMons,  always  by  the  side  of   the  homegoing  service.  The  slow,   marking  the  last  Mme  we  shall  see  
our  pastor,  Dr.  Tow.  The  love  shared   melancholic  acapella  piece   her,  Mll  we  meet  again  in  the  land  
between  the  elderly  couple  was   addressed  the  earthly  sorrow  of   that  is  fairer  than  day.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Liew 15th Binn Yi, Daniel Wong

August
& Debbie Grace
July
Prayer Rev Koshy
September
Exercising Christian Love
7th: Praying Amiss
Pr Ko Lingkang Titus 2
14th: Intercessory Prayer
3rd: Showing Love to YFers — Bro Joseph Poon 3rd — 4th: September Retreat
through Encouragement —Bro Henry Chua
21st: Public vs Private Prayer
10th: Showing Love to YFers 11th: Godly Women (Ti 2:4-5)
through Rebuke/Restoration 28th: Importunate Prayer — Eld Sim Siang Kok

17th: Showing Love to Non- Birthdays: 2nd Hannah 11th 18th: Godly Men (Ti 2:6-8)
Christians Michelle & Mervyn 13th Jason — Dn Han Whie Kwang

24th: Showing Love to 25th: Godly Servants

Doctrinally Different Christians and Living Soberly (Ti
2:9-15) — Dn
31st: Showing Love to Parents
Vincent Teo
(Parents’ Appreciation Day)
— Rev Quek Suan Yew Birthdays: 1st Garbiel
16th Marcus 20th
Birthdays: 2nd Jeremy Chan
Kenny 22nd Hui Min
10th Joanne 12th Bertha
28th Jonan
15th Lingting
Short and Broad
APRIL 28th – 4th June: Joyce Huang goes
to Vietnam for OCIP
8th: Choong Kai Shuin receives a promotion to the
rank of sergeant 31st: Zach Quek takes the GCE O
Level Chinese Examination
17th – 18th: Elvin Siew completes an art test at
LucasFilms 31st – 1st June: Brian goes for a
compulsory motivational camp for
19th: Benjamin Chung enlists for National Service student teachers at NIE

24th: YF cottage meeting is held @ Bro Henry’s. Topic 31st – 7th June: Christopher Cheong go off to Beijing/
for the message: “Fellowship”, after which a quiz by Shanghai Expo for a holiday
JQ was conducted
•••
30th: Jason Liew completes and submits his final
year project JUNE
2nd: Jonathan Tay’s ATM card, debit card, CashCard
End April – Early May: Generally the exam period for and Kopitiam card go missing from his wallet after he
students in tertiary institutions leaves it unattended at a swimming pool. Oddly
enough, the kind thief leaves his ez-link card behind
••• for him to get home.
MAY
2nd – 9th: Yeda Ko goes on holiday in Taiwan with
5th: Elvin Siew completes friends from school
three years of tertiary
education at Laselle 7th – 12th: Family Bible Camp 2010 @ Seremban
College
11th: Elliot Chin ORDs during the family camp
8th: Brian, Suling, and
Joyce Au Yong take 15th – 17th: Several YFers and teens serve as helpers
their first FEBC exam on and bus captains in VBS 2010. Also on the 15th, a skit
'Harmony of the on the Zacchaeus account is enacted by a group from
Gospels'. yeahyeahyeah! the YF.

10th – 6th August
Lim Zhongyan starts his internship
with HDB which will end on the 6th of
August
17th: Celeste Chin returns from her
studies in the USA
15th – 17th: Lingting visits Kang in
Perth. Both of them return to
Singapore after the visit.
17th – 4th July: Phoebe Choo returns from Shanghai
for a holiday back in Singapore
18th – 24th: Hannah Woo goes for a holiday in Japan
with some relatives
21st – 24th: Annual Teens Retreat 2010. Theme: One
Body in Christ. Speaker: Bro Paul Ferguson
21st – 25th: Lim Zhongyan is called up for ICT/
reservist

17th – 22nd: FCM Camp 2010. 24th – 26th: 2010 Combined Youth Conference.
Theme: Parables for children of Theme: Peter’s Progress
God’s kingdom.
28th: Jason Liew is away for ICT.reservist for 2
24th: Gabriel Teo graduates weeks.
from Ngee Ann Polytechnic
with a diploma in Mechatronic
Engineering

24th – 28th: William Quah goes on holiday in

Krabi, where he has his first scuba diving
experience

25th – 4th June: jQ and Grace Auyong go off to

Shanghai to visit to Phoebe Choo

26th: Kenny returns to Melbourne for 7 weeks

with friends and family back home

18
 A Publication of

Calvary Pandan Youth Fellowship

Calvary Pandan Bible-Presbyterian Church

201 Pandan Gardens
Singapore 609337

Email: uth.chronicle@gmail.com
“Edify, Educate, Engage”