Aug 13
the law of the Spirit of life set me free (v.2)
Suffering now, Glory in future!
1. Christ’s work (Rom 5-7) – 1/save us from Adam’s nature (under God’s wrath) (Rom 5); 2/free us from sin, that we can live to God & be slaves of righteousness (Rom 6) ; 3/ free us from laws, that we may turn to Christ (Rom 7)
2. Spirit’s work (Rom 8 ) – free us from sinful nature, give us the Spirit of life & the glorious hope.
?A child kept on stealing comic books. His father being a pastor , was very angry & sad, yet the boy kept on doing this even after punishments. Finally his father couldn’t bear it and beaten him up in tears, the boy stopped stealing since then. when the boy grew up , he told his mother that it wasn’t the beating , but rather , the love shown in his father’s tears that made him stopped sinning!
Aug 10
“…just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness”(Rom 6:19)
Men’s way: to improve ourselves … God’s way: let it dies!
1. Death penalty in Ohio of America — A prisoner beforre death had no regret, saying, — I worship Satan & find delight in killing. I’ll kill as usual if I’m freed.. How frantic he is! – since he let sin to reign on his body (v. 12)
2. Sin is deeply rooted in human nature. Religions & education can slow down its outbreak but can never cure . Everyone will submit to sin in certain circumstances & situation.
3. No one can escape from the power of sin, only death can free us! Only solution — Baptizing into Christ’s death (v. 3). Since Jesus resurrected, our new selves also resurrect with him! Today offer your body to be holy!
?In July, 158 are baptized in church of HK. In August 11 gospel meetings are coming in 10 districts citywide, pls pray for this! – fr Sam Kong
Aug 09
…we being still sinners, Christ has died for us. <5:8>
Spiritual battle – grace reigns (Rom 5):
1. Battles unceasing – We are justified by faith. Keep standing in this grace, rejoice – in the hope of the glory of God.
2. Sin invading – with eternal life we survive in GRACE!
Keep ourselves under the supply & management of divine grace, so that by the eternal life Lord Jesus Christ has given us we can overcome sin
?Hudson Taylor???, the founder of China Inland Mission, had inspired numerous youths to serve in the poor areas in China. He lived a life of faith, once he wrote to his wife and said — What I have now is 25 cents , PLUS all of God’s promises! What do you have now?
Aug 06
To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. (Rom 2:7)
5 questions for our hearts (Rom 2)
1. Can we stand before God’s judgment seat with nor regret? (v.1-3)
2. Have we defied the riches of God’s kindness, tolerance & patience? (v.4)
3. Are we seeking glory, honor & immortality with persistence? (v.5-11)
4. Are we using religious activities as a mask to hide our true selves? (v.12-16,25-29)
5. Do our words match our deeds? (v.17-24)
?2 dyas ago I had a nice fellowship with a Dr. Yeung. He came from Indonesia, After graduation from medical school in America , he got a well-paid job there, for 9 yearslong ,he could have a month’s holiday after working for each 4 weeks. He enjoyed everything he wanted. But the wealth & entertainment in this world couldn’t satisfy him. His heart was crazily empty; he even decided to jump from a place as high as a 30-storey-building into the sea — to kill himself. How did God save him? (Continue tomorrow.)
Aug 01
to open their eyes, that they may turn from darkness to light…26:18>
So that they may receive…a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me?v.9 — 18?
1. Man’s real situation – blind, in darkness ,under Satan’s yoke
2. God’s preparation: a way of light – liberty, forgiveness of sins & an inheritance of life
?5 characteristics of early Christians summarized by historians:
1. Brave – overcoming any hardship
2. Disciplined – be example of knowing right from wrong
3. United – live and die with each others
4. Hopeful – never lose hope even in the most adverse environment
5. Loyal – love God sincerely, even singing Psalms 23 before death when facing enemy!
?Yesterday a 11-year-old son who has just been to a gospel camp in HK told his mother sincerely , “I’ve consecrated myself to the Lord!”
Jul 30
…and I have the same hope in God as these men.. (v.15)
Some ONE to love , some THINGS to do, some WHERE to hope:
1. No one resurrects from death except Jesus – and lives forever!
2. Paul only confesses one accusation when he stood for trial – which is preaching resurrection. Have we realized that things after death is more important then things in this life, so that we do our best to have no reason for shame before God or men?
“If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most unhappy” (1 Cor 15?19)
*In his new book “168 questions from saints” , Samuel Ching encourages us to memorise bible verses everyday. In fact he spent an hour everyday to memorise the New Testament when he was young; At last he finished rmemorise the whole NT in 11 months. At the same time many golden chapters in the OT, which became a great blessing in his life!
Jul 28
…saw the light, but they did not understand the voice…(v.9)
“Away with him”!
1. Jesus is guiltless – but the Jews cried “put this man to death…” . When Paul told his experience of Damascus, people also cried “away with this man from the earth, it is not right for him to be living”
2. Jesus is hated – also His witnesses are hated. But prejudice, bias & prosecution helped the widespread of the gospel instead!
?reports from Korea, China & Japan —pastor Bae Hyung-kyu???who has just martyred in Afghanistan was hit with 10 bullets. Leaving his wife and a 9-year-old daughter, he left in his 42. He was brought up in devoted family. 4 years ago he nearly died in sickness, but Lord spared his life. Bro Bae led a simple life, he served in the Clear Water Church of South Korea (80% of all 3,500 members of his church are youngsters). This kidnap issue shocked whole Korea, all saints in Korea praying unceasingly for them. Sure Our Lord will turn curse into blessings! …your brother, who have a part with you in the trouble and the kingdom and the quiet strength of Jesus…for the word of God and the witness of Jesus
Jul 26
And now I commit you to God, and to the word of his grace … (v.32, 35)
Revelation of life – complete the task, be a giver:
1. life is substantial & worthy when we accomplish the task God given to us! (v.22-24)
2. Jesus lay down his life for us; also Paul gave his all for the saints. To give – let us experience Christ & gain Christ – this is really the greatest blessing! (v.25-35)
?K. L. Yao??? & Fion, just moved from HK to Roma (Australia), reported: ” we’ ve moved from a busy city in the East to this small town ( only 4? when we landed), with population of 6,000 only, here is quiet & peaceful. We can ony see kangaroos busy around in the morning – and a starry sky at night…the world seems to change a lot to us, we just pray that we can use our remaining life to love God and men!”
Jul 25
…saying that bonds and tribulations await me. …<20:23>
God’s grace, my way;
1. In His last journey on earth , Our Lord is still strong! ?Lk 18:31; 19: 11?28?
2. Paul determined to finish his race without considering his own life! ?Acts 20:22…24?
3. If one day we farewell our journey, can I say – I’ve finished my race & be rewarded before God & men? ?Acts 20:25-38?
?99 baptised in HK last Sunday & Sat. – while my grandpa who is 104 is the 100th lamb!?158 in total?
?Letter fr Sisiter Wai Yan –” I was deeply moved when hearing this event we have prayed for came true , and the old old grandpa of our brother saved! . Our Father in heaven won’t forget anyone who relied on him, even anyone made by His hands! Thanks the Lord, glory be to God! “– Wai Yan??
?The 20+ b/s form Korean missionary trip still under captive of the Taliban. Pls pray for them – lives still at risk!
Jul 24
… with might the word of the Lord increased and prevailed.
His name held in honor, but also brought no less disturbance:
1. Empty hearts of men needed God – idols are substitutes of God , always against Him. Today we won’t worship gold or silver , but our hearts filled with worship of invisible idols ?
2. Those away from God created idols to worship – seek His words everyday, live in the Spirit, know Him & worship Him! What are you worshipping ? Do you have peace within you ?
?Simon ? Ruth ??????? who had moved to Australia , visited saints in HK last week. Wonderful fellowship ! They serves loyally with P. Luk ?? & L. Y. Ho??? (also from HK) in church in Sydney?Chatswood?!
Jul 23
And God wrought no ordinary miracles by the hands of Paul <19:11>
2 reasons for the church to prosper:
1. Prolonged teaching – Even Paul , who was full of gifts, talents & life – had to stay in Ephesus to teach the disciples for 3 years!?Acts 19: 8…10, 20:31?
2. Strong presence of the Spirit – Our Lord’s name brought about real & revolutionary changes! All influence of the devils and sorceries gone!
?23/July- 90 saints baptized in HK (148 in total for 2 days). My grandpa now 104 also baptized in elderly home! Thanks for your prayers, glory be to God! — Sam Kong?HK?
Jul 22
For I am with you…<18:10>
Marriage, family, migration – all for Jesus and the brothers:
1. Service of Aquila and Priscilla – they opened up their home for fellowship of saints, they were as precious as the great apostles. When Paul arrived Corinth alone, he received help from their family which enabled him to preach for one & a half year (v.1–11)
2. Moving to Ephesus – there they equipped another apostle – Apollos. They invited him to their home again & taught him about God’s words! (v.24–26)
Is your family & home ready for Christ & saints?
?HK – Yesterday 58 baptized in Hk . A daughter encountered God before her mother’s operation . A woman worshipped idols for years, but attracted by Jesus when seeing a bad tempered relative turned gentle after believing. An aimless lady learnt to love after reading the Bible. A mother sent her son to Christian kindergarten -20 years ago ! She finally believed in Jesus in gospel meeting. (About 100 is going to be baptized today, back themup with prayer !)
?My grandpa , born in late Qing dynasty, is 104 now. Today he’ll be baptized in elderly home at 2:00 pm, pls pray for him! – Sam Kong / HK
Jul 18
to the Holy Spirit and to us… (v.28)
When the Spirit, Bible and church all echo our decision (Acts 15b) :
1. The churches become more united
2. The gospel reaching far, blessing more
3. Everyone are comforted, encouraged, strengthened & rejoiced!
Are you making such decision?
* Letter from M. Y. Yip???(HK) – Pastor C. H. Choi ??? wished that his father be saved before he enter theological school. His elder brother, most loved by his father, was then studying overseas. Choi suggested whole family to pray for this brother every week. His father so agreed that he kept on reminding family members to join such gathering . However, he only listened to testimony & prayers every time. On the night before Choi went to school, his father said,“This time I have to pray also.” and the father even confessed his sins. The whole family was surprised by God’s grace! (Sister Yip is brought up in a devoted family. Now she is in full time serving a good church in Kowloon City, pls pray for her ministry !)
Jul 17
“God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them…” (Acts 15: 8 )
Tides of the times – God who testifies (Acts15):
1. Liberalists in 19th century didn’t believe in miracles, New Age Movement in 20th century believed that men can become God. The current of thoughts in every generations poses fierce challenge for the gospel!
2. The first challenge against the truth is settled by a fact testified by God Himself — Whoever has the Spirit who represents God’s Son, he is saved!
?Samuel Ching’s ??? new book – “168 Answers to Believers’ Question” (Chinese) is a mini encyclopedia of gospel problems! (included answers on daily life issues like-how to pray or read the Bible, filled by Spirit, facing adversity, getting rid of bad hobbies, freeing from demonic control, love & marriage, extramarital relations, homosexuality, facing death of loved ones, investment, being childless, family relations, making friends, working, financial planning, preaching, facing sickness & death, spiritual reading…
(recommended for Chineses pastors & new believers, especially for newly baptized. by Alliance Press, HK ?
Jul 09
The assemblies then throughout the whole of Judaea and Galilee and Samaria had peace…<9:31>
Breakthrough – new step prepared :
1. Church grows?v.31? —- all churches in 3 main areas (the south – Judea, the north – Galilee, the central – Samaria) were in peace. The gospel went west, bringing forth a regional breakthrough?v.32…43?
2. Workers trained?v.43?— the 2 miracles performed by Peter won souls in the west. But afterward he was humble & obedient to live in a tanner’s home. (an unclean & detesting industry)
* From Roma , Australia – “Thanks God! We have arrived Roma of Australia and started our job here. Nice people here… we attended first church gatherings with relatives KL & Carrie. God has given us timely message ! His grace has followed us both in HK and Australia. Greetings to all saints in HK, may God bless you! — Fion & Ka Lok (couple moved to Australia last week)
Jul 08
suddenly there shone round about him a light out of heaven <9:3>
Heavenly Vision — Christ & the Church :
1. Christ Speaking ?v.1…18?– our Lord can turn a die-hard protestor into a loyal servant!
2. Speaking for Chrsit ?v.19…31?— Some serves God shortly, yet with lasting impact. Stephen’s work was carried on by Saul — proving Jesus is the Messiah.
Nowadays heresies are common, e.g. the New Age Movement, Lightning from the East, da Vinci Code…let’s seek & defense the truth !
?Pat Gelsinger, the vice president of Intel once said — I firmly believed in Christ & nothing can shake my faith. I believe that Christianity is the only truth in the world , the only way which leads us back to heaven (Acts 4:12). For 20 years he gave every project & meeting he took part in his company — into the hands of God. He suggested us to do the same when facing problems in our jobs!
Jul 07
A Church on the Move (Acts 8):
1. John Wesley, a graduate of Oxford, went abroad to US . He was in the first-class cabin while 26 brothers from Moravian Church in economy class. There was a storm in the sea , Wesley frightened. Then he heard somebody singing downstairs . He went down & saw 26 brothers singing & worshipping . He met God through these angels & so reborn !
2. The Ethiopian eunuch — Rarely can we find human beings in the desert , but God sent Philip there! The path of God far beyond our ration & wisdom. Philip was faithful to the desert , where he met the eunuch reading Isaiah 53. The eunuch baptized & returned home full of joy, spreading the gospel to N. Africaever since!
* Joy & Blessing- Gospel meeting (HK) —- two days ago gospel for elderly & housewives full of blessing! Coming up 3 more meetigs (9, 11, 12 July- HK Island, Tsuen Wan & Sun Po Kon). Pls pray for it! (10:00am)
Jul 05
I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God! (Acts 7?55)
Gospel on Fire — Jesus’ love & glory! (Acts 7)
1. Bro Zinzendorf once saw a painting about the crucifixion . Under the painting it stated –“I’ve done everything for you, what have you done for me?”He was deeply moved & gaved all for Jesus since then. He opened his land for Christian refugee to live & gather. The revival he brought in lasted for 200+ years since 1727 !
2. The Spirit testified Jesus had ascended to the throne & received glory. (Acts 2:33). The disciples’ hearts filled with the vision of the glorious Jesus. All of them were bold, rejoiced even being beaten, because they counted worthy of suffering disgrace for Jesus’ name. Stephen even saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God before martyred. In times of suffering & hardship, we need to be encouraged by the love of Jesus’cross, & be engulfed by the glory of Jesus standing at the right hand of God !
Jul 04
Behold! The Lord is in the Church !
1. God cannot be deceived — you will get what you seeded. Be true to the glorious work of God!
2. God is alive & true — He is worthy of our praise with all our heart, mind & love! How we treat Him will be the same way He treats us.
* Good news fr co-worker of Goodnews Communication (HK) — dear all, in a gospel camp for SheungShui Evangelical Pri. School in June, we have a programme about teacher Ka Yu (who helped numerous students in love , now passed away in Christ.) , 68 students received Jesus as Saviour sincerely ! All were deeply touched by the Lord. . In the evening , all students repented & asked for forgiveness from teachers. What a wonderful work of God! Joy & Peace be with everyone! — In Him, Lu Wen.
Jul 02
… spoke the word of God with boldness. <4:31>
Working with the Gaint :
1. Christ among us — every generation , lots of counter theories try refuting the resurrection of Christ. Do not be discouraged!
2. Brave disciple (v.3-9,13-27) —The apostles eye-witnessed the resurrection of Jesus, filled by the Spirit & preached without fear . They also loved each other. Thus ,whole city praised God !
* young couple Yiu Ka Lok & Fion left HK for Roma, S. Australia on Wed. May the Lord bless their new home & job in new city. Let them continue to testify for Jesus. Pls pray for these witnesses scattered in different part of the world!
Jun 26
Peace with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. (v.21)
Sending us as the Father has sent Jesus! (v.19-31)
1. By the end of 19th century, 6 Presbyterian missionaries went to Korea from US. Soon they established churches in 40+ places, bringing forth revival of Korea in 1907. Today 30% Koreans are Christians – highest ratio in Far East.
2. Still sending us after resurrection – the is not men’s work but Lord’s. Revivals took place one after another– the Moravian brethrens, Wales of UK, Shandong of China, Indonesia…recently gospel blazes in Russia, Africa & S. America.
Our Lord is still sending us – just as that very first day! Many sacrificed their lives to bring gospel to us.Let us continue their path – so as to express our thanks to God’s mercy & kindness!
?Saved timely! – summer harvest in HK – “my church have 4 gospel meetings in YL, HK Island, TW & SPK. Target – elderly & housewives?5/7, 9/7, 11/7, 12/7 10:00am,?Backup with yr holy prayer! ” — fr Sam Kong
Jun 25
Whom seek thou? <20:15>
His presence is my joy:
1. When hopeless…seek our Lord!?v.1…9?
2. Facing failure …seek His face!?v.10…18?
3. In weakness …trust in Him, again!?v.19…31?
The dead end of men is the new start of God!
?Ah Leong who has believed in Christ for 3 years, witnessed that he couldn’t sleep alone before knowing Jesus .He was afraid of going to funerals (he would suffer from insomnia for 10+ days afterward). But after he came to Christ , he turned a joyful person,quitted gambling, no more idols at home -and no more worry about
his business!
?Fr Patrick Yip (HK) — In our home meeting a devoted sister Victoria Lam will receive a major operation -on 5/July . The surgery will last for several hours, & is very important for her. Pls ask b/s in Ark Channel to pray for her, thanks
Jun 20
… I desire that where I am they also may be with me <17:24>
4 reasons of overcoming the enemies:
1. We share His holy life?v.1…5?
2. We proclaim His holy name?v.6…12?
3. We have Lord’s words which sanctify us ?v.13…19?
4. We share His glory?v.20…26?
*Good news – Hallelujah! Thanks the Lord, Bro W. L. Lau ???(HK) had a pet-scan yesterday which verified that all cancers cells were killed. He has to receive 2 more injections & then has a rest until Sept -before he can be back to his office. Bro Lau wants to say thank you to all saints – who has sincerely prayed for him through the Ark Channel in these days over the world ! – Pastor Siu Yung ?? (HK)
“…it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope offered to us may be greatly encouraged.” <heb 6:18>
Jun 18
I pray for them … (v.9)
Purpose of life – glorify God, life or death:
1. Our Lord’s purpose of life – only to complete God’s work (v.4) – Stephen Hawking cannot give a full answer of the origin of mankind & the purpose of our existence . But Jesus revealed that the universe was created through him, he had authority over the wind & the sea, can drive out demons & heal the sick (just as the designer of a car can repair it). And Jesus had completed his purpose of life — glorifying God!
2. Our purpose of life so simple– complete our divine mission & glorify God (v.10) – God has given you talents, hoping you to finish your mission to bring blessings to the society & the church — to glorify God ultimately!
* Pastor C. T. Tam??? who moved from HK to US ,has a daughter M. K. Tam???. The girl loves God since she was small. She now suffering from cancer,. After the b/s prayed for her, her survival time was prolonged to 30 days! Few days ago she had an opportunity to try a new medicine! Pls pray for her , all those reading Ark Channel, thanks! — C. Y. Leung ??? of The Media Evangelism Ltd(HK)
(When Tam’s testimony story broadcasted, 2 youths gave up killing themselves .. Another old man in NY believed in Jesus just before death – because of Tam’s good testimony.)
Jun 16
…you ae the branches …but I have called you friends …(v.5,15)
Who Am I ?
1. Glorious identity (v.5) –we are branches – by abiding in Him we can share His holy life
2. Honorable identity (v.15) –we are His friends – by following His will we know His secrets
* Never Too Late! – Mrs C. T. Ng Chan????(HK) used to worship idols .. But she accepted Jesus at the age of 82 ! Last week she passed away peacefully at 85. Her daughter C. C. Leung ???and son-in-law C. K. Tse??? would like to encourage us to share the good news to our relatives, catching hold of single opportunity !
Jun 14
I leave peace with you…<14:27>
Living in each other!
1. In me (v.16-20) – The Spirit lives us, & God invites us to live in him – God & men , a mutual abode!
2. No trouble & fear (v.27) — Be strong, the Triune God who gives us peace always with us.
We will be troubled & afraid in new environment, challenges, opportunities or changes. But God is always with us, never fail us or forsake us. Enjoy the peace our Lord left for us – stop being troubled & afraid!
?The killer C. H. Chan??? of Taiwan , after hhis repentance , had brought at least 3 fellow prisoners to Christ. When Chan was executed, the army officer McGill Alexander who had been kidnapped by him , with his family , prayed for Chan. The reporter of Formosa Television Inc. phoned McGill and asked why they could forgive him. His wife answered, “God hates sin, but He loves sinners!”
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