Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Right Thinking On Christian Leadership (2)
by Rev. James WongThis is the third week of our nomination of candidates for election. The nomination will end on the 26 July 2009 follows by election in August.
Last week I shared that (1) Christian leadership is different from leadership in general because of the different driving forces behind the two, and (2) the basis of leadership in the church which is; to serve the needs of the congregation and to advance the gospel. This week I will deal with the issue of the gifts of the Holy Sprit and the development of Christian Leadership.
1. The Holy Spirit endows the gift of leadership: Romans 12:6-8 (NLT)
says: “6 In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. 7 If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. 8 If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.”
According to this passage there is little demarcation between the gifts given by the Holy Spirit and our natural talents. However, some spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit are detached from our natural talents, such as, the gifts of healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, distinguishing between sprits, speaking in different kinds of tongues and the interpretation of tongues ( 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NIV). Whereas in the Romans 12:6-8 passage, most of the gifts mentioned are related to our natural talents and experiences, such as, the gifts of serving others, teaching, encourage others, giving, leadership ability and showing kindness. We can exercise and develop such gifts so that our service to the church becomes more effective.
2. Christian Leadership Must Be Developed. This is the specific instruction for those in leadership, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously” (Rom 12:8c). How do you know whether you have been given the gift of leadership ability? One sure way is to test it. Be a leader in a fellowship or in some form of leadership position in a group, and see whether you can lead and influence others towards a desire spiritual goal? If you can lead, and others confirm that you can, then you have such ability. However, you must take it seriously because your seriousness or slackness will impact the church directly. Good spiritual leadership leads the church forward, whereas shoddy leadership causes the church to stagnant, or worst, leads the church backward. Leadership ability is endowed by the Holy Spirit but it must be developed, like a teaching gift, to effectively build up the church. God bless your leadership.
According to this passage there is little demarcation between the gifts given by the Holy Spirit and our natural talents. However, some spiritual gifts given by the Holy Spirit are detached from our natural talents, such as, the gifts of healing, miraculous powers, prophecy, distinguishing between sprits, speaking in different kinds of tongues and the interpretation of tongues ( 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 NIV). Whereas in the Romans 12:6-8 passage, most of the gifts mentioned are related to our natural talents and experiences, such as, the gifts of serving others, teaching, encourage others, giving, leadership ability and showing kindness. We can exercise and develop such gifts so that our service to the church becomes more effective.
2. Christian Leadership Must Be Developed. This is the specific instruction for those in leadership, “If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously” (Rom 12:8c). How do you know whether you have been given the gift of leadership ability? One sure way is to test it. Be a leader in a fellowship or in some form of leadership position in a group, and see whether you can lead and influence others towards a desire spiritual goal? If you can lead, and others confirm that you can, then you have such ability. However, you must take it seriously because your seriousness or slackness will impact the church directly. Good spiritual leadership leads the church forward, whereas shoddy leadership causes the church to stagnant, or worst, leads the church backward. Leadership ability is endowed by the Holy Spirit but it must be developed, like a teaching gift, to effectively build up the church. God bless your leadership.
(more to come on leadership next week)
GIDEAON'S CALLING
Judges 6:1-24
Pr. Lo Shen Loon
Introduction
1. God’s call and Gideon’s reluctance.
2. God calls Gideon despite his weaknesses
3. When God calls us, our basis for obedient service comes from our relationship with God.
Pr. Lo Shen Loon
Introduction
1. God’s call and Gideon’s reluctance.
2. God calls Gideon despite his weaknesses
3. When God calls us, our basis for obedient service comes from our relationship with God.
Welcome On Board Miss Lin Yet Far
by Rev. James WongWe are happy to welcome sister Yet Far to our midst as our office assistant administrator effective 15 July 2009. She comes in with a rich experience in accounting and finance, administration in various industries and also the passion to serve God.
Yet Far was born in Sandakan and completed her secondary studies in Sung Siew Secondary School. She went on to study in Tunku Abdul Rahman College in KL majoring in accounting and finance and graduated with a Diploma. She worked as a junior executive in a legal firm for four years and moved on to work as an senior executive holding the post of account executive in Mayfair Bodyline Sdn Bhd specializing in finance and administration. Her last employment was with Samling Chipboard Sdn Bhd in Sandakan as an account supervisor dealing with finance and administration.
While in KL, a colleague invited Yet Far to an Easter Oikos meeting (‘Oikos’ means ‘family’ in Greek) where she accepted Christ to be her Lord and savior in 2002. Since then she became a member of the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC), participating weekly in the cell group. She also served in the Cancer Children Ministry ministering to the suffering children in University Malaya Hospital every Saturday. In 2005 she felt that God called her to return to Sandakan thus leaving her comfort zone. She worshipped in the Indah Anglican Church through the recommendation of a pastor of DUMC. She served in the Sunday school as a teacher every Saturday afternoon and she is also an active member of the cell group.
Yet Far was one of the participants in our pre-marriage course and that was when I got to know her. She seeks to do God’s will in her life and when I invited her to think about serving with us in the church, she gave it a serious thought and prayed about it. Finally she made the decision to apply for the post of an office administrator which was advertised in our bulletin. Subsequently she also transferred her membership to our church and has been an active member in the youth life group.
Let us extend our right hand of fellowship and welcome Yet Far to serve in our midst. Her work would include assisting the senior pastor, secretarial duties, accounting duties (when needed) and also website maintenance. May she have a joyful time in serving the church and also growing deeper in the Lord at the same time.
John Maxwell On Leadership
Put Your Dream to The Test 
by John Maxwell
I believe God wants us to dream, and to dream big, because He’s a big God who wants to do big things and He wants to do them through us. My friend Dale Turner asserts, “Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born.” It’s never too late to dream.
by John Maxwell
I believe God wants us to dream, and to dream big, because He’s a big God who wants to do big things and He wants to do them through us. My friend Dale Turner asserts, “Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born.” It’s never too late to dream.
If you’re wondering whether the dreams of your imagination are likely to take root in the soil of reality, then start by asking yourself the following questions (from Put Your Dream to the Test.)
The Ownership Question: Is my dream really my dream?
The Clarity Question: Do I clearly see my dream?
The Reality Question: Am I depending on factors within my control to achieve my dream?
The Passion Question: Does my dream compel me to follow it?
The Pathway Question: Do I have a strategy to reach my dream?
The People Question: Have I included the people I need to realize my dream?
The Cost Question: Am I willing to pay the price for my dream?
The Tenacity Question: Am I moving closer to my dream?
The Fulfillment Question: Does working toward my dream bring satisfaction?
The Significance Question: Does my dream benefit others?
I believe that if you really explore each question, examine yourself honestly, and answer yes to all them, the odds of your achieving your dream are very good. The more yeses you can answer, the more on target you are to fulfill your dreaming. I truly believe that everyone has the potential to imagine a worthwhile dream, and most have the ability to achieve it. And it doesn’t matter how big or how seemingly outrageous your dream appears to others if your answers are yes to the Dream Test questions.
CHURCH CONCERNS
1. Words of Welcome
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and remember to bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter.
The dates for the nomination and election are as follows:
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. PASTOR’S ITENERARY
Rev James is in KK on the 17 July (Fri) to 20 July (Mon) for matters pertaining to the renovation of PEGC office in the Central Council and also to pay an official visit to the BCCM Kolombong (Eng) church. and preach there on their Sunday service at 4:00pm. Since he is in KK he is also invited to speak in the Tuaran Parish Mission Night on Saturday evening and also in the BCCM Kolombong Chinese service on Sunday morning. Remember to give him your prayer support for his traveling and work in KK.
5. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATIONS
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
6. CHINESE GENERAL COUNCIL MEN FELLOWSHIP RETREAT & AGM
Date: 18-20 September 2009 Venue: BCCM Sandakan
Speaker: Rev. Xu Guang Fu Registration Fees: RM70.00
Closing date for registration: 1 August 2009
For further details please contact: Bro. Chau Yen Chei, Bro. Tsen Tze Keong.
7. HAPPINESS IN YOUR MARRIAGE
This is a special program organized by the Men’s Fellowship and Women’s Fellowship to be held in Indah Mission Centre on the 25 July 2009 at 7:45pm. Come and get your marriage enriched and Rev. James will share with us the distinctive needs of a man and a woman and how understanding such needs can help us to have a happy marriage.
8. T-SHIRT FOR WALK FOR JESUS
The Walk for Jesus event is schedule on the 23 August 2009. The T-shirt is available for sale. Please order from the counter after the church service.
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and remember to bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter.
The dates for the nomination and election are as follows:
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. PASTOR’S ITENERARY
Rev James is in KK on the 17 July (Fri) to 20 July (Mon) for matters pertaining to the renovation of PEGC office in the Central Council and also to pay an official visit to the BCCM Kolombong (Eng) church. and preach there on their Sunday service at 4:00pm. Since he is in KK he is also invited to speak in the Tuaran Parish Mission Night on Saturday evening and also in the BCCM Kolombong Chinese service on Sunday morning. Remember to give him your prayer support for his traveling and work in KK.
5. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATIONS
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
6. CHINESE GENERAL COUNCIL MEN FELLOWSHIP RETREAT & AGM
Date: 18-20 September 2009 Venue: BCCM Sandakan
Speaker: Rev. Xu Guang Fu Registration Fees: RM70.00
Closing date for registration: 1 August 2009
For further details please contact: Bro. Chau Yen Chei, Bro. Tsen Tze Keong.
7. HAPPINESS IN YOUR MARRIAGE
This is a special program organized by the Men’s Fellowship and Women’s Fellowship to be held in Indah Mission Centre on the 25 July 2009 at 7:45pm. Come and get your marriage enriched and Rev. James will share with us the distinctive needs of a man and a woman and how understanding such needs can help us to have a happy marriage.
8. T-SHIRT FOR WALK FOR JESUS
The Walk for Jesus event is schedule on the 23 August 2009. The T-shirt is available for sale. Please order from the counter after the church service.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Right Thinking On Christian Leadership (1)
This is the second week of our nomination of candidates for election and the nomination will end on the 26 July 2009, to be followed by election in August. These few weeks I will share with you thoughts about Christian leadership.1. Christian leadership is different from leadership in general.
We cannot be an efficient leader without reading books on leadership! However, church leadership must be based on the principles of the Bible which is the basis of our faith and practice.
For example, leadership in the corporate world is driven by profit and
efficiency in achieving their vision. Whereas in the church, it is driven by the needs of the congregation and the efficiency in advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. On this level, there is no similarity between the two. To function
efficiently in the church we must have a correct understanding of Christian leadership which may require us to unlearn our old mindset.
The disciples fought over position and this was what Jesus said in Matthew 20:25-28 (NLT), "You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 26 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." Church leadership must be understood as servant leadership.
2. The basis of leadership in the church– to serve the needs of the congregation and to advance the gospel. The apostles were the leaders of the early church. In Act 6 we were told that the church grew and the apostles needed people to help them so that they can give their attention to “prayer and the ministry of the word” (Acts 6:4). The seven brothers who were “full of the spirit and wisdom” were chosen and they were known as ‘deacons’ which means ‘servants’ in the Greek language. We call them ‘church council members’ today. They were to do one thing, which was, to manage the daily food program to take care of the poor. The offerings collected were used to help run the church (which included taking care of the apostles) and also help members who were in need (See Acts 2:44-45).
Church leadership here is to be understood as servants to serve the needs of the congregation and to ensure the advancement of the gospel. Today, the fundamental function of church leadership is unchanged, that is, to ensure that the offerings we have collected is for the benefits of the church members and the advancement of the Gospel of Christ. In this way God is honored.
John Maxwell On Leadership
It’s About Time
by John Maxwell
It seems that everyone’s busy these days. And life shows no sign of slowing down. Here’s a harder question: Are your efforts effective?
Are they? Or do you sometimes feel like you’re spinning your wheels?
Now more than ever, we seem to have more work than time to do it. But time, according to Denis Waitley, “is an equal opportunity employer. Each human being has exactly the same number of hours and minutes every day.” So since we can’t increase the amount of time we have, we need to learn how to control our use of it. Here are some tips to help you grow in the area of time management.
Keep a detailed time log of your work. Break down every day for a week into 15-minute increments. Write in every single thing you do. This means what you actually spend time doing – not what you intended to do.
Identify your major time wasters and work to eliminate them. Everyone falls prey to certain time wasters, based on personality or work habits. Use your time log to discover yours. Then target and try to eliminate one each week.
Identify the activities you value. The greatest time management tool I ever learned came from the 19th century economist Vilfredo Pareto. The Pareto Principle (which I quote a LOT) states that if we devote our energy, time, and resources to the top 20% of our priorities, we’ll achieve 80% of the results we desire. Use your time log to clarify which activities are important to you. Then focus your schedule on the top 20%.
Use planning to gain time. Every minute spent in planning saves ten in execution. End each day with just five minutes spent planning and prioritizing for the next.
Create systems to simplify. Here’s a truth to live by: You can’t devote 80% of your time to your top priorities when you’ve just wasted 40% of your time trying to find your to-do list. I’ve created systems for nearly everything in my life. My best rule is to touch any piece of paper only once – then I either throw it away, act on it, or file it.
Become results-oriented. You already know that activity does not necessarily equal accomplishment. If your busyness is not yielding results, it’s time to adjust. Begin prioritizing, planning, and organizing. And use deadlines. They’ll point you toward results.
Heartsill Wilson said, “God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it – or use it for good, but what I do today is important, because I am exchanging a day of my life for it!” When you open your eyes tomorrow morning, remind yourself that it holds incredible possibilities. You can allow that day to slip away from you, or you can use it to make things happen. The choice is yours.
by John Maxwell
It seems that everyone’s busy these days. And life shows no sign of slowing down. Here’s a harder question: Are your efforts effective?
Are they? Or do you sometimes feel like you’re spinning your wheels?
Now more than ever, we seem to have more work than time to do it. But time, according to Denis Waitley, “is an equal opportunity employer. Each human being has exactly the same number of hours and minutes every day.” So since we can’t increase the amount of time we have, we need to learn how to control our use of it. Here are some tips to help you grow in the area of time management.
Keep a detailed time log of your work. Break down every day for a week into 15-minute increments. Write in every single thing you do. This means what you actually spend time doing – not what you intended to do.
Identify your major time wasters and work to eliminate them. Everyone falls prey to certain time wasters, based on personality or work habits. Use your time log to discover yours. Then target and try to eliminate one each week.
Identify the activities you value. The greatest time management tool I ever learned came from the 19th century economist Vilfredo Pareto. The Pareto Principle (which I quote a LOT) states that if we devote our energy, time, and resources to the top 20% of our priorities, we’ll achieve 80% of the results we desire. Use your time log to clarify which activities are important to you. Then focus your schedule on the top 20%.
Use planning to gain time. Every minute spent in planning saves ten in execution. End each day with just five minutes spent planning and prioritizing for the next.
Create systems to simplify. Here’s a truth to live by: You can’t devote 80% of your time to your top priorities when you’ve just wasted 40% of your time trying to find your to-do list. I’ve created systems for nearly everything in my life. My best rule is to touch any piece of paper only once – then I either throw it away, act on it, or file it.
Become results-oriented. You already know that activity does not necessarily equal accomplishment. If your busyness is not yielding results, it’s time to adjust. Begin prioritizing, planning, and organizing. And use deadlines. They’ll point you toward results.
Heartsill Wilson said, “God has given me this day to use as I will. I can waste it – or use it for good, but what I do today is important, because I am exchanging a day of my life for it!” When you open your eyes tomorrow morning, remind yourself that it holds incredible possibilities. You can allow that day to slip away from you, or you can use it to make things happen. The choice is yours.
Church Concern
1. Words of Welcome
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and you can also bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter. The dates for the nomination and election are as follows:
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. YOUTH AGM AND ELECTION
Youths will meet on 13th (Mon) at 7:45pm in the English Office for their AGM and Election.
5. CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly church council meeting is postponed to 14 July (Tues.) at 7:45 pm.
6. PASTOR’S ITENERARY
Rev James will be going to KK on the 17 July (Fri) to 20 July (Mon) for matters pertaining to the renovation of PEGC office in the Central Council and also to pay an official visit to the BCCM Kolombong (Eng) church and preach there on their Sunday service at 4:00pm. Since he is in KK he is also invited to speak in the Tuaran Parish Mission Night on Saturday evening and also in the BCCM Kolombong Chinese service on Sunday morning. Remember to give him your prayer support for his traveling and work in KK.
7. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATIONS
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
8. TANG LAN HUA CONCERT
Tang Lan Hua is a former actress. On 17 July (Fri), 7.30pm, she will be sharing some Christian songs and testimony at Good Shepherd Church. Admission is free. Brothers and sisters are welcome to attend and to bring your friends along.
9. CHINESE GENERAL COUNCIL MEN FELLOWSHIP RETREAT & AGM
Date: 18-20 September 2009 Venue: BCCM Sandakan
Speaker: Rev. Xu Guang Fu Registration Fees: RM70.00
Closing date for registration: 1 August 2009
For further details please contact: Bro. Chau Yen Chei, Bro. Tsen Tze Keong.
10. OBITUARY
Church member Bro. Liew Yee Tet was called home to be with the Lord on 10 July 2009.
His funeral service will be conducted on 13 July (Mon), 9:00am at our church. May God
comfort the family members.
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and you can also bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter. The dates for the nomination and election are as follows:
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. YOUTH AGM AND ELECTION
Youths will meet on 13th (Mon) at 7:45pm in the English Office for their AGM and Election.
5. CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly church council meeting is postponed to 14 July (Tues.) at 7:45 pm.
6. PASTOR’S ITENERARY
Rev James will be going to KK on the 17 July (Fri) to 20 July (Mon) for matters pertaining to the renovation of PEGC office in the Central Council and also to pay an official visit to the BCCM Kolombong (Eng) church and preach there on their Sunday service at 4:00pm. Since he is in KK he is also invited to speak in the Tuaran Parish Mission Night on Saturday evening and also in the BCCM Kolombong Chinese service on Sunday morning. Remember to give him your prayer support for his traveling and work in KK.
7. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATIONS
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
8. TANG LAN HUA CONCERT
Tang Lan Hua is a former actress. On 17 July (Fri), 7.30pm, she will be sharing some Christian songs and testimony at Good Shepherd Church. Admission is free. Brothers and sisters are welcome to attend and to bring your friends along.
9. CHINESE GENERAL COUNCIL MEN FELLOWSHIP RETREAT & AGM
Date: 18-20 September 2009 Venue: BCCM Sandakan
Speaker: Rev. Xu Guang Fu Registration Fees: RM70.00
Closing date for registration: 1 August 2009
For further details please contact: Bro. Chau Yen Chei, Bro. Tsen Tze Keong.
10. OBITUARY
Church member Bro. Liew Yee Tet was called home to be with the Lord on 10 July 2009.
His funeral service will be conducted on 13 July (Mon), 9:00am at our church. May God
comfort the family members.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
NOMINATION FOR ELECTION
by Rev. James Wong We will begin our nomination of candidates for election beginning this week till the 26 July of this month. We will then have the election of the new church council members for 2010-2011 from 2—23 August 2009. Here are some developments that I wish to share with all of you.
1. First election of English Church Council for BCCM Sdk (Eng).
This will be the first time in the history of our church to have the election of the English Church Council. Beginning next year, there will be two separate church councils; the English and Chinese Church Councils. This means, the two congregations will be autonomous in terms of administration, finance and ministries. However, between the two church councils, there will be a join-council to attend to matters that requires the cooperation of the two congregations so that the spirit of unity and cooperation is always preserved.
2. We have decided to have 20 elected members in the church
council. This is to enable more people to be involved in the church council level so that there is a continuation of leadership in the church. The younger ones are encouraged to take up the responsibility of caring for the affairs of the church rather than relinquishing the tasks to the willing few who are aging by the years. Our young people must rise up to build up the church
together. (See page 7 on the purpose of leadership).
3. We are looking for people who has the heart of a servant. In the early church (Acts 6:2-4) when the church grew the church was running a food program to take care of the members but the program was taking too much of the apostles’ time. So seven men were chosen to serve as deacons of the church. Today, deacons (we call them council members in our church) are those chosen and appointed by congregation of Christ to serve in, and be administrators of various works and ministries. The word ‘deacon’ comes from the Greek word “diakonos” which means servant. So, leadership in the church is always understood as servant leadership.
4. Qualification to be nominated as a candidate for election. According to Article 7 (No.53) of the constitution: (1) Must be a baptized member or at lest one year. (2) Holy Communicant members above 21 years old. (3) Must have good spiritual life, of good character and a dedicated Christians. (4) Will to serve. (5) Have management skill. (6) Not a bankrupt.
Do not reject to be nominated. We will spend July and August thinking about Christian Leadership. So, stay tuned.
THE LEADERSHIP OF MOSES
by Rev. James Wong
The Importance of Leadership
Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in
having many advisers. ~Proverbs 11:14 (NLT)
1. Identify with the needs of others.
Moses could remain in the palace. However, he went out of his way and got involve in the lives of the people.
“Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, …” ~Ex 2:11a (NLT)
2. Take a humble position
Moses was living in the tower of power in Pharaoh’s' palace. When he identify with the Jews, oppressed and downtrodden, he was humble at heart.
“Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” ~Num 12:3 (NIV)
“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” ~Matt 18:4 (NIV)
“But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.” ~Luke 22:26 (NIV)
3. Empathize with other
Moses observed the suffering of his people. He empathized with them.
“… and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews.” ~Ex 4:11b (NLT)
4. Take Action
He took action to correct the situation but paid dearly for his wrongs.
“After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand.” ~Ex 2:12 (NLT)
Exodus 2:11-14
11Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews. 12 After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. ~Ex 2:11-12 (NLT)
11Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews. 12 After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. ~Ex 2:11-12 (NLT)
The Importance of Leadership
Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in
having many advisers. ~Proverbs 11:14 (NLT)
1. Identify with the needs of others.
Moses could remain in the palace. However, he went out of his way and got involve in the lives of the people.
“Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, …” ~Ex 2:11a (NLT)
2. Take a humble position
Moses was living in the tower of power in Pharaoh’s' palace. When he identify with the Jews, oppressed and downtrodden, he was humble at heart.
“Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.” ~Num 12:3 (NIV)
“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” ~Matt 18:4 (NIV)
“But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.” ~Luke 22:26 (NIV)
3. Empathize with other
Moses observed the suffering of his people. He empathized with them.
“… and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews.” ~Ex 4:11b (NLT)
4. Take Action
He took action to correct the situation but paid dearly for his wrongs.
“After looking in all directions to make sure no one was watching, Moses killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand.” ~Ex 2:12 (NLT)
Be Yourself With God
by Rick Warren"When you pray, do not use a lot of meaningless words, as the pagans do, who think that their gods will hear them because their prayers are long. Do not be like them. Your Father already knows what you need before you ask Him" (Matthew 6:7-8 TEV).
God created you and so He wants you to be the real you. By being authentic when you speak to God, you worship Him as your Creator.For years I copied the prayers of other people. I noticed they used certain words and even a special tone of voice. I imitated all the religious clichés: "Lead, guide, and direct us, O Lord." "Bless this food to the nourishment of our bodies." "Bless the gift and the giver."
In New Testament times, prayers were wordy, meaningless rituals. There was no spontaneity, no genuineness. But Jesus says don't get caught up in ritual prayer. You don't have to use fancy language. You can't impress God with fancy language, and you shouldn't be trying to impress other people, either.
I love to hear new Christians pray; there's no pious pomposity. They haven't learned the clichés yet. They just say, "Hi, God. It's me." That's how you make contact with God. You just talk with your heavenly Father about what's on your mind. Just pray your heart. Reveal yourself.
Imagine I walked in the door one evening and my kids said: "O, almighty procreator of our family. How wonderful thou art, who sovereignly deposits our allowance to us. Oh, the majesty of thy wonderful self! We beseech thee to come eat dinner with us." I'd check their temperatures to see if they were sick! I don't want to hear that. I want them to say, "Hey! Dad's home. Good to see you, Pop!"
I'm not saying to be flippant in prayer, but that's how you make contact with God. You just talk with him in a genuine and heartfelt way.Jesus gives us a model we can use as we learn to make contact with God. In the next six devotionals, we'll look at six things we can talk to God about when we pray.
40 Days of Fast and Prayer: 22 July to 3 August 2009
The Purpose Of Leadership
By John MaxwellIn over thirty years of leadership, one lesson I learned very early on was that taking people to the top is more fulfilling to me personally than arriving alone. I wrote about this in my recent book of all-new material, Leadership Gold: Lessons I’ve Learned from a Lifetime of Leading. Here’s an excerpt to illustrate:
A few years ago I had the privilege of speaking on the same stage as Jim Whittaker, the first American to climb Mount Everest. During lunch I asked him what had given him the most fulfillment as a mountain climber. His answer surprised me.
“I have helped more people get to the top of Mount Everest than any other person,” he replied. “Taking people to the top who could never get there without my assistance is my greatest accomplishment.”
Evidently this is a common way of thinking for great mountain guides. Years ago I saw an interview with a guide on 60 Minutes. People had died while attempting to climb Mount Everest, and a surviving guide was asked, “Would the guides have died if they were not taking others with them to the top?”
“No,” he answered, “but the purpose of the guide is to take people to the top.”
Then the interviewer asked, “Why do mountain climbers risk their lives to climb mountains?”
The guide responded, “It is obvious that you have never been to the top of the mountain.”
I remember thinking to myself that mountain guides and leaders have a lot in common. There is a big difference between a boss and a leader. A boss says, “Go.” A leader says, “Let’s go.” The purpose of leadership is to take others to the top. And when you take others who might not make it otherwise to the top, there’s no other feeling like it in the world. To those who have never had the experience, you can’t explain it. To those who have, you don’t need to.
Jesus On Leadership …
“… Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant. … For I am among you as one who serves.” ~Luke 22:26-27 (NLT)
Church Concern
1. Words of Welcome
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and you can also bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter.
The followings are the dates for the nomination and election.
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. PHOTO TAKING FOR CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS
Today, after the church service, all the present church council members please gather at the bell tower outside our church to have your individual photo taken. We need your individual photo for the creation of the nomination notice.
5. POSTPONEMENT OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly church council meeting is postponed to 14 July (Tues.) at 7:45 pm.
6. YOUTH SUNDAY
Youth Sunday will be celebrated next Sunday. Rev. Yen Se Veg of BCCM Sing Kang will
be the speaker.
7. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATION
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
8. ELDERS SEMINAR
This seminar will be held at BCCM Inanam from 10-11 July. Elder Lo, Sis. Chong Li Yun and
Sis. Chong Su Fon will be attending this seminar. Please remember them in your prayer.
9. TANG LAN HUA CONCERT
Tang Lan Hua is a former actress. On 17 July (Fri), 7.30pm, she will be sharing some Christian songs and testimony at Good Shepherd Church. Admission is free. Brothers and sisters are welcome to attend and to bring your friends along.
10.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The church acknowledges with gratitude to the following for theirs gifts:
Thanksgiving Offering: Mr. & Mrs. Lai Tet Ming - RM200.00
Welcome to the house of God. It is our great pleasure to have you worshipping the Lord
together with us. May you find joy in worshipping God with us. We believe the Word of God will bring transformation to our lives for the better. We hope to see you again next Sunday.
2. SPRING OF SALEM CONCERT
Spring of Salem is a music group from Texas, USA. On 22 July (Wed), 7.30pm, they will be presenting a concert at BCCM Sandakan. They will be sharing with us Christian songs and music. All the songs will be sung in Mandarin. All brothers and sisters are invited to attend this concert and you can also bring your friends. Admission is free.
3. ELECTION OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR 2010-2011
We will need to elect 20 council members. Please pray for this important matter.
The followings are the dates for the nomination and election.
Nomination : 5- 26 July 2009
Election : 2-23 August 2009
4. PHOTO TAKING FOR CHURCH COUNCIL MEMBERS
Today, after the church service, all the present church council members please gather at the bell tower outside our church to have your individual photo taken. We need your individual photo for the creation of the nomination notice.
5. POSTPONEMENT OF CHURCH COUNCIL MEETING
The monthly church council meeting is postponed to 14 July (Tues.) at 7:45 pm.
6. YOUTH SUNDAY
Youth Sunday will be celebrated next Sunday. Rev. Yen Se Veg of BCCM Sing Kang will
be the speaker.
7. NEWS FROM OTHER CONGREGATION
(a) Kuching Mission Centre 3rd Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 26 July 2009(Sun) Time: 9:30am. Place: Kuching Mission Centre
Speaker: Rev. Chung Hee Min, Dean of Chinese General Council.
(b) BCCM Kolombong (C) 20th Anniversary Thanksgiving Worship Service:
Date: 2 August 2009(Sun) Time:3:00pm. Place: BCCM Kolombong
Brothers and sisters are invited to attend both occasions.
8. ELDERS SEMINAR
This seminar will be held at BCCM Inanam from 10-11 July. Elder Lo, Sis. Chong Li Yun and
Sis. Chong Su Fon will be attending this seminar. Please remember them in your prayer.
9. TANG LAN HUA CONCERT
Tang Lan Hua is a former actress. On 17 July (Fri), 7.30pm, she will be sharing some Christian songs and testimony at Good Shepherd Church. Admission is free. Brothers and sisters are welcome to attend and to bring your friends along.
10.ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The church acknowledges with gratitude to the following for theirs gifts:
Thanksgiving Offering: Mr. & Mrs. Lai Tet Ming - RM200.00
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