May Devotional Journal 2018 by Covenant EFC

MAY DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL 2018

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to themâ&#x20AC;Ś ACTS 6:2-3 (NIV)

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MAY DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL 2018

So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them… ACTS 6:2-3 (NIV)

Also available at www.cefc.org.sg and “Covenant EFC” mobile app.

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MEMORY VERSES 2018 JANUARY But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. ACTS 1:8 (NIV)

FEBRUARY They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. ACTS 2:42 (NIV)

MARCH Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. ACTS 2:46-47 (NIV)

APRIL Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. ACTS 4:12 (NIV)

M AY

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JUNE While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. ACTS 13:2-3 (NIV)

J U LY They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household.” ACTS 16:31 (NIV)

AUGUST Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. ACTS 17:11 (NIV)

SEPTEMBER One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” ACTS 18:9-10 (NIV)

OCTOBER Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which He bought with His own blood. ACTS 20:28 (NIV)

NOVEMBER “Now I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.” ACTS 20:32 (NIV)

DECEMBER He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ − with all boldness and without hindrance! ACTS 28:31 (NIV)

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FOREWORD BY S E N I O R PA S TO R S

As we lead Covenant EFC towards Vision 2028 and our 50th Jubilee Anniversary, God has given us Acts 20:28 as our spiritual anchor:

“PAY CAREFUL ATTENTION

to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” As church leaders and members, we are to pay careful attention to our hearts’ condition and to our triune God. At last year’s Listening Retreat, God impressed a spiritual burden upon us for 2018: WE ARE CHURCH: PRAY AND REPENT! We are CHURCH We believe God has called us to be One Church with Multiple Centres and pursue the A.D.I.D. of A Certain Kind within each local centre through small groups. We will enhance the small group strategy so that we can make disciples who make disciples. This year, we were led to preach on the book of Acts, as we rediscover what the Church is all about. We Are Church: PRAY! I (Rev Tan Kay Kiong) received a distinct picture of Moses praying in the mountain with his hands supported by Aaron and Hur. As I read the account in Exodus 17, the burden was clear:

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“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which He obtained with His own blood.”

ACTS 20:28

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1. We Are Under Attack (Exo 17:8) Many of us are living defeated lives stained by sin and the affairs of this world. The devil has launched his arsenal of attacks against every possible area of our lives. 2. We Must Fight with the Weapons of God (Exo 17:9b) The staff in Moses’ hand was the staff of God. Formerly used to goad sheep, this once ordinary staff became God’s weapon to fight spiritual battles. We must put on God’s spiritual armour so that we can stand against the devil’s schemes. 3. We Must Fight with the Weapons of God and Hold Up Our Hands (Exo 17:11a) Joshua and his troops were fighting with all their might against the enemies, but the secret to their victory was Moses’ hands raised to God in desperate intercession. Aaron and Hur helped Moses keep his hands up. We must hold up our hands in intercession for spiritual victory in our lives. We Are Church: Pray and REPENT! There is no true prayer without REPENTANCE. “Bring forth fruits in keeping with repentance.” − Luke 3:8. God spoke to me (Rev Tony Yeo) through the book of Joel: 1. Repent humbly – put on sackcloth, wail before the altar, declare a holy fast and call a sacred assembly (Joel 1:13-14). 2. Repent wholeheartedly – rend your heart and not your garments (Joel 2:12-13). Return to God with all our hearts for He is gracious and compassionate! 3. Repent urgently – in the light of the day of the Lord and His coming judgement (Joel 3:3-14). We believe that God will speak to each of you personally as you spend daily devotional time with the Lord in His Word and in prayer. This Devotional Journal (DJ) has been designed to help you in this. We pray and trust that God will greatly bless you as you use this DJ daily, and His Spirit will guide and direct your prayers such that God will be pleased to answer them and display His glory in you and in our church for the advance of His Kingdom in Singapore and beyond. In Christ, Rev Tony Yeo and Rev Tan Kay Kiong

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GUIDE TO USING THIS

DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL

Prepare your heart in God’s presence

■ Select a fixed time (preferably in the morning before you begin your day) and a quiet place where you can be alone and undisturbed. ■ Observe a moment of silence as you acknowledge God’s presence. Centre down. ■ Begin with a song of worship. Meditate on the lyrics even if you are unfamiliar with the tune. (Refer to the list of worship songs provided.) ■ Ask God to open your heart to hear Him.

SOMETHING TO PONDER... Examining your life is essential in your faith journey. Your redeemed life as a disciple of Christ deserves careful examining. May you take root and bear fruit in Him!

The English Standard Version (ESV) is the default Bible version translation unless otherwise specified.

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Allow God to S.O.A.P. you

with His Word and Spirit

■ Scripture – Take your time to meditate on the Scripture passage for the day. Pause and mull over words and phrases that stand out to you. ■ Observation – Jot down significant insights and reflections from the passage you have read. You may use the guiding questions provided. The “Deeper Reflection” section is to aid your contemplation of the Scripture. It is not to replace your own observation, for the Holy Spirit illuminates the Scripture to you as you seek Him earnestly. ■ Application – Note down a specific and practical commitment to God’s Word for you. Is there a command to obey, a sin to avoid, an example to follow, or a principle to live out? Where appropriate, share your devotional entry with someone. ■ Prayer – Bring your heartfelt response to God in prayer.

P R AY E R P O I N T E R S F O R 2 0 1 8 Prayer pointers for Pastors and Staff are included every Tuesday. On each Friday, there is a prayer pointer for Lay Leaders (e.g. Zone Mentors, CG Leaders, Assistant CG Leaders and Ministry Leaders). A prayer pointer for Church Board Members is included every Saturday. Please pray for each group as well as any specific individuals whom God may bring to your mind.

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M AY – J U N E

WORSHIP SONGS THE LION AND THE LAMB Verse 1 He’s coming on the clouds Kings and kingdoms will bow down And every chain will break As broken hearts declare His praise For who can stop the Lord Almighty? Chorus Our God is the Lion The Lion of Judah He’s roaring with power And fighting our battles And every knee will bow before Him Our God is the Lamb The Lamb that was slain For the sins of the world His blood breaks the chains And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb Every knee will bow before Him Verse 2 So open up the gates Make way before the King of kings The God who comes to save Is here to set the captives free For who can stop the Lord Almighty? Bridge Who can stop the Lord Almighty? Who can stop the Lord Almighty? Brenton Brown | Brian Johnson | Leeland Mooring © 2015 Meaux Mercy (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Thankyou Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) The Devil Is A Liar! Publishing (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Bethel Music Publishing (Admin. by SHOUT! Music Publishing) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7038281 CCLI License # 324618

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FACING A TASK UNFINISHED (WE GO TO ALL THE WORLD) Verse 1 Facing a task unfinished That drives us to our knees A need that, undiminished Rebukes our slothful ease We, who rejoice to know Thee Renew before Thy throne The solemn pledge we owe Thee To go and make Thee known Verse 2 Where other lords beside Thee Hold their unhindered sway Where forces that defied Thee Defy Thee still today With none to heed their crying For life and love and light Unnumbered souls are dying And pass into the night Chorus We go to all the world With (His) kingdom hope unfurled No other name has power to save But Jesus Christ The Lord Verse 3 We bear the torch that flaming Fell from the hands of those Who gave their lives proclaiming That Jesus died and rose Ours is the same commission The same glad message ours Fired by the same ambition To Thee we yield our powers

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Verse 4 O Father who sustained them O Spirit who inspired Saviour, whose love constrained them To toil with zeal untired From cowardice defend us From lethargy awake! Forth on Thine errands send us To labour for Thy sake Ed Cash | Fionán De Barra | Frank Houghton | Keith Getty | Kristyn Getty | Samuel Wesley © 2015 Alletrop Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) De Barra, Fionan (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) OMF International (UK) (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Getty Music Publishing (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7002026 CCLI License # 324618

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THIS KINGDOM Verse 1 Jesus God’s righteousness revealed The Son of Man The Son of God His kingdom comes Jesus Redemption’s sacrifice Now glorified Now justified His kingdom comes Chorus And this kingdom will know no end And its glory shall know no bounds For the majesty and power Of this kingdom’s King has come And this kingdom’s reign And this kingdom’s rule And this kingdom’s power and authority Jesus God’s righteousness revealed Verse 2 Jesus The expression of God’s love The grace of God The Word of God Revealed to us Jesus God’s holiness displayed Now glorified Now justified His kingdom comes © 1995 Geoff Bullock Music For use solely with the SongSelect. Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 1650898 CCLI License # 324618

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HALLELUJAH TO THE LAMB Verse 1 Lord, I stand in the midst of a multitude Of those from every tribe and tongue We are Your people, redeemed by Your blood Rescued from death by Your love There are no words Good enough to thank You There are no words to express my praise But I will lift up my voice And sing from my heart With all of my strength Chorus Hallelujah hallelujah hallelujah To the Lamb Hallelujah hallelujah By the blood of Christ we stand Every tongue, every tribe Every people, every land Giving glory, giving honour Giving praise unto the Lamb of God Verse 2 Lord, we stand by grace in Your presence Cleansed by the blood of the Lamb We are Your children, called by Your name Humbly we bow and we pray Release Your power To work in us and through us Till we are changed To be more like You Then all the nations will see Your glory revealed And worship You

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Bridge Every knee shall bow Every tongue confess That You are Lord of all Ending Giving praise unto the Lamb of God Giving praise unto the Lamb of God Jesus Christ, Lamb of God! Debbye Graafsma | Don Moen © 1997 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 2316323 CCLI License # 324618

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WHEN I SURVEY THE WONDROUS CROSS Verse 1 When I survey the wonderous cross On which the Prince of Glory died My richest gain I count but loss And pour contempt on all my pride Verse 2 Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast Save in the death of Christ my God! All the vain things that charm me most I sacrifice them to His blood Verse 3 See from His head, His hands, His feet Sorrow and love flow mingled down! Did e’er such love and sorrow meet Or thorns compose so rich a crown? Verse 4 Were the whole realm of nature mine That were a present far too small Love so amazing, so divine Demands my soul, my life, my all Isaac Watts | Michael James © 1986 Word Music, LLC (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 2922236 CCLI License # 324618

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O PRAISE THE NAME (ANÁSTASIS) Verse 1 I cast my mind to Calvary Where Jesus bled and died for me I see His wounds, His hands, His feet My Saviour on that cursed tree Verse 2 His body bound and drenched in tears They laid Him down in Joseph’s tomb The entrance sealed by heavy stone Messiah still and all alone Chorus O praise the Name of the Lord our God O praise His Name forevermore For endless days we will sing Your praise Oh Lord, oh Lord our God Verse 3 Then on the third at break of dawn The Son of heaven rose again O trampled death, where is your sting? The angels roar for Christ the King Verse 4 He shall return in robes of white The blazing sun shall pierce the night And I will rise among the saints My gaze transfixed on Jesus’ face Benjamin Hastings | Dean Ussher | Marty Sampson © 2015 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7037787 CCLI License # 324618

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SPIRIT TOUCH YOUR CHURCH Verse 1 Lord, we need Your grace and mercy We need to pray like never before We need the power of Your Holy Spirit To open heaven’s door Chorus Spirit, touch Your church Stir the hearts of men Revive us, Lord With Your passion once again I want to care for others Like Jesus cares for me Let Your rain fall upon me Let Your rain fall upon me Verse 2 Lord, we humbly come before You We don’t deserve of You what we ask But we yearn to see Your glory Restore this dying land Ending Let Your rain fall upon me Kim Bollinger © 1990 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 451861 CCLI License # 324618

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IN THE PRESENCE Verse 1 In the presence of a holy God I bow down and I adore You reveal the secrets of my heart And I am shaken to the core In the presence of a holy God There’s new meaning now to grace You took all my sins upon Yourself I can only stand amazed Chorus And I cry holy, holy, holy God How awesome is Your name Holy, holy, holy God How majestic is Your reign And I am changed In the presence of a holy God Verse 2 In the presence of Your infinite might I’m so small and frail and weak When I see Your power and wisdom, Lord I have no words left to speak Verse 3 In the presence of Your glory All my crowns lie in the dust You are righteous in Your judgments, Lord You are faithful, true, and just Mark Altrogge © 1989 Integrity’s Praise! Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Sovereign Grace Praise (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 29688 CCLI License # 324618

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COME AS YOU ARE Verse 1 Come out of sadness from wherever you’ve been Come, broken-hearted let rescue begin Come find your mercy, O sinner, come kneel Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can’t heal Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can’t heal Chorus (So) Lay down your burdens Lay down your shame All who are broken Lift up your face O wanderer, come home You’re not too far So lay down your hurt Lay down your heart Come as you are Verse 2 There’s hope for the hopeless And all those who’ve strayed Come sit at the table Come taste the grace There’s rest for the weary Rest that endures Earth has no sorrow That Heaven can’t cure Bridge Come as you are Fall in His arms Come as you are

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Verse 3 There’s joy for the morning O sinner, be still Earth has no sorrow That Heaven can’t heal Earth has no sorrow That Heaven can’t heal Ending Come as you are Come as you are Come as you are Ben Glover | David Crowder | Matt Maher © 2014 9t One Songs (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Ariose Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); sixsteps Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Sony/ATV Tree Publishing (Admin. by Sony/ATV Music Publishing) CCLI Song # 7017790 CCLI License # 324618

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01 TUESDAY

MAY

The Wisdom of God’s Way (1)

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:1-14; John 7:15

O BSERVATION What did Peter and John have in common with Jesus (v.13; Jn 7:15)?

Deeper Reflection THE ENCOUNTER OF PETER AND JOHN with the Jewish religious authorities (vv.1-14) demonstrates God’s wisdom in His way of doing things. “Inferiority” of the Lord: The “uneducated and untrained” disciples (v.13) were vastly inferior socially and intellectually – from the human and worldly viewpoint – to the “rulers and elders and scribes” and “all who were of high-priestly descent” (vv.5-6). The disciples were neither priests trained to use the law in the ritual duties in the temple, nor wealthy aristocrats who enjoyed the privileges of primary and secondary education, nor law experts schooled in interpreting the Torah in all its minute details.1 They were just like their Master, who astonished the Jews: “How has this man become learned, having never been educated?” (Jn 7:15). Now, this does not mean that there is no place for formal theological education or that God is anti-intellectual. Paul, the finest apostle, was so learned that his letters “contain some things that are hard to understand” (2 Pet 3:15-16, NIV). “Knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness” (Tit 1:1, NIV) is vitally necessary. Be hungry to know. Yet, one who knows “has not yet known as he ought to know” (1 Cor 8:2). Be humble in knowing.

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A PPLICATION

What changes do I need to make in my perspective and attitude towards learning to acquire knowledge of the truth?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To be disciplined in devotion to studying the Scriptures

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Eckhard J. Schnabel, Acts, Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Zondervan, 2012), 243

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WEDNESDAY

MAY

The Wisdom of God’s Way (2)

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:1-14; Luke 21:15

O BSERVATION What do the religious leaders’ observation of Peter and John (v.13) and their response to them (v.14) tell us about the significance of the apostles “having been with Jesus”?

Deeper Reflection GOD’S WISDOM in His way of doing things is manifested in the irony from the Lord. The Jewish religious leaders “observed” the disciples’ “confidence” (v.13a) shown through the miracle and their message (vv.8-12) and they “had nothing to say in opposition” (v.14b, ESV). Here’s the irony. The inferior had the upper hand over the superior. The Greek infinitive “to say in opposition” or “to contradict” occurs twice in Luke-Acts as promise and fulfilment. Jesus’ promise of giving His disciples “utterance and wisdom which none of their adversaries” could withstand or “contradict” (Lk 21:15) was fulfilled here. The source of the irony is the disciples’ intimacy with the Lord: They “recognised them as having been with Jesus” (v.13b). Jesus calls us first “to be with Him”, in which He sends us out in mission (Mk 3:14-15; cf. 1 Cor 1:9). A.W. Tozer “educated himself by years of diligent study and a constant prayerful seeking of the mind of God…and became a theologian, a scholar and a master craftsman in the use of the English language”2. He read through the works of Shakespeare “on his knees”, asking God for understanding, and “this procedure was typical of his method of self-education”3.

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A PPLICATION

How do I show the vital importance of “having been with Jesus” in my life?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

O Christ, tirelessly You seek out those who are looking for You and who think that

■ Give thanks:

You are far away; teach us, at every moment, to place our spirit in Your hands. While we are still looking for You,

■ Pray for leaders:

already You have found us. However poor our prayer, You hear us far more than we can imagine or believe.4

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

2 3 4

A. W. Tozer, The Pursuit of God (Christian Publications, 1982), 6 A. W. Tozer, 6 Angela Ashwin, The Book of a Thousand Prayers (Zondervan, 1996, 2002), 22 – this is a prayer of Brother Roger of Taize

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03 THURSDAY

MAY

Dynamics in Evangelism and Conversion

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:8-18

O BSERVATION What observations can you make about the religious leaders’ response to truth (vv.13-18)?

Deeper Reflection GOD WAS SPEAKING POWERFULLY to the Jewish religious authorities through Peter in the sudden and total healing of the cripple and the preaching of the Word (vv.8-12; Acts 3:1-10). The miracle was irrefutable evidence of divine work, even as these leaders themselves acknowledged: “the fact that a noteworthy miracle has taken place…is apparent to all…and we cannot deny it” (v.16). Yet they responded with a hardened heart. Instead of believing in the name of Jesus by which the cripple was healed (v.10) and by which they must be saved (v.12), they commanded and warned the apostles “not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus” (vv.17-18). This “rejection of Jesus is not rational but is reflective of a refusal to see what God has done”5. The divine-human dynamics in evangelism and conversion are complex. God speaking powerfully, even with signs and wonders, does not guarantee positive responses. God “wants all people to be saved” (1 Tim 2:4, NIV) and it is God who saves (Jn 6:44), and yet the reality is that not all will be saved. But still, we must witness faithfully and pray fervently for the unsaved’s salvation (Rom 10:1), not knowing how God sees their hearts (Jn 2:23-25).

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A PPLICATION

How do I look at evangelism and conversion in the light of its complex divine-human dynamics?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Darrell L. Bock, Acts, Baker Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament (Baker, 2007), 184

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04 FRIDAY

MAY

We Cannot Stop Speaking

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:15-20; Romans 13:1-7

O BSERVATION How do you understand obeying and disobeying authorities when comparing verses 19 to 20 with Romans 13:1-7?

Deeper Reflection WHEN THE APOSTLES were ordered “to speak no longer to anyone” in Jesus’ name (vv.17-18), they stated their refusal to obey emphatically: It was not right before God to obey the order (v.19) and “we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (v. 20). This must be understood in their context. The authorities they disobeyed were Jewish and religious leaders who believed in the same God as them. In our Singapore context, we must keep in mind God’s command to be subject to government authorities (Rom 13:1-7) and the government-sponsored Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles (IRCCs). The dictum “We cannot stop speaking” must be true of us as witnesses of Jesus (Acts 1:8). However, the dictum “We cannot stop speaking” does not include “You cannot stop hearing”. The dictum “We cannot stop speaking” must be practised wisely, with sensitivity and respect for the hearers. A relative of mine was turned off by being made to hear the Gospel daily as captive audience during her vocational attachment to a Christian organisation. Having said all this, the dictum “We cannot stop speaking” does not exclude “suffering for the Gospel according to the power of God” (2 Tim 1:8), “even to imprisonment as a criminal” (2 Tim 2:9).

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A PPLICATION

How would I put into practice the spiritual posture of “We cannot stop speaking” in my life?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for lay leaders: To have boldness and wisdom in being a witness of Jesus

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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05 SATURDAY

MAY

Prayer, the First Reaction

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:21-31

O BSERVATION What does the prayer of the church tell us about their character when they had just experienced persecution (vv.21-31)?

Deeper Reflection PETER AND JOHN reported to the church the Jewish leaders’ ban on speaking in Jesus’ name and their threats, which presented an impending danger (vv.21, 23). The church’s first reaction was prayer (v.24a), “not a strategy discussion”6. Prayer is dependence on God the Sovereign Creator (v.24b) when things are not in our control. The early church was preoccupied with “who” works, rather than “what” works. It is noteworthy that they did not pray for the threats to be revoked, to prove harmless, or to be spared opposition, suffering or execution. Instead, they prayed in obedience to God – because they saw themselves as God’s “bond-servants” (v.29). They made only two requests centering on one thing: “speak Your Word” (v.29). They asked God to behold the threats of the opposition (v.29a) and to empower and enable them to be bold in preaching the Gospel (v.29b). Their praying was filled with the presence of God. Their prayer was filled with Scripture, anchored in Scripture and directed by Scripture (vv.24-28). Their praying resulted in “all” being mightily “filled with the Holy Spirit” (v.31a). God was answering – immediately – their praying in obedience: “to speak the word of God with boldness” (v.31b).

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A PPLICATION

What changes do I need to make in my understanding and practise of prayer?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for church board: To strengthen their prayer life ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 263

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06 SUNDAY

Sunday Journal

MAY

S CRIPTURE

O BSERVATION

A PPLICATION

P RAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL WEEK 1 MAY 2018

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO TRUST YOU? * When you’re not truthful, you lose trust. Scripture: 2 Kings 5; Proverbs 10:9 ACTIVITY BITE Play a game with your family called “Do as I say”. Have one person give instructions such as “Touch your nose” while touching a different part of his or her head, such as the ear. The others must do what the person says, instead of following what he or she does, as quickly as possible. CHAT TIME Q1: How do you feel about friends who don’t do what they say or promise? Q2: Why is it important for people to trust you? Q3: What do you think God is saying in Proverbs 10:9? LEARNING POINT When you aren’t honest, it hurts your relationship with others as well as with God. People will have a hard time trusting you again. Everyone wants to trust their friends and believe what they say. God wants us to have good relationships with the people around us. He wants us to be able to trust each other. However, being untruthful breaks that trust. Honesty is choosing to be truthful in whatever you say and do. It isn’t always easy, but we can ask God to help us. When you’re tempted to tell a lie or be dishonest with someone, remember how it will affect your relationship with everyone including God. ACTION POINT Ask your parents if there were times when you were dishonest. Let them advise you on being truthful always so that people can trust you. FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Pray for each other, that God will help us to be truthful always so that trust can be built among us. * Adapted from 252Basics, May 2018. www.ThinkOrange.com

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MOTHER’S DAY WEEK 7- 1 2 M AY 2 0 1 8

Since we are celebrating Mothers’ Day on 13 May, this week’s devotions contain a special focus on mums, under the subheading “A Note to Mothers”. However, the Deeper Reflection section and questions under Observation and Application are applicable to everyone, both single and married, men and women.

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The focus of the week is on the lives of Ruth and Naomi and how their faith journeys matured as they faced challenges in their lives. The six devotions are as follows:

• The GRIEF of a Mother (Ru 1:1-7, 20-21; Psa 42) • The FAITH of a Woman (Ru 1:6-7; Psa 126) • The GENEROSITY of a Mother-in-Law (Ru 1:8-13; 3:1) • The LOVE of a Daughter (Ru 1:14-19) • The Unexpected RESTORATION of Motherhood (Ru 1:11-12; 4:14-17) • The Larger PURPOSES of Father God (Ru 1:16; 4:13-22) This focus on the book of Ruth is to encourage women in their roles as daughters or mothers, or both. The book also serves as a strong reminder of how we are to trust in the purposes of God in our individual faith journeys.

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07 MONDAY

MAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

The GRIEF of a Mother

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:1-7, 20-21; Psalm 42

O BSERVATION What was Naomi’s response to the tragedy of loss in her life?

Deeper Reflection NAOMI’S FAMILY moved to Moab to escape famine, but Naomi could not escape from the problems in her life as she faced sequential loss of her husband first, and after 10 years, her sons as well. Because of her losses, as a childless widow, she was left among the lowest and most disadvantaged groups in that time. There was no chance of financial security and she and her daughters-in-law were dependent on the generosity of strangers. It was not surprising that Naomi’s return to Judah was tainted with bitterness (vv.20-21). Psalm 42 is also a psalm of grieving. The Psalmist described his soul as being “cast down” and “in turmoil” (Psa 42:5). It is as though God had forgotten him (Psa 42:9). Yet amid waves of grief, the Psalmist was able to anchor on God’s steadfast love in the midst of lament (Psa 42:8). Out of that confidence in God’s love was birthed a hope in the Lord and a conviction that praise would return to the Psalmist’s life (Psa 42:11). A Note to Mothers Grief is not alien to mothers as our children may experience loss of health, opportunities or relationships in their lives. Our anchor in the midst of the storms of life is Psalm 42:8 − that God commands His steadfast love over us through every season of our lives.

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A PPLICATION

On which occasion(s) have I seen God’s love shining through despite adverse circumstances? Give thanks to God for His unfailing love.

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Dear Father, one of the things we fear most in our lives is loss. Remind me that

■ Give thanks:

You love me with a steadfast love and You will be with me in every circumstance. Help me not to be bitter from

■ Pray for leaders:

loss, but to trust in Your perfect will and love for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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08 TUESDAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

MAY

The FAITH of a Woman

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:6-7; Psalm 126

O BSERVATION Despite her losses, Naomi wanted to pick up the pieces of her life. Why do you think she chose to return to Judah?

Deeper Reflection ON THE SURFACE, the situation in Israel certainly looked better than that in Moab. It was practical to go where there were more opportunities and a greater availability of food. Yet many of us hear of good things that God is doing in the lives of others and wish we could have the same, but yet will not act on our desires. Naomi was decisive in returning to the Lord’s land and people, and ultimately took her reference from God. Psalm 126 reminds us that we all dream for a restoration of our fortunes. The Lord promises that despite the difficulties of life, we can be confident that “those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy” (Psa 126:5). We can trust that God can and will do great things for us. A Note to Mothers As mothers we must take our reference from God. He is in control and we can trust that He will provide for all our families’ needs. The motherhood journey is a faith journey where we return to God and depend fully on Him.

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A PPLICATION

On which occasion(s) have I tried to seize better opportunities but things didn’t turn out as I expected? Cease striving (Psa 46:10) and look to God for the next step.

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To always take their reference from God and to depend on God for all they need

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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WEDNESDAY

MAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

The GENEROSITY of a Mother-in-law

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:8-13; 3:1

O BSERVATION In what way was Naomi trying to provide for her daughters-in-law?

Deeper Reflection NAOMI HAD EVERY RIGHT to expect her daughters-in-law to look after her for the rest of her life. Yet her words showed her desire for the best for her daughters-in-law and she was generous in releasing them from having to care for her and allowing them to renew ties with their families of origin. She even gave them her blessings to be remarried. She desired for her daughters-in-law not to be anxious for their future, but to “find rest” in the security of new marriages (v.9, Ru 3:1). Naomi was also a grateful woman and remembered her daughters-in-law’s sacrifices for her even though they, like Naomi, had experienced loss and grief in their own lives. She blessed them with the prayer “May the Lord deal kindly with you as you have dealt with the dead and me”. An attitude of gratitude can help build strong relationships between family members and friends. A Note to Mothers Naomi’s actions remind us not to take our loved ones for granted. This applies not only to our mothers-in-law, but also our husbands, our children and others who have been caring for us. Loving others well can mean releasing them to do what God is calling them to do.

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A PPLICATION

God chose your family specifically for you. Give thanks to God for the blessings of relationships, pray for your family members and ask God to help you love them.

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Dear Lord Jesus, the way You loved others reminds me that I am also to show

■ Give thanks:

love to the people around me. Help me to care for those whom you have brought into my sphere of

■ Pray for leaders:

influence and to honour them for what they have done for me. In Your name. Amen.

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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THURSDAY

MAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

The LOVE of a Daughter

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:14-19

O BSERVATION To what extent did Ruth display her loyalty to Naomi?

Deeper Reflection AT THE POINT when Naomi released Ruth from her familial obligations, Ruth would have been justified in leaving to seek a more stable future. As a defenseless widow, remarriage would ensure her protection and future and it would have been be easier without a mother-in-law in tow. Yet, the text described that Ruth clung to Naomi. The word “clung” in Hebrew (dabaq) literally means “to stick to” but is used figuratively to describe relationships in general.7 It was also used in Genesis 2:24 to describe how a man is meant to cling to his wife, signifying the closeness of such relationships. Thus, this was not a decision made merely out of obligation, but out of love, intimacy and closeness of the relationship. The love of this daughter-in-law was even more remarkable when you consider that Naomi and Ruth were not blood relations and Ruth was a foreigner, and thus not viewed as part of Yahweh’s covenant people. Ruth’s loyalty was not just an emotional commitment, but extends to practical day-to-day living (“where you lodge”) and will be broken only by death. Even more meaningful is Ruth’s willingness to worship as one with Naomi. Thus, familial love is not just an emotional bond, but includes a steadfast loyalty that translates into practical acts of responsibility. A Note to Mothers Oftentimes, love is celebrated as an emotional connectedness, while duty and responsibility are undervalued. Yet, relationships encompass both the emotional and volitional – the heart and the will. Thus, building relationships with our parents also necessarily includes honouring them through practical acts of familial duty.

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A PPLICATION What is one practical step by which I can demonstrate my love to the parental figures in my life?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

G Wallis, Gillûlîm - Haras, Theological dictionary of the Old Testament edited by G. Johannes Botterweck and Helmer Ringgren; translated by John T. Willis; 03 (Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans, 1997), 81.

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11 FRIDAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

MAY

The Unexpected RESTORATION of Motherhood

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:11-12; 4:14-17

O BSERVATION What is the significance of including the unexpected description of Naomi taking the child to nurse (Ru 4:16)?

Deeper Reflection THE RESOLUTION of the story of Naomi and Ruth took an unexpected turn after the birth of Ruth’s son. Firstly, Obed was named as Naomi’s son. It was also surprising that it was Naomi and not Ruth that was described in the affectionate account of the son being on her lap and being nursed. On the basis of Naomi’s age, this role of mothering would be more akin to that of day-to-day care of the child.8 In view of Naomi’s declaration of no more possibilities of sons in verses 11 to 12, the scene here was particularly poignant. Legally, Boaz in redeeming Ruth, had already designated this son to be an heir of Elimelech (4:3, 5, 10). Thus, the child had legal status as Naomi’s son. Yet, the affecting portrait of Naomi as a mother is, firstly, a picture of Ruth’s generosity and love towards Naomi to allow her the privilege of caring for Obed, but more significantly, a picture of God’s restoration in unexpected ways. Naomi’s dream of motherhood had crumbled with the death of her sons. Yet, God unexpectedly restored this dream not only with a legal heir, but also the opportunity again to love and cherish a child who is not her own, but just like her own. A Note to Mothers The journey of a mother can often involve twists and turns, pain and grief. There may be many circumstances that are not within our control. But in God’s sovereignty, He can also work unexpected restoration through unanticipated ways.

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A PPLICATION

In what area(s) of my family life do I need to seek God’s restoration and surrender to His sovereignty?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for lay leaders: To experience God’s restoration in their families

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Robert L Hubbard Jr, The Book of Ruth, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament, (Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans, 1988), 266.

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SATURDAY

MAY

M O T H E R ’ S D AY W E E K

The Larger PURPOSES of Father God

S CRIPTURE

Ruth 1:16; 4:13-22

O BSERVATION How does the genealogy of David at the end of this book impact our understanding of the larger purposes of God?

Deeper Reflection WHEN COMPARED TO OTHER LISTS (1 Chron 2), the genealogy suggests the omission of several intervening ancestors, thus suggesting that the author tailored it to fit into a typical 10-member ancient royal list.9 Significantly, this points towards David’s kingly rule. In the book of Ruth, while God is not portrayed as directly intervening in the narrative, yet the inclusion of the royal genealogy tells us that God’s purposes are still at work behind the scenes. In alluding to the future fulfilment of the royal line, the actions of Naomi and Ruth are injected with great significance. At first sight, Ruth’s righteousness and loyalty to Naomi and Naomi’s generosity and love towards her daughters-in-law may have seemed somewhat inconsequential. However, the son who was born as a result of the faithfulness of both humanity and God took on cosmic significance as the beginning of God’s redemptive history through the rule of David.10 A Note to Mothers Ruth and Naomi themselves could never have foreseen the impact of their actions on the history of the world. Our faithfulness and righteousness in our relationships may seem mundane to us, but in the hands of God our heavenly Father, they can be wonderfully redemptive and redefined with eternal significance.

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A PPLICATION

In which relationships has God called me to persevere in faithfulness and righteousness despite the challenges?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for church board: To be faithful in the small things ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

9 10

Robert L Hubbard Jr, The Book of Ruth, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament, (Grand Rapids, Mich: Eerdmans, 1988), 280. Frederic Bush, Ruth/Esther, World Biblical Commentary, (Waco, Texas: Word Books Publisher, 1996), 268

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13 SUNDAY

Sunday Journal

MAY

S CRIPTURE

O BSERVATION

A PPLICATION

P RAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL WEEK 2 MAY 2018

HAV E YOU SEEN A LI E H U RT SOM EON E ? * When you’re not truthful, you hurt others. Scripture: Genesis 27; Psalm 15:1-3 ACTIVITY BITE List down the names of people whom you think have been untruthful to you. Share with your family what they did and how their actions affected you. CHAT TIME Q1: If you were untruthful to the people on your list, how do you think it would affect them? Q2: What are the benefits of being truthful all the time? Q3: Psalm 15:1-3 says that those who do what is right will live in God’s presence. How will being untruthful affect your relationship with God? LEARNING POINT Just like how one little tap can make a domino line fall, one single “little” lie can hurt a lot of people. Oftentimes, we don’t tell the truth because we just want to fix a problem or get out of trouble. But when our friends and family feel like they can’t trust us, that hurts them. It’s sad not to be able to trust the people you love. Thinking about the people you could hurt or the way your relationship may change is a good way of helping us be honest when we’re tempted to lie. God never lies and those who follow Him must live in the same manner. Always remember the consequences of dishonesty – when you’re not truthful, you hurt others. ACTION POINT Read Psalm 15:2 to each other. Make it personal by saying, “I will walk blamelessly. I will do what is righteous. I will speak the truth from my heart.” Repeat this to each other over the next few days and be committed to living out your pledge daily. FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Pray that everyone will be committed to living a truthful life and that God will help us forgive those who have hurt us due to their untruthfulness. * Adapted from 252Basics, May 2018. www.ThinkOrange.com

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14 MONDAY

MAY

The Crown, the Cross

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:23-28; Psalm 2

O BSERVATION How did the apostles understand Psalm 2:1-6 according to verses 25 to 28?

Deeper Reflection THE EARLY CHURCH turning to prayer as their initial reaction to their first persecution (vv.23-24) was anchored in Psalm 2 with a Christological fulfilment (vv.25-28). Psalm 2 is a kingship psalm with the Davidic covenant as the theological background. God promised David that his kingdom would endure forever (2 Sam 7:16). Psalm 2 was used to accompany the inauguration of the divinely appointed Davidic heir to the Davidic throne during the Davidic monarchy period (1 Kin and 2 Kin).11 In Psalm 2, the Lord sitting in heaven “laughs” and “scoffs” in His anger and fury at the kings of the earth for their futile rebellion “against the Lord and against His Anointed” (Psa 2:1-5). Psalm 2 is about the omnipotent triumphant divine crown, but of itself it is incomplete. For it is to be completed by the divine cross. Jesus is the ultimate heir to the Davidic throne and “His kingdom will have no end” (Lk 1:32-33). But before this King “scoffs”, He suffered the “against His Anointed (Messiah)” from “Herod and Pontius Pilate” who crucified Him (v.27, with Psa 2:2). God’s way to the crown and of the crown is the cross. This is God. “It is in the crucifixion that the nature of God is truly revealed.”12

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A PPLICATION

What does it mean to me that Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way to the crown and of the crown is the cross?

But this is Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way to rule the world. O that I determine to know nothing except Jesus Christ, even Him

vin

Romans, the most powerful rulers!

nee d

by being crucified on a cross by the

the power of the sword, but You rule

Tho se in

Leaders

O King of kings, the world rules by

Significant people

P RAYER

crucified, and to live by the Word of the cross and the power of the cross!13 Amen.

11 12 13

Tremper Longman III, Psalms, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries (IVP Academic, 2014), 59 Fleming Rutledge, The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ (Eerdmans, 2015), 44 1 Corinthians 1:18; 2:2

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15 TUESDAY

MAY

Marks of Authentic Faith (1)

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:32-37

O BSERVATION What happened to the church (v.32) when it was being persecuted (Acts 4:1-31)?

Deeper Reflection WE SEE two cause-effect theological movements in Acts 2 to 4: The power of the Spirit (Acts 2:1-41) created community oneness (Acts 2:42-47) and the suffering of persecution (Acts 4:1-31) consolidated community oneness (vv.32-37).14 This faith community – “the congregation of those who believed” (v.32a) – showed four marks of authentic faith. The Spirit-filled community was “of one heart and soul” (v.32a) in both the vertical and horizontal relationships. The collocation of “heart and soul” occurred frequently in the Old Testament to describe complete devotion to God – at and from the vital centre of our being in thought, understanding, attention, affection, volition (“heart”) and with the intense involvement of our entire being (“soul”).15 Complete devotion to God is seeking Him (2 Chron 15:12), loving Him, walking in all His ways, obeying His Word, clinging to Him, serving Him (Josh 22:5) and following Him faithfully (1 Kin 2:4) with all our heart and soul. “Of one heart and soul” also means unity in the Spirit in our horizontal relationships. We cannot be filled with the Spirit without unity in the Spirit. Jesus prays, and so must we, that we His disciples “may be one”, “even as” the Son and the Father are one (Jn 17:11) − a theological fundamental that we must grasp and be grounded on.

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A PPLICATION

What relationship do I need to have restored to be of “one heart and soul”?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To keep a complete devotion to God

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

14 15

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 268 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 269

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WEDNESDAY

MAY

Marks of Authentic Faith (2)

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:32-37; Deuteronomy 15:4-11

O BSERVATION How do you understand verses 32 and 34 to 35 in the light of Deuteronomy 15:4-11?

Deeper Reflection AUTHENTIC FAITH is marked by generous and selfless giving. “No one” in the early church claimed personal ownership of “anything”, but “all things” were “common property” to them (v.32b). This was not “love communism” where “private property” had “been abolished and everything” was “owned by everybody”, but rather it was “private ownership of possessions…linked with communal use of possessions”16. “Sell” (v.34b) is in the present tense, indicating “a regular occurrence” that “happened over time”17. Note that Luke does not say that “everyone” sold their possessions or that they sold “everything”. There were “wealthy Jews who owned several houses”18 who came to faith in Jesus and sold their properties to give “as needs arose”19. The result was: “there was not a needy person among them” (v.34a). It was as God said to Israel regarding their life in the Promised Land in Deuteronomy 15: “There will be no poor among you” (Deut 15:4); “If there is a poor person among you…” (Deut 15:7); and “The poor will never cease to be in the land” (Deut 15:11). God’s intent behind this threefold description is: His blessing of Israel is the reason for and the result of giving generously to the poor “whatever they need” (Deut 15:6-10).

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A PPLICATION

What does it mean for me to be generous and selfless in giving?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Lord Jesus, grant me to know Your grace, that though You were rich, yet

■ Give thanks:

for our sake You became poor, so that we through Your poverty might become rich.20 Grant me to know

■ Pray for leaders:

the God who embraced poverty, who experienced poverty, in order to give, and to give so abundantly

■ Pray for significant people:

that I may not fear, but be free with such a God to give selflessly. Amen.

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

16 17 18 19 20

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 270 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 2 Corinthians 8:9

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THURSDAY

MAY

The Omitted 10th Commandment

S CRIPTURE

Matthew 19:16-26; Exodus 20:12-17

O BSERVATION What is the significance of Jesus leaving out the 10th commandment (Exo 20:17) in His list of commandments (vv.18-19) in His engagement with the rich young man (vv.16-22)?

Deeper Reflection WHEN THE RICH YOUNG MAN asked Jesus “what good thing” he should “do” to “obtain eternal life” (v.16), His reply was, “Keep the commandments” (v.17). Jesus wasn’t teaching salvation by keeping the 10 Commandments. He was replying according to the young man’s faulty perception reflected in his response that he had kept “all” the commandments that He listed, summed up as “love your neighbour” (vv.18-20; cf. Matt 22:37-40). Jesus deliberately left out in His list the 10th commandment, “You shall not covet” (Exo 20:17), but articulated it as “sell your possessions and give to the poor…and come follow Me” (v.21). The rich young man was not prepared to keep the 10th commandment (v.22). Jesus destroyed his claim of “All these things I have kept” (v.20) to tell him that it is impossible to be saved by his own effort. God alone can save us (vv.23-26). Having “eternal life” (vv.16-17), “enter the kingdom of God” (vv.23-24), “be saved” (v.25) and “follow Me” (v.21) are theologically synonymous. Jesus’ discipleship call is, “None of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his possessions” (Lk 14:33). When we are not ready to do so, it signals that there is covetousness in us.

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A PPLICATION

What forms of covetousness can I identify in my life and what is my response to them?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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18 FRIDAY

MAY

Rich Disciples of Jesus

S CRIPTURE

1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19

O BSERVATION What observations can you make about the word “rich” in its various grammatical forms in verses 6 to 10 and 17 to 19?

Deeper Reflection BIBLICALLY, THERE IS A PLACE FOR BELIEVERS to be financially well-to-do. In 1 Timothy 6, Paul gives a holistic discipleship framework for believers who are rich. “Rich” in its various grammatical forms is a key word in verses 6 to 10 and 17 to 19. True godliness is marked by contentment (v.6) – being “content” when we “have food and covering” (v.8). Contentment does not necessarily mean that once we have the necessities of life we give away the rest of what we have. But rather, we need to guard against covetousness – the “desire to be rich” (v.9) – which is the antithesis of contentment. An evidence of contentment is the investment of riches. Those who are “rich in this present world” (v.17a) should not “fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches” (v.17b), but “be rich in good works”; that is, “be generous and ready to share” (v.18) and thus “storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the [eternal] future” (v.19, NLT). A companion of contentment and investment is enjoyment: God “richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (v.17b). Wealth is relative, given by Sovereign Grace, and to be governed and guided by Sovereign Lordship in faithful stewardship.

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A PPLICATION What changes do I need to make in my life regarding the faithful stewardship of money?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for lay leaders: To be faithful stewards of what God has given

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY

MAY

Testifying to Jesus’ Resurrection

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:32-37

O BSERVATION What is the significance of verse 33 in relation to verses 32 and 34 to 37?

Deeper Reflection FIVE OUT OF THE SIX VERSES in verses 32 to 37 touch on what a Spirit-filled community looks like, especially its self-giving love and care (vv.32, 34-37). What is the significance of verse 33 with key statements like “great power”, “giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus” and “great grace”? That kind of community life (vv.32, 34-37), the key to the church’s vitality,21 is itself “giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus” (v.33). The apostles’ proclamation was backed up by the resurrection-life of the community, moulded by and manifesting God’s “great power” and “great grace”. Commentator Willimon puts it very well: “The most eloquent testimony to the reality of the resurrection is not an empty tomb…but rather a group of people whose life together is so radically different, so completely changed from the way the world builds its community, that there can be no explanation other than that something decisive has happened in history.”22 Then he adds this challenge: “The tough task of interpreting the reality of a truth like the resurrection is not so much the scientific or historical, ‘How could a thing like this happen?’ but ecclesiastical and communal, ‘Why don’t you people look more resurrected?’”23 Do we?

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A PPLICATION

What does it mean for me to live out the resurrection-life with others in the church as a testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for church board: To know the power of Jesus’ resurrection in their lives ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

21 22 23

Darrell L. Bock, 188-89 William H. Willimon, Acts, Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching (John Knox, 1988), 51 William H. Willimon, 51-52

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20 SUNDAY

Sunday Journal

MAY

S CRIPTURE

O BSERVATION

A PPLICATION

P RAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL WEEK 3 MAY 2018

WHEN ARE YOU TEMPTED TO LIE? * When you lie to help yourself, you hurt yourself instead. Scripture: Matthew 12:35-36; Proverbs 14:25 ACTIVITY BITE Think of the most ridiculous reasons why someone would not do their household chores, complete their homework, tidy up their rooms and take a bath. Be very creative in your ideas. CHAT TIME Q1: What are some punishments that you have received for lying? Q2: How have you been punished for lying? What can you do to tell the truth when you are tempted to lie? Q3: According to Matthew 12:36, what is God trying to tell us about His relationship with us? LEARNING POINT There are times when we feel tempted to lie, usually to make ourselves look good or to get people to like us. We might exaggerate about something to make ourselves sound awesome. In those moments, it might seem like a good idea to make up a lie to get people to like you. If you skip school to go to the arcade with your friends and lie to your parents about it, you will be in big trouble when they find out the truth. Lies will almost always come back to haunt us. You will discover that when you lie to help yourself, you hurt yourself instead. We can choose to lie, or we can choose to be truthful and trust that God will take care of us. ACTION POINT Have the courage to confess to your parents about a time you lied to them to get something you wanted. Ask for their forgiveness and allow them to pray for you. FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Pray that God will give you the courage to confess your sins of lying and to stand firm against the temptation to lie again. * Adapted from 252Basics, May 2018. www.ThinkOrange.com

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21 MONDAY

MAY

Reflecting on TheologicalHistorical Patterns

S CRIPTURE

Acts 5:1-11

O BSERVATION What is the significance of the tragic story of Ananias and Sapphira in verses 1 to 11, which was narrated immediately after a great start of the early church in Acts 1 to 4?

Deeper Reflection ACTS IS A THEOLOGICAL STORY of salvation history, and as such, the tragic story of Ananias and Sapphira is of theological significance. It reflects a biblical pattern of how “perfect and promising beginnings are followed by accounts of sin”24. After the perfect harmony in Eden, Adam and Eve fell into sin (Gen 3). After God’s mighty deliverance in the exodus from Egypt, Israel manufactured the golden calf at Mount Sinai (Exo 32). Not long after God had made David king of Israel, he committed adultery and murder (2 Sam 11). Acts is the New Testament theological counterpart of Joshua.25 The miraculous crossing of the Jordan (Josh 3-4) and conquest of Jericho (Josh 6) were followed by Israel’s first defeat – to Ai, caused by the sin of Achan (Josh 7). Correspondingly, the sin of Ananias and Sapphira (vv.1-11) followed immediately after the great missional beginning of the early church (Acts 1-4). The pattern is not God’s design, but God’s warning of a reality that can repeat again and again in redeemed fallen human beings whom God uses to accomplish His redemptive purposes. Let us be watchful and careful when we celebrate God’s mighty work among us, especially against our propensity to subtly exalt ourselves in the name of God.

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A PPLICATION

What are the potential pitfalls that I need to be watchful for when I experience God’s mighty work in my life?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Most loving Lord, give me a steadfast heart, which no unworthy thought

■ Give thanks:

can drag downwards; an unconquered heart, which no hardship can wear out; an upright heart, which

■ Pray for leaders:

no worthless purpose can ensnare. Give me understanding to know You, diligence to seek You, and

■ Pray for significant people:

a faithfulness to embrace You.26 Amen.

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 279 Tremper Longman III & Raymond B. Dillard, An Introduction to the Old Testament, Second Edition (Zondervan, 1994, 2006), 132 26 Adapted from a prayer by Thomas Aquinas 25

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22 TUESDAY

MAY

Challenge to Reality Check

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:34-35, 37; 5:1-4

O BSERVATION What are the three repeated common actions of the congregation (vv.34-35), Barnabas (v.37), and Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-2)?

Deeper Reflection VERSES 32 TO 37 AND ACTS 5:1-11 must be read together as one narrative, as indicated by the three sets of parallel literary links in Luke’s description of the selling and sharing in the new community in Christ: the “congregation” “sell”, “bring” and “lay them at the apostles’ feet” (vv.34-35); Barnabas “sold”, “brought” and “laid it at the apostles’ feet” (v.37); and Ananias and Sapphira “sold”, “brought” and “laid it at the apostles’ feet” (Acts 5:1-2). Up till this point of the narrative is a picture of what men see: public action. Luke is leading us to what God sees: private motivation. The actions of all three parties look exactly the same, but only God can see the difference in them. God sees the heart. “Heart” is the key word here. With prophetic discernment from God, Peter confronted Ananias on the reality of his action: “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit” (Acts 5:3) and “Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart?” (Acts 5:4a). “Ananias” means “Yah[weh] has shown favor”27 and “Sapphira” means “the beautiful one”28. Ironically, their hearts were incongruent and inconsistent with their names. We are challenged to do a reality check: What we think we are, or appear to be, may not be what we really are.

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A PPLICATION

What areas in my life do I need to do a reality check before God who sees my heart?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To be able to see their hearts as God sees

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

27 28

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 282 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 282

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WEDNESDAY

MAY

“Satan Filled Your Heart”

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:31-37; 5:1-4

O BSERVATION How did Luke use the word “filled” in verses 31 to 37 and Acts 5:1-4 (see v.31 and Acts 5:3) and what was his purpose behind this?

Deeper Reflection LUKE USED the word “filled” in Acts 4:31 – 5:11 to warn the church of a sobering reality. The early church was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (v.31) and its members “sold” their possessions and “laid” the proceeds “at the apostles’ feet” (vv.32-37). Ananias and Sapphira did the same (Acts 5:1-2), except that “Satan filled” their hearts (Acts 5:3). In a Spiritfilled church there can be hearts that are filled by Satan. When Satan fails to destroy the church by force from without (Acts 4:1-31), he seeks to do so by falsehood from within. The couple’s deception resulted because “Satan filled” their hearts (Acts 5:3) and they “conceived this deed in” their hearts (Acts 5:4). Was it the former that led to the latter, or was it the other way round? We don’t know for sure, as the text does not tell us. But what is more important is that we do what we can and must do. We can guard against both realities by guarding our hearts. “Satan filled” one’s heart refers to the control Satan has to influence a decision to sin.29 But, Satan does not make us sin. It is we ourselves who make the choice to sin. The word “conceive” means “to set something or purpose to accomplish something”30. And conceiving anything in our hearts is in our control.

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A PPLICATION

What have I conceived in my heart that I know is not right in God’s eyes and which I must get rid of?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Lord, nothing is hidden from Your sight, but all things are open and laid bare to

■ Give thanks:

Your eyes. Help me to live my life in this reality. Grant me to be willing and able to see and know my heart as it

■ Pray for leaders:

really is, through Your living and active Word that is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of my heart.31

■ Pray for significant people:

Amen.

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

29 30 31

Darrell L. Bock, 222 Darrell L. Bock, 223 Hebrews 4:12-13

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24 THURSDAY

MAY

Motives of the Heart

S CRIPTURE

Acts 5:1-4, 9

O BSERVATION Why did Ananias and Sapphira lie about the price of the sale of their possessions?

Deeper Reflection PETER CONFRONTED Ananias and Sapphira of their deception by asking “Why has Satan…?” and “Why is it that you…” (vv.3, 4, 9). What filled and was conceived in their hearts was not so much the desire to lie, but the desire to impress the apostles and the community of believers with their selfless sacrifice.32 The Greeks and Romans had the notion of gaining honour, prestige, social position and influence through benefaction and patronage.33 When the well-to-do believers “laid” the proceeds from the sale of their possessions “at the apostles’ feet” it meant “the apostles were in control of the distribution of the funds”34. It also meant the givers gave generously and sacrificially “without expecting reciprocity”35, which was countercultural; in contrast to the benefaction and patronage that was motivated by self-interest in the Greek and Roman culture. Ananias and Sapphira thought in such secular terms with regard to their “selfless giving”. Their motive was not to relieve the poor but “to fatten their ego”36. God sees and will judge us of the “hidden” “motives of the hearts” which He will “bring to light” and “disclose” when “the Lord comes” (1 Cor 4:5). But for Ananias and Sapphira, it was immediate.

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A PPLICATION

What do I do in God’s name to fatten my ego rather than to further God’s glory that I must do something about?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your

■ Give thanks:

meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 283 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 34 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 35 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 272 36 John Stott, The Message of Acts, The Bible Speaks Today (IVP, 1990), 110 33

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25 FRIDAY

MAY

Deceiving and Testing God

S CRIPTURE

Acts 5:1-11

O BSERVATION What observations can you make about the sin of Ananias and Sapphira?

Deeper Reflection ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA committed a twofold sin against the Triune God – “the Holy Spirit” (v.3), “God” (v.4) and “the Spirit of the Lord” (v.9). Deceiving God: They “lie to the Holy Spirit” (v.3). And they had lied “not to men” but “to God” (v.4). Peter “emphasises that lying to the community of believers is always lying to the Holy Spirit, who is God’s presence in the community”37. There was more to their lying than just telling a lie. There are seven things that God hates and detests: “haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community” (Prov 6:16-19, NIV). Of the seven sins, Ananias and Sapphira had committed all but one (i.e. “shed innocent blood”)38. Testing God: In their lying, they “put” God “to the test” (v.9). God is tested when the culprit knows God’s command and disobeys it to see if God is really serious about it and will react or not.39 It is to see how much one can get away with in sinning against God.40 It is “to so luxuriate in the love and grace of God that we do not take seriously the consequences of our deliberate sinning”41.

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A PPLICATION

What areas of my life do I think I am deceiving or testing God and what should I do about it?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for lay leaders: To be kept from deceiving or testing God

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

37 38 39 40 41

Eckhard J. Schnabel, 284 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 284 Eckhard J. Schnabel, 287 I. Howard Marshall, Acts, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (IVP, 1980), 113 William J. Larkin Jr., Acts, IVP New Testament Commentary (IVP, 1995), 87

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26 SATURDAY

MAY

The Divine Harsh Judgement

S CRIPTURE

Acts 5:1-11

O BSERVATION What observations can you make about God from the way that Ananias and Sapphira died (vv.3-5, 7-10)?

Deeper Reflection THE DEATH OF ANANIAS AND SAPPHIRA was sudden, swift and dramatic, which was clearly divine judgement. Peter uttered no word of judgement that condemned Ananias to death. Ananias was not given a chance to answer Peter’s questions when he was confronted of his sin (vv.3-4), for “as he heard” Peter’s words, he “fell down and breathed his last” (v.5a). God is sovereign and righteous in His judgement. Sapphira was given a chance to tell the truth (v.8), which she did not, and “immediately she fell” and “breathed her last” (vv.9-10). God is sovereign and gracious in His judgement. Most sin is not treated so harshly, but at this early stage, such a severe divine act served to remind the early church of God’s holy presence and its call to be God’s holy people. It also shows how serious sin is to God and how gracious God is in often deferring such severe judgement. It is wrong to think that God is a God of wrath only in the Old Testament. We are warned in the New Testament of “a terrifying expectation of judgement” “if we go on sinning wilfully” (Heb 10:26-27) and “it is a terrifying thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Heb 10:31) who is “a consuming fire” (Heb 12:29).

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A PPLICATION

What does it mean to me to know that God is sovereign, righteous and gracious in judging His people when we sin against Him?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for church board: To walk in brokenness and holiness

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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27 SUNDAY

Sunday Journal

MAY

S CRIPTURE

O BSERVATION

A PPLICATION

P RAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL WEEK 4 MAY 2018

WHAT KEEPS YOU FROM BEING TRUTHFUL WITH GOD? * Being truthful with God helps keep you close to Him. Scripture: 1 John 1:9; Ephesians 4:15 ACTIVITY BITE Get your family to sit in a circle. Tell the person on your right one positive truth about him or her that you appreciate a lot. For example, you can say, “You are kind.” In return, they will say “Thank you” and do the same to the person on their right. Let this continue until everyone has had a turn. CHAT TIME Q1: How do you feel when someone tells you a positive truth about yourself? Q2: How does being truthful to each other help strengthen relationships? Q3: Why does God still want you to be truthful with Him even though He knows everything about you? LEARNING POINT We can’t hide anything from God. He sees and knows everything. He knows everything you’ve ever done in the past and everything you’re ever going to do in the future. He knows you inside and out. Yet He wants you to be truthful to Him and not be afraid to tell Him how you feel and think. When you talk to God, it makes your relationship with Him stronger. He will not judge you for the shameful things you have done. He loves you and wants to have a close relationship with you. Being open and honest about your thoughts and feelings is a big part of that. ACTION POINT Go to God in prayer. Tell Him everything about yourself, including your feelings and what you like and dislike. You can keep a journal about what you have said to God. FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Ask God to help everyone be truthful always to Him so that our relationships with Him will grow stronger each day. * Adapted from 252Basics, May 2018. www.ThinkOrange.com

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28 MONDAY

MAY

Great Fear Came Over

S CRIPTURE

Acts 2:43-45; 5:1-11

O BSERVATION What observations can you make about “fear” from verses 43 to 45 and Acts 5:1-11 (note Acts 5:5, 11)?

Deeper Reflection THE WORD “fear”42 occurs 12 times in Luke-Acts, all of which are used in relation to God and His activities.43 Such fear occurred at the initial stage of the early church on two separate occasions. “Signs and wonders were taking place through the apostles”; God’s presence manifested in power, resulting in “everyone was filled with awe”, taking reverent, respectful, careful and even nervous notice of what was happening44 (v.43). “Everyone” included both believers and non-believers. The impact on even non-believers was remarkable. But this did not necessarily mean that they would surely believe in the Lord. The sudden, swift, and dramatic divine judgement on Ananias and Sapphira resulted in “great fear” (Acts 5:5, 11). This was God’s presence manifested in holiness. The fear here is “a state of distress, aroused by intense concern for impending pain, danger, evil etc”45. Notice Luke’s emphasis on “great” by repeating the word twice. This “great fear” came over “the whole church” and over nonbelievers as well (Acts 5:11). God’s purpose in judging His people severely is that “all” God’s people “will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such wicked things among you” (Deut 13:11; 17:13; 19:20; 21:21).

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A PPLICATION

What does it mean for me to live my life with the fear of God?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Lord, teach me Your way, that I may rely on Your faithfulness and live according to Your

■ Give thanks:

truth. Give me an undivided heart, that I may fear and honour Your name; for the fear of God is the beginning

■ Pray for leaders:

of wisdom, and it is knowing the Holy One.46 Amen.

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Greek: phobos, from which we get the word phobia. Luke 1:12, 65; 2:9; 5:26; 7:16; 8:37; 21:26; Acts 2:43; 5:5, 11; 9:31; 19:17 Darrell L. Bock, 151 45 Johannes P. Louw & Eugene A. Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament Based on Semantic Domains (UBS, 1988, 1989), Vol. 1, 25:251, 316 46 Psalm 86:11; Proverbs 9:10 43 44

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29 TUESDAY

MAY

Many Signs and Wonders

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:29-30; 5:12

O BSERVATION What is the significance of the phrase “signs and wonders” being mentioned in verses 29 to 30 and Acts 5:12?

Deeper Reflection THE “MANY SIGNS AND WONDERS” (Acts 5:12) were God’s answer to the early church’s prayer for “boldness” in speaking His Word with “signs and wonders” by His hand (vv.29-30). “Signs and wonders” in Acts 5:12 follows immediately after Acts 5:1-11. This suggests that the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira under divine judgement “could be regarded as examples”47 of signs and wonders. Signs and wonders played a special role in salvation history, clustering around key salvation events and new epochs of divine revelation as in Acts.48 In the New Testament era, they took place “through the hands of the apostles” (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 14:3; 15:12) as “the signs of a true apostle” (2 Cor 12:12; cf. Rom 15:18-19; Heb 2:3-4) to validate their message. The healings through them were instantaneous, amazing and complete as undeniable witnesses to God’s power (Acts 3:6-10; 4:14-16). Jesus is still present by His Spirit in His church today and manifests Himself through miraculous signs, “especially where an atmosphere of pervasive unbelief or false religions calls for power encounter”49. However, the New Testament characteristics of signs and wonders “should circumscribe our expectations concerning the occurrence of signs and wonders today”50.

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A PPLICATION

What changes do I need to make in my understanding and conviction on signs and wonders in the church today?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To minister in the power of the Spirit

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

I. Howard Marshall, 114 William J. Larkin Jr., 88 William J. Larkin Jr., 65 50 William J. Larkin Jr., 88-89 48 49

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WEDNESDAY

MAY

Remaining in One Accord

S CRIPTURE

Acts 4:32-33; 5:1-12

O BSERVATION Why did Luke sandwich the story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 with the description of the church as “of one heart and soul” in verses 32 to 33 and of “one accord” in Acts 5:12?

Deeper Reflection IN ACTS, unity is a vitally important character of the church. Before Pentecost, the infant new covenant community of 120 people was “all with one mind continually devoting themselves to prayer” (Acts 1:14). On Pentecost, 3,000 came to faith in Jesus through Peter’s first preaching of the Gospel (Acts 2:41). This enlarged community “day by day continuing with one mind in the temple” (Acts 2:46) practised love by having “all things in common” (Acts 2:44). The early church suffered their first persecution for preaching in Jesus’ name (Acts 3:1 – 4:3). But the church grew to 5,000 strong (Acts 4:4). The persecuted church prayed to God “with one accord” (Acts 4:24) for boldness to speak His Word in the face of opposition (Acts 4:29-30). This 5,000-strong church was “of one heart and soul” (v.32a) in selling and sharing (v.32b, Acts 4:34-37). Then there was a crack in the church’s unity: the deceptive selling and sharing of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11). The death of this couple was immediately followed by the church being “all with one accord” (Acts 5:12). The point is, the church remained as “one heart and soul” (v.32) despite going through a rough patch. And God continued to manifest His powerful presence through “signs and wonders” in a church marked by “all with one accord” (Acts 5:12).

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A PPLICATION

How can I play my part in keeping the unity of the church?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Lord Jesus, it is You who build Your church. Grant us to walk in a manner worthy

■ Give thanks:

of God’s calling. Father, according to the riches of Your glory, strengthen us with power through

■ Pray for leaders:

the Holy Spirit and enable us to have the humility, gentleness, patience and forbearing love to make

■ Pray for significant people:

every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.51 Amen.

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:1-3

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THURSDAY

MAY

Impact on the World

S CRIPTURE

Acts 5:12-16

O BSERVATION What do verses 12 to 14 tell us about unbelievers and God?

Deeper Reflection WHAT DOES THE WORLD SEE in the church today? What did the world see in the early church? It saw God’s presence manifested in power: “many signs and wonders” taking place (v.12a). It saw God’s presence manifested in love: God’s people were “all with one accord” (v.12b), which was demonstrated through the selling of possessions and sharing with the poor (Acts 4:32, 34-35). It saw God’s presence manifested in holiness: God’s judgement in Ananias’ and Sapphira’s death brought “great fear” on it (Acts 5:11), so much so that it “dared not associate” with the church (v.13a). In Acts 1 to 5, the world that was watching the church comprised unbelieving Jews in Jerusalem, which was described as “the rest” (v.13a). The God of the early church appeared to be not “seeker friendly”. Here, the Gospel seemed to keep people away instead of being attractive to them. But these unbelieving Jews “held” the church “in high esteem” (v.13b). Significantly, “multitudes of men and women” were still “being added” to the church (v.14). The passive phrase “being added” is Divine Passive. Unbelievers may keep themselves away from Christ for whatever reason, but ultimately, it is God who draws them to Christ: “No one can come to Me unless the Father draws him” (Jn 6:44).

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A PPLICATION

What do the pre-believers around me see in me as a Christian?

P RAYER

Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application

■ Give thanks:

of the Scriptures.

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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Notes

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