October Devotional Journal 2017

OCTOBER D EVOT I O NA L JOU R NA L 2 0 1 7

The hand of our God was on us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambushes by the way.

EZRA 8:31B (ESV)

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OCTOBER D EVOT I O NA L JOU R NA L 2 0 1 7

The hand of our God was on us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambushes by the way.

EZRA 8:31B (ESV)

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

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MEMORY FOCUS E Z R A

&

H A G G A I

( E S V )

2017 JA N UA RY In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing...

EZRA 1:1

F E B R UA RY And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.” And all the people shouted with a great shout when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.

EZRA 3:11

MARCH But the eye of their God was on the elders of the Jews, and they did not stop them until the report should reach Darius and then an answer be returned by letter concerning it.

EZRA 5:5

APRIL And this was their reply to us: “We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the house that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and finished.”

EZRA 5:11

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M AY

Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?

HAGGAI 1:4

JUNE You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes.

HAGGAI 1:6

J U LY Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the LORD. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the LORD. Work, for I am with you, declares the LORD of hosts...

HAGGAI 2:4

AUGUST For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.

EZRA 7:10

SEPTEMBER I took courage, for the hand of the LORD my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me.

EZRA 7:28B

OCTOBER The hand of our God was on us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambushes by the way.

EZRA 8:31B

N OV E M B E R And after all that has come upon us for our evil deeds and for our great guilt, seeing that you, our God, have punished us less than our iniquities deserved and have given us such a remnant as this...

EZRA 9:13

DECEMBER Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.

EZRA 10:4

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FOREWORD

BY SENIOR PASTORS Vision 2028 is spurring Covenant EFC to fulfil her Intentional Disciple Making Church (IDMC) mission within the Church, in our nation and among the nations. local church with a national and global influence.

A people with devotion, depth and destiny.

God has given Acts 20:28 as a spiritual anchor for our journey towards Vision 2028.

“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 (ESV) At last year’s Listening Retreat, God continued to urge us to possess the following:

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A Firm FOUNDATION in God “For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations …”

– Hebrews 11:10a (ESV) Jesus Christ is the firm foundation of Covenant EFC. Laying a firm foundation for a healthy church means seeking, knowing, loving and proclaiming Christ (Phil 3). How are you building your foundation in Christ today? Your daily devotion is the best place to start!

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A Bold FAITH in God’s Faithfulness “And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) A bold faith opposes doubt which slows us, opposes fear which paralyses us and opposes apathy which derails us. Bold faith in God’s faithfulness means our allegiance is unto God. Luke 6:46 says, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and not do what I tell you?” There is a holy dissatisfaction with our lukewarmness, fear and apathy. Our bold faith in God will see Him restore our spiritual zeal and do far greater things beyond Vision 2028 (Psa 80).

How can you be bold in your faith in Christ today? How about B.L.E.S.S.-ing those around you who have yet to know Him? A Burning Focus Towards FRUITFULNESS for God “…whose designer and builder is God …” – Hebrews 11:10b (ESV) God is the Designer and has a destiny for us! God is the Builder and has the resources! He showed us a promise in Isaiah 37:30-31, “And this shall be a sign for you: this year you shall eat what grows of itself, and in the second year what springs from that. Then in the third year sow and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat their fruit. And the surviving remnant of the house of Judah shall again take root downward and bear fruit upward.”Authentic discipleship is about people, not just programmes. Intentional Disciplemaking is about reproducing people of A Certain Kind, not just attending an event.

In the process of making disciples, we must not lose sight of the end result of fruitfulness. Will you pray for God to make you fruitful as you abide in Him daily? Are you ready for the harvest of fruitfulness that He has promised?

This year as we “Return to Our Foundation”, Covenant EFC’s pulpit and Devotional Journal will be mostly based on the books of Ezra and Haggai.

May you have a blessed year of studying, practising and teaching God’s Word (Ezr 7:10)!

In Christ, Rev Tony Yeo and Rev Tan Kay Kiong

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GUIDE TO USING THIS DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL

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

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!

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W H AT ’ S N E W I N 2 0 1 7 ?

Prayer pointers for Pastors and Staff are included every Tuesday. On each Friday, there is a prayer pointer for Lay Leaders (e.g. Board Members, Zone Mentors, CG Leaders, Assistant CG Leaders, and Ministry Leaders), to facilitate your prayer for whoever God brings to your mind at that time.

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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.

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WORSHIP SONGS S E P T E M B E R – O C T O B E R

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

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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) CCLI Song # 7038281 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 License # 324618

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MAKE A CERTAIN BREAKTHROUGH Verse 1 In my life of searching For the plain and simple way Many paths were so winding The roads were never straight Then the Spirit of God broke through And healed my broken wings And showed me the way into His heart Chorus And I know that God is leading In a clear and certain way My one life for your purpose, Jesus I offer up this day To follow you completely To do all that you say Cleanse my life, fill me up And use me this day Make a certain breakthrough Make it today Verse 2 In these days of danger Lord, we rest upon Your grace With Your tender and skillful hands You shape this stubborn clay Yes, You calm my inmost being Giving courage to hope again And to build this one life In power and faith Ann Chan | Ruth Ling Š2006 Covenant Evangelical Free Church

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THIS IS AMAZING GRACE Verse 1 Who breaks the power of sin and darkness Whose love is mighty and so much stronger The King of Glory, the King above all kings Verse 2 Who shakes the whole earth with holy thunder Who leaves us breathless in awe and wonder The King of Glory, the King above all kings Chorus This is amazing grace This is unfailing love That You would take my place That You would bear my cross You laid down Your life That I would be set free Oh, Jesus, I sing for all that You’ve done for me Verse 3 Who brings our chaos back into order Who makes the orphan a son and daughter The King of Glory, the King of kings Verse 4 Who rules the nations with truth and justice Shines like the sun in all of its brilliance The King of Glory, the King above all kings Bridge Worthy is the Lamb who was slain Worthy is the King who conquered the grave Worthy is the Lamb who was slain Worthy is the King who conquered the grave Jeremy Riddle | Josh Farro | Phil Wickham Š 2012 Phil Wickham Music (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.) Seems Like Music (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.) Sing My Songs (Admin. by Music Services, Inc.) Bethel Music Publishing (Admin. by SHOUT! Music Publishing) WB Music Corp. (Admin. by Word Music Group, Inc.) For use solely with the SongSelect Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 6333821 CCLI License # 324618

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HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD Verse 1 The splendour of the King, clothed in majesty Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice He wraps Himself in light, and darkness tries to hide And trembles at His voice, trembles at His voice Chorus How great is our God, sing with me How great is our God, all will see How great, how great is our God Verse 2 Age to age He stands, and time is in His hands Beginning and the end, beginning and the end The Godhead, three in one: Father, Spirit, Son The Lion and the Lamb, the Lion and the Lamb Bridge Name above all names Worthy of all praise My heart will sing, “How great is our God!” Chris Tomlin | Ed Cash | Jesse Reeves © 2004 Wondrously Made Songs (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)); sixsteps Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 4348399

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CONSUMING FIRE Intro There must be more than this O breath of God come breathe within Verse 1 There must be more than this O breath of God come breathe within There must be more than this Spirit of God we wait for You Fill us anew we pray Fill us anew we pray Chorus Consuming fire fan into flame A passion for Your name Spirit of God fall in this place Lord have Your way Lord have Your way with us Verse 2 Come like a rushing wind Clothe us with power from on high Now set the captives free Leave us abandoned to Your praise Lord let Your glory fall Lord let Your glory fall Bridge 1 There must be more There must be more There must be more There must be more Bridge 2 Stir it up in our hearts Lord Stir it up in our hearts Lord Stir it up in our hearts A passion for Your name (Repeat) Tim Hughes Š 2002 Thankyou 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 # 3818569 CCLI License # 324618

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HEAR US FROM HEAVEN Verse Lord, hear our cry Come heal our land Breathe life into these dry and thirsty souls Lord, hear our prayer Forgive our sin As we call on Your name Would you make this place For Your glory to dwell Chorus Open the blind eyes Unlock the deaf ears Come to your people As we draw near Hear us from heaven Touch our generation We are Your people Crying out in desperation Bridge Hear us from heaven Hear us from heaven Hear us from heaven Jared Anderson © 2004 Vertical Worship Songs (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 4455392

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STILL Verse 1 Hide me now Under Your wings Cover me Within Your mighty hand Chorus When the oceans rise And thunders roar I will soar with You Above the storm Father You are King Over the flood I will be still Know You are God Verse 2 Find rest my soul In Christ alone Know His power In quietness and trust Reuben Morgan © 2002 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 3940963 CCLI License # 324618

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IT IS WELL Verse 1 Grander earth has quaked before Moved by the sound of His voice Seas that are shaken and stirred Can be calmed and broken for my regard Chorus Through it all, through it all My eyes are on You Through it all, through it all It is well Through it all, through it all My eyes are on You It is well with me Verse 2 Far be it from me to not believe Even when my eyes can’t see And this mountain that’s in front of me Will be thrown into the midst of the sea Bridge So let go my soul and trust in Him The waves and wind still know His name Ending It is well with my soul It is well with my soul It is well with my soul It is well it is well with my soul Horatio Gates Spafford | Kristene DiMarco | Philip Paul Bliss © 2013 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 # 7021972

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WHAT A BEAUTIFUL NAME Verse 1 You were the Word at the beginning One with God the Lord Most High Your hidden glory in creation Now revealed in You our Christ Chorus 1 What a beautiful Name it is What a beautiful Name it is The Name of Jesus Christ my King What a beautiful Name it is Nothing compares to this What a beautiful Name it is The Name of Jesus Verse 2 You didn’t want heaven without us So Jesus You brought heaven down My sin was great Your love was greater What could separate us now Chorus 2 What a wonderful Name it is What a wonderful Name it is The Name of Jesus Christ my King What a wonderful Name it is Nothing compares to this What a wonderful Name it is The Name of Jesus What a wonderful Name it is The Name of Jesus Bridge 1 Death could not hold You The veil tore before You You silence the boast of sin and grave The heavens are roaring The praise of Your glory For You are raised to life again

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Bridge 2 You have no rival You have no equal Now and forever God You reign Yours is the kingdom Yours is the glory Yours is the Name above all names Chorus 3 What a powerful Name it is What a powerful Name it is The Name of Jesus Christ my King What a powerful Name it is Nothing can stand against What a powerful Name it is The Name of Jesus Ending What a powerful Name it is The Name of Jesus What a powerful Name it is The Name of Jesus Ben Fielding | Brooke Ligertwood Š 2016 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI License # 324618 CCLI Song # 7068424

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VICTOR’S CROWN Verse 1 You are always fighting for us Heaven’s angels all around My delight is found in knowing That You wear the Victor’s crown You’re my help and my defender You’re my Saviour and my friend

By Your grace I live and breathe To worship You Verse 2 At the mention of Your greatness In Your Name I will bow down In Your presence fear is silent For You wear the Victor’s crown Let Your glory fill this temple Let Your power overflow

By Your grace I live and breathe To worship You Chorus Hallelujah You have overcome You have overcome Hallelujah Jesus, You have overcome the world Verse 3 You are ever interceding As the lost become the found You can never be defeated For You wear the Victor’s crown You are Jesus the Messiah You’re the Hope of all the world

By Your grace I live and breathe To worship You

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Verse 4 Every high thing must come down Every stronghold shall be broken You wear the Victor’s crown You have overcome, you have overcome At the cross the work was finished You were buried in the ground But the grave could not contain You For You wear the Victor’s crown Bridge Every high thing must come down Every stronghold shall be broken You wear the Victor’s crown You have overcome, you have overcome Darlene Zschech | Israel Houghton | Kari Jobe © EWI (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Integrity Worship Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Integrity’s Praise! Music (Admin.

by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Sound Of The New Breed (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Worship Together Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) For use solely with the SongSelect Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 6454621 CCLI License # 324618

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IN JESUS’ NAME Verse 1 God is fighting for us God is on our side He has overcome Yes He has overcome We will not be shaken We will not be moved Jesus You are here (oh) Verse 2 Carrying our burdens Covering our shame He has overcome Yes He has overcome We will not be shaken We will not be moved Jesus You are here Chorus 1 I will live, I will not die The resurrection pow’r of Christ Alive in me and I am free In Jesus’ Name

Bridge God is fighting for us Pushing back the darkness Lighting up the Kingdom That cannot be shaken In the Name of Jesus Enemy’s defeated And we will shout it out Shout it out Ending In Jesus’ Name In Jesus’ Name In Jesus’ Name oh Darlene Zschech | Israel Houghton © 2013 EWI (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Integrity Worship Music (Admin.

by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Integrity’s Praise! Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Sound Of The New Breed (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 6454638 CCLI License # 324618

Chorus 2 I will live, I will not die I will declare and lift You high Christ revealed and I am healed In Jesus’ Name

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NOTES

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THE CHURCH BEYOND P R AY F O R M A L AY S I A “For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.”

– ISAIAH 61:11 (ESV)

Malaysia, our Muslim-majority neighbour has a Christian population of 2.7 million (9.4%). Of these Christians, 70% are in East Malaysia and most of them are Malay-speaking indigenous people from Sabah and Sarawak.

Praise God: ■ For the blessings of past revivals in East Malaysia and the growing local churches which are able to reach their communities, especially in Peninsula Malaysia. However, Malaysia faces challenges in political turmoil, systemic Islamisation of indigenous groups, radical Islamic groups, strict proselytisation and apostasy legislations and an increasingly materialistic society.

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Pray: ■ For the churches in Malaysia − for unity, godly leaders and boldness to proclaim the Gospel to all people groups. For the discipling of the next generation as well as the numerous foreign workers at their doorstep.

■ For the government and its leaders to administer the country with justice and integrity. For fair allocation of resources to the needy and greater religious freedom for all faiths.

■ For Sarawak, the only Christian majority state left.

Many churches there face a shortage of pastors, lack of discipleship and are losing their youths to the world and to systemic Islamisation strategies.

■ For Covenant EFC’s partnership with Borneo Evangelical Mission (Malay: Sidang Injil Borneo [SIB]) Sarawak denomination and Miri Gospel Chapel. Pray that the Miri IDMC (Intentional Disciple Making Church) Conference in February 2017 sparks a discipleship movement in Sarawak.

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SUNDAY, 1 OCTOBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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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 • OCTOBER 2017

WHY DO CHRISTIANS FAST? Christians fast to help them focus better on God. Scripture: Ezra 8:21-23; Luke 4:1-4

ACTIVITY BITE

Imagine you are stranded alone on an island for a month with only fruits to eat. Name three foods you would want to eat once you are rescued.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Why would you crave those foods you mentioned?

Q2: Will you be able to resist eating those foods when you come home after being stranded on the island? Why or why not?

Q3: Why do you think some religions require their followers to fast?

LEARNING POINT

Christians practise fasting. It involves not eating certain foods or avoiding food for a period of time. There are stories in the Bible that talk about fasting. In Ezra 8:21-23, Ezra asked the Israelites to fast for God’s protection as they travelled back to Jerusalem. In the book of Esther, Queen Esther and her people fasted for God’s protection against their enemies. Jesus fasted too during His 40 days in the desert. Christians fast so they can keep their minds focused on seeking God, rather than being distracted by food. God sees the hearts of those who seek Him by choosing to fast and He will surely answer them.

ACTION POINT

Consider doing a simple fast together as a family to seek God. It can involve skipping a meal or choosing to eat just plain bread and water for breakfast. However you fast, do it with an earnest desire to pray.

PRAYER POWER

Pray that your church members will earnestly seek God with all their hearts, regardless of whether they fast or not. Pray also that we will obey Him wholeheartedly when He speaks.

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MONDAY, 2 OCTOBER 2017

Safe Journey from God Scripture

Ezra 8:21, 31; 2 Corinthians 11:23-27; 2 Timothy 4:18

Observation How do you understand “a safe journey from God” when comparing Ezra’s experience (Ezr 8:21, 31) with Paul’s (2 Cor 11:23-27; 2 Tim 4:18)?

Deeper Reflection

t the river of Ahava, in anticipation of the dangers and difficulties ahead, Ezra called the people to fast and seek from God “a safe journey” to Jerusalem (v.21). As they travelled through several provinces, they faced various possible threats: robbers could attack and kill people, officials could refuse to give them permission to continue through their territory, local farmers might not have grain to sell them, the weather could be unusually difficult, crossing rivers and mountains could be dangerous, the wagons could break down, people could get seriously sick, some might get discouraged and want to settle down on some attractive piece of land along the way, and some might rebel against Ezra’s leadership.1 With 5,000 people travelling over 1,400km, there would be opportunities for external problems as well as internal disunity.2 “A safe journey from God” can mean different things for different people according to God’s sovereign freedom and wisdom. Paul was assured that “the Lord would rescue me from every evil attack and would bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim 4:18, NIV), while his faithful service to God was characterised by imprisonments, “beaten times without number”, shipwrecks, all kinds of dangers, “many sleepless nights” and “often without food” (2 Cor 11:23-28).

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Application What does it mean for me in my discipleship journey, given that “a safe journey from God” can mean different things for different people according to God’s sovereign freedom and wisdom?

Those in need

Se l

f

Leaders

Significant people

Prayer Lord, You are my strength and my salvation.3 You are able to and will deliver me from the fiery furnace. But even if You in Your sovereign freedom and Givi wisdom do not deliver, I still trust ng t han ks in You. And when I have to walk through the fire, You are with me in it, for You are the Lord my God.4 Strengthen me that I may not be afraid, but be faithful to You until death.5 Amen.

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Gary V. Smith, Ezra-Nehemiah, Esther, Cornerstone Biblical Commentary (Tyndale, 2010), 85 Gary V. Smith, 85 Isaiah 12:2 4 Daniel 2:17-18; Isaiah 43:2-3 5 Revelation 2:10 2 3

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TUESDAY, 3 OCTOBER 2017

Renewed Dependence on God Scripture Ezra 8:21

Observation

How would you describe the character of Ezra from verse 21?

Deeper Reflection

hus far in Ezra 7 to 8, “the hand of God” upon Ezra is mentioned four times in different settings: the king granting him all his requests for the temple (Ezr 7:6), being strengthened to start his mission (Ezr 7:28) and providing the critically needed Levites (Ezr 8:18). Implicit in the hand of God upon Ezra is his dependence on God. The former is the divine part, the latter is the human part. In a new move in the same mission where God’s hand has been upon him, Ezra renewed his dependence on God in lowliness, brokenness, earnestness and intenseness: “a fast…that we might humble ourselves before God to seek from Him a safe journey” (v.21). “Fasting “implies an earnestness that makes one oblivious to food.”6 “To humble” is to “put oneself in the position of the poor or afflicted man – the underprivileged, so often encountered in the Psalms, who is specially under the divine care”7 (Psa 34:6; 68:10 – “the poor”; Psa 9:12, 18 – “the afflicted”). On such “humble” people the high and holy God looks with favour (Isa 57:15; 66:1-2). We dare not assume that God’s hand is upon us today and will be tomorrow, because it was so yesterday. We must renew our dependence on God daily and constantly.

T

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Application In what areas of my life do I need to fast to humble myself before God and seek Him?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To always seek God humbly and earnestly ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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Edwin Yamauchi, Ezra, Nehemiah, The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, Vol. 4 (Zondervan, 1988), 660 David J. Clines, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, The New Century Bible Commentary (Marshall Morgan & Scott, Eerdmans, 1984), 111

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WEDNESDAY, 4 OCTOBER 2017

Renewed Confidence in God Scripture Ezra 8:21-22

Observation What gave Ezra the confidence in God as expressed in verse 22?

Deeper Reflection

he words of Ezra, “because we had said to the king, ‘The hand of our God is favourably disposed to all those who seek Him’” (v.22), expressed his confidence in God. In our discipleship journey, we often face difficulties with uncertainty. Trust in God. We know that. But as days go by when we still cannot see what God is doing, where God is leading us to, we may lose heart. We need to renew our confidence in God continually. The key to Ezra’s confidence is “the hand of God is upon me”. Looking backward: Ezra could look back at three critical points of his mission where God’s hand was upon him (Ezr 7:6, 28; 8:18). We renew our confidence in God by recalling and reflecting on God’s track record of His faithfulness in our lives. And we can say, “As God has faithfully led and guided me, He will faithfully continue to do so”. However, this practice of looking backward for renewed confidence in God must be complemented by looking inward: My walk with “my God” (Ezr 7:28; “his God” in Ezr 7:6, 9). Ezra saw and knew that the hand of his God was upon him at the present time, because he devoted his heart to the Word of God – studying it, living it out and teaching it as service to his God (Ezr 7:9-10).

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Application How have I lost or lacked confidence in God, and how would I go about changing that?

Prayer O Lord, You reign forever, executing judgement from Your throne. You will judge the world with justice and rule the nations with fairness. You, O Lord, are a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Those who know Your name trust in You, for You, O Lord, do not abandon those who seek and search for You.8 Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

8

Psalm 9:7-10

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THURSDAY, 5 OCTOBER 2017

Trust in God Alone Scripture Ezra 8:21-23

Observation How many times is “seek God” mentioned in verses 21 to 23, and what is the significance of this repetition?

Deeper Reflection

he main thrust of Ezra 8:21-23 is: Trust in God alone. This is seen through the thrice repeated “seek God” (vv.21-23) and two sets of contrasts. First, the contrast between trusting in God and trusting in man. For Ezra, seeking God for a safe journey is contrasted with requesting military protection from the Persian king (v.22).

Our propensity to trust in human wisdom and power is great.

Solomon loved God and was walking with Him, and yet he formed an alliance with Egypt through marriage (1 Kin 3:1, 3), despite God’s clear command: “Never again return to Egypt” (Deut 17:14-16).

Second, the antithesis of seeking God is forsaking God (1 Chron 28:9; 2 Chron 15:2). God’s hand is “favourably disposed to all those who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who forsake Him” (v.22b). When we do not seek God, we will seek something else lesser and lower than God. We cannot be neutral, for we are dependent creatures. The object of our dependence will be the source of our confidence. Our confidence must be from God and in God. And when we seek anything other than God, it is idolatry. Not seeking God is forsaking God. And this is pride; and God opposes the proud (1 Pet 5:5).

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Application What are the things in my life that I tend to put my trust in instead of God, and how can I reverse this?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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FRIDAY, 6 OCTOBER 2017

Ezra’s Way and Nehemiah’s Way Scripture

Ezra 8:22; Nehemiah 1:1-4, 11; 2:1-4, 9

Observation What is similar and different about the ways Ezra and Nehemiah carried out their respective missions that were authorised by the same king (v.22; Neh 1:1-4, 11; 2:1-4, 9)?

Deeper Reflection

ehemiah, Ezra’s contemporary (Neh 8:9), was a man of prayer who led by prayer. Hearing about the bad condition of Jerusalem and feeling a great burden to rebuild the city, Nehemiah’s instant response was “fasting and praying to God” (Neh 1:1-4), asking God to move King Artaxerxes’s heart to permit him to do that (Neh 1:11). When God opened the door, his immediate response was prayer (Neh 2:1-4). As he led the people to rebuild the city, he faced wave after wave of opposition from enemies, and his response to every wave was prayer (Neh 4:4-5, 9; 6:9). Both Ezra and Nehemiah, authorised by the same king for their respective missions, were men of prayer. However, there is an interesting difference between them. Ezra did not request for royal military protection, but depended on God through prayer alone (Ezr 8:22), whereas Nehemiah did not reject it when it was offered (Neh 2:9). We cannot say that Ezra is “more spiritual” than Nehemiah. And Nehemiah was no less seeking God and depending on Him than Ezra. Both ways are also God’s way. God leads us in different ways for different reasons, while what is constant is our humble seeking and dependence on God.

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Application How can I discern God’s distinctive ways in my life, in Him working in my life and me following Him?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders: To discern God’s distinctive ways in their lives ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 7 OCTOBER 2017

Theological Picture of Seeking God Scripture Ezra 8:21-23

Observation What observations can you make about Ezra seeking God in verses 21 to 23?

Deeper Reflection

erses 21 to 23 present a theological picture of seeking God. Seeking God begins with God’s assurance in seeking Him: “The hand of our God is favourably disposed to all those who seek Him” (v.22). Ezra had this assurance before he set out on his journey to Jerusalem (v.22). This assurance is not specifically for Ezra only. It is for anyone. It is for “all who seek Him.” Even when we fail God, however great the failure, there is always the hope of the divine grace of seeking God again (Deut 4:25-29). God’s assurance in seeking Him needs to be accompanied by our attitude: “I proclaimed a fast… that we might humble ourselves before our God to seek from Him…” (v.21). God requires us to seek Him “with all your heart and all your soul” (Deut 4:29; 1 Chron 28:9). But all too often, too many of us seek God only when we face difficulties and need Him; and when the crisis is over, we will not seek Him until the next storm hits us. Yes, God has been merciful and gracious, but this attitude must change. God’s answer to seeking Him is always there: “we sought our God…and He listened to our entreaty” (v.23). “If you seek Him” never comes without “He will let you find Him” (1 Chron 28:9; 2 Chron 15:2).

V

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Application What do I need to change about the way I seek God with regard to the Lord’s assurance and my attitude?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SUNDAY, 8 OCTOBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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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 • OCTOBER 2017

ARE AVOIDING CERTAIN FOODS AND NOT EATING THE ONLY WAYS TO FAST? Fasting is about setting your heart fully to seek God. Scripture: Daniel 1:8-12; Matthew 6:16-18

ACTIVITY BITE

Ask your parents about the things that distract you from doing important tasks such as completing your schoolwork or practising your musical instrument. These can be distractions like playing computer games or watching television shows.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Why do these things distract you?

Q2: Do you find it difficult to ignore such distractions when you are doing important tasks? Why or why not?

Q3: What can distract you from praying and seeking God with all your heart?

LEARNING POINT

Avoiding certain foods or not eating at all to seek God are some ways of fasting. But choosing to avoid things apart from food can be considered a fast too, such as choosing not to watch TV or not playing certain toys for a day or a week. In truth, it is not what you do that determines if it is a fast or not. It’s your attitude that God is looking at. What is more important is whether you are truly seeking Him with all your heart rather than doing things to impress Him. For example, you can fast by missing certain foods or toys but you may still be angry and full of complaints in your heart. So let’s get our hearts right when we fast as this will please God more than anything else.

ACTION POINT

Get a card and write down these words, “Fasting is about seeking God with all my heart.” Stick this card on your study table or the kitchen fridge. Use it to remind yourself to adopt the right attitude whenever you pray to God.

PRAYER POWER

Pray for your family, friends and church members to adopt the right attitude every time they pray to God. Pray that they will apologise to God for any wrong attitude they may have, so that God will be pleased.

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MONDAY, 9 OCTOBER 2017

“Thou Art Worthy, O Lord!”

Scripture Ezra 8:24-30

Observation Why does the narrator devote so much material to the temple items (vv.24-30)?

Deeper Reflection

T

he hamburger structure of Ezra 8:21-31 shows the emphasis on the sacred treasures as an “offering for the house of our God” (v.25):

Fasting “at the river of Ahava” (Ezr 8:21-23) Weighing out and watching over the sacred treasures (vv.24-30) Journeying “from the river Ahava” (Ezr 8:31) The narrator devoted seven verses to talk about the sacred treasures.

Consider the weight and value of these treasures. The weight of the silver and gold in verse 26 alone is 650 talents of silver (about 22,000 kg), 100 talents of silver articles (about 3,500 kg) and 100 talents of gold (about 3,500 kg), giving a total weight of about 29,000 kg. The total value of all the sacred treasures is equivalent to 2,083 silver talents – that is, 6,500,000 silver shekels.9 In those days, “a skilled workman earned between 12 and 84 silver shekels a year”10. So, the 6,500,000 silver shekels “would represent the annual income of, say, between 100,000 and 500,000 men”11. Such a great offering to God in worship reflects the worthiness of God, who is worthy “to receive glory and honour and power” (Rev 4:11). But such great offering is only a token to God who possesses everything. Our greatest offering to God is living our lives “worthy of the Lord” (Col 1:9-10).

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Application What does the phrase “God is worthy” mean to me personally?

Prayer Worthy are You, O God Almighty, who sits on the throne and who lives forever and ever! Worthy are You, the Lamb that was slain, the First and the Last, the Living One, who was dead and is alive forevermore! To receive glory and honour and power and riches and wisdom and might and blessing and dominion forever and ever!12 Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

9

David J. Clines, 113 David J. Clines, 113 David J. Clines, 113 12 Revelation 1:17-18; 4:9-11; 5:12-13 10 11

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TUESDAY, 10 OCTOBER 2017

Sacrificial Devotion to the Lord Scripture John 12:1-8

Observation What does the narration on Mary and the perfume in verses 3 to 5 tell us about her?

Deeper Reflection

hen Jesus was having supper with Lazarus, Martha and Mary (vv.1-2), Mary “took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard” to anoint the feet of Jesus (v.3) in anticipation of His burial (v.7). It was Mary’s expression of her devotion to her Lord. The weight of the perfume was a litra – a Roman pound, equivalent to 326 grams13. That much perfume was “a very large amount indeed”14, so much so that “the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume” (v.3). The perfume was “very costly”. It cost “three hundred denarii” (v.5), which was approximately what a rural worker would earn in one year. That’s a very large sum of money for ordinary folk like Mary. The perfume was expensive “because it was imported from a great distance”15. Very likely, Mary had been saving this sum of money over a long period of time for this very day. It was an intentional sacrificial devotion to the Lord.

Biblically, sacrifice is characteristic of following the Crucified Christ, with the vision of the cross as the impetus. Missionary C. T. Studd16 said, “If Jesus Christ be God and died for me, then no sacrifice can be too great for me to make for Him.” In your relationship with the Lord, do you think and live in terms of sacrifice?

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Application What does it mean for me to have a sacrificial devotion to the Lord?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To deepen their sacrificial devotion of love to the Lord ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

13

Colin G. Kruse, John, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (IVP, 2003), 262 Colin G. Kruse, 262 15 Colin G. Kruse, 262 16 A great 19th century missionary to China and Africa, and founder of World Evangelization Crusade (WEC) 14

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WEDNESDAY, 11 OCTOBER 2017

Selfless Devotion to the Lord Scripture John 12:1-8

Observation What observations can you make about Mary from the narration on Jesus’ feet and Mary’s hair in verse 3?

Deeper Reflection

ary “anointed the feet of Jesus” with the “very costly perfume” and then “wiped His feet with her hair” (v.3). What Mary did was very striking and unusual in two ways. Firstly, Mary anointed the feet of Jesus. In biblical times, oil was normally poured on the head (cf. Psa 23:5; Lk 7:46), not the feet. So, what Mary did was a “peculiar thing”17. To attend to the feet is “the task of the most lowly slave”18. The repetition of the word “feet” of Jesus in describing the act stressed Mary’s willingness to take “the lowliest possible place”19 in her devotion to her Lord. Secondly, Mary wiped the feet of Jesus with her hair. A woman’s long hair was regarded as her glory (1 Cor 11:15). And a respectable Jewish woman never untied her hair in public, as to do so was socially unacceptable.20 But Mary put aside her glory, disregarding her reputation and respectability and ignoring what others may think of her,21 and poured out her glory and lavished it on the feet of Jesus. Mary’s devotion to Jesus with such extravagant love became her identity. She is known as “the Mary who anointed the Lord with perfume, and wiped His feet with her hair” (Jn 11:2). What she did became what she is.

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Application How willing am I to take the lowliest possible place in following the Lord?

Prayer Lord Jesus, You existed in the form of God, but You did not regard equality with God as a thing to be grasped. You emptied Yourself to take on our humanity to be a servant to serve us for our redemption.

None is worthy to untie the thong of Your sandals, but You have stooped down to wash our feet that we may be clean. O give me a vision of this glorious humble Christ!22

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

17 18 19 20 21 22

Leon Morris, The Gospel According to John, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Eerdmans, 1971), 576 Leon Morris, 576 Leon Morris, 576 Leon Morris, 576-77 D. A. Carson, The Gospel According to John (IVP, Eerdmans, 1991), 428 Philippians 2:6-7; Mark 10:45; John 1:27; 13:3-5

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THURSDAY, 12 OCTOBER 2017

By the Word of God Scripture

Ezra 8:24-25 with Numbers 4:1-14, 21-28, 29-33

Observation Why did Ezra specifically set apart priests and Levites to handle and transport “the silver, the gold and the utensils” for the temple of God (vv.24-25 with Num 4:1-14, 21-28, 29-33)?

Deeper Reflection

zra “set apart 12 of the leading priests” and 12 Levites, “Sherebiah, Hashabiah, and with them 10 of their brothers” (v.24), to take care of “the silver, the gold and the utensils” for the temple of God and transport them safely to Jerusalem (v.25). Ezra was following the Word of God in choosing specifically priests and Levites for this task. When Israel was journeying towards the Promised Land, God assigned the three Levitical clans specific responsibilities in disassembling, carrying and reassembling the parts of the tabernacle. The Kohathites were responsible for the furniture (Num 4:1-14), the Gershonites the fabric (Num 4:21-28) and the Merarites the frames (Num 4:29-33).

While these specific responsibilities were no longer applicable now in the temple, Ezra applied the still relevant divine principle of setting apart priests and Levites for all matters pertaining to the temple. Ezra conformed to the Word of God in living his life, in serving God and in leading God’s people (Ezr 7:10). We can safely imagine that the question “What does Scripture say?” (Rom 4:3) was always in Ezra’s dominant consciousness. Biblical and theological thinking and living was certainly in his bloodstream.

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Application How will I make the question “What does Scripture say?” part of my dominant consciousness?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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FRIDAY, 13 OCTOBER 2017

God-centred Posture in Serving God (1) Scripture Ezra 8:24-30

Observation What observations can you make about the way Ezra, the priests and the Levites served God in verses 24 to 28?

Deeper Reflection

zra’s instruction to the priests and the Levites on handling and transporting the sacred treasures for God’s temple in Jerusalem (vv.24-30) showed a God-centred posture in serving God. Serving God is more than just serving Him in religious settings.

We serve God in everything and every day of our lives. We serve God because we are first of all servants of God. Serve in holiness: The priests and Levites “are holy to the LORD” (v.28) – that is, separated and set apart by God for Himself for a particular kind of service to Him. What was true for the priests and the Levites is also true for every servant of God. “You are holy” refers to what we are. Holiness begins when the holy God “sanctifies you” (Lev 20:8) and He “has separated you… set you apart from the peoples to be Mine” (Lev 20:24, 26); and this holy God becomes our Lord, and we His holy people are in a holy relationship with Him. Then, we become what we are: “You shall consecrate yourselves and be holy” (Lev 20:7). And when we serve God, we serve from what we are. We serve the holy God as His holy people in holy relationship with Him, and thus our service is holy service.

Everything we do every day is holy service to the holy God.

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Application What does it mean for me to know that everything I do every day is holy service to God?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders: To serve God as holy people with a holy posture ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 14 OCTOBER 2017

God-centred Posture in Serving God (2) Scripture Ezra 8:24-30

Observation What observations can you make about the way Ezra, the priests and the Levites served God in verses 29 to 30?

Deeper Reflection

nother God-centred posture in serving God is serving with faithfulness. The priests and the Levites “accepted the task of transporting these treasures” (v.30, NLT). Handling and transporting the sacred treasures was no mere manual labour. It was a holy task. We are faithful when we accept whatever God assigns to us. What God assigns may be small and simple, but it is sacred. We serve as God sees. God rewards serving “a cup of cold water to one of the least of My followers” (Matt 10:42, NLT). Being “faithful in a very little thing” is of great importance before God, and thus must it also be to us (Lk 16:10). Serving with carefulness: The priests and the Levites were to guard the sacred treasures carefully (v.29) against “any temptation to steal or misuse”23. Weighing the sacred treasures carefully was emphasised in verses 25 to 27 and 29 to 30, with the word “weigh” repeated four times. Serving God carefully involves responsibility, concentration, diligence and integrity. “To bring them to Jerusalem to the house of God” (v.30) was the whole purpose − the one purpose of the priests’ and the Levites’ holy assignment. Serving God with faithfulness and carefulness is completed by serving with single-mindedness.

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Application What changes do I need to make in serving God with faithfulness, carefulness and single-mindedness?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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Robert Fyall, The Message of Ezra & Haggai, The Bible Speaks Today (IVP, 2010), 118

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SUNDAY, 15 OCTOBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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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 • OCTOBER 2017

DOES GOD KNOW WHAT I AM THINKING NOW? Nothing can be hidden from God. He knows everything.

Scripture: Psalm 139:1-6, 23-24

ACTIVITY BITE

Think of an object then describe it to your family using words or actions, but without naming it. See who can guess it correctly. For example, you can describe a phone by saying “It’s not food, and you can speak to someone with it. What am I thinking about?”

CHAT TIME

Q1: Is it hard for people to know what you are thinking about without telling them what it is? Why or why not?

Q2: Psalm 139:1-6 says that God knows every thought that is in our minds. Why is God so interested to know what we are thinking about?

Q3: What do you think God will say if you think bad thoughts about someone?

LEARNING POINT

God is so powerful that He can do all things. He can do all the impossible tasks you can think of. He can do it. He can see what we can’t see and He knows things we don’t know. Psalm 139:1-6 says that before you speak, He already knows the words you are about to say. Moreover, He knows what you are thinking about. He is interested in everything about you because He made you. He wants you to think good thoughts and say good things. So it is always good to read the Bible to know what good things you should be thinking about every time.

ACTION POINT

Spend a minute writing down the good thoughts that come to mind.

Thank God for caring for you. Ask Him to help you to think good thoughts about everything and everyone all the time.

PRAYER POWER

Pray that your family and church friends will always think good thoughts about everyone, so that we will continue to forgive and love one another.

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MONDAY, 16 OCTOBER 2017

From Ahava to Jerusalem Scripture

Ezra 8:21-23, 31-32

Observation What is the significance of the mention of “the hand of our God” “at the river of Ahava” in verses 21 to 22 and in Ezra’s journey “from the river Ahava” “to Jerusalem” in verses 31 to 32?

Deeper Reflection

he journey of Ezra and the people under him from the river Ahava to Jerusalem in Ezra 8:21-32 presents a picture of a discipleship journey. The journey of 1,400 km over four months was an “immense and hazardous journey”24. So is the biblical discipleship journey, for it is walking the path of the cross (Lk 9:22-23). So, “do not be surprised at the fiery trials that have come upon you” (1 Pet 4:12).

We see the theological movement from Ezra’s dependence on God in humbly seeking God through fasting “at the river of Ahava” (v.21) to the deliverance of God in the journey “from the river Ahava…to Jerusalem” (vv.31-32). “The hand of our God” was upon Ezra and his people in both their dependence on God and God’s deliverance of them (vv.22, 31).

Notice the contrast of two “hands”: “the hand of our God…delivered us from the hand the enemy” (v.31). The deliverance could have taken place when they were attacked or kept from attacks;25 although the word “deliver” “usually suggests that the person is already in the grip of the enemies or afflictions”26. God delivers us from affliction or through affliction. In the former is escape from affliction, while the latter calls for endurance of affliction.

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Application What challenges do I face in trusting in God and waiting for His deliverance in crises?

Prayer Lord of the cross, teach me and help me to fix my eyes on You, the Pioneer and Perfecter of faith, and to consider You, who for the joy set before You endured the cross with all the hostility from sinners, disregarding the shame, that I may run with perseverance the race marked out for me, and not grow weary, lose heart and give up. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

24

Derek Kidner, Ezra and Nehemiah, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries (IVP, 1979), 75 H. G. H. Williamson, Ezra, Nehemiah, Word Biblical Commentary (Word Books, 1985), 120; Gary V. Smith, 84 26 David J. Clines, 114 25

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TUESDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2017

Beautified Temple, Broken People Scripture

Ezra 7:14-17, 27; 8:24-30, 33-35

Observation What does verse 27 tell us about the sacred treasures for the temple of God (vv.14-17; Ezr 8:24-30, 33-34)?

Deeper Reflection

he silver and gold as “offering for the house of our God” (Ezr 8:25) occupies a pride of place in Ezra 7 to 8. We see the movement of these sacred treasures from King Artaxerxes’ commission of Ezra to bring them to Jerusalem (Ezr 7:11-24), to the preparation and transportation (Ezr 8:15-32) and to the presentation of them to God’s temple in Jerusalem (Ezr 8:33-34). These sacred treasures were for the beautification of God’s temple as expressed in Ezra’s doxology: God “has put in the king’s heart to beautify” His temple (v.27). The beautified temple reflects the worthiness of God who dwells in it and among His restored people. Ezra 7 to 8 concludes with a Godward act (Ezr 8:35) and a manward act (Ezr 8:36). The Godward act was worship to God with “burnt offerings” expressing dedication to God and “sin offering” for appropriating redemption (Ezr 8:35). But an externally beautified temple can become meaningless and devoid of God’s presence if offerings are offered merely by the hands and not from the heart. God in His beautified temple is to be worshipped by broken people. The “sacrifices of God are a broken spirit”, and the offerings of broken people are “righteous sacrifices” (Psa 51:16-17, 19).

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Application How can I guard against worshipping God with external expressions and without a genuine attitude?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To guard their hearts diligently above everything ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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WEDNESDAY, 18 OCTOBER 2017

God Fulfilling His Purpose Scripture

Ezra 6:13-15, 22; 8:35-36

Observation What is a common theme concerning the temple of God in verses 13 to 15 and 22 and Ezra 8:35-36?

Deeper Reflection

zra 7 to 8 begins with a summary of Ezra’s journey from Babylon to Jerusalem (Ezr 7:6-10), after introducing Ezra (Ezr 7:1-5). Ezra’s journey was then particularised in Ezra 7:11 to 8:36, beginning with King Artaxerxes’ decree authorising the temple worship in Jerusalem (Ezr 7:11-26) and concluding with Ezra “delivered the king’s orders” to the governing officials of TransEuphrates, resulting in “they supported the people and the house of God” (Ezr 8:36). The conclusion signified the fulfilment of God’s purpose for His temple through Ezra. But this was a complementation and progression of God’s purpose for His temple through Zerubbabel, that was fulfilled some 60 years ago (vv.13-15, 22). God has a particular purpose for His temple for every generation, but never apart from the past and future generations. Since the apostolic age until now, the people of God are still “growing into a holy temple in the Lord” (Eph 2:19-22). God’s providence ensures that His purpose will never be thwarted. God moved the hearts of the Persian kings in the Zerubbabel generation (Ezr 1:1; vv.14, 22), and “the hand of God” worked in the Ezra generation (Ezr 7:6, 9, 28; 8:18, 22, 31), and this remains true for every generation.

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Application What does it mean for me to be part of the complete redemptive purpose of God across the whole of history?

Prayer Lord of the universe and the Church, I am never too small or insignificant before You to be part of Your complete redemptive purpose across the whole of history. You have made me that individual part that is fitted and held together with every other part of the whole purpose to make its vital contribution.27 Help me to be faithful in the part that You have given me.

Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

27

Ephesians 4:16

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THURSDAY, 19 OCTOBER 2017

Theology of the Exodus Scripture

Ezra 1:1-4; 7:11-14, 25-26; Exodus 20:1-17; 25:8

Observation How is the return from exile under Zerubbabel and Ezra depicted as a second exodus when comparing verses 1 to 4 with Exodus 25:8, and Ezra 7:11-14, 25-26 with Exodus 20:1-17?

Deeper Reflection

he Ezra narrative is depicted as a second exodus, following the theological pattern of the first exodus. Deliverance of God: God delivered Israel from the Egyptian bondage to be His covenant people (Exo 19:3-6). Israel’s return from exile under Zerubbabel (Ezr 1-6) and Ezra (Ezr 7-10) was God’s deliverance.

They were “slaves” in exile (Ezr 9:9; Neh 9:36). Demands of God: God required Israel to keep “the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments” (Exo 20:1-17; 34:28) to maintain their covenant relationship with Him. Great attention was paid to the Law of God when Israel returned from exile (Ezr 3:1-4; 7:11-14, 25-26). Dwelling of God: God commanded Israel to construct the Tabernacle “that I may dwell among them” (Exo 25:8; 29:45-46). When Israel persisted in covenant unfaithfulness, the Temple was destroyed (2 Kin 25:8-9).

In Israel’s return from exile, the Temple was rebuilt (Ezr 1-6) and beautified (Ezr 7-8; note 7:27). The ultimate exodus is in Jesus: “His departure [Greek: exodos] which He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem” (Lk 9:31). Jesus is God who dwells with us, and delivers us from our sins as the Lamb of God (Jn 1:14, 29), and fulfilled God’s demands in the Law for us (Matt 5:17-20), so that in Christ we “become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor 5:21; Phil 3:9).

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Application What do I appreciate about God in His redemptive acts in the first exodus, the second exodus and the ultimate exodus?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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FRIDAY, 20 OCTOBER 2017

Purpose of the Exodus Scripture

Ezra 8:32-35; Exodus 4:23; 7:16; 8:3, 20; 9:1, 13; 10:3

Observation What was God’s purpose for delivering Israel out of the Egyptian bondage (Exo 4:23; 7:16; 8:3, 20; 9:1, 13; 10:3)?

Deeper Reflection

he purpose of the first exodus was worship to God. God commanded Pharaoh: “Let My people go, so that they may worship Me” (Exo 4:23; 7:16; 8:3, 20; 9:1, 13; 10:3). Variations of this expression are repeated 23 times in Exodus 3 to 10. In the second exodus under Zerubbabel (Ezr 1-6), the first thing the exiles did upon arrival in Jerusalem was worship: “they built the altar of the God of Israel to offer burnt offerings on it” (Ezr 3:1-2). When the temple rebuilding completed, it was marked by worship: They “celebrated the dedication” of God’s temple by offering sacrifices (Ezr 6:15-18). In the second exodus under Ezra (Ezr 7-8), the focus was on transporting the sacred treasures for God’s temple in Jerusalem. It began with King Artaxerxes’ authorisation of temple worship in Jerusalem (Ezr 7:14-17) and ended with the exiles offering “burnt offerings to the God of Israel” in the temple (v.35). We are redeemed in Christ for worship as defined

by Romans 12:1: God-centred living by dedicating to God our “bodies” (cf. Rom 6:12-13) – our whole persons in all that we are, do and have, at all times. And our worship is “acceptable to God” only “through Jesus Christ” (1 Pet 2:5).

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Application What changes do I need to make in my life with regard to my worship to God as defined by Romans 12:1?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders: To worship God as a whole person in everything and every day ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 21 OCTOBER 2017

Theology of the Exile Scripture

Ezra 8:35; 1 Peter 2:11

Observation What is one thing in common between the people of God who returned to Jerusalem (Ezr v.35) and the new covenant people of God in Christ (1 Pet 2:11)?

Deeper Reflection

zra reached Jerusalem from Babylon in 458 B.C. (Ezr 7:8-9), and some 80 years had passed since Babylon fell to Persia in 539 B.C. (cf. Dan 5:30-31). But interestingly, God’s people who had returned to Jerusalem were identified as “exiles who had come from the captivity” (v.35). But wasn’t the exile over? They had returned to their land, but it was the Persians, and subsequently, the Greeks and then the Romans, who ruled their land. Theologically, they were still exiles. They were sojourners in the land like their forefather, Abraham (Gen 17:8; 23:4; Heb 11:9, 13-16). This theological identity of God’s covenant people continues in the new covenant people of God in Christ, who are “sojourners and exiles” (1 Pet 2:11, ESV). These “sojourners and exiles” live as an eschatological people waiting in hope for the “salvation to be revealed in the last time” “at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Pet 1:3-5, 13). They shine in righteousness and suffer for righteousness in a world hostile towards God (1 Pet 2:11-12). The Lord is a God in exile. He revealed Himself in His transcendent glory in idolatrous and immoral Babylon (Eze 1:1, 26-28). And when His glory left Jerusalem, He “was a sanctuary” for the exiles (Eze 10:18; 11:16).

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Application What does it mean for me to live as a sojourner and exile?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SUNDAY, 22 OCTOBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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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 • OCTOBER 2017

WILL GOD HEAR IF I SAY A PRAYER QUIETLY IN MY HEART? God sees the deep thoughts in our hearts.

Scripture: Psalm 139:1-6, 23-24; Jeremiah 29:12; Romans 10:9-10

ACTIVITY BITE

Play a game of charades with your family. At the end of the game, get everyone to share how they felt when people could not guess what they were trying to say.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Is it important to say clearly what you are thinking instead of letting others guess? Why or why not?

Q2: What does Psalm 139 tell you about God who knows what you are thinking about even without saying it?

Q3: Do you think God will hear and answer you if you say a prayer in your heart? Why or why not?

LEARNING POINT

Psalm 139:1-6 tells us about our God who sees and hears everything, even the deep thoughts in our minds and hearts. When our pastors tell us to pray to God in our hearts, they know that God can hear your prayers even without saying it out loud. But I believe God would prefer you to speak out your prayer. The book of Psalms is filled with people who cried out loud to God in prayer and most of them sang their prayers too. Jeremiah 29:12 talks about calling out to our God who hears. Romans 10:9-10 encourages us to confess with our mouth that Jesus is Lord when we pray. But God will hear you even if you say a prayer quietly in your heart, because He loves you.

ACTION POINT

Say a prayer in your heart to God and write it down in your journal.

Remember to write down the date of this prayer too. When God answers your prayer, share with your family and friends what you prayed for and how God answered it.

PRAYER POWER

Pray that all Christians will believe that God will hear and answer their prayers. For those who have doubts, ask God to help them believe so that their faith will increase.

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CELEBRATING THE

500 ANNIVERSARY

TH

OF THE REFORMATION

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31 October 2017 is the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.

It commemorates the day (31 October 1517) on which the Augustinian monk, Martin Luther, nailed his 95 Theses to the door of Castle Church in the German town of Wittenberg.

Luther’s propositions were against the sale of indulgences practised by the Roman Catholic Church and was intended as an invitation to other scholars to debate with him.

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e did not know that his action would set off a chain reaction that would change the course of Church history and, thereby, human history. As a result of the Reformation that Luther sparked off, many Christians separated from the Roman Catholic Church and formed Protestant churches and denominations according to Reformed doctrines.

In essence, the Protestant Reformation was about Christians being able to read the Bible in their own vernacular, submitting their worship and their lives to the supreme authority of God’s Word and understanding that sinners are justified by faith in Jesus Christ.28 The five Solas of the Reformation are: • Sola scriptura (Scripture alone) • Solus Christus (Christ alone) • Sola gratia (grace alone) • Sola fide (faith alone) • Soli Deo gloria (God’s glory alone) Covenant EFC is part of the Evangelical Free Church denomination, which traces its roots to the Protestant Reformation. Our forefathers were Protestant Christians from the Scandinavian countries. They migrated to America in the late 19th century and in 1950 they formed the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA). Subsequently, EFCA missionaries came to East Asia and Southeast Asia and planted churches in several countries, including Singapore, which was then part of the Federation of Malaya. Today there are 11 Evangelical Free Churches in Singapore.

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As noted by Dr Roland Chia in a 2010 article he wrote on the Evangelical Free Church: In the tradition of Reformation theology, the Evangelical Free Church teaches that the Christian Holy Scriptures are the sole basis for faith, doctrine and conduct (sola scriptura). Scripture is therefore the primary authority against which truth and error must be judged. The Evangelical Free Church therefore stresses the infallibility of Scripture, and that the original autographs, being inspired by the Holy Spirit, are without error. Also in line with the teachings of the Reformers, the Evangelical Free Church maintains that salvation is based upon the unmerited grace of God alone (sola gratia) and appropriated by faith alone (sola fide).

Furthermore, it is faith in Jesus Christ alone (solus Christus) that saves.

The old Latin motto of Reformed churches is ecclesia reformata semper reformanda est., which means “The reformed church is always in need of reforming”. How true! We, the members of the Church, are susceptible to the corruption of our hearts and prone to idolatry.

There is therefore always a need to return to the purity of biblical doctrines, repent of our sins, renew our faith and revitalise our walk with the Lord. May this week’s devotions bless us in our continuing journey of reformation directed by the Holy Spirit according to the Word of God.

Soli Deo gloria.

28

Two excellent books that provide a clear and concise introduction and survey of the Reformation: Michael Reeves, The Unquenchable Flame: Discovering the Heart of the Reformation (Nashville: B&H Publishing, 2010); Robert M Solomon, The Reformation: The Thoughts, Lives and Legacy of the Reformers (Singapore: Genesis Books, 2017).

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MONDAY, 23 OCTOBER 2017

The Supreme Authority of Scripture Scripture Mark 7:1-13

Observation What hypocrisy did Jesus expose among the Pharisees and the scribes?

Deeper Reflection

ne of the rallying cries of the Reformers was sola scriptura – Scripture alone! God’s Word recorded in Holy Scripture is above church tradition. In church history, tradition refers to the way Scripture has been interpreted by church leaders over the centuries. The Bible is inerrant (i.e. without error), but our interpretation of the Bible is not. No human interpreter is infallible, no matter what position or title he holds in the church. As such, where any particular interpretation is found to be erroneous by a godly hermeneutical community in the light of the clear witness of Scripture, then that interpretation and the practices derived from it can be set aside, even if they have been adhered to for a long time by respected elders and leaders. When Scripture has exposed a particular tradition as without God’s mandate, then we must not hold to that tradition and its practices. Not that all tradition is bad, but our commitment is to Scripture, not tradition. We must not reject God’s Word to establish men’s tradition. Because Scripture is above tradition!

Due to the deceitfulness of the human heart, tradition can also be easily corrupted to support people’s sinful desires, for example pride and greed.

Jesus described these Pharisees and scribes as “hypocrites”. They paid lip service to honouring God, but in fact their hearts were far from God and they disobeyed God. They sought to maintain a righteous and respectable image, although it was crystal clear to Jesus that they were self-centred and self-righteous. They were quick to judge others’ defiled hands, but blind to their own defiled hearts. Their worship was thus meaningless.

O

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Application In what areas of my life are there hypocrisy in my worship of God because of my failure to obey the Scripture?

Prayer Lord God, I am sorry I have not fully obeyed You in Your Word. It is not that I do not know enough, but that I have not obeyed fully in what I already know. Please forgive me and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I do not want to be a hypocrite in my worship of You. Please work deeply in me to change me from the inside out. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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TUESDAY, 24 OCTOBER 2017

Justification by Faith (1) Scripture

Romans 1:16-17; 3:21-30; Ephesians 2:4-9

Observation What is the relationship between God’s grace, one’s faith in Jesus Christ and the righteousness of God?

Deeper Reflection

n addition to the doctrine of sola scriptura, the Reformation also emphasised Christus solus (Christ alone), sola fide (faith alone) and sola gratia (grace alone) − all three concepts connected with the doctrine of justification by faith − a key Reformation doctrine. It was one that was particularly emphasised by Luther, and the reason why he nailed his 95 Theses on 31 October 1517 against the sale of indulgences.

Luther’s theology developed from his understanding of Scripture and his own personal experience of salvation.”29 Luther came to realise that we are not saved by our own attempts at being righteous according to God’s law, but by receiving Christ’s righteousness which God graciously offers to us as a free gift to be received by faith. That is why our justification is by faith alone and not by works. We are justified, that is, declared righteous, by God on the basis of our faith in Christ, not on the basis of our good works. What a liberating and glorious truth! We are given the righteousness of Christ when we believe in Him and His atoning sacrifice on the cross for all our sins and receive God’s full forgiveness. In other words, the righteousness of Christ is imputed on every believer at the point of conversion, when one puts one’s faith in Christ alone for salvation from sin and death, to eternal life with God. We are saved by God’s grace alone, though we are undeserving of salvation. If God had not in Christ acted in His great love and mercy towards us, we would have no hope of salvation by our own efforts and achievements.

“I

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Application How does the truth that I am saved by God’s grace alone though faith alone in Christ alone, and not by my works, impact my Christian life and ministry?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To rejoice in their salvation by God’s grace ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

29

Robert M Solomon, The Reformation: The Thoughts, Lives and Legacy of the Reformers (Singapore: Genesis Books, 2017), p.186.

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WEDNESDAY, 25 OCTOBER 2017

Justification by Faith (2) Scripture

Romans 5:12-21; 1:5; 16:26; 8:29-30

Observation How did the free gift of righteousness by God’s grace become available to sinners?

Deeper Reflection

in came into the human race through the first man, Adam.

With sin came spiritual death, that is, separation from God and life in Him. So judgement, condemnation and death came through that one man, Adam. But all those who “receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness” will “reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ” (v.17). By Christ’s obedience to God the Father, all Christians will be made righteous. God’s grace abounds to reign in even the greatest of sinners who puts his faith in Christ and His saving work on the cross. As someone once confessed, “I am a great sinner, but Christ is a great Saviour.” No one is beyond the grace of God to save! Every sinner can have eternal life through Jesus Christ, if only he or she believes in Him. What a glorious Gospel! Yet salvation by grace through faith does not mean cheap grace. “Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.”30 The doctrine of justification by faith includes obedience to Christ. That is what the apostle Paul termed “the obedience of faith” (Rom 1:5; 16:26). God’s predestinating purpose for His children is Christ-likeness, for them “to be conformed to the image of His Son” (Rom 8:29). Christians are saved for obedience to Jesus Christ and, ultimately, conformity to His image. That is the process of sanctification of believers by the work of the Holy Spirit who indwells them.

S

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Application What must I do to live out the obedience of faith in Christ in my current life situation?

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for my sins.

You took my place and my punishment, so that I can be made righteous in God’s sight and have eternal life. Thank You that I have a glorious destiny awaiting me, and that I now have a new purpose in life to worship and serve You in obedience. Please help me to do so faithfully till I see You face to face. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

30

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, The Cost of Discipleship (New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., 1963), pp.43-44.

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THURSDAY, 26 OCTOBER 2017

The Message of Christ Crucified Scripture

1 Corinthians 1:17-31

Observation What is the Gospel, according to the apostle Paul in this passage?

Deeper Reflection

he heart of the Gospel message is Christ crucified for sinners (v.23). Christ and the cross are central. In Paul’s mind, “the gospel” (v.17) is “the word of the cross” (v.18), which he has been called by Christ to preach to the Gentiles. That message of truth must never be changed. Notwithstanding that the world will snub the message as foolishness. Notwithstanding that Christians will be ridiculed as foolish to believe it. The worldly wise will mock Christians thus, “A crucified Saviour? What weakness in the Christ they proclaim!” God’s reply to them is: “Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” (vv.24-25) God’s clear intention is to leave humankind no basis whatsoever to boast in their own power and wisdom. Even if a sinner possesses the totality of human power and wisdom, it can never secure for that person salvation from eternal punishment. In the end, in the presence of God, the unbelieving human being stands condemned under the righteous judgment of God, the just and supreme Judge. The proud, arrogant and strong will be humbled and brought to shame. In contrast, the humble, contrite and weak will be exalted by God. The believers’ faith in and dependence on Christ alone for salvation will be gloriously vindicated! Because they hold fast to their faith in Christ Jesus, whom God has made their wisdom and their righteousness and sanctification and redemption (v.30). Because they boast not in themselves in any way at all, but only in the Lord alone.

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Application How should a true understanding of the Gospel guide and reform our personal and corporate worship, our pulpit ministry as well as our evangelism?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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FRIDAY, 27 OCTOBER 2017

The Priesthood of All Believers Scripture

1 Peter 2:4-10; Revelation 5:8-10

Observation How did the apostle Peter describe all believers in Christ and what is their purpose as God’s people (vv.4-10)?

Deeper Reflection

n assembly of God’s people is called a church (Greek: ekklesia).

According to the reformer John Calvin, “Wherever we see the Word of God purely preached and listened to, and the sacraments31 administered according to Christ’s institution, it is in no way to be doubted that a church of God exists.”32 This is a Christological and Word-centred definition of the church.33 All true believers across space and time constitute God’s people. The apostle Peter describes all true believers in Jesus Christ – “whoever believes in Him”, “for you who believe” (vv.6, 7) – in various ways: (a) “a spiritual house” (v.5), (b) “a holy priesthood”, “a royal priesthood” (vv.5, 9), (c) “a chosen race” (v.9), (d) “a holy nation” (v.9) and (e) “a people for His own possession”, “God’s people” (vv.9, 10). There will be true believers “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev 5:9). Christ makes them all “a kingdom and priests” to God (Rev 5:10). It is very clear that the spiritual vocation for all believers is to be God’s priests to minister to Him and to people. In that sense, there is no difference between vocational pastors and lay members of the church. The difference is only in function (i.e. roles and responsibilities) within the local church context. God’s purpose for all His priests, as mediators between God and humankind, is to minister to people by proclaiming “the excellencies of Him who called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light” (v.9), so that people in every nation and generation will have the opportunity to hear the Gospel and the elect will believe in Jesus Christ.

A

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Application How does the truth that I am part of the priesthood of all believers impact the way I view my Christian life and ministry?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders: To worship and serve God as His faithful priests and ministers of the Gospel ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

31 32 33

I.e. baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, trans. Henry Beveridge (London: James Clarke & Co., 1962), 4.1.9.

Essentially, there must be the adherence to the Word of God. There was no requirement of institutional structure and ceremonies, and no reference to apostolic succession or papal authority.

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SATURDAY, 28 OCTOBER 2017

The Theology of the Cross Scripture

Philippians 2:5-11; Hebrews 4:14-16

Observation How do verses 6 to 8 reveal God’s great love, mercy and grace towards sinners?

Deeper Reflection

esus Christ was truly God, but chose to be incarnated as a human being. He “made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant” (v.7), that is, He emptied Himself of His divine majesty and prerogatives. He became fully human (“being born in the likeness of men”, “being found in human form”, v.7) while remaining fully God. Through the incarnation, Jesus fully identified with humanity, yet was without sin (Heb 4:15). The sinless Son of God willingly chose to bear the sins of humanity on the cross, in obedience to the will of God the Father.

It was the only way to redeem sinners, by being the atoning sacrifice for humanity’s sins. And Jesus did it all for you and me through the cross of Calvary. Theologian Carl Trueman wrote these insights on Martin Luther’s theology of the cross: “… it brings to fore both the depth of God’s love for sinful humanity, that God Himself was willing to undergo such suffering, weakness and humiliation on behalf of helpless sinners, and also underlines that suffering and weakness is a central part of the Christian’s strength experience here on earth. In Christ, God has so identified Himself with humanity as to become one with fellow humans. He has endured not only the mundane inconveniences of our existence but has even suffered in a supreme sense on our behalf, that suffering which is captured in a deep and inexplicable way in the cry of dereliction on the cross”34. So in our weakness and suffering, let us go to Jesus who fully understands and gives us the needed mercy and grace for each day (Heb 4:16).

J

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Application How does the fact that the Lord Jesus willingly went through humiliation, weakness and suffering for my salvation speak to my own experience of weakness and suffering?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

34

Carl R. Trueman, Reformation: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, reprint (Ross-shire, Scotland: Christian Focus, 2011), pp.46-47. He is Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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SUNDAY, 29 OCTOBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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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 5 • OCTOBER 2017

HOW CAN GOD HEAR THOUSANDS OF PRAYERS AT THE SAME TIME? God has the amazing power to hear and answer everyone’s prayers at the same time.

Scripture: Psalm 139:7-10; Job 42:2

ACTIVITY BITE

Get a few people to stand in a circle around you. Ask them to share with you what they did last evening, all at the same time. Close your eyes and listen to what each of them is saying. After 30 seconds, open your eyes and see if you can recall what they said to you.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Is it possible for you to hear and remember everyone’s story when they say them all at the same time? Why or why not?

Q2: Do you think God can hear everyone’s prayers at the same time?

Why or why not? How does Psalm 139:7-10 help you understand God’s ability to do that?

Q3: How long do you think God will take to answer your prayers if He were to choose who He wants to listen to first?

LEARNING POINT

It is hard to imagine how God can hear millions of people praying all at the same time and be able to understand and answer them. He has this ability because nothing is impossible for Him. He is everywhere at the same time. He can hear a child praying from Africa even as He hears your prayers now. He can pay full attention to you as He listens to all the other Christians in the world. He doesn’t take a break or put you on hold. This is very good news because you can be sure that He hears you the moment you call on the name of Jesus. He isn’t far away; He is right here by your side.

ACTION POINT

Close your eyes and say a prayer to God. Tell Him how thankful you are because He listens to your prayers. Write down your prayer in your notebook and wait for Him to answer it.

PRAYER POWER

Pray that all Christians will know that God has heard their prayers and will surely answer them. Pray that we will grow stronger in faith to believe that He is able to do all things.

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MONDAY, 30 OCTOBER 2017

Marrying Unbelievers: What God Says (1) Scripture

Ezra 9:1-2; Deuteronomy 7:1-6

Observation What does the Word of God say about the Lord’s people marrying those who are not His people in verses 1 to 2 and Deuteronomy 7:1-6?

Deeper Reflection

zra’s holy mission pertaining to the temple of God (Ezr 7-8) climaxed with holy worship to the holy God (Ezr 8:35-36).

But “when these things” had “been completed” (v.1), Ezra learnt about the unholy marriages among God’s holy people – “the holy race” (cf. Deut 7:6), that they had “not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands” but had “intermingled with” them (vv.1-2). The commandment of God is clear: “You shall not intermarry with them” (Deut 7:3). In today’s context, where there is a culture of courtship before marriage, is dating an unbeliever (obviously, with marriage in mind) violating God’s commandment? One may argue, “But we’re not married yet”, implying that “I’ve not sinned against God (yet)”, which implies “I don’t want to sin against God”. It may probably be true that you have not sinned, if we go by the letter. But what is the attitude behind that kind of argument: “I haven’t sinned against God (yet)” or “I don’t want to sin against God”? If it is the former, then you are trying to be shrewd towards God with an ulterior motive. If it is the latter, then you wouldn’t have dated an unbeliever in the very first place, if you have marriage in mind. God looks beyond an act; He looks at what is ultimately true − the heart (cf. Prov 16:2).

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Application What is my personal conviction concerning a believer in Christ dating and marrying an unbeliever?

Prayer God, You created humans male and female, who can be physically attracted to and feel romantically for the opposite sex. We cannot understand how that happens, as Your Word tells us.35 But You forbid Your people to marry those who are not. We pray for Your children, especially the young people, that they seriously seek to abide in Your will in this matter. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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Proverbs 30:18-19

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TUESDAY, 31 OCTOBER 2017

Marrying Unbelievers: What God Says (2) Scripture

Ezra 9:1-2; Exodus 34:11-16

Observation How does God warn His people against marrying those who are not His people in Exodus 34:11-16?

Deeper Reflection

od gives a severe warning of the certain consequence of marrying an unbeliever: “they will seduce your sons [you] to commit adultery against Me by worshipping other gods” (Exo 34:16, NLT). In this kind of “unequally yoked” relationship (cf. 2 Cor 6:14-16), the unbeliever has a greater spiritual influence over the believer. Yet, there is this common spiritually dangerous rationalisation for dating an unbeliever: “I want to influence him (or her) to become a Christian.” Sure, there are incidents of believers having influenced unbelievers to Christ; but these are exceptions of God’s sovereign work, not the norm; and we dare not be presumptuous. Do you think you are greater than God and His warning in His Word, that you can overcome what He warns against?

At the end of the day, when the unbeliever you are dating remains an unbeliever, do you still go ahead with the marriage? Or, do you wait until he or she becomes a believer? “Watch yourself ” – “be very careful” (Exo 34:12). Do not harden your heart and become indifferent towards God. Recognise that at the heart of this matter is this: “the LORD whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Exo 34:14).

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Application What implications does God opposing marriage between a believer and unbeliever have on me?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To have breakthroughs in admonishing believers who are dating unbelievers ■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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NOTES

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© 2017 COVENANT EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH T: (65) 6892 6811 • E: mail@cefc.org.sg • W: www.cefc.org.sg

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