Always keep on praying for all the saints

Have you ever felt an overwhelming burden to pray for someone? Perhaps even a sense that a spiritual battle is ensuing? It happened during the morning service @north.

The singing and music was great...and then suddenly a crushing burden to pray for Daniel Shayestah our speaker (see article about Daniel).I could not follow much of the service for that period of time as I earnestly prayed for him against spiritual enemies and attacks that might seek to discourage or oppress him as he spoke. I called on God to cover us and him in particular with his strength and grace.

Then Daniel was announced by the chairman, Simon Parsons, to take the lectern. Daniel stood up and walked towards it, then turned and walked towards me instead (I was at the other end of the hall to where Daniel was sitting). He came close to me and said: 'I need you to pray for me.'Without hesitation, I walked with him to the lectern to lead the congregation in prayer, for God's Spirit to take darkness from our hearts and mind.

Daniel spoke with passion, rare in speakers and with fire in his heart as he instructed us with a treasure of information on Islam. He gave us boldness to share the gospel and inspired us with his love for the Lord.

Towards the end of the talk, he spoke about a dream God had given him (prior to his conversion): his house was on fire, and Jesus called to him to leave that house....and to run to a house built upon the Rock. As he did, his burning house collapsed. But his new house built on the rock was secure.

The following Sunday, when he turned up at church; the speaker challenged the congregation with these words: 'Come out of your house and build your new house on the rock of Jesus'....

After Daniel finished, we sang our closing song:

My Hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name. On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand. All other ground is sinking sand.

Daniel and I chatted immediately after the service. He said: 'Praise God for that song. It has captured perfectly what I had said in my testimony about how Jesus rescued me".

Daniel had no idea I had pick that song as the song of response. And for that matter, I did not have any idea what he was going to say about a house on the Rock. God was in sovereign and providential control over all things.At the end, I had a sense that an unseen battle was fought. But God never lost control. He was always going to be triumphant down to the last song (picked 3 weeks before).'

A lesson to us all: always pray for the preacher; take seriously the call to uphold him weekly before the Lord....there's more going on than meets the eyes

'".....and pray in the Spirit on all occasions, with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints....pray for me that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador ..." (Ephesians 6:18-20a)

~ CS TANG~

From darkness to light-Testimony of Daniel S (from Islam to Christianity)

CS praying for Daniel before his sharing
Daniel sharing his testimony
Daniel as a member of parliament in opposition to Ayatollah Komeni

On 17th March 2007, Cornerstone@north and OCF alumni, organised a seminar run by Daniel S. who was an Islamic radical converted to Christianity. Today (18th March 2007), he moved us to tears with his testimony, at our Sunday service. God touched Daniel's life, very powerfully; from one of violence and hate; to one of love and acceptance. He describes his conversion and all that God has done in his life as totally "amazing"!

Though he was very much entrenched in the teachings of the Quran for many years of his life, his whole life has been turned upside down; and he now dedicates his life speaking all over the world; teaching and educating people to the true "violent" teachings of Islam. Daniel also addresses the alarming social implications of the growth of Islam in western nations today.Daniel was born in Iran near the Caspian sea. By age nine he was able to recite the entire Quran in Arabic. As a young man he was totally committed to Islam and was a member of Hezbollah in Iran.

He supported Ayatollah Komeni and forced the Shah of Iran into exile in 1979. Khomeini put Daniel in charge of a revolutionary army that had a primary goal of killing all Jews in Israel and recapturing the Holy Land for Arabs. Daniel then began spreading propaganda and training young Muslims. Their main goal was to mobilize all the boys and girls of the country and to teach them terrorist actions.

This involvement in radical Islam caused him to advance politically; in that arena and with the recognition and support of people in his city, he announced his candidacy for the Islamic Parliament.

The bitter rivalry of Islamic politics which often leads to people being killed for their beliefs, meant he was a threat to Khomeini's political group who wanted to govern at any cost (in the name of Islam). He was kidnapped by Khomeini's Revolutionary Military and placed in a death cell to await a death sentence. God in his love and graciousness had other plans for his life.

He escaped into Turkey - homeless and without family or friends. His loneliness was overwhelming at the time and he feared for his family's safety because of his escape. The rest of his friends who were also in death row with him, were all killed; after his escape.

A number of months later in Turkey, through a business deal that went wrong, he came into contact with a Christian group who encouraged and supported him, and taught him from God’s word. He kept going back to church.

One night, he had a dream, where he was in a burning house and the people around him were dying. He was afraid and called out to God. Immediately, he saw Jesus saying to him; “Come on out of your house”. When he stepped out of the house; it fell into a heap behind him. The following Sunday, he heard the preacher preaching the exact words; “Come out of your house and build a new house on the rock of Jesus”. He gave his life to God that very day.

Where once Islam claimed to be a religion of "peace"; it was all an illusion. Now, the presence of Jesus has brought about a peace that was far beyond his wildest imaginations.

His life was completely changed when he met Jesus. He now experiences a life reflected by holiness and goodness and experiences joy; peace; love; forgiveness; grace; hope...Islam had taught him hatred; violence; distrust; deception; no guarantee of salvation; the degrading of women...

Upon their reunion, his wife too; noticed a dramatic change in Daniel's life because of the way he treated her. Where once she was beaten; insulted; used; and unloved by him....she was now loved; respected and treated with dignity. She too, became a Christian.

Though hated by radical Muslims today, Daniel travels wherever possible to provide insight into the teachings of the Quran and to share his testimony. He helps Christians understand how to effectively evangelize those still trapped in the traditions and deceptions of Islam.

Daniel today heads a ministry called "Exodus from Darkness".

Please click on the link below to find out more about his ministry

http://www.ministryblue.com/exodus.html

.

Daniel, a radical Muslim converted to Christianity (continued)

Daniel now rejoicing in his faith in Jesus and overwhelmed by God's love for Him
Daniel and CS after sharing his testimony @north
Daniel's wife and daughters (then)
And as they are today

Induction of New Elders (11th March 2007)

Laying on off hands
Right hand of fellowship to welcome the new elders into Session
Geoff, Ray, David, Mark, Robert, CS, Harvey, Graeme & Malcolm (at the front)

Today, was a day of great significance to Cornerstone & Cornerstone@North, with the induction of two new elders; Malcolm and Robert.

Mark gave the charge to the new elders. He preached from Titus 1:5-9.

Appointing Elders Who Love What Is Good (New International Version)

5 The reason I left you in Crete was that you might put in order what was left unfinished and appoint [a] elders in every town, as I directed you.

6 An elder must be blameless, faithful to his wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient.

7 Since an overseer manages God's household, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain.

8 Rather, he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined.

9 He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.

Mark exhorted the elders to watch their lives and doctrine. Their lives should continually reflect perseverance. Leadership is one of the great gifts God has given to His church, and eldership is needed; as the plurality of leadership is much needed.

Mark reminded us that the people of God, as a whole; are to be servants; and actively involved in service. He also emphasised the importance of a godly character in the life of an elder; to model Jesus in their lives.

Mark also encouraged us to "Obey our leaders and to submit to their authority"...for "They keep watch over us as men who must give an account".."Obey them, so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to us" (Hebrews 13:17)

We are to submit to our elders, as they are our leaders and God has placed them in authority over us. As shepherds of the Lord, they represent the Lord Jesus and it is God's will; that we should submit to them.

Elders are not to compromise their lives; their faith; their doctrine; their biblical standards; for the approval of others. Instead, they are to seek the applause of ONE...the approval of God. They are to have a clear conscience and to be men of integrity.

Felicity and Jared sang a song for the elders, written by Felicity; especially for the occassion.

After which, CS ordained the elders, through prayer and the laying of hands.

Praise God for His grace and abounding mercies, for providing two godly and humble servants for His service; who will set an example in life, godliness and leadership; (along with all the other elders) to His people.

Induction of New Elders (11th March 2007)

Yes, elders have a sense of humour too!
These are the leaders of our church!
The more beautiful and better halves!! (haha)

Induction of new elders (Robert & Mal)

Sharon, Jodi, Melissa & Robert
Our smiley Robert!
Mal & Charisse

Mal in his hot wheels!

Launch of Cornerstone@North (4th March 2007) Parts 1-5

Glory to God in the highest! Our hearts and voices lift up in praise; worship; adoration and love for our Lord and King! We look forward, with much joy and anticipation; to the second coming of Jesus!

On that glorious day, we will look back and realize that every ounce of "effort" and "sacrifice" we made for God and His kingdom was miniscule; compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ and being in His presence forever!

Let us continue to fix our eyes on Jesus, and catch a vision of why God created and chose us in the first place. May we live for Him and set our hopes on His coming again; when we will rejoice with Him for eternity!

Yesterday, cornerstone@north launched her first service at 9.30 am.There was much cause for rejoicing, in God's faithfulness and sustenance over the years and for His continuing work in, and through us; for the gospel of Christ.

There were many International students amongst us, and visitors from other churches. We united in songs of praise to God. The children also presented two delightful song items.

It was Richard and Lisa’s last Sunday with us before they leave for Thailand tomorrow on 6th March. It was moving to hear them share of their trust in God, despite their uncertainties and fears.

Ministry leaders were also introduced.

These include:

Sidney Tong: Music Ministry
Ed Yeoh: Creative Ministry
Wayne Marr: Welcoming Ministry
Lyn Tang/ Robert Yip: Discipleship/Evangelism
International Students Ministry: Seng Min/Morris & Florianna Key
Project 4/12 (Ministry for youth): Justin Yip
Men's/Cell group Ministries: David King
Children's Ministry: Weng Gar King
Morning Tea Ministry: Shirley Tong

CS preached from Phil 1:27-2:11.We are to conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, as we have been grafted into the citizenship of heaven.

As Christians, we are an outpost of heaven. We are to be united in Christ, and to contend as ONE, not for our own sakes or for our own reputations; but that of God's glory.

As people of God, we are part of God’s family and are connected by the gospel of Jesus.

We should have no fear of those who oppose us. For opposition from others, is a sign that God is for us."If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ; if any comfort from His love; if any fellowship with the Spirit; if any tenderness and compassion; then make my joy complete by being like-minded; having the same love; being one in Spirit and purpose" (v1-2)

We are to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility considering others as better than ourselves. Instead, our attitudes should be that of Jesus, who did not consider equality with God as something to be grasped, but made himself nothing; taking the nature of a servant (v 3-7)

Thanks be to God for His inexpressible gift! The gift of His son, for whose sake we live and breathe and work together.

Following the service, we had a lovely morning tea organized by Shirley. It was a wonderful spread of cakes; cut vegetables; dip; prawn crackers; fruits; cheese and crackers. We were even spoilt with percolated coffee, using beans expertly roasted by the Parson Brothers!

We appreciate your prayers for us so much, and ask that you continue to support us in prayer; that the gospel will go forth unhindered.

Most of all, may all glory; praise and honour be to our Lord; for without Him; all that we do will come to nought.

Launch of Cornerstone@North (4th March 2007)

Launch of Cornerstone@North (4th March 2007)

Ken, Joyce, Helen, Stella, David, Jen & Seng Min (behind)
John, Simon, Shirley, Ivor

Stella, Rita, Florianna, Shirley Sharon, Angela, Sunny
Jane, Ed, Rich, Charlie

Launch of Cornerstone@North (4th March 2007)

Justin, David, Beth, Malika, Dan
Roger, Mei Sin, Jonathan, Mitch, Brendan
Tina, Aiden, Jen
Florence, Samantha, Bec
Angela, Luan. Wayne, Joy

Launch of Cornerstone@North (4th March 2007)

The Chos
Richard and CS
Melody and Sidney
James, Mel & George
Ken, April. Ginnie, Robert & Sharon

Interview with the Parsons

1. What has it been like to be involved @North for the last 2-3 years?

It has been a total eye-opener for us to be involved in a church plant! Having come from large churches in the past where you could just sit back & not do very much, @ North totally blew us away(in a good sense)! We realized that it would be quite a confronting experience but at the same time extremely rewarding. We've been amazed at God's work. What started as basically a large bible study group has now grown into a quite a sizeable church!

2. What have been some of the great challenges the church faced during that time?

Originally, we felt that all of us were too busy! We were concerned that we were too task focused as our numbers were small & there were so may positions to fill on the roster. There were not many times in the beginning that we could just sit through the whole service & absorb it. Thankfully as our numbers increased and other people were able to help us out on the roster, we were able to go back into the service. We were always grateful for the tremendous help provided to us from the guys at Concord!

3. What were some of the great blessings?

Seeing young Christians grow stronger in their faith, watching others get baptized, welcoming people into our fold that had not been to church for a while & increasing in numbers!

4. Where do you think God is leading us as a church?

We hope that God has plans for our church to grow. It would be lovely to see newcomers who do not yet know Christ converted within our church. It would also be important to see the existing church members continue to grow spitritually. As we reflect back on the last 2-3 years, we realize that we have come a long way but there is still so much more room to grow.