Weekly – Page 25 – Blessed Hope Bible-Presbyterian Church

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 44

(1) Home-going of Mr Tang Kok Kwan

Psalm 116:15 Precious in the sight of the LORD isthe death of his saints.

In our weekly newsletter on 29 September 2019 was recorded the testimony of the baptism and confession of faith of Mr Tang Kok Kwan which took place on 26 September 2019 and 14 September 2019 respectively. Mr Tang Kok Kwan went home to be with the Lord on 26 October 2019. The family received the call from the nursing home before midnight on 26 October 2019.

My last visitation with Mr Tang Kok Kwan at the Nursing Home was on 24 October 2019 at 5pm. At that time, he was able to open his eyes slightly, as I prayed with him and singing choruses close to his ear. Thank God for giving this precious time with him.

Upon receiving the call, I was contacted and arrangements were made for the vigil service to be held on 27 October 2019 5.45pm at the “The Glory Room” of the Garden of Remembrance.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 43

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 27 October, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, October 2019

John Calvin of Geneva – Swiss Reformation

By the middle of the 16 century John Calvin was the dominant figure of the Protestant Reformation. After Luther’s death in 1546 all who had become convinced of the errors of the Roman Catholic Church looked to Calvin for guidance and instruction. The geographical position of Geneva, and the growth of the reformed movement in most parts of Europe caused the city and its leader to be regarded as a rallying point. This was especially the case with those who fled from persecution. Geneva became a haven of refuge to Protestants whose lives were endangered; its gates were ever open to provide fugitives with security. One such person was John Knox of Scotland. Young men often went to Geneva to be prepared for the work of the ministry of the gospel in central and western Europe.

It was in Geneva that several of the English and Scottish refugees set about the task of preparing a new translation into English. The first edition was printed in 1560 and it soon became the favourite version of Protestants in England and Scotland. Of course,

Calvin was not directly involved in its production, but as he had very great influence upon those responsible for it, in an indirect way he and his teachings were related to it, and especially perhaps to the marginal notes which belonged to it. It was a a potent influence in promoting the growth of Puritanism in England. Even when the famed Authorized version of the Bible appeared in 1611, another 30 years passed before the Geneva Bible ceased to be printed.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 42

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 20 October, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with October 2019, Weekly, Weekly 2019

In the Cross of Christ I Glory

– Hymn Story

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

It is claimed by some writers that Sir John Bowring had visited Macao, on the South Chinese coast, and was much impressed by the sight of a bronze cross towering on the summit of the massive wall of what had formerly been a great cathedral. This cathedral, originally built by the early Portuguese colonists, overlooked the harbour and had been destroyed by a typhoon and left crumbled in its wake – except for one wall topped by the huge metal cross.

This scene is said to have so impressed Bowring that it eventually served as the inspiration for this beloved hymn. John Bowring was born at Exeter in Davon, England, on October 17, 1792. He was considered to be one of the most remarkable men of his day as well as one of the greatest linguists who ever lived. He was a member of nearly every learned society in Europe. Before he was sixteen years of age he had mastered five languages without the aid of a teacher. It is said that he could converse in over 100 different languages before his death. He also did much in translating literary works from these various languages. Throughout his life he was noted as a biographer, naturalist, financier, statesman and philanthropist. He served two terms in the House of Commons and in 1854 was appointed governor of Hong Kong. This same year he was knighted by Queen Victoria for outstanding service to his country.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 41

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 13 October, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, October 2019

God Comforts the Downhearted

“…God, that comforteth those that are cast down…” 2 Corinthians 7:6

Are you cast down because of the distresses of life? There is comfort in God. He provides true comfort. Do we look for temporal escapes in eating and drinking or simply becoming very despondent blaming our closest loved ones?

The Apostle Paul was in much distress for the sake of the gospel advancing into Europe for the first time. He testified in 2 Corinthians 7:5 “For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.” He described his troubles to be overwhelming. He was physically and mentally exhausted. Yet, he declared that God is the comfort of the downhearted and depressed.

Why are we cast down? Is it from the overwhelming needs of the family expenses? Is it because we feel oppressed in our workplace? Is it because of some relationships that not seem to work no matter how hard we try? Is it because of sins in our lives? Have we struggled against sins and failed, and have decided to give in and give ourselves up to our sins?

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 40

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 6 October, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, October 2019

The LORD is Still on the Throne – Psalm 93

(1) Know Who He is (v1-2)

a) The LORD Who Reigns Supreme (v1a)

i.His Glory (v1b)

ii. His Omnipotence (v1c)

iii.His Readiness to Defend (v1d)

iv. His Creative Works (v1e)

v. His Throne Unmoved (v2)

(2) What He Can Do for You! (v3-4)

a) In Every Assault to His own (v3)

i. He quells (v4a)

ii. He triumphs (v4b)

(3) What Is Your Response? (v5)

a) Declare His Faithfulness (v5a)

i. Live by His Word

b) Dwell in the Beauty of Holiness (v5b)

ii. Live a Holy Life

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 39

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 29 September, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, September 2019

Baptism of Mr Tang Kok Kwan

Thank God for the baptism of Mr Tang Kok Kwan (husband of Mdm Peh Choo Pun and father of Jonathan Tang Meng Wei) on 26 September 2019. He suffered a haemorrhage stroke on Friday – 13 September and was sent to the Sengkang General Hospital for treatment. Under normal circumstances he would require three operations to treat his condition. Due to his health condition and age, there was no operation.

Our brother Jonathan himself suffered a haemorrhage stroke five years ago and underwent these operations. I recalled a portion of his skull was removed for the operation and later he had to bear the pain of putting a metal cap to replace that portion of skull removed, in a painful process of stapling. Thank God he has recovered well enough to continue normal work and driving. As a result of his stroke, by the providence of God, Jonathan’s family consisting of his wife, Jacqueline, and two children Jovan and Janelle and mother Mdm. Peh came to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. The Tang family were baptised by our late Pastoral Advisor Rev Dr Tow Siang Hwa in 2014.

Jonathan’s father, Mr Tang Kok Kwan, however, did not follow the family to come to church although he had been to church in his younger days. I recall there was a visitation made to Jonathan’s home where my wife and I had the opportunity to witness to Mr Tang, before he had to stay in a nursing home due to his medical condition about 3 years ago.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 38

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 22 September, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, September 2019

The World that Chokes the Word

– Mark 4:19, cf. Matthew 13:22

Jesus gave insight into how a man’s heart responds to the Word of God through the parable of the sower (Mark 4:1-9; 14-20). Jesus likened God’s Word to seeds that a farmer scatters on the ground. Seeds that fell on good ground brought forth fruit in its season—“some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred” (Mark 4:20). The seeds of God’s Word sown either thrive and bear fruit or wither and die without fruit.

Jesus explained that the world, ruled by Satan—the prince of this world, competes to nullify God’s Word in the hearts of the hearers. Some seeds fell by the wayside and were devoured by the birds—there was no opportunity for them to germinate (Mark 4:15). Some fell on stony ground. The seeds grew into young plants but having no depth of root and not being able to withstand the scorching sun, they died. These hearers may have a semblance of spiritual life but when affliction or persecution arises, they choose to reject the Word, having no true faith. The Bible says, “they are offended” (Mark 4:17).

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 37

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 15 September, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly 2019, September 2019, Weekly

Fear Not

Luke 12:4-9.4And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? 7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. 8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: 9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.

Our Lord Jesus taught His disciples to fear God and to trust God to take care of them as they entrust their lives to His care.

God is to be feared because He has the power to cast a soul to hell after death. He brought before them the prospect of eternal judgment in hellfire. That is most fearsome for mankind, Jesus truthfully explains, for our understanding and eternal benefit. He tells us that a man escapes this eternal judgment when he confess that Jesus is his Saviour and Lord.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 36

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 8 September, 2019 Posted in Weekly Newsletter Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, September 2019

Read The Bible in One Year

John 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.

John 15:10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.

There is yet 4 months in the year of grace 2019. We began the year with the re-launching the Read the Bible in One Year with “The One Year Bible”, with the entire King James Bible arranged in 365 daily readings. There were 15 copies of the “The One Year Bible” distributed amongst members and friends at the beginning of the year.

Recall the 17 February 2019 Weekly Newsletter:

“Begin your unforgettable journey today! Take the first step by reading The One Year Bible from cover to cover and see how God’s Word comes alive in your life. You’ll never be the same.”

Convenience: The One Year Bible is unique. No other “through the Bible” plan presents the entire Bible in a user-friendly format.

Unique Design: Each 15 minutes daily reading includes a portion from the Old Testament, the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. This arrangement of Scripture brings variety and fresh approach to each day’s reading while providing a clear understanding of the Bible’s larger message.

Lord’s Day, Vol. 7 No. 35

By Rev. Lek Aik Wee Posted on 1 September, 2019 Posted in Weekly 2014 Tagged with Weekly, Weekly 2019, August 2019

Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee

Psalm 42:1-2 To the chief Musician, Maschil, for the sons of Korah.As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God?

This hymn comes from the height of the Middle Ages, a period of history often scornfully called “The Dark Ages.” The spiritual and moral darkness of the Church reached a new blackness. The institution founded by Christ some 1,000 years prior was for the most part degenerate and corrupt. The moral standards of many of its prominent leaders were characterized utter disgrace and shame.

The author of this hymn is attributed to Bernard of Clairvaux (1091-1153). Bernard was born to a noble family at Fontaine in Burgundy, France; his father was a knight and his mother a person of radiant goodness. At an early age young Bernard showed a bent for piety and scholarship. With his natural charms and talents Bernard had many opportunities open to him for a successful secular life. However, while still in his early twenties, he chose the life of a monk at the monastery of Citeaux.

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