Hearts On Fire

New Test Site

2006-08-04T19:44:00.000+08:00

Click here to enter our HOF test site. Make sure you register for a free account and enjoy all its features.

Hope that lifts the soul

2006-07-22T22:33:00.000+08:00

When engulfed by the terror of the tempestuous seas,
Unknown waves before you roll,
At the end of doubt and peril is eternity
Though fear and conflict seize your soul.

When surrounded by the blackness of the darkest night
O how lonely death can be!
At the end of this long tunnel is a shining light
For death is swallowed up in victory!

But just think of stepping on shore and finding it heaven,
Of touching a hand and finding it God's
Of breathing new air, and finding it celestial,
Of waking up in glory -- and finding it Home.

Don Wyrtzen

2006-07-10T22:56:00.000+08:00

The Battle
My mind is a raging fire, I'm convicted in my heart
I long to be a Christian Lord, but know not where to start
I hear my Savior knocking, He's standing at the door
And all the earthly worldly things aren't important anymore!

I make the great decision, I fall down on my knees
And ask my Lord to save me, enter my heart I plead
And I know that at that moment, my sin is cast away
I'm now a newborn child, a tender Christian babe!

The news spreads fast, and soon I learn, the enemy has heard
His plan is to attack, before I know the Word
For with the Word I have in me the Holy Spirit's power
He knows he must attack at once, he cannot wait an hour!

He gathers together all his demons and sets his battle plans
He must destroy this new child's faith, it must blow as drifting sands
The planning takes just minutes, they empty all the files
And then his army moves, armed with many trials!

The attack is fast and furious, and for a while I stumble
But in the end, I am quite sure, it is Satan who will bumble
I'm hit with many problems, they're coming by the score
And as my faith begins to slip, I fall down to the floor!

Satan now is laughing, he jumps around in glee
And then the smile fades from his face, as I struggle to one knee
He stares unto the battlefield, his face is filled with terror
With all the files they had on me, could he have made an error?

I'm beaten, battered, on one knee, as my lips begin to move
Satan is screaming at the top of his lungs, "What's he trying to prove?"
He sends out queries to the demons, "What is that he's saying?"
The answer comes like a shot in the night, "Oh Lucifer, he's praying!"

My strength ebbs back, and as I struggle, I gain the other knee
And when the demons see this, they turn from me and flee
Satan screams, "Stand and fight, he's only just a man!"
The answer comes loud and clear, "A man in the Savior's hand!"

The battle now is over, my faith as strong as steel
And in my heart, I know full well, the Lord Jesus is for real
For as I lay on the ground that day, something gently lifted me
Without that gentle lifting, I'd never have gained my knees!

The moral of this poem, is really very clear
Just call on the name of Jesus, when you're facing fear
For when you call on Jesus, Satan hasn't got a chance
The power that he thinks he has is fictional romance!

Jay L. Zumbrum

mission

2006-07-09T02:12:00.000+08:00

2006-07-07T12:20:00.000+08:00

Smiles from ThaiLand

2006-06-18T14:06:00.000+08:00

Pray on Fire!

2006-06-17T15:02:00.000+08:00

Hi! All! Greetings from Sawang, Thailand!
It's our fourth day here and the Lord has been so gracious to us. He has been providing for all our needs and even demonstrated His healing powers in times of needs. Thanks to all our prayer support back home.

Last night, we saw 80 plus students joining us for the first time in the church for our English prog, which by the grace of God, appealed so much to the students. We saw friendship formed and relationships built up! More importantly, we saw the beginning of a bridge constructed to the hearts of the students from Christ Church Sawang. Praise God!

There'll be an evangelistic prayer meeting tonight from 6pm to 9pm Singapore time. Please pray and call upon all our youths to pray that the Thai Students will be open to the Gospel. Pray that they will be saved and redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ!

Pray for the health of the team too as some of us are falling ill due to the lack of sleep and fatigue. But everyone is still energized by the joy of the Lord and count it a blessing to suffer for the sake of the Gospel. Do cover us in your prayers!

We miss you all, especially for tomorrow, and we long to see you soon, so that we may share the wonderful work of our God in Thailand.

In Christ,

Sawang Mission Team.

Encounter Weekend

2006-06-13T07:03:00.000+08:00

Time is running fast!
No Time to lose!
Come Encounter God
and B! Transformed!
24th June 6pm-9:30pm
25th June 11:15am

See you there!

Mission Trippers Send off

2006-06-13T06:59:00.000+08:00

Hi, all! For those who are interested in sending off our mission team. Do come by to Changi Airport T1 from 6am to 7am on Wednesday, 14th June.

See ya!

BCG vs FOCUS !!!

2006-06-04T18:31:00.000+08:00

LATEST UPDATE!!

From some trustworthy insighter reports.. We had found out that BCG cell is going to clash with FOCUS cell this sunday 9am in the St Hildas Soccer field.

In veiw of past few months, BCG had been winning away all the titles they can in HOF. For example the recent intercell netball competition and the picnic game at Pasir Ris, where their boss Mr Hab.Ng. MingJie got in first in the game race.
Well, some said BCG won because of their boss's talent and strength and skill.. Hmm if this is true, then this clash on sunday will be the end of BCG's so call unbeaten records. Cause again, trustworthy reports says that their boss is "CMI" in term of soccer. Oh it means (Cannot Make it). So in order for them to win, they have to depend heavily on foreign players. Shssss, we also heard that they are going to buy Daniel Li over from PSALMS cell. They are still in the mist of arranging it.

Not to worry if you are a FOCUS supporters cause reports shown they they have been actively practicing their soccer skills over the months. With their best keeper Elvan in top form and Wei Ming a great runner with above average soccer skill.. Not to mention the rest of them like Jian Xiong and Wilson. I'm sure it's a tough fight between both side even though there is some different in their age group.

So stay tune for more if there is any update..
Reporting live from CCTV (Don't do anything funny cause we'll be watching u)

2006-05-28T18:28:00.000+08:00

Prayer Alert!
Earthquake in Yogjakarta, Indonesia. 200,000 people displaced from their homes!
Latest death toll: 4,285.

Pray for relief work to arrive and begin as soon as possible since thousands do not have any water or food.

Pray for more people to respond to go over there for relief efforts.

If you read this, please pray for our Indonesian neighbours for 1 minute.

In Christ,

Aaron

A reminder for comfirmation candidates

2006-05-19T13:31:00.000+08:00

A reminder for the comfirmation candidates that this coming sunday (21 May 06), you are require to be in church by 8:45am for a briefing and don't be late.

**This is only for those who are comfirming.

Prayer meeting for youths

2006-05-13T20:48:00.000+08:00

Hi! All... There'll be a revival prayer meeting for youths on the 17th of May (Wednesday Night).

Let's join hearts together to pray for revival in churches especially in youth ministries in Singapore.

I'm trying to get people to go down to St John's St Margaret's church next Wednesday night for the prayer meeting. Please let me know if you'd like to join us.

In Him,

Aaron Chan

chill out on sunday!! double the JOY!!! =)

2006-05-02T19:48:00.000+08:00

Sunday morning
we have the baptism of Jun Xiong and Roy.
WelCome to The FAmIly!!!
keep that Fire Burning!!! =)

After church... its time for chilled out!!!! yeah~~=D
Yummy Sandwiches!!!!! look at jeremiah in the
background enjoying his delicious sandwich!
Ham... egg.. tuna.. and chicken sandwiches!!!
EVERYBODY LOVES IT!!!

Even the youth leaders pauline n jessie are
enjoying the sandwich! =D

pastor aaron
praying for the food and our protection =)

Prayed for bro Gary too
Its his last day with HOF..FAreWell~~
God bless you where ever you Go!
Hope to see you again...=]

sis charmaine n bro jeremiah are enjoying their
sandwich sooooo much!!!! that they cant help
showing it to us haha

WE LOVE THE SANDWICH!!!! YUMYUM!!! heez =D

More Sandwich for meeeee more BITES... yumyum!

everywhere she go she is still holding the sandwich.. ha!

GAME MASTERS!! made us climb up n down
make us GET WET! made us Think!Memorise
UNDER THE HOT SUNNY SUN!
but Good job!! yeah~~

not forgetting our pretty danielle wong!
GOOD JOB! =D

LOTS OF FUN!

CANT WAIT FOR THE NEXT CHILLED OUT mAN!!!
mj: i'm speechless!! too fun n the food is too Good
AND MY GROUP WON!!! YEAH~~ hahaaa=D

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!!!
LETS LOOK FORWARD FOR THE NEXT CHILLED OUT!
THANKS EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED AND WHO HAS MADE
THIS CHILL OUT A FUN N ENJOYABLE ONE!

Composed, photos taken, edited by: Mayteng.. =]

DaVinci Code Seminar

2006-04-22T17:27:00.000+08:00

Date: 1 May 2006 (Monday)
Time: 1030-1430hrs
Venue: St Andrew's Cathedral
Cost: $5.00 (includes notes and lunch) .... Click here for signup forms.

Objectives

To equip the Christian students to pre-empt and think through the issues arising from the launching of the Da Vinci Code movie in Singapore
To equip the Christian students to answer their friends who may watch the show
To equip the Christian students to be able to share the gospel to their friends using the movie as a talking point

Chill Out at Pasir Ris Beach

2006-04-22T14:46:00.000+08:00

Wanna have a relaxing time?
Chill out at Pasir Ris Beach!
11:15am to 2:00pm Sunday 30th April
Register with your cell leader for transport now!
See you there!

Confirmation

2006-04-22T14:40:00.000+08:00

Hi! To all youths who are getting confirmed. Please bring your baptism cert to church on Sunday and pass it to Pastor Aaron. Do check with your parents where your cert is kept.

Thanks!

Good Friday and Easter Service

2006-04-11T21:47:00.000+08:00

Hi hofers.. in case you got mix up with this week services and timing. Just an update!!

Good Friday Service: 10 am

Sunday Easter Service: 9 am
(Our sister Joanna will be dancing too, 1st event, come early and our guest of honor is Jesus Christ.)

Sunday Cell: 11 am
(Haha.. no special topic, it's still the beta series, "World Peace".. I mean "World View")

Sebas =)

Doing Great Things in Small Things

2006-03-31T14:41:00.000+08:00

"How to Follow Up a New Christian"

by Pastor Andrew Raman

Starting Tomorrow!
Time: 2:30pm – 5:30pm
Venue: Conference Room 1

Come learn how to help a younger Christian grow in maturity!

Prayer Calender for Kaili and Joanna

2006-03-20T16:15:00.000+08:00

This is Joanna's prayer Calender:

20 March - Journey Mercy, being able to arrive at Phnom Penh without delay.
21 March - Adaptation to the place, wether and culture.
- Evangelistic Dinner will be a success.
22 March - Protection from the evil one and good health
23 March - Unity and tolerance among team members.
- Medical given will truely help the people there.
24 March - Carnival will be a sucess.
25 March - They will not be disheartened by circumstances and remain faithful.
26 March - Pray for the churches there
- Pray for rest and strength for the remaining mission work.
27 March - Holy Spirit to lead us as we go to the new village.
28 March - We will continue to show love by serveing the cambodians through medical
Treatment
29 March - School visit. The student will be able to experience God's love for them.
20 March - Journey mercy upon departure and arrival to Singapore

This is Kaili's prayer calender:

21 March - Journey mercy and safety throughout the journey.
22 March - Wisdom in establishing friendship with the diciples and local students.
23 March - God will open the eyes and hearts of the students to know Him.
24 March - Like mindedness between people from 2 diff lands, teachable hearts.
25 March - Strongholds in both the hearts of the students and residents in Sabah will be destroyed.
26 March - Staying strong in the Lord. Love Him with our all.
27 March - God will guard our hearts and minds against spiritual attacks.
28 March - Holy Spirit will touch the hearts of the students there.
29 March - Protection, lift up all barriers hindering the work of the Lord.
30 March - Renewed strength and faith in the Lord.
31 March - We will have a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline.
1 April - We will not be discouraged and give up.
2 April - We will find pleasure to serve God and grow significantly in the Spirit.
3 April - Young believers will continue to seek God and there will be lasting fruits.
4 April - Journey mercy upon departure and arrival in Singapore.

Prayers for our Sisters

2006-03-16T12:18:00.000+08:00

Yes, our sister Kaili and Joanna will be going overseas for mission trip with Campus Crusade for Christ. They would gladly like your support in term of prayers.

Kaili's mission trip: An outreach project
- March 20 - April 4
- University Malaysia of Sabah
- Mostly on Campus sharing of Gospels and supporting the Campus crusaders in that University.
Prayers:
- God will go before us to prepare the harvest field.
- Hearts of the students that we're reaching out to- to be softened and ready to listen & receive the gospel
- Removal of obstacles that may hinder evangelism e.g. school authority
- Effective liaising and clear communication with the Malaysia Campus Crusaders.
- God will strengthen and protect our team physically, spiritually and mentally for the trip.
- To reach out in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Joanna's mission trip: Children Humanitarian project
- March 21st - 30th
- The rural villages in Cambodia
- Conduct activites for children (Crafts, games, songs, bible stories..), helping out in areas of Health, hygiene and dental education, evangelism effort cum video screening, On site mobile Hair salon cum Delice treatment.

Prayers:
- God will go before us to prepare the harvest field.
- May God meet the needs (Physical, Spiritual, Emotionals) of the people there.
- Even in the short sharing of Gospels, may they be receptive towards God.
- That though they are now poor on earth, that they may be rich in heaven.
- Me and my team will go forth in the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit.
- Our team will serve in Love and Humility.
- God will Strength and Protect the team physically, spiritually and mentally.

Eph 6:18 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.

2006-03-11T10:04:00.000+08:00

Tired of living a defeated Christian life?

Find out how you can live a victorious Christian life!

Starting this Sunday.

CCR 3rd Floor.

11:15am.

Diocese Leadership Training Program

2006-03-05T08:43:00.000+08:00

Judges: The Leader and God's Way
This course will examine the structure and message of the book introducing the participant to the keyes of interpreting narrative books like Judges. Come and behold the faithfulness of God in the bleakest of times; and come and see why 'charisma without character is catastrophe.'

Instructor: Rt Rev Rennis Ponniah
Dates: 6,13,20 & 27 March 2006 (4 Mondays)
Time: 8:00pm - 10.00pm
Venue: St John's St Margaret Church
Bethel Auditorium
Dover Road (Near Singapore Poly)
Course Fee: $10 per person.

Answer to Puzzle

2006-02-24T14:24:00.000+08:00

No Winners this time... Try harder next time.

Captain's ball this sunday 26/2/2006!

2006-02-20T14:28:00.000+08:00

Hey peeps!

this sunday is our captain ball's friendly match versus LIGHTHOUSE!
as andrew says " Let's claim st 82!" haha.
anyway, the following are those who have signed up with me so these people turn up with your sports attire k! the match would most probably be at 3pm coz they end their youth at 3. yup.

Players:
Tricia
Nathdaniel
Gabriel
Kenneth (the sebas cell one i think)
Esther
Russel
Rachel
Daniel Li
Andrew Tham
Desmond Hoooooooooooooo
Derek Tung
Gian Ping Hong
Wong Mayteng
Lydia See
Joann Li
Rebecca
Ann Boo
Hanwei
Charmaine Goh

Those whose names are not on the list! u can always come too, and we can continue and have fun after the match. so if u want to play, but u haven sign up with me just come in your sports attire, i most prob will be able to squeeze u in! yeah! and if u dun want to play, just come support la!. heeZ..

danielle

Mission Trip to Sawang

2006-02-18T23:10:00.000+08:00

Hi, all! Closing Date of Mission Trip Sign up is the End of This Month! We're still looking for more guys to join us. Sign up ASAP!

There'll be a Mission Trip meeting from 1 to 1:30pm next Sunday after Youth Service. All participants please meet Pastor Aaron at the Canteen right after service. See you all!

Puzzle Challenge!

2006-02-15T19:26:00.000+08:00

Fill in the puzzle to win prizes. Be the first to submit to Pastor Aaron on Sunday to receive prizes. Simply print out the puzzle and fill in the answers!

2006-02-08T13:23:00.000+08:00

2006-02-08T13:04:00.000+08:00

O-Level Results!!

2006-02-07T15:32:00.000+08:00

O-Level Results --> Fri (10 Feb 06) 2:30pm

To all those waiting eagerly for your results!!

I wish your all the best this friday and pray that God will continue to grant you wisdom in your future choices in Life.

Sebastian =)

Youth Membership Class

2006-02-06T08:25:00.000+08:00

Hi, Peeps!

We'll be starting our membership class this Sunday at 9:30am to 10:30am. Those who wish to sign up for confirmation or baptism please come join us for the 6 sessions class starting this week. The class will be held on alternate Sundays when youth service is on (2nd and 4th Sundays of the month). Hope to see you all!

In Christ,

Pastor Aaron

2006-02-01T18:01:00.000+08:00

Happy Lunar New Year!

2006-01-27T10:57:00.000+08:00

Hi, all... Wishing you a happy Lunar New Year!

Enjoy your holidays and time with family. May the Lord bless you and keep you!

Pastor Aaron

2006-01-10T23:30:00.000+08:00

No Apologies Seminar

2006-01-06T15:55:00.000+08:00

Venue: Toa Payoh Community Center
Date: 14 Jan 2006
Time: 1 to 6:30pm
Cost: $15.00

Any Takers?

Prayer Item for NS people

2006-01-05T22:31:00.000+08:00

Hey hofers, Our dear sister Jinping had already gone into Airforce and Zing is going to be enlist this sat and will not be able to join us till 2 weeks later.. Sob sob..

But still, let us continue to keep them in prayer at any moment.

Zing had posted his prayer request in the forum:
Pray for guidance.. protection.. and most of all a continual yearn for the Lord.

So let us continue to keep them in prayer always and with all kinds of prayer =>

2006-01-01T19:57:00.000+08:00

What are some ways which people wrongly judge others?

Enjoy!!

2005-12-31T14:05:00.000+08:00

Check out the following Christmas Greeting! Its Cool!

2005-12-23T16:49:00.000+08:00

http://www.syfc.org.sg/christmas05/hokkien.htm

Where to meet for Chronicles of Narnia show? Be punctual... gate will close on time.

2005-12-23T16:09:00.000+08:00

Wat's your views on Evangelism?

2005-12-22T13:05:00.000+08:00

Yeozz Hofers, A new topic call "What's your views on Evangelism" is out on the forum..

Very funny that till now, nobody actually post anything on the forum.. hmm i thought your like to talk about stuffs or debate over certain things..
Maybe everybody scare of getting hit by spywares.. Don't worry, it's not deadly or what so ever.. so go check it out!!

Our hof forum is now Available!!

2005-12-17T16:29:00.000+08:00

Hi hofers.. Our hof forum page is now available for u to share your thoughts, ask questions, prayer request and many more..

The forum button can be found at the bottom right side of the blog, below the prayer items. U will see 2 buttons, "Enter my forum" and "Bravenet forum". Just click on "Enter my forum" and u'll be at the forum in no time =)

Enjoy
God bless

Youth Retreat (BBQ & Others photos)

2005-12-05T23:24:00.000+08:00

The best chicken in town, super yummy & delicous. One bite & u'll be happy girls or boys..

Happy girls!!

Ah Ho and his yummy hotdogs

Take a break, Take a pict

Our Sotong ball skewer ladies

Our best BBQ Chef?

See Wat See!! I Making bundon drinks lah.. Dun distrub me..

Kaili & Nick Fam

Nice background, Great Picture

LIFE!! Enjoy it!

Youth Retreat (At the Beach)

2005-12-05T18:24:00.000+08:00

The 5 brothers

The 4 brothers

Tug of War: Team 2

Tug of War: Team 1

The Fortress Sand Castle

The Femaline Sand Castle with flowers too

The Nijia Turtle Sand Castle

Youth Retreat (Pancakes!!)

2005-12-05T17:58:00.000+08:00

YUMMY, Finger licking, Deep fry golden brown Pancake. Simply Irresistatable.

Mua-haha, Pancakessss. "ATTACK!!"

"Charmaine.. Can give me some? I've finish mine.."

Aiyo, why the pancake so black one!!

This is how u fry pancake.. (With style!!)

Gillian with the pancake Pot

Cheryl with the Pancake Wok

Youth Retreat (Bands of Brothers)

2005-12-05T17:30:00.000+08:00

Mark Wong

Kok Keng & Sebastian

Our Chairman Jeremiah

Desmond

MingJie & Pastor Aaron

Zing & Andrew

Youth Retreat (Bands of Sisters)

2005-12-05T16:53:00.000+08:00

Our bands of sisters from Micah 6:8

Kaili & Tabita

Charmaine, Jinping & Cheryl

Karen & May Teng

Charmaine and Danielle

Stuffs to bring along for Youth Retreat!!

2005-11-30T21:05:00.000+08:00

Important things to bring along:

1. Toiletries
2. Sleeping Bag
3. Mug, Spoon & Fork
4. Bible, Pen & Notebook

I think that's all, and if i miss out anything, pls let me know =)

Sebastian

December Program is Out! See Sidebar!

2005-11-30T10:08:00.000+08:00

2005-11-03T23:53:00.000+08:00

News Flash on TTV (Part 2)

2005-10-31T03:20:00.000+08:00

Special Report by TTV!!

Latest report from TTV!! That after 2 weeks of digging and being a busy body, we finally gathered some exciting updates for you, Special thanks to our Elite Paparazzis force.
This time, we have information not just from the Revolutional side, but also from the CEO of Polling Pte Ltd, Mr S.Wong.

According to our Paparazzis spyware and satellite system, we are shock to discover that the CEO of Polling Pte Ltd is actually engaging deeply into Maple Story!! (It's an online game) And we believe that it is the main reason that lead to the closure of Polling Pte Ltd.

Let's look at how Mr Hab.NG responds:

Mr Hab.NG: WAT!! That is Outragous.. We will deal with Mr S.Wong PERSONALLY.
His Follower: Err Boss.. How are we going to deal with Him?
Mr Hab.NG: I know I know! *frantically raises his hand*... we can slap him on the right cheek!

It was only 2 days later when we manage to catch Mr Hab.NG slacking in some NUS restaurant named after famous apes. A small crowd seemed to have gathered around him, holding up some of his revolutionary banners. But our sneaky paparazzi spies managed to mingle through and reach our "Ultra-Sensitive" microphone near the mouth of Mr Hab.NG, who was then too engrossed in giving His accounts of the exciting happenings for the past two days.

Mr Hab.NG:... Oh yes, I bash the hell outta him... *flexes a little of his biceps*
Mr Hab.NG: No... it was all for his own good...
Mr Hab.NG: You should have seen the blank look on his face...

Just then, we managed to get hold of an important mail from the President of the Maple Association, relating to the very same incident that had occurred:

Dear Maplers,
It is with great frustration to inform you of the incident that occured two days ago, 27th October 2005.
We have received news of fighting from a remote corner in Jalan Bukit Merah and sent our men to check it out. Upon arrival, we found Mr S.Wong lying at the corner with his eyes still fixing on his computer screen.
Just seconds later before drifting off into a coma, he muttered a few words, which we later concluded that it is just some maple characters names.
Eye witnesses had reported noises and a group of men walking out of the scene. The leader was later identified to possess a look of a drug dealer. Do not worry. I have got this story covered up. In the meantime, I ask for your assistance if you had any idea what happened.

President of Maple Association
Mr D.mond

So who actually beat up Mr S.Wong? Is it Mr Hab.NG or the guy that look like a drug dealer?
Was Mr Hab.NG just bragging about bashing Mr S.Wong? Who is this guy with a drug dealer look?

Stay tune for more upcoming updates!!

Pray for one another

2005-10-28T14:24:00.000+08:00

Let's keep in prayer our brothers and sisters who are struggling in stressful times for the next 2 weeks.
1. O-levels: Charmaine Wong, Isabelle, Tabitha, May Teng, Denise
2. A-levels: Jinping, Don and Daniel Zing.

Pray for efficieny in their studies; 4 ability to understand and retain knowledge; 4 protection against fear and anxiety; 4 peace that comes from trusting the Lord; 4 health and good rest before the papers.

Do drop them a note of encouragement if you bump into them!

Aaron

Family Day and Badminton Tournament

2005-10-28T12:45:00.000+08:00

Hi! The youthful lots....
There will be a family day in CCR this Sunday after service. Time: 11am to 2pm. Look forward to a time of fun, fellowship and FOOD!!!

After that, do remember our friendly Badminton match with Mandarin youths. Time: 2pm. Venue: Badminton Hall, Community Center opposite CCR. See you all!

Saying "No Divorce" - Not enough!

2005-10-28T11:32:00.000+08:00

Hi! It's interesting to hear some of the comments made here. Regarding the issue of how wives should treat unfaithful husbands, we need to examine the essence of what Jesus is saying. Jesus was dealing particularly with an abuse of the law in a male dominant society. Since women were treated like properties, men found it convenient to use the law to their advantage. They totally misunderstood that the law of God. The law which was meant to protect women and the sanctity of marriage, they used it conveniently to divorce their wives for whatever reason they can justify. Just so that they can marry another woman. They define "indecency" as anything their eyes found insatisfactorily. But Jesus redefines it for them and limits it to "marital unfaithfulness" or adultery. The principle highlighted here by our Lord was their marriage is sacred and men/women should not treat it lightly. Our Lord is not supporting marital unfaithfulness as grounds of divorce (Though some would debate this, it seems that the context limits us from being dogmatic about this) but reemphasizing that the sacred union that was formed between 2 people in marriage cannot be simply broken by any excuse (e.g. bad cooking, bad figure, bad habits). The union is broken by marital unfaithfulness.

In Matt 19:3-12, a Pharisee came to test Jesus about the grounds of divorce. Jesus points him to Genesis 2:24, "For this cause a man shall leave his father and his mother and shall cleave to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." Jesus asserts that there was no grounds for seperation because a husband and a wife has become one flesh. And when someone asked so why did Moses allows divorce. Jesus said that Moses allowed divorce because of the hardness of their heart, but in the beginning it was not so. Thus, when Jesus says this, "And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery. (Matt 19:9)" He was speaking mainly to the men about their tendency to use this law as an excuse to marry another. It is hard to say that Jesus supports immorality as a legal ground for divorce here. But with reference to Gen 2:24, it seems like the union is already broken when either one commits adultery and whether there is an actual legal divorce taking place the union has already been broken.

Thus, there should be no divorce. Not for legal sake. But for the pure reason that when a man and woman made their vows to God and give of themselves entirely to one another, there is a sacred union that takes place. Any kind of seperation of that union, is unlawful in the eyes of God. Thus, it is no longer a matter of who gives the certificate of divorce (whether the men or the women), but we should understand that divorce can never be an option if we truly understand that a couple is "one flesh".

Having said that, I know of people who struggle in a marriage with no divorce, because there is so much neglect and abuse. Jesus was not saying, "No divorce" for "No divorce sake!" But "no divorce" because a husband and wife is to be totally committed to love one another just as they were to love themselves because they are one. Thus, it gives no excuse for husbands and wives to neglect or abuse their husband while always threatening them with "no divorce.

Aaron Chan

just to add on..

2005-10-26T00:56:00.000+08:00

just a thought from what diana and sophia has said.

when we marry someone, why do we marry?

because we love him/her? so what do we love abt him/her?

many of us (esp those who are in relationships now) are going to say their character, this that this that.

hmmm. but everybody change.

so if the person's character change, are we not going to love that person anymore? or whatever thing that u like abt that person change, are we still obliged to love them just because we married them? even if we say we love them coz of their love for God, so if they no longer love God, do we not love them anymore also? so we divorce them? (like what sophia and diana has said: how much are we suppose to take?)

actually i think the questions boils down to

who or what are we actually loving?

(and i haven't come to a conclusion to this. and the more i think the more scary it gets.)

so i came to only one conclusion which is to let God choose for u.

but i think that is hard too.

and suggestions or opinions???????

danielle.

Divorce and a few other revenge plans?

2005-10-25T00:50:00.000+08:00

Thank Diana for that wonderful contribution!

Yup, I reiterate her question of how to deal with an unfaithful husband? Should the women send such men away?

How much is too much to cope with? How much is abuse and not a mere area to try and understand? How much is there before you call it quits?

Or is there no such avenue out? Maybe you cannot call it quits. Because God now views the both of you as husband and wife. HOW???

What about relationships?

What about boundaries? Kissing permitted? touching permitted? holding hands permitted? Is everything really ok and permissible? Or should we keep tabs with God along the way to see what pleases him and stick to that?

how do you love an absolutely detestable person? Someone who took advantage of you? backstabbed you? hurt your loved one? humiliated you?

the list goes on... but hope this helps in our seeking the questions to answerable questions through the wisdom of an all-knowing God!

Sophie

News Flash on TTV

2005-10-17T13:37:00.000+08:00

Special Report by TTV!!

Accourding to them, it was reported that a minor Revolution had just occur in the town call HOF, just few days after the Polling PTE LTD close down. So hereby sending our ELITE forces of "Paparazzis" to check it out, we believe that it was led by a powerful leader known as MR Hab.NG whom the paparazzis had located him in NUS!!

After sending serveral request to interview him, Mr Hab.NG finally and reluctantly accecpted it. Let's take a look at the conversation...

Paparazzis: Mr Hab.NG, Wat is your motive for starting this Revolution?
Mr Hab.NG: We want Poll!! We want Poll!! U BETTER GIVE ME OR ELSE...

The paparazzis was stunned for a few seconds..

Paparazzis: ... Err.. ok.. So u just mention "We". Then who else is in this revolution?
Mr Hab.NG: Muhahaha (evil laugh x2) I will gather my Elite BCG Cell force!!!

Ring Ring... Mr Hab.NG phone rang.. and he walk off with "Oh man, i'm late for lecture!!"

So wat will happen next? Stay tune for more next time.
This is sebas reporting from TTV Live.

now what about revenge?

2005-10-16T23:58:00.000+08:00

*grit* sometimes don't you feel like you just wanna cream someone and make him pulped?

and sometimes don't people just hurt you so much you don't know which is better: to stand up and continue with life or hurt him or her back? or both?

i admit that almost all of those times i haven't been very successful in keeping the commandments that God has given to us... most of times i resent, i complain, i argue and i defend. but God wants us to remain blameless and pure in the sight of others.. and that's probably not going to happen when we do otherwise of what God asks us to do?

how then?

does God expect you to always be able to keep to these commandments?

why not acknowledge hurts and pains? and surrender them to the father? a friend of mine just had his demons of the past dug out and it has been the most painful experience for him/her... i certainly hope that you guys won't end up like that... it hurts more, pains the people around you and crumbles your character...

what do you guys think about marriage?

2005-10-13T21:28:00.000+08:00

after witnessing the wonderful marriage of jessie and gary, i'm sure alot of us youth have a little something in our minds concerning the issue... relationships and marriage...

one need not wonder why the hormones start to rage at all but the right time. it seems that whenever we most need to be doing the things we do, we get so caught up with relationships and issues towards that direction... :)

i'm not throwing random questions here and there... what i am trying to say is that we all face the same problems trying to focus amidst the hormonal rages! but what is it that God desires for us to matter most in our lives? what are his standards and his purpose for including that crucial part in our lives?

that's something for you to think about... :)

and share with us! do share with us your views on this matter... will greatly be appreciated... through comments or tagging... whatsoever... :)

Sophie

Answer to the Polling Questions

2005-10-11T13:45:00.000+08:00

Question: When was food first put in cans?

Answer: Britain, it was produced in 1812..

Well hofers, it seems i've ran out of polling questions.. so tempory there will be no more polls =)

How to distinguish between good and bad pleasures?

2005-10-04T17:16:00.000+08:00

What do you think of a godly mother's words to her son John Wesley, who was used mightily by God to bring about spiritual change in England?

" Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, or takes off the relish for spiritual things then it is sin for you, however, innocent it may be in itself. " - Suzanna Wesley

Forum

2005-09-28T13:42:00.000+08:00

What are legitimate or illegitimate pleasures for Christians?
How can you tell?

Please post your comments...
Aaron

Ever Wondered?

2005-09-26T16:26:00.001+08:00

Ever wondered how the world churns its dues everyday?
With many processes that complicate in every way?

Ever wondered how life can be so simple?
Yet all its principles are hard to decipher?

Ever wondered about the complexities in relationships?
That are here one day and the next, gone blip?

Ever wondered about the families you were given?
Fathers who toil, mothers who slog and you never gave them recognition?

Ever wondered how we complain and our sorrows,
Which seem so huge we freak out thinking about tomorrow?

Yet we plan and toil and grimace and slog?
To find better tomorrows without the maker's cast-in lot?

Why don't we understand what the Lord requires of us?
Why don't we understand he ignores the past?

Why don't we understand what really needs to be done?
And take practicality out of the door and into his arms run?

Find peace and comfort in his ready arms?
Which never fails, we need not be alarmed.

How can confusing things of the world be answered and explained?
It's not for us to answer nor explain, but to live God's call and there remain.

Sophie.

Answer to the Polling Question

2005-09-19T00:30:00.000+08:00

Question: Which is the fastest flying bird?

Answer: Swifts are the fastest birds. They can fly up to 160kph and can stay in the air for 2 to 3 years at a time. They feed, drink, mate and even sleep while airborne..

Absolutly amazing!!

Coming Sunday Celebration!!

2005-09-13T20:30:00.000+08:00

Hello Hofers,

Finally we have finish the PDL and i do hope You will apply what You have learn =)

So to celebrate the finishing of the PDL, we will be having real good breakfast in church. I heard there are dim sum.. roti prata... but don't stone me if i'm wrong. Anyway the breakfast will not be any worst. So do come and join us, we got net ball too after service!! The schedule is as follow:

8:45 - 9:45 (Breakfast)
10:00 - 12:00 (Service)
12:00 onward is Net ball =)

So do come and join us for fellowship..

Sebastian =)

Haha.. Enjoy =)

2005-09-05T14:30:00.000+08:00

MINISTRY FAIR!!

2005-09-02T12:00:00.000+08:00

Greetings Hofers =)

It's NOW OPEN!! Yesh, for everybody who wish to be part of a ministry!!
Cause this sunday, there will be a ministry fair setup for YOU at 11am after the main service. In the ministry fair, YOU can take a look at some of the ministry that YOU are interested to serve. There will also be a booth for YOU to sign up.. So hurry, let not your talent be buried =)

We gladly welcome YOU to be a part of the service force in the kingdom of God =)
Wanna know MORE?? Then come and take a look this sunday..

ATTENTION to all CL -- "Sherperds" pls gather your "sheeps" after service and go with them to the ministry fair. Also take note that we will be gathering back at 3rd floor at 11:30am.

Sebastian (",)

Persevere and Soldier on!

2005-08-24T09:20:00.000+08:00

Howdy Mates! Just want to encourage all to be consistent in your reading of the PDL. Don't worry, you are definitely not alone in struggling to do that, even we leaders are too! But let us continue to encourage each other to do that and continue to uphold one another in prayers. Your prayers, encouraging calls and words may be timely for one who is discouraged, whether the person is a leader or a member. So persevere and soldier on! See all this Sunday 9am service!

Love,
Jeremiah

Be doer of God's Word

2005-08-23T21:02:00.000+08:00

Satan doesn't mind you going to Bible studies as long as you don't do anything with what you learn!!

"Hey, you know something." satan said. "Let's fool the christian by telling them that just because they have heard or read or studied a truth, they have internalized it. Full stop, the end, they no need to go any futher."

Actually my friends, the bible was not given so that we can increase our knowledge, but to change our lives. Our live will only be transform if we filled our mind with the Word of God and act upon it.

Sebastian =)

Stinking Job

2005-08-21T00:34:00.000+08:00

STRANGE WORLD: Wack facts from Planet E

THIS JOB IS THE PITS!

Next time you even think about griping about your job, just think of Lori Schalke.

Her job literally stinks.

Officially, Lori is a "sensory consultant" for Helene Curtis' deodorant testing team. What that means is simple: Lori sniffs armpits for a living.

Yep. Every two hours, Lori smells the pits of 60 volunteers, taking three sniffs per pit. She rates them on a scale of 0 to 10, according to the presence of fragrance from the deodorant—and the presence of, umm, malodor. (Yeah, that means "stench"!)

Says Lori, "It's very draining, really."

(taken from http://www.christianitytoday.com/cl/6c2/6c2076.html)

contributed by Pauline

The whole World fell into Place...

2005-08-16T22:47:00.000+08:00

There was a man who had a little boy that he loved very much. Everyday
after work the man would come home and play with the little boy. He
would always spend all of his extra time playing with the little boy.

One night, while the man was at work, he realized that he had extra work
to do for the evening, and that he wouldn't be able to play with his
little boy. But, he wanted to be able to give the boy something to keep
him busy. So, looking around his office, he saw a magazine with a large
map of the world on the cover. He got an idea. He removed the map, and
then patiently tore it up into small pieces. Then he put all the pieces
in his coat pocket.

When he got home, the little boy came running to him and was ready to
play. The man explained that he had extra work to do and couldn't play
just now, but he led the little boy into the dining room, and taking out
all the pieces of the map, he spread them on the table. He explained
that it was a map of the world, and that by the time he could put it
back together, his extra work would be finished, and they could both
play. Surely this would keep the child busy for hours, he thought.

About half an hour later the boy came to the man and said, "Okay, it's
finished. Can we play now?"

The man was surprised, saying, "That's impossible. Let's go see." And
sure enough, there was the picture of the world, all put together, every
piece in its place.

The man said, "That's amazing! How did you do that?" The boy said, "It
was simple. On the back of the page was a picture of Jesus. When I put
Jesus together the whole world fell into place."

Sebastian - copy from author unknow??

what is it about not having enough time to serve?

2005-08-05T00:05:00.000+08:00

Time is divided into pretty much simple sections. One would include time for interests and the other, your studies, as students...

What about time for God?

Sometimes it blows my mind to think that some people have excuses of the exams etc not to serve and with more excuses comes delay and before you know it, you're living to a ripe old age without so much as touched on ministry stuff!

Doesn't God allow exams? Isn't everything in his control?

I know there are times I myself have been too busy with so many other things than to spend more time doing what he wants me to. I place my time everywhere but where it should. So perhaps i have an entirely different problem: I'm too proactive in the wrong areas... but is it all that different? I beg to differ. Seems like if you haven't got Jesus as 1st in our minds... we're all of the same boat. The same predicament. The same unfulfilling state of life. The meaningless pursuits.

I'm starting to ask God where to direct my limited time and energy to. It can be anywhere, even where i don't feel comfortable in. But does and should it matter? After all, our pride is worth nothing. He is our pride.

Time is nothing. He makes everything in his time.

Serving is a compulsory sacrifice. Start at it! :)

Sophia.

Stay Together

2005-08-04T08:05:00.000+08:00

I love this scene from the movie Gladiator which reminds me of the importance of community.

The games open with a re-enactment of the battle of Carthage. The gladiators, all foot soldiers, are cast as the hapless Carthaginians. It is a stage for slaughter. They are marched out a dark passageway into brilliant sunlight and met with a roar of bloodlust.

Maximus, their leader, shouts to his men: "Stay together." He assembles them in a tight circle in the center of the arena: back-to-back, shields aloft, spears outward. Again he shouts, "Whatever comes out that gate, stay together."

What comes out that gate is swift and sleek and full of terror. Chariot upon chariot thunder forth. War horses pull, with deadly agility and earthshaking strength, wagons driven by master charioteers. Amazonian warrior princesses ride behind and with deadly precision hurl spears and volley arrows. One gladiator strays from the circle, ignoring Maximus's order, and is cut down. Maximus shouts once more: "Stay together!"

The instinct to scatter is strong. But Maximus exerts his authority, and they resist that impulse. The chariots circle, closer, closer, closer. Spears and arrows rain down on the men's wood shields. The chariots are about to cinch the knot. Right then Maximus shouts, "Now!"

The gladiators attack, and decimate the Romans. Commodus, the evil emperor, caustically remarks to the games organizer: "My memory of Roman history is rusty, but didn't we beat Carthage the first time?"

Whatever comes out that gate, stay together.

One of the ways to decimate a Christian is to isolate him or her and then deliver the death blow when there's no one to watch his back. Satan, the master strategist, knows this full well. He'll use any method to get us alone.

Satan uses sin and guilt. Satan will do anything to tempt us to sin. And when we fail, he'll accuse us with all kinds of accusation. He knows our tendency is to hide in darkness when we sin, so he accuses all the more. So we live in the secrets of guilt. Isolated from our true selves... Isolated from God's holy people. Gradually, he'll turn the guilt into hate. So that we not only hate ourselves but hate those who represent goodness and purity, namely, the Church (Not saying that the Church is perfect... but it does represent that in God's gracious will).

Satan uses those on his side and not on God's side. Ever so subtly, Satan uses those who are far away from God to draw those who are near away from God. This happens again very subtly. Satan often would not shout and say, "Leave Church and Leave God." For the wise ones would detect his tricks, and stop listening. But the deception comes in marvelous disguise. "Come, let's go visit other churches. Our church is so.... #@$%^!" More often than not, Christians who church hops find themselves isolated and extremely vulnerable to attacks. Yes, the Church you're in may have many problems, many weaknesses... But by God's sovereign grace, He has put you there to be protected from the enemy. In my experience, over 80% of those who left their home church, never settled in new ones and often then not, they have left their faith.

What General Maximus says serves as a good reminder for Christians: "Whatever comes out that gate, stay together!"

Written by: Aaron Chan

Problem with Christianity

2005-08-03T00:09:00.000+08:00

The problem with Christianity is not that it has been tried and found wanting, but that it has been found difficult, and left untried.
-- G.K. Chesterton

Growth comes as we dig the hard soil

2005-08-02T21:12:00.000+08:00

When it comes to physical health, we believe experts who tell us that what we eat is important. Why, then, are we so slow to believe that what we take into our bodies through our eyes and ears affects our spiritual health?
When we join a sports team, we expect to put in long hours of practice, and we wouldn’t expect any right-minded coach to put us into a game if we didn’t know the rules.
So why do we expect God to use us for something great even though we live on the spiritual equivalent of junk food, read the Bible as if it were a good-luck charm, and seldom attempt to put into practice what it says?

I'm used to hearing/reading about people saying, "Christian life is so hard to live." or "I like Jesus, but the reason i don't want to commit is because i still want my way of living instead of those laws." Sounds familiar?
So wat!! have we become so comfortable and lazy that the only spiritual exercise we do are those within our reach and those at our doorstep. No! for those are not even consider an exercise. How then can we grow and be strong if we just obey the simpler word of God all the time, U have to attempt to practice the hard teachings of Christ for breakthrough in your life. What then is hard teaching? Well, if it requires alot of yr discipline and effort, i'm sure it's hard teaching. Remember, Growth comes as we dig the hard soil, not the soft type.

And if u are thinking why grow so much? Be sure of this, that if u are not growing, sooner or later u will be slacking, for Christian life can't keep constant all the way. Just like a muscle can't be firm all the way without training, sooner or later it will be fats. If that is the case, how then can we answer to Jesus final question when we face Him, "What did u do with what I gave u, your life - gifts, talents, opportunities, energy, relationships..."

Thoughts from Sebas =)

Hold on to your faith

2005-07-30T23:21:00.000+08:00

Check out this website, song in Korean.

http://www.donghaeng.net/english/duty/duty.swf

pauline

HOF Core Values

2005-07-22T10:51:00.000+08:00

Do you know what are the core values of HOF?

Here are the 3Gs...

1. Growth
2. Grace
3. Godliness

Let's press on toward together!!

Singles: Looking for love?

2005-07-15T11:19:00.000+08:00

What Does God Say about Looking for Love?
Chip Ingram

Wouldn't it be great if, starting today, you could take some positive steps toward that deep relationship you've always wanted? Let's take a look at two opposing models for achieving a loving, lasting bond with another person.

First, there's the model we're all familiar with, the one that's as old as Lawrence Olivier, as current as Ally McBeal. It's Hollywood's model.

Hollywood Says:

Find the right person
Fall in love
Fix your hopes and dreams on this person for your future fulfillment
If failure occurs, repeat steps 1, 2, 3.
The premise of this formula is clear: if you fail, you must not have found the right person. Much like a bottle cap sweepstakes game, if you don't win ... sorry! Try again.

How well does it work? You and I both know the answer to that. The divorced population is the fastest growing marital category in the US, and the fallout is huge. The impact of fractured relationships on children, the anguish, the hurt, the emotional wounds, not to mention the economic impact on both parties, is painfully obvious. Now let's move to another perspective, and take a look at the model created by the One who thought up relationships in the first place.

God Says:
"Therefore, be imitators of God as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma." Eph. 5:1-2

First, there's a command.

Be imitators of God. What does this look like? For a more detailed picture, let's start a few verses back, at chapter 4:31-32. Here we have instructions for putting on a new life in Christ as we relate to others. Get rid of attitudes that tear down and hurt, Paul says. Treat each other as God treated you when He extended His endless supply of grace and forgiveness to you, even at great cost to himself.

Is the focus here on finding the right person? Is it about molding someone else into the person you want them to be? No.

The Key to a Right Relationship is Not Finding the Right Person, But Becoming the Right Person.

Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott, in their book, Relationships, outline what they call "The Compulsion for Completion."

"If you attempt to build intimacy with another person before you've done the hard work of becoming a whole and healthy person, every relationship will be an attempt to complete the wholeness that you lack and end in disaster." (Relationships, p. 20)

In other words, if our identity is not secure in Christ, if we are still looking to others to make us feel secure, complete or "okay," our relationships will never be healthy and strong. This is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL to understand. Contrary to the pop philosophy of Jerry McGuire, the most romantic thing you can say to someone is not "you complete me." If you must be completed by another person, you will find that whatever they have to give you will never be enough. Only God, through His Son and through the Holy Spirit, can provide what each of us need to be complete. When we are whole and secure in Him, then we can approach a relationship in a healthy way.

Next comes the command for how we are to relate to one another.

Walk in love. Notice Paul doesn't say, "fall in love." He's talking about an intentional, sacrificial love that wills and acts what is best for its object.

God's way is very hard, but it's very effective. He tells us to:

Become the right person (mimic God)
Walk in love
Fix your hope on God and seek to please Him through this relationship.
If failure occurs, repeat steps 1, 2 and 3.
Failure will occur. When it does, the question must be: "Am I being who I should be? Am I walking in love?" It's not time to give up; it's time to go back to square one.

Here is a crucial point. The goal of relationships is not fulfillment and self-actualization. It's not about discovering yourself, filling your need, meeting your desire. The goal of relationships is to please God. Right relationship with Him is food for our soul, and wherever else we will search, we will ultimately find that nothing else satisfies. The beautiful byproduct, when we are pleasing him in our horizontal relationships, will be deeper intimacy than you ever imagined.

You don't have to be a statistic. You don't have to be afraid to make a commitment. There is a supernatural way to do relationships that will leave a legacy of faith. The price tag is too high, the risk too great, to do it Hollywood's way.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Excerpted from EdgeNotes, the bimonthly newsletter of Living on the Edge. Used with permission. Copyright 2002 by Chip Ingram. All rights reserved. View and download complete issues of EdgeNotes.

About the author: Chip Ingram is President of Walk Thru the Bible in Atlanta, GA, and Teaching Pastor of Living on the Edge, a national radio ministry.

FORUM -- What Do Your Think Of This Sentence...

2005-07-14T22:10:00.000+08:00

That Christ had created this world in such a way that, whoever chooses to believe in Him will find enough evidence that He is God and that He exists.

Well, i think it's true although i don't have a verse to back me up. I guess when faith is scrap to the core, it's either u choose to believe or u chooses to explain it away. It's really a freedom of choice.

Thoughts from sebas =)

Launching of PDL (Purpose Driven Life)

2005-07-12T18:30:00.000+08:00

Hey hofers, a reminder that this sunday will be the launching of PDL at 11am sharp and we will be showing u a 90 mins video about it. So pls be in church around 10:50am.

Also don't forget to bring along $3 for the registration fee.

Posted by sebas

What God won't ask

2005-07-02T23:56:00.000+08:00

THINGS GOD WON'T ASK ON THAT DAY.

1... God won't ask what kind of car you drove.
He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.

2... God won't ask the square footage of your house.
He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.

3... God won't ask about the clothes you had in your closet.
He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.

4... God won't ask what your highest salary was.
He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.

5... God won't ask what your job title was.
He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of our ability.

6... God won't ask how many friends you had.
He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.

7... God won't ask in what neighborhood you lived.
He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.

8... God won't ask about the color of your skin.
He'll ask about the content of your character.

9... God won't ask why it took you so long to seek Salvation.
He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and not to the gates of Hell.

posted by: pauline