O Worship the LORD in the Beauty of Holiness

	8:00 am	11:00 am
Call to Worship	Dn Joash Tan	Dn Joash Tan
Opening Hymn	Mighty God, While Angels Bless Thee (HGG 27)	Mighty God, While Angels Bless Thee (HGG 27)
Invocation-Gloria Patri
Scripture Reading	1 Peter 2:1-10	1 Peter 2:1-10
Hymn	Called Unto Holiness (HGG 226)	Called Unto Holiness (HGG 226)
Offertory Hymn	Fill thou my life, O Lord my God	Fill thou my life, O Lord my God
Doxology & Prayer
Pastoral Prayer
Sermon	You Matter to God (Nehemiah 7:1-73) by Eld Clement Tan	You Matter to God (Nehemiah 7:1-73) by Eld Clement Tan
Closing Hymn	When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder (HGG 189)	When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder (HGG 189)
Benediction
Announcements

 

“THE LORD GOD IS A SUN AND SHIELD…”

PSALM 84:11a

 

A few years ago, on 27 December 2019, there was a solar eclipse. Many of us were very curious since it is very rare that Singapore can have a full solar eclipse. I believe most of us rarely take notice of the sun unless something special is going to happen. It reminds me of the verse that begins with the words, “For the Lord God is a sun…” Perhaps most of us have memorized the verse before it, but we just gloss through verse 11. So we shall, by God’s grace look at the first part of verse 11, “The Lord God is a sun and shield…” Each time I read this, I can’t help but be amazed by the power of the Sun.

Throughout the history of mankind, there is a close relationship between what is created and its great Creator:

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard. Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun.” (Psalm 19:1-4)

In my early years as a child, I grew up in a village surrounded by a forest. Observing God’s creation became second nature to me. In this text, we shall look into 3 main points to help us understand our living God better.

 

1) The Sun is the Center of Our Solar System

In today’s age of science we were taught at a very young age that the sun is the center of our solar system. This is an established fact - nothing unusual that needs further study. However, when astronomy was in its infancy, it was not so. Mankind was without advanced technology and sophisticated telescopes. They could only stare into the night sky with their naked eye, trying to make some sense of all the stars and their formation. Some thought it contains some stories. Some tried to deduce some clues about the purpose and existence of men. So man drafted horoscopes, foretelling possible things that may happen daily, but without the certainty that it will come to pass.

At that time, the earth was the main focus. It was the reference, the starting point for all consideration. This conclusion was natural since we see the sun rise and sun set with all the stars revolving around us when we look from the earth. Men focused on things on earth. All other planets seemed remote, including the sun which revolves around the earth. Without advanced technology and equipment, mankind was puzzled and confused at certain observations. With the advancement of math and science, and with more careful observation, calculation and deduction, it became even more confusing. The math did not make sense. So at that point in time, it was clear that unless we remove the assumption that the earth is the reference point, we will still be in the dark. Even our best mental logical reasoning will be useless and many more questions will remain unexplained.

Then during the Renaissance period there was a renowned German astronomer named Copernicus (19 February 1473 – 24 May 1543). He was the first to solve this problem of the center. He proved that the sun and not the earth is the true center of our solar system. He was very brave to declare his findings because in those days, unfounded theories may be labelled as heresy and he risked being ostracised from the community. With his new-found discovery, many problems are solved. We are now able to see the exact paths of all the constellations. We began to understand how other planets move in relation to each other. We can even calculate the ocean tides, the spring tide and the neap tide, as the moon moves closer or farther. We can now predict with precision when the next solar eclipse will happen.

 

The Center of Our Life

Now, for many of us, it seems like our spiritual life is similar to the old astronomy. We all began by making this earth the center of life. The Apostle Paul says: The first man is of the earth, earthy: “first, that which is natural,” (1 Corinthians 15:47). On this earth we anchored our hopes, our dreams, our joys and our ambitions. So here we are, the natural man that is earthly and void of spiritual understanding. One thing certain is that as long as we take the earth as our center of reference for life, just like the ancient astronomers who could see only darkness, so we too are blinded. As long as we take reference from this earth, thousands of problems and questions will not be answered. What is the meaning of life? Why do we go through suffering or pain? Why are there so many sad souls hidden behind fake smiles? Why are so many seemingly good people stricken with suffering and anguish for years? These questions and many other problems will rise to meet us, and I am sorry to say that there will be no answers as long as this life, this earth, this world remains the center of our moral system.

But dear friends, take heart. The moment and opportunity will come to each one of us when you can choose to be like Copernicus. Copernicus courageously took the step of faith to take the sun as the center of the solar system. You too, can take that bold step in casting away your earth-bound focus to look up to the glorious sun of your life. This bright lamp of heaven will lead you in the darkest of night (Luke 1:77-79). You only need to recognise your sins, forsake your self-will, and cast your soul upon God, and He will take care of you.

What is the chief end of man? It is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever. It is to realize that the center of our life is not in this transient world, but the love, the wisdom and the will of the Almighty God. If you have discovered this fact about your spiritual life, you will no longer cry in the night and suffer in silence. You will instantly see new meaning in life. You will find joy in the darkest night. Problems are answered, dark and difficult facts are no longer a mystery. You will see light in the gloom. And all this will happen to every man who truly strives to make God the center of their lives.

 

2) The Goodness of the Sun

The next thing that impressed me is the goodness of the sun. I don’t think I need to elaborate how much the earth depends on the sun. Without the sun our fruits would never ripen, and we would have no harvests in the rice fields. No hillsides would be dotted with flowers, and no nectar would be gleaned by bees. Without the sun there would be no dew in the morning, no beautiful clouds, and not a single drop of rain. Without the sun, there would be no breeze, and no kites would ever take flight in the sky. What lights our streets? The power of the sun. What drives our engines? The power of the sun. What alone makes physical life a possibility to all the living things on earth? The sun. It is literally true, that in the “sun” we live, and move and have our being (Acts 17:28).

However, the sun is at a great distance from the earth. Let’s start by understanding its distance. The earth’s circumference is about 40,000 km - our pilots probably know this better than us. How about the sun? It is close to 150 million kilometres away. If you travel at 90 km/hr, it will take you 190 years non-stop to reach the sun. Can you imagine that distance? Can you grasp it? Yet from that distance, way beyond our imagination, the sun operates this great and yet gentle power. It is mighty enough to burn forests, like the countless forest fires around the world in the history of mankind, and yet it is delicate and gentle enough to warm a roadside flower. The rays of the sun pierce through 150 million km of empty space, sending with it all visible light, as well as alpha, beta and gamma rays, along with all the unseen electromagnetic waves.

 

God’s Power to Bless Us

Now, I am sure that many of us have often been discouraged by the thought that God seems so far away. Like Job, we looked to the right hand and God was not there, and to the left, and we have seen nothing of His form (Job 23:8-9). Where is the heaven where God dwells? Where is the Holy of Holies and His throne? My friend, He is not far away. Let us pray in faith, recalling our text: “The Lord God is a sun.”

We may not see His throne - perhaps it is too far distant? But is God limited by His own creation? God forbid. If the rays from the sun at 150 million km away can fall with such power to light up a huge fire, and yet with such exquisite gentleness to make the rosebud bloom, why should we doubt the Creator’s power to bless and save us? The islands, great mountains and valleys around us are to Him a very little thing. The nations are as nothing before Him. All the nuclear arsenals worldwide combined, are but cherry bombs to Him. Yet He knows the way that I take; He understands my thought; He will not quench the smoking flax nor break the bruised reed (Isaiah 42:3). Powerful, yet very far away; He is thoughtful and tender, though sometimes He may seem so far away. Yes, “The Lord God is a sun.”

 

3) The Atmosphere Mediates the Sun

In my younger days, I had the opportunity to climb mountains, and in particular, Mount Kinabalu which is 4101m at its peak. I had first-hand understanding of the earth’s atmosphere at various heights above sea level. As you ascend, the air gets thinner. Each step upwards will have you panting for more oxygen. Soon everyone stops talking, including our very experienced native guide. There are freezing temperatures and howling winds.

You know, it is interesting that when you go nearer a fire, you will feel the heat increasing. On the contrary, when you go up mountains, which brings you nearer to the sun, it gets colder and colder. This is because of the atmosphere. The effective atmosphere is only 16 km above sea level. This very thin layer of air that envelopes the earth like a thin membrane garment. The heat of the sun is trapped under this garment, stored and distributed evenly across the globe. Mankind can comfortably live and go about doing their business. This thin layer of garment also shields us from falling meteoroids that may come crashing through. It burns them away before they reach the ground and even provides a spectacular view of shooting stars. It is the atmosphere which mediates the fiery rays of the sun and shields us from being harmed by the sun.

 

Christ, Our Mediator

You may wonder why there is a need for a mediator. Isn’t God the Father the source of love and blessing? Why should anything come in between God and man? I have come across some people who said: “I do not feel any need of Christ or Calvary. I believe in God, and that is good enough. I reverence and worship God; but the sacrifice and the atonement are just unnecessary. I see no real need for them.”

I can only answer this, that if there is no mediator, all is lost. Yes, remove the atmosphere, and the sun will still shine in heaven. Take away Jesus, and God will still be love. Remove the air, and the sun will not lose its heat. Remove Christ, and God’s full power will remain. But with the air gone, the glory of the sun will not bless our tiny world; and with Jesus removed, the mercy and love of God cannot flow in our lives. Christ is the mediator of the better covenant (Hebrews 8:6).  He stands as the most important person – between God and us. Through Him we can feel heaven’s love, and in the rays of that sunshine we are blessed.

 

The Need for Faith

Finally, when the sun is invisible during the night, we still see its reflected light; for we know that the light which comes from the moon and other planets, originates from the sun. Now in the spiritual world, aren’t there many times when the sun seems to have set? There is much evil in the world. There is much suffering from viruses and incurable sickness, spiritual darkness and even striving within the church. We can’t help but cry in despair, “Where is God?” In such trying moments, we need to be urgent to polish up our duty of personal faith. In such a time, Christian character and faith is put to the test. Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, remember that in darkest hour, the Lord God is a sun, all powerful and immutable. He is the Glorious Lamp of Heaven! And in the midst of calamity, He is our shield and our protector! In Him, we can safely put our trust!

 

May the Lord help us!

– Elder Woon Sin Wei

 

PS: Adapted and expanded from George Morrison Devotional Sermons

 

Scripture references:

 

Psalm 84:10  For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 

 

Psalm 84:11  For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. 

 

1 Corinthians 15:47  The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 

 

Luke 1:77-79  To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. 

 

Acts 17:28  For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 

 

Job 23:8-9  Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: 

 

Isaiah 42:3  A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. 

 

Hebrews 8:6  But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. 

 

Shorter Catechism Question 21

21. Who is the redeemer of God’s elect?

A. The only redeemer of God’s elect is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, became man, and so was, and continueth to be, God and man in two distinct natures, and one person, forever.

Appointments for the Week

Tuesday, Nov 12

        8.00 pm     Prayer Meeting (Dn Ian Tay)

Wednesday, Nov 13

      10.00 am     SF Meeting

Thursday, Nov 14

      10.00 am     Ladies’ Prayer Group

Saturday, Nov 16

        3.00 pm     LTF / YLM

Sunday, Nov 17

  8.00 am     God’s Word Revives Us Nehemiah 8:1-8 (Rev Lim Yew Cheng, with Holy Communion)

  8.00 am     Choir Practice

  9.15 am     Library (Sanctuary Balcony)

  9.40 am Sunday School

10.15 am Coffee Corner

11.00 am God’s Word Revives Us Nehemiah 8:1-8 (Rev Lim Yew Cheng)

11.00 am Children’s Ministry

11.00 am Chinese Service (MPH)

11.00 am Filipina Service (Rm 1-6)

12.15 pm Library (Sanctuary Balcony)

  2.30 pm Thai Service (LMH)

  4.00 pm Indonesian Service (Rm 1-6)

 

Announcements

Street Evangelism @ Orchard Road

13 & 20 Dec (Fridays), 7pm

Outdoor atrium @ Ngee Ann City (Takashimaya)

(Meet at steps outside Chanel)

Contact: Dn Lim MY / Eld Michael 

 

Door to Door Evangelism

17 November 2024 (Next Sunday)

Meet in Beulah Room 2-11, 12.30pm

Contact: Desmond or Amos 

 

Traffic Warden Service

We welcome all church members to join in this work. Our TW’s role is to provide godly service to facilitate worship. We need help in following time slots for Sunday: 7.30-8am or 10.30-11am with a frequency of once or twice a month. Please contact Dn Chan Yong or Bro Kelvin .

 

Infant Baptism on Christmas Sunday, 22 December 2024, 9.00am

Parents, please email the church office,, with your full names, contact numbers, and your child's name and date of birth by 1 December 2024.

 

Catechism Class for Easter Baptism on 20 April 2025

will commence on 12 January 2025 at 9.30am. Please pre-register by emailing to Church Office. Those seeking baptism, reaffirmation of faith and transfer of membership must attend the catechism class. Closing date: 5 January 2025.

 

Mailbox Club Bible Correspondence Course (MBCC)

Another Church Outreach Ministry invites Lifers to register their young children, teens, or grandchildren with our MBCC. Those whose loved ones, friends or colleagues who are either young in their faith or being non-believers, are interested to know and explore more of Christianity, are also invited to register with us by filling in the registration forms which are now available at the Church front counter and post them to:

Life B-P Church

No.10, Gilstead Road

Singapore 309064

Attention: Mrs Ong Chuay Ying

 

Thanksgiving

Sock Har and family would like to thank the Pastoral team and church members for their condolences, prayers and visit during the bereavement of her beloved father on 4 Nov 2024.

 

MM Thanksgiving Meeting

23 Oct 2024 @ Beulah MPH, 4pm. “Were there not ten?” by Bro Joel Seah

 

YF Camp: To live is Christ, to die is gain

16-20 Dec 2024 @ Life B-P Church. Age Grp: 16-25. Speaker: Eld Chin Hoong Chor. 

 

YLM: Word made Flesh, Food made Fresh

21 Dec 2024 @ Life B-P Church Beulah MPH. 6.30pm. An evening of feasting, fellowship, and the Good News of Jesus Christ. All are welcome! 

 

The Presbytery Seminar 2024: Culture Wars: Engaging Today’s World

28 Dec 2024 @ Life B-P Church. 10am. Register at https://tinyurl.com/ybmpy3mu by 23 Dec 2024.