-Sermon and Message from Rev. Isiah Tingson
I, Hear God's Word
To be able to know God fully, we should be able to read the Bible. Attending worship service also helps us to better understand the scriptures.
The China experience of Rev. Tingson serves as a good example of what Christian attitude should be in Church:
1. Instead of sitting at the back, they would all come early just to be able to seat in front near the pulpit.
2. The congregation would bring their own stool to sit and they would not even complain even if it’s hot inside the church
3. They don't have powerpoint presentations BUT, they take down everything that the preacher is preaching
4. They don't come late in church and they didn't mind even of they stayed for long hours to listen to the sermon.
Their zealousness to listen to God's Word should be followed by all Christians around the world.
II, Allow God to use you
In the passage, Simon had his own boat. This is where he stays all the time -- his livelihood is in this boat and everything else he has is in this boat.
Like Simon, each one of us has his/her own boat. It may be our family, work, business, profession - but we must be able to use it for God's purpose.
There is a Chinese saying that goes… "Lao Lo, bo tong ying…" [fookien] ("I'm old, I'm useless...") but in God's eyes, there is no young or old, we can all be used by God.
III, From "Please" to "Go"
Oftentimes, we Christians are shy towards certain circumstances to the point that our fellow Christians would request us to do something before we take action.
We should change our attitude them inviting us to being proactive towards serving Christ.
IV, Following God and Experiencing His Reality
Jesus told Simon to go to the deeper and cast down their nets. Simon being a fisherman told Him that it is impossible for them to catch fish because they haven't got any since that morning. But because it was Jesus' command, he will follow.
Indeed there was a great number of fish and their net was breaking.
By following God's commands, He will truly bless us and He will show you what He can do.
When Simon was able to catch a great number of fish, his net was breaking so he had to signal his partners so they could help.
In our everyday walk with God, we need spiritual partners to encourage us in times of trials, to pray for us in times of need and to rejoice with is on happy times.
VI, Know Yourself
Knowing your strong points and weak points will actually help you grow more in Christ. You are your greatest enemy.
As Christians, we should be leading people to Christ. This is our calling. This is our duty.
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