fcm newsletter 2003_v1 (jan-mar 03)

8/8/2019 FCM Newsletter 2003_V1 (Jan-Mar 03)

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Fundamental Christian Ministry(A ministry by Calvary Bible Presbyterian Church (Tengah)

to NIE, NTU, NUS and Polytechnics)

NEWSLETTER VOL 2/2003 (April-June)=====================================================================And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the samecommit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. ~ 2 Timothy

2:2

The year 2003, will see many FCMers graduating. In this issue of the FCM newsletter, wewill be reading the testimonies of those who will be graduating, and how the FCM has been ablessing to them throughout their years. They include people like Eugene, Grace Fu, Zhenyang,Yee Farn, Anidtha and Jeanette. Some of them are your very own group coordinators. They arealso those who have contributed to the FCM in one way or another.

Before we begin to read their testimonies, let us start with the theme of this special issue.Its taken from 2 Timothy 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses,the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. This verse waswith me throughout my ministry in the FCM. This verse kept me going till now, and God willing,many years to come. I hope this ministry would benefit others as how

it has benefited me.This verse was the theme of the first FCM camp that Iattended. And it was also after this camp, I was appointed theNTU/NIE FCM student coordinator. I must say when Elder Boonasked me to become one, I was a bit hesitant. I do not know anybodyin the NTU/NIE FCM group, and I got to know about the FCM throughthe Arts FCM. The messages touched my heart, and God began tolay the burden in my heart when I entered the FCM in NTU. I wasalready in my second year when I joined NTU FCM and it was only asmall group comprising only 2 students. I was a young Christian then,and I know little of the bible, let alone chairing, coordinating a bible study group! All I had with mewas my experience in the student council as well as my 2 years of army training. By Gods

grace and providence, by attending night classes, fellowship meetings, learning from variousbible study groups, etc, things start to change in the FCM, at least in the admin part of it.In the verse, many generations of people were mentioned. Paul commit to Timothy, to

faithful men and to others - to pass it on what they have heard and seen, and to commit them tothe next generation. Can FCM still carry on in this generation? Even after so many seniors whowould be leaving us? All I can say is, every generation has their own battles to fight. WhenJoshua split the land to the 12 tribes of Israel, they were also told to drive out the enemies fromtheir own territories. Each FCM group have their way of running the bible study, different biblestudy leaders, different struggles and trials. But we must always be found faithful in the Word ofGod, to be fundamental in our teachings and sharings. FCM may have many groups, but we areall one family. One that would be found faithful in serving the Lord our God. And I like to echo thewords of Joshua, But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15b.

1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou artalso called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. All of the seniorshave fought the good fight of faith for us. This time round, its time for the new comers andexisting members to continue on the good fight. In the things ahead, ask God for strength equalto our tasks, not tasks equal to our strength. As what we wear on our FCM T-shirt, let us put onthe full armour of God. And you can read Ephesians 6:10-18, not once was it mentioned that weshould take any part of the armour off, they will be on all the time!

JunshengNTU FCM

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Fight The Good Fight of Faith

By Rev Quek Suan Yew

1 Timothy 6:11-12, "But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness,godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life,whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."

INTRODUCTION

These are the words of the apostle Paul to his spiritual son, young Timothy, as the latter took onthe post of pastor of the church at Ephesus. He was inexperienced as a pastor pastoring one ofthe more established churches in Asia Minor. He needed all the encouragement his wisespiritual father could render to him.

Like many of you young graduates beginning a new phase of your life, bear in mind that theworld is not your friend. Wisdom from God is needed to keep all of you on the right track, Godstrack. The philosophy of the world will desire to swamp you. The very pervasive worldly wisdomwill desire to devour your Christian witness. Beware and be warned of the danger that is out

there. No better place to go to than to Gods Word.

I. NEVER STOP FIGHTING

Before we examine 1 Timothy 6:12 we need to look at verse 11. Timothy was commanded byPaul to flee these things. The word flee literally means to shun. To avoid at all costs thesethings. What are these things that young Timothy was commanded by Paul to avoid? The loveof money and the falsehood that gain is godliness are some of the things Timothy was told toshun at all cost (see 1 Timothy 6:1-10).

In other words before Timothy could even begin to fight the good fight of faith he was asked toclean house. These sins must not be found in his life. The word flee is in the presentimperative meaning to say, that he must keep shunning these things on a daily basis. He willstruggle with it for the rest of his life, if need be. So must all of us as we live in this sin sick world.The temptation presented by the world is very attractive but God says shun it daily like you wouldthe bubonic plague (our AIDS today).

This is the fight Timothy was told to begin fighting and keep fighting every day of his life as heserves God as the pastor of the church in Ephesus. The word fight figuratively means it is thetask of faith in persevering amid temptation and opposition. It also came to mean to take pains,to wrestle as an inward contest, straining every nerve to the uttermost towards the goal[ Zodhiates, New Testament: The Complete Word Study Dictionary, page 78]. Thetemptation to be like the Tans and Lims is very real in the working world. God says fight thetemptation! Do not be like them but be like God!

How to be like God on a practical level? Begin with a biblical motivation when you look for a job.First and foremost, pray for Gods guidance and wisdom. Secondly, use godly and biblicalcriteria and not worldly ones as you seek and pray. Criteria such as monetary incentive,promotional prospects, status in society, etc. must be rejected right from the start before you startwork. Biblical criteria you must employ include the calling of God in your work place, to witness agood confession of faith and not to make money, seek ye first the kingdom of God and desiringto do Gods will in all things and not defile yourself no matter what the consequences. When youbegin on this solid and firm foundation and honour God in all things, God will be pleased.

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Remember that this is a daily battle. The world will forever be a place of wickedness and doomuntil the Lord returns in power and glory. Do not think that gain is godliness but godliness withcontentment is great gain. Fight with all your might and heart and soul and mind for this prizewhich is the knowledge of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus for your life as you live for Him.

II. FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT

The constant daily fighting may be very exhausting and at times very discouraging but it isdefinitely worth it all. Gods Word describes the fight we are in as a good fight. It is a fight

characterized by goodness because it is a fight of faith. Your faith and my faith are at stake.

How important is faith in our lives? Romans 14:22-23, "Hast thou faith? have it to thyself beforeGod. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he thatdoubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin ."Anything that we do that is not based upon Gods faith is SIN. Something as simple as eating ifnot done in faith is considered a sin in Gods eyes. Psalms 62:10 says, "Trust not in oppression,and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them ." You and Imust remember that the fight we are in involves our faith, our faith in God. Do not replace Godwith faith in money, friends, position or power. This is sin. The world wants us to live a life offacts or of experience or of education or of money or of knowing the right people and pulling theright strings. But God says the just shall live by faith nothing more and nothing less!

As Gods children, our daily struggle, whether you are a pastor or not, is whether we live by faithor by sight. This is a fight worth fighting for even if it means a daily battle with self and with theworlds system and all its accompanying influences. Keep on fighting the good fight of faith!

CONCLUSION

Is it worth fighting the good fight of faith? As the apostle Paul languished in a dark, damp andfilthy dungeon waiting to be executed because of the faith he had in the Lord Jesus Christ, hewrote these final words to Timothy and to all of us . . .

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2 Timothy 4:7-8, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept thefaith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, therighteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also thatlove his appearing."

Fight the good fight of faith dear reader! Your trust and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ will not bein vain. Keep on fighting and never give up. The victory is yours to claim through Jesus Christyour Lord. Amen.

Rev Quek is currently teaching night class every Thursday on 1st and 2nd Chronicles. All areencouraged to join the class if you have not already done so!

CONSOLATION FOR THE AFFLICTED SOULWhen a Christian is taken ill

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He is to pray and obey Gods will

Not murmuring nor complaining

But by faith, waiting and trusting.

When a Christian experiences pain

And his body and spirit grow faint

Yet, he is to know that there is spiritual gainWhen his soul is richly trained.

When a Christian is distressed

And he struggles to find real rest

God will be with him through the test

He is to trust God for His will is the best.

If a Christian is getting better

He must recognise that God is the Healer

And not forgetting to offer praise

With thankful heart to God he raise.Isa 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose

mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Rev Jack Sin is the Pastor of Maranatha BPC. He will be speaking to us at theFCM combined meeting next month.

Bible Baffle1. Which book in the Bible has the longest word in it?2. In OT law, if a woman were suspected or guilty of adultery, why did the husband

have to make an offering to the Lord?3. Which book offers a graphic description of the deaths of those who will attack

Jerusalem in the last daysperhaps nuclear?4. What is the last word of the OT?5. How does scripture say that Mary Magdalene earned a living before turning to

Jesus?6. Which sword was the first mentioned in the Bible?7. What does Golgotha mean in English?8. Name the second Christian martyr.9. How many horsemen make up the largest army mentioned in the Bible?10. According to Solomon, what is sweeter for a laborer than for a rich man?

Answers can be found on page 14 of the newsletter.

Zhenyangs Testimony (NTU FCM)

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n a matter of months, by Gods grace I pass my final exams,curtains will be drawn for my academic life and hence forth an end tomy status as an FCMer. Of course there is always room for me in thealumni club, but I will be looking back fondly at the blessed days inschool having bible study and morning devotion every week.

I thank God for leading me to the FCM where I can have good biblestudy and fellowship with fellow brethren. It is definitely not bychance but Gods leading that I joined the FCM. I remembered inyear 1 semester 1, when I was earnestly trying to find a fellowship

group to join in school. I went to ECA fairs to scan through allpossible ones, varying from Campus Crusade, Christian Fellowship,Touch NTU to The Navigators. I was overwhelmed by so manychoices, and of course I also got to know about the FCM throughsome finding out by my mum. I remembered it was held in TR70 andbeing a freshie, I was hesitant in going to an unknown area of theschool, having to go in and face a group of strangers. Thus, I was

easily swayed when one of the Campus Crusade leaders called me up to join them for a cellgroup meeting. However, after the first session, I opted out because of some fundamentalteachings, which I thought was incorrect. From then on, I gave up on the school groups, whilecontinuing to procrastinate in going to TR70. However, God certainly did knock on my door inyear-end after semester 1 when Rev Wee visited my church and I was caught. At the turn of the

year and the start of semester 2, I decided to take the bold step into TR70 and that started myFCM life.

God has certainly enriched my spiritual life through the FCM in many ways. The biblestudy at first was an eye opener for me. I remembered we were at the book of James then andbible study were in the form of discussions. I was truly amazed by the deep discussions fellowFCMers engaged in and the deep biblical knowledge everyone had. I got to learn many practicallessons from the weekly discussions. After the book of James was the book of Revelation, thistime in the conventional lecture style. Though I must admit it is a bit heavy going, itnevertheless opened me up to some basic knowledge of the book, one that I never had readexcept for a few verses in the last chapter.

With its aim of preparing us to lead in churchs youth group, I had the opportunity to chairmeetings and organize outings. The fellowship was also very edifying, with open sharing

sessions when we can hear praises of God and also pray for one another. It is truly good that Ican find solace in God and fellow brethren in school through these meetings after long tiringweeks of studying. It is good to have such meetings in school as they build our spiritual lives andremind us of God even during our hectic school weeks, through bible studies and morningdevotion.

Besides, I do feel the FCM also taught me good lessons and has been a test of puttingGod first during the semester. During the semester, we are very often burdened with late nightsand tutorials rush. However, it is certainly a good test of our priority for God when we have to setaside time for bible study and especially, the very early morning devotions. It has also given methe peace and joy to have God always close to my heart in every moment of my life.

After graduation, by Gods grace I will be working. I would not say I am prepared andlooking forward to working life, but it is a stage I will have to enter. I can foresee that working life

will be much tougher and trying than school life, for we face up to more challenges in thecompetitive corporate world. In fact, I am apprehensive that working life will be so taxing that itmay hinder my service to God. Thus, it is my sincere prayer that I will continue to dedicate timeto God and continue to walk close with Him, remembering that all things on earth are all but dustand our treasures are laid up in Heaven.

As for the FCM, it is my sincere wish that I will be able to drop in often even after I startworking. I thank God for His providence and blessings to our NTU and Poly group through theyears and will be praying that He will continue to revive the FCM, to grow in number and alsospiritually.

Grace Fus Testimony5


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Just a while ago, I was preparing myself to start a new phase of my life as anundergraduate. Today, I am preparing myself for yet another phase of my life as a workingadult. I have no choice but to admit that time really flies. Before I ever knew it, three years havecome and gone. Sitting here writing this testimony, I turned back time to when I was firstintroduced to the FCM and how I became part of the FCM and the FCM a part of me

I came to know of the FCM through Rev Wee, pastor of Berith BP Church. Rev Wee wason one of his preaching engagements on a particular Sunday in the year 2000. By the grace ofGod, I happened to be visiting that church that Sunday. I spoke with Rev Wee and through ourshort conversation, he realized that I was studying in NTU. Being the Bible study leader of the

NTU FCM, he quickly told me of the existence of a Bible study group consisting of NTU studentsthat meets up regularly.

It was near the end of the semester in 2000 when I wasintroduced to the FCM. I was slightly reluctant to go for the lastfew meetings for that semester as I was afraid. I did not knowanyone then in the FCM and it was simply daunting for me to go

join a group just like that. As such, I conveniently gave myselfexcuses for not joining the FCM. Then January 2001 came andthe second semester of my first year started. After much prayer Ifinally decided that I should go see for myself what kind offellowship FCM was. Since then, I officially became part of theFCM. Looking back, I thank the Lord for the strength and

courage He has given me in taking that first step in joining theFCM. To all those who are still procrastinating about joining theFCM, hesitate no further! For we are all brethren and one inChrist. You can be sure to find sweet fellowship with the saintshere in the FCM.

FCM was a turning point in my Christian life. Before the FCM I was a lukewarm Christianand I always felt that having fellowship was just a waste of time. I firmly believed that going tochurch on Sundays and listening to the sermons was just about it for a Christian. With the FCM, Ifinally understood the importance of having fellowship with likeminded brethren. This is ever so ina world of much apostasy. I have enjoyed the fellowship at the FCM thoroughly and grown muchspiritually. It was like as if I have been rejuvenated spiritually and my spiritual life was brought toan all-time high after years of stagnated growth. In all these, I saw how great Gods love was and

is for me, how He has so patiently tolerated these many years of lukewarmness of heart withoutany severe chastisement.

The Lord has used the FCM to draw me back closer to Him. With a renewed love for theLord and a sincere thirst and hunger after Gods Word, the Lord impressed upon my heart aburden for lost souls. I thank the Lord for giving me different opportunities to speak to some ofmy friends in school and to share Gods Word with them. Indeed as children of God, we are Hisspokesmen here on earth. We are to be good testimonies and witnesses for the Lord so that theworld will know that Christ liveth in us! My two and a half years in the FCM was well spent as Igrew more in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. For it is only withthe knowledge of the Word of God that we are able to earnestly contend and defend our faithfrom the attacks of the evil one.

FCM was Gods means of grace for me and I gratefully thank the Lord for it. It was

instrumental in turning me towards Christ and improving my devotion to the Lord. As much as theLord has raised up this ministry of the FCM so many years ago, likewise, He will continue topreserve and sustain it that many more people will be blessed by it. I have been blessed muchand I hope that it will also be a blessing to all you FCMers. It is with much regret that I have toleave the FCM so soon. Although I will miss the Bible study and fellowship very much, this is justpart of Gods will for me for this next phase of my life.

This semester sees an exodus of a generation of FCMers from the different FCM groups.From henceforth, the landscape of faces at the FCM would take on a fresh appearance. Do notbe discouraged by the sudden dwindling of numbers for it is the quality and not the quantity thatcounts. Trust in the Lord that He will continue to give the increase in His own time just as He has

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in the past. (To all the FCMers out there, do not think that this is the last that you will be seeing ofme, as I will be back as and when I am able to and I am sure that my fellow alumni FCMersshare this same thought.)

As I prepare myself for the working world, I thank the Lord for all the precious lessonslearnt from His Word in the FCM. These blibical principles would form the basis of how I am tolead a life that is pleasing and acceptable to the Lord especially in the hostile workingenvironment. I will continue to uphold all of you in prayer and I hope you will also remember mein yours. With this, I leave you all with Ephesians 4:1, that ye are to walk worthy of the vocationwherewith ye are called. Be good Christian students for the Lord in your own institutions that the

name of Christ may be praised wherever you are!!! Amen.

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Jeanettes Testimony (Science FCM)

Thank God for seeing me through 3 years of myuniversity life. Vividly I recall my first FCM camp 2000 where Iwas new and confused about the next phase of life that I wasentering into. And it was truly by Gods providential hand that Iwas led to the FCM and how he has allowed me to serve Him inthis ministry for these past semesters.

When I first attended the FCM meeting in campus, I wasone if not the youngest in the group and there were about fiveseniors with me. And I thank God for them, for the common faiththat we have and the common love that we have in the family ofGod.

It was through the meetings that we have that I learnt toappreciate the sweetness of fellowship, where we can cometogether after one week of hustle and bustle in school and toshare and fellowship upon Gods Word. In FCM, we couldunderstand oneanothers struggles and academic pressures because we are all of the same vocation. And Iwould definitely miss the sharings and fellowship that we have in campus.

Thank God for many opportunities to serve Him in the FCM these years. Though it hasnot been always a bed of roses, but I thank God that His grace is indeed sufficient for me. It is soamazing to see how the Lord works within our FCM, not only in the closer fellowship that wehave but also in the spiritual maturity of our FCMers.Throughout my years in the FCM, we have gone through study on the life of David, Pursuit ofGod by AW Tozer and book studies on James and Philemon. Thank God for weekly BS and forthe labor of love of our BS leader, Mark. Indeed I have gained many spiritual lessons and havefound them to be so apt and applicable in times of trials and testings. And I thank God that in theFCM, we are able to ask questions and clarify our doubts so freely and it is through thesesessions that we practice iron sharpeneth iron and we learn and grow from the experiences ofone another and through them, sharpening the countenance of one another.

As I look back once again, I praise God for His mighty work that He has done in the FCMand truly it is not by might nor by power but by His Spirit only. If there is only one thing that I cansay of the FCM, then it will be Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love and a placewhere we share our mutual woes, our mutual burdens bear and often for each other flows, thesympathizing tear. Amen.

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Yee Farns Testimony (Science

FCM)The Lord has indeed been good to me and takes pity

upon His child. Thank the Lord for the opportunity of anotheravenue (besides my own church fellowship) for fellowship andgrowing in His word through the FCM. Initially, I faced manystruggles as I am the only one from my church and I always thinkthat people have a negative impression of my church. But theLord has helped me to put this aside and to realize that myultimate goal in life is to glorify and enjoy Him forever and not toplease man or to covet their approval. Despite always givingexcuses not to attend the FCM, God amazingly still led me backin the end.

During the days in the FCM, I have the luxury to dig deeperinto Gods word and to learn more about its historical and geographical background, these helpsme appreciates that the living Word of God is indeed inspired by an all-knowing God, true andalways so practical and applicable to life, not at all a story book, as some may perceive it to be.

Fellow brethren, I would like to encourage all of you to set aside time for the Lord infellowship with like-minded brethren and of course not forgetting time alone with Him in closetprayer and meditation of His Word. The Potter is not finish with us, may we yield to his mouldinghand and strive to use our time wisely while we are students so that we can we can be equipped(with the armour of God) and prepared to step into the corporate world that is ever so dazzling,attractive and always trying to shift our focus away from God.

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil Ephesians 5:16

May this verse be a reminder for us that we are but only stewards of the time and all ourresources for our Master, may God help us to engage them in things that count for eternity.========================================================================

Eugene Gohs Testimony (Arts/Engine FCM)

Greetings in the blessed name of our risen Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. For those whodo not know me, I am Eugene, currently studying in my last semester (yeah!) in EnvironmentalEngineering, NUS. In this article, I would like to share my testimony in FCM in a lessconventional way. Other than the warm fellowship, the edifying spiritual food and numerousopportunities to serve, Arts/Engine FCM was also a place where the Lord has molded methrough trials in the form of human relationships.

For the ill informed, Arts/Engine FCM has a reputation for long FCM meetings on Fridayevenings in Engineering block 1. I could still remember some time ago when we had a combinedmeeting with Science FCM, some of the Science FCMers were saying (in jest of course) thatthey should come after their dinner so that they would not be hungry when the combined meetingstretched. Well, the reason why Arts/Engine FCM meetings are so long is because we will at

times get into long discussions about some issues where some would share their convictions orviews. It was during these discussions in the past that I realised that not everyone in the roomhas the same conviction as I have. There were times when things did not end as they ought toand there were times when I was stumbled by the actions and speech of fellow brethren. Iconfess that there were times too when I stumbled brethren with my actions and speech as well.I confess also that there were times when I left FCM meetings wondering if it was profitable forme to continue to join FCM and I admit that there were times when I felt like giving up and notattend for FCM anymore.

Looking back, I thank God for all these difficulties that I faced in FCM. It was because ofall these difficulties that I also took a step back and did some reflection of my own to check if it

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was because of pride or willful refusal to let go of some pet sins that I have when I disagree witha brothers conviction. Eventually, I have to learn that I cannot judge someone elses motivewhen he is sharing on something he is convicted with. I also learned that pride can be such ahindrance to confessing our faults one to another and to pray for one another (James 5:16). Inthe past pride even hindered me from accepting a brothers conviction that is different from mine.Those difficulties have also taught me to have humility and to esteem others better than myself(Phil 2:13). I also learned to watch myself when I share to prevent myself from sharing just toprove to others that I have Biblical knowledge, lest others think that I am keeping quiet because Ido not know. Be reminded that it is knowledge that puffeth up, but charity that edifieth (1 Cor

8:1).The world will turn away

and hide when they encounterdifficulties. If we were like theworld and do likewise, we arethe enemies of God (James 4:4).When met with difficulties inhuman relationship, the solutioncan be found in the Bible.Question is, will we hear it anddo it? (James 1:22). The word ofGod is able to explain better and

hence I shall quote from theBible: Charity suffereth long,and is kind; charity envieth not;charity vaunteth not itself, is notpuffed up, doth not behave itselfunseemly, seeketh not her own,is not easily provoked, thinkethno evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things,hopeth all things, endureth all things. (1 Cor 13:4-7). If there is one thing I want to bring acrossin this article, it is the word charity. For charity shall cover the multitude of sins (1 Pet 4:8) and itis charity for fellow brethren that kept my brethren and me from giving each other up.

These are precious lessons that I learn outside the Bible study and I thank God for every

Arts/Engine FCMer, past or present as God had ordained that we cross paths for our good eventhough there were times of disagreement (Rom 8:28). Last but not least, I want to thank RevRonny Khoo for his humility, patience and charity despite all the difficulties that had besetArts/Engine FCM. Rev Khoo has led by example. Arts/Engine FCM is a testimony that charitynever faileth (1 Cor 13:8) and without charity, we are nothing (1 Cor 13:2). To God be the glory.

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Science FCM Mersing Retreat

It has been quite some time that wewanted to plan for a short retreat up to Mersing.

And thank God we were there from the 26

th

Decto 28th Dec 2002. We wanted to make it a post-Christmas retreat as most of us were very busywith camps and caroling and it was only afterChristmas that most of us managed to find somefree time.

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A total of nine of us attended thisretreat and it was a time of spiritual blessingsand of course warm fellowship. We wereprivileged to have the whole resort toourselves as one church just left the daybefore our arrival and it seems like our veryown resort. The place itself was not very bigbut it offered a serene and homelyenvironment. An ideal place to shut us in, to

do nothing but to fellowship around His Wordand with one another. It was a quiet resortwhich stood amidst the greenery and facesthe South China Sea which provided us withcool sea breeze. The magnificent view of theskyline and the sunrise brought to mind theglorious return of our glorious Lord who will descend from the clouds of heaven. (For the Lordhimself shall descend from heaven with a shout 1 The 4:16a)

Preacher Mark Chen led us in bible study and we did on the signs of true conversion- astudy which is most apt for us, to allow us to examine our own spiritual lives and our walk withthe Lord. Besides looking into the details of signs of conversion which by itself is not the wholeissue, we also examined the hindrances to repentance and faith and of course, the source and

stages of conversion. Conversion was likenedunto the birth process which includes the following5 stages- Conception, Awakening and Conviction,Repentance and faith, Justification and new birthand lastly, Assurance.It was a wake- up call for us, to remind us of thefirst love that once burned so brightly but whichdimmed with the attractions of the world. We werechallenged to live out our lives showing the signsof true conversion of Christians who have beenredeemed by the precious blood of our Lord andSaviour Jesus Christ for how can any man after he

hath lit a candle, putteth it in a secret place??(Luke 11:33) Thank God for this timely reminder,

even at the end of the year, that we maycome before Him to re-consecrate our lives inservice for Him.

Thank God for the time of fellowship inthe retreat. I cant really forget the times whenwe had to travel out to Mersing town for ourlunches and dinners and how we did thehuman layering, where nine of us squeezedinto one car and we had the first handexperience of how the Christians in Saipan

had to squeeze in many more people to travelto prayer meeting and worship service. Therewas a time of mutual encouragement wherewe shared about our difficulties and joys ofour different ministries and our New Yearresolutions as we commit one another unto the Lord for His guidance and grace upon us as theNew Year beckons on.

Indeed the Lord has been so gracious unto us, to provide us with a retreat where we wereable to isolate ourselves from the cares and worries of this world and to just spend our 2 days in

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bible studies and fellowship. May we continue to strive to live truly consecrated Christian lives forHis glory and make our days count for Him. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Jeanette

FCM Retreat 2002This year, the FCM retreat was held from27th-29th of Nov at Calvary Tengah. Thetheme was on Prayer by Rev Quek.

Personally, it was really a much anticipatedevent for many reasons. Those of us whostudy in NUS will know that our exams endless than a week before the retreat. It wasreally nice to have something to look forwardto right after the end of our exams.Fellowship with FCMers always have aspecial place in my heart, and especiallysince our group Bible Studies cease a monthbefore exams, it means that by the retreat, itwould have been sometime since I havecome together with FCMers to study and

discuss Gods Word.I always look forward to fellowshipping with FCMers. I feel that theres just a sense of like-mindedness among us. The thought of coming together with everyone, to have a retreat and toput everything aside for a few days, is just a wonderful thing for me. I think I really needed somespiritual rest (not forgetting spiritual food) at that time.

Now, if we do not want to pray, then allthe talk about prayer would be in vain.However, if we wish to seek to learn how topray, then we must still turn to Gods Word forinstruction. I think prayer is something sosimple that it can be uttered by a little child insincerity, yet so profound that even the greatest

theologians would be driven humbly to ask,Lord, teach us to pray. The two passages welooked into during the retreat concerning prayersurely must have helped us learn a little moreabout prayer, and hopefully, pray a little more, alittle better, and with a little more faith.

I particularly liked the case studies thatwe did. Hopefully we can have more of those. What basically happened was that we were givenmany scenarios (I was told that they are all real-life situations) where some problem is faced. We

were then asked to state the course ofaction we are to take based on ourunderstanding of Scripture. I think though

this, most of us realised that applyingscriptural principles is really difficult, and insome cases, I even failed to see theprinciple that is needed to be applied. Iwonder how many other situations in myown life that just passes me by withouteven my knowing that I have failed thebiblical criteria in my life. Reminds me ofthe BS our science FCM did for most of thelast 2 semesters on James. Also remindsme of the series on the Ten Commandment

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at sunset gospel bible Fellowship the past 6 months. Controlling our tongues, exercising wisdom,honouring our parents, keeping the Sabbath etc I guess I want to encourage everyone,especially our science group, to put these things into remembrance, and to remind and rebukeone another constantly. For iron sharpeneth iron" so a man sharpeneth the countenance of hisfriend.

I guess so many things have happened sincethe retreat that I have forgotten what else wedid there. Oh yah, I can remember how ElderBoon kept us guessing the identity of the

mountain referred to in his night message. Ialso remember how the Bible Quiz became amini lesson on Biblical Geography as wewere asked to name as many mountains inthe bible as we could. I remember I didntreally like the packet food also, but I guess I

just need to learn to be less picky about food,and to count my blessings. I left on thesecond night, and for the 2nd year in a row, Ihad to miss the BBQ because it clashes withthe leaders retreat at my YF. I hope history

will not repeat itself next year. God Bless and have a good semester ahead. Just a quote I

thought Ill like to share with everyoneThe need for todays ministry is biblical doctrine, so understood, that it sets men on fire

C.H. Spurgeon

In-Christ,DesmondNew Science FCM Student Coordinator========================================================================

Daniel (New Arts/Engine Student Coordinator)

Dear FCM-ers,

Raised as a Christian since I was sixyears old, I did not experience any singularevent in life that lead to me becoming aChristian. I was told the Gospel as a child and Ican confess that I do not remember the exactyear let alone the date that I received the LordJesus Christ as my Saviour. However, I dobelieve that I am a Christian, born again withthe Holy Spirit.

Even though, I was a Christian fromyoung, I strayed from the LORD in my teenageyears, drawn by the world. Nonetheless the

LORD was gracious to me. In 1996 I enteredVJC. In 1999, with the blessing of the Lord, Iwas selected to represent Singapore as an Officer Cadet in Britannia Royal Naval College, UK. Itwas also in the UK that I re-affirmed my faith.

Following my return in 2001, I started going back to church but did not fully return into thearms of the LORD. It was only in the December of 2001 during a terrible emotional crisis that Ifinally returned to HIM.In January of 2002, I was asked to serve in my church YF as a small group leader and I was alsoinvited to FCM by Sister Li Jun. With that first meeting, the year 2002 started and it turned out tobe a year of spiritual wellness granted by the LORD.

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Through the grace of the LORD, it was in 2002 that I experienced exponential spiritual growth,especially during the FCM Camp in June. It was also in this camp that I resolved to finally servethe LORD with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Near the end of 2002, I was approached byWalter to become Arts / Engine FCM coordinator and I accepted his offer after some prayer andthought.In the coming 2003, I will start to take on the role as the student coordinator of Arts/Engine FCM.Ahead of me are three main challenges. The first is that of organising activities that can helpfoster greater interaction and fellowship among the Arts / Engine FCM-ers. The Second is theneed to encourage more newcomers to join the FCM so that they too may benefit from it. The

last but most important, is that of helping us, the FCM to grow together in Christ.

Clearly the task is daunting, but with God all things are possible. So let us not be discouragednor dismayed but to be strong and courageous, for the Lord is with us withersoever we go.

Praise the Lord!========================================================================

Zhihui (New NTU/NIE Student Coordinator)

As this is the first time I am writing for a newsletter in English, I hope all readers willunderstand what I am trying to convey and pardon my inept command of the English language. I

attend the mandarin worship service at Calvary Pandan BP church, and have never heard of theFCM until June last year when Junneng brought me along to join in their dinner outing. I wasthen looking forward to having fellowship in the University because I wanted my varsity life to bespiritually enriching. When my first semester started, Grace brought me to NTU/NIE FCM and ithas been indeed a beneficial experience for me, especially from Jun Sheng who taught me somePOINTERS and Zhen Yang who shared his valuable experience in the FCM retreat. I believe it isGods grace that I was looked after so well.

This year I am given the opportunity to serve with the rest of FCMers who are muchbetter in speech, knowledge and hold a stronger faith than me. Unlike the rest of the FCMers, Ifeel that I lack wisdom and am a rather slow learner. I am not trying to express my humility hereor whatsoever but rather making a confession. People who know me well will also not hesitate toagree more. As I mentioned, it is indeed a great blessing that I am able to be studying in NTU

and serving the Lord in the FCM. I remember during the last meeting, I recalled one example inLuke 9: 57-62. It describes a man whowanted to follow the Lord but was unwillingto sacrifice the comforts of this world inreturn for following the Lord. Another manwas hesitant, and yet another kept lookingback. The Bible did not explicitly mentionany special qualities they possessed. Allthat was required of them was placingJesus first in their hearts. As I recollect thisfine example, I am reminded that the Lordlooks at the heart and not outward

appearances. I also gather that time shouldnot be compromised in serving the Lord.When Jun Sheng questioned me on

what I expect of the FCM this year, I do notreally know. I just wish that all FCMers who have taken part in serving in NTU/NIE FCM togetherwould bring along with them the wonderful friendships established and beautiful memoriesshared for being part of the FCM at the end of their University years and be grateful for theblessings that the Lord hath showered upon us. In conclusion, I just have one simple requestfrom all FCMers and that is to remember us in your prayers.

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Anidthas Testimony (Poly FCM)

I have been with the FCM for three years. I am really happy to be with like-mindedbrethren.I have been blessed by God throughout my stay in Ngee Ann. He has guided every stepI took. Even when there were times where I drifted away..I know The Lord still cares for me. Ihave not been able to spend quality time with the other FCMers due to some school

commitments. Anyway when I had the time, I enjoyed myself coming to the FCM. It benefitted mespritually as I could keep close to God throughout my higher education. I thank the Lord for it isHe that sustaineth me all along. Without Him.....I will be unable to accomplish anything. I alsocame to understand recently that God has a purpose in everybody's life. Each and every one ofus are precious in His sight.

Brother Mark Chen once mentioned that The apostle Paul, implored the Lord thrice toremove a thorn, possibly an illness, from his flesh (2 Corinthians 12:8). Here we realize that Goddid not take away Paul's thorn for the purpose of making Paul rest more upon Him. It is in ourtimes of sickness that we see how strong God is. Suffering draws us closer to God, to let Himmanifest His grace and glory in our lives. So God permits this in our lives in order that we mightturn to Him. But as it is such sickness or whatever other trials or tribulations that the Lord permitsinto our lives, have a sanctifying purpose.

This is completely true as I was in the situation before. My fathers left hand middle fingerwas smashed in an accident. Now it has been amputated partially. My grandmother had a severeheart-attack causing her to be hospitalised for 3 weeks. Moreover, she was not a believer. Allthese happened in the month of December 2002. Nevertheless my family prayed without ceasingand God strengthened us all the time. I learn to put my undivided trust in God. Everything isturning out well now. My grandmother is learning God's goodness through my family. We are stillpraying for her salvation. My father is recuperating. Finally I would like to end with Psalm 62. Ittells us that God is the only Refuge. I have been greatly blessed by this chapter. Thanksfor being caring towards me and I have learned alot of God's Word.

========================================================================

Answers to Bible Baffle

1. IsaiahMaher-shalal-hash-baz. (Isaiah 8:3)2. To atone for his jealousy. (Numbers 5)3. Zechariah (Zechariah 14:12)4. Curse (Malachi 4:6)5. It doesnt.6. The flaming sword God placed at the entrance of the Garden of Eden.

(Genesis 3:24)7. Place of the Skull (Matthew 27:33)8. James (Acts 12:2)9. 200 million (Revelation 9:16)10.Sleep (Ecclesiastes 5:12)

Have you got all of them correct?========================================================================

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UPCOM ING EVENTS!

Calvary Bible

Presbyterian Church

(Pandan) (AV Studio)

Speaker:

Rev. Jack Sin

Dinner-- 6.30pm

Message-- 7.30pm

Address: 201 Pandan Gardens S(609337)

28th Feb 2003

(Friday)

Pls contact Walter if you would like to have dinner.

97355810(HP) or [email protected]

(Pastor of Maranatha BPC)

FCM Camp 2003Date: 19th May 24th May 2003

Theme: Christian Leadership

Day Speaker: Rev Das Koshy

Night Speaker: Pr Ho Chee Lai

Venue: Calvary Bible Presbyterian Church (Pandan)

Address: 201 Pandan Gardens, S(609337)

Contact Desmond at hp: 94578622 or

E-mail at [email protected] to register now!

Camp Fees: Full-time: $30; Part time: ~$3/meal, $1.50/Breakfast

For more updates and announcements log on to

http://www.mytengah.com/FCM.

Overall FCM Coordinator: Elder Boaz Boon (Calvary BP Church (Tengah))

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Tel: 6892 2865 (H) 6823 3546 (O) 9824 7681 (HP)

E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]

Nanyang Technological University/ National Institute of Education

1. NTU/NIE Group

Comprising students in all the faculties of NTU & NIE

Bible Study Leader : Rev Wee Eng Moh (Pastor Of Berith BP Church)

E-mail: [email protected]

Student Coordinator : NTU/NIE: Cen Zhihui [9741 4915(Hp)]E-mail: [email protected]

Meeting Place : Hall 11, Blk 54 #04-1049

Meeting Time : Every Monday, 6.30pm

Dinner : Canteen 11, 5.30pm

National University of Singapore

2. Science Group

Comprising students of the Science, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Information & Computer

Science FacultiesBible Study Leader : Pr. Mark Chen (Youth Preacher of Life BP Church)

E-mail: [email protected] Coordinator: Desmond [9457 8622 (Hp)]


Meeting Place : Science Block 16, 5th Floor, NUS Science Faculty

Meeting Time : Every Friday, 5.00pm

3. Arts/ Engineering Group

Comprising students from the Arts, Engineering, Architecture, Building & Real Estate, Law &

Business Administration Faculties

Bible Study Leader : Rev Ronny Khoo (Pastor Of Tabernacle BP Church)


Student Coordinator : Daniel Tee [9636 2255(Hp)]

E-mail: [email protected] Place : Engineering Block 1, 6th Floor, NUS Eng. Faculty

Meeting Time : Every Friday, 6.30pm

Polytechnics

4. Polytechnics Group

Comprising students from Ngee Ann, Singapore, Nanyang and Temasek.

Bible Study Leader : Pr Ho Chee Lai (Deacon of Gospel Light BP Church)


Student Coordinator: Phoebe Goh [6560 9186(H)]


Sharon Ng [ 9173 1821(HP)]E-mail: [email protected]

Meeting Place : Life BPC

Meeting Time : Every Wednesday, 7.00pm

Dinner : 6.00pm

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fcm newsletter 2003_v1 (jan-mar 03)

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