When it comes to the issue of rest, I am such a slow learner. Actually, I’m just being kind to myself. More accurately, I am downright disobedient and utterly stiff-necked where rest is concerned.
No, I am not being overly harsh at all. That was the revelation this morning and I need to be totally and brutally honest. There really is no running away when the Lord reveals the truth. The light may be blindingly bright and extremely uncomfortable but no amount of rationalising is going to help. The only appropriate response is to admit, to own up, to accept, to align. God is right. And I am not.
It all began sometime in the last quarter of 2023. The number 17 kept popping up. Here. There. Everywhere. On 17 October, I recorded in my journal, “I’ve been noticing 17 of late; have to re-read Noah again, and the significance of number.”
Of course, life (and ministry) takes over and I promptly forget to do what I said I would do.
On 17 February, it was Session 17 of MAP (Mentoring Aligning Process); and I was rostered to facilitate the topic “Work From a Posture of Rest”. That ‘coincidence’ of 17s sure caught my attention as I was feeling very tired both physically and spiritually. [I only just realised today that it’s Chapter 34 of Alignment Check: 17 x 2]
That night, as I reviewed my wife’s message for her part of our home church’s teaching on Ephesians, it dawned on me that I would be speaking next: Part 17! No prizes for guessing how many times Ephesus is mentioned in the New Testament. Yes. 17. What are the odds, right?
That weekend, we also considered if we should renew the road tax of our car or just sell/scrap it? Only to realise that the car was 17 years old.
ok, Lord, You’re getting my attention. Need to go check out the significance of the number 17 in the Bible. Here’s the gist:
The significance of 17 is that of overcoming the enemy and complete victory (both numbers 10 & 7 are significant in themselves). This is seen through the account of Noah and the flood – the floods came on the 17th day of the 2nd month (Genesis 7:11) and the ark finally rested on Ararat on the 17th day of the 7th month (Tishri 17; which later became the first month Nisan 17). This foreshadowed the work of Jesus when He died and rose on Nisan 17 (3 days after Passover Nisan 14), overcoming and securing complete victory over the enemy. Simply, 17 signifies total victory and complete rest.
Amen. Really great stuff. But what do I do with this without reading too much into it?
Over the next days and weeks, it became more and more apparent to me that the Lord was directing me to consider the issue of rest. Again. Or, as in my case, the lack of. Guilty as charged. I’ve come to term this as a Sabbatical Awakening. And as with certain awakenings, the Lord has to nudge (slap?) me more than a few times for me to get it.
In the meantime, more 17s along the way:
In March, Serene and I celebrated our 29th Wedding Anniversary. Over dinner, I realised that we have known each other for 29 + 5 years or 34 years (17 x 2)! Somehow, my wife didn’t think it was that amazing of a discovery. Then again, this word/number is for me, not her.
More recently, taking the MRT to town, I looked up and was shocked to see that Bishan MRT Station is NS17 or the 17th station on the North-South line.
The next morning, checking Archippus Awakening’s Post Office Box 656, I casually (not deliberately) added up the digits (just for fun); and it totalled 17! Again, not making a big deal of it. Perhaps, I am just extra sensitive about the 17 at this point.
That morning (30 April), somehow, I was led to Jeremiah 17. No, I did not plan or intend to at all. Otherwise, I would have determined to read every 17th chapter and/or 17th verse of the bible. [By the way, the key verse of Archippus Awakening is the 17th verse of Colossians 4 #justsaying]
Anyway, this would become the set up to the slap. Stay with me …
To me, Jeremiah 17 has always been about the contrast between one who trusts in man and one who trusts in God (Jeremiah 17:5-8). Then comes the caution that “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” In other words, I may think I am trusting in the Lord when I am really trusting in myself. As such, the Lord is the One who tests and reveals (Jeremiah 17:9-10).
Good sermon point. But what about it?
I conveniently ignored the second part in Jeremiah 17:19-27 … until the Lord directed me to read it this morning. Flipping to Jeremiah 17, the header caught my eye: Hallow the Sabbath Day.
“… hallow the Sabbath day as I commanded your fathers …” Jeremiah 17:22
This command was clearly given at Sinai: “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy … but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work.” Exodus 20:10
Stated once more before entering the land: “Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you … the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD your God. In it you shall do no work; … rest … And remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out from there by a mighty hand and by and outstretched arm; therefore the LORD your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.” Deuteronomy 5:12-15
But Israel conveniently ignored it, providing the context of Jeremiah 17. The Lord took Israel to task because they had not observed the Sabbath. What about the contrast between trusting in God and man? Put another way, to keep the Sabbath was to put one’s trust in the Lord. Conversely, to not observe the Sabbath, by not resting rightly to remember God’s redemption, was to trust in man or one’s own strength and work. Slap! Ouch!
Over the past ten years, moving on the kingdom assignment of Archippus Awakening, I have constantly struggled with the work that needs to be done and the rest that I must have in order to keep going. Yes, I know the principle well. Good intentions notwithstanding, I usually find myself pressing on and pushing myself too hard. That chapter on rest is one I have read the most times. For one, I need to keep reminding myself. For another, I am a slow learner in this department. Yet, where alignment checks are concerned, it all boils down to the fundamentals issues of worship and faith (as highlighted by the author of Alignment Check, pp223).
I thought I had juggled and managed as best as I knew how. But the Lord who searches the heart and tests the mind (Jeremiah 17:10) knows much better. Through a series of 17s, He patiently drew me to a place where I was ready to receive His gentle and loving rebuke. And to repent.
Turning 60 soon, this slow learner had better learn well and much faster. My 7th decade must incorporate the 7th day of God’s Sabbath, not just conceptually or intellectually, but a lot more practically. Sure, there is still work to be done but it must be done with rest and from a posture of rest. For, in rest is the overcoming and the victory. Because the victory that we have in Christ in one that provides and promises rest. [By the way, Paul mentions “in Christ” 34 times (17 x 2) in Ephesians #justsaying]
What a Sabbatical Awakening this has been. Who knows if more 17s will pop up? I sure can do with the reminder every now and then. That said, I’m not suggesting that God always speaks in numbers to everyone. But I’ve come to learn that God speaks to us in ways we understand. And when He does, there really is no excuse. He expects us to acknowledge and to realign for He desires the best for us. And His ways are always the best.
These days, it’s really hard to co-ordinate everyone’s schedules. Someone is either in or out of the house; or in or out of the country.
So I opted for something different, requesting Esther (who is presently in Canada for her exchange programme) to render a family drawing in chibi anime character style. In between her travels, she squeezed out time to do it, finishing and sending it through just in time for Christmas.
I think it’s really cute; and the best is that I get to hide my age, height and weight behind this exaggerated art form – haha! Have fun matching names to the characters.
2023 has been another year of change and growth for the Lim Tribe (read 2023 Wrap Up), constantly experiencing God’s love, grace and faithfulness in so many areas and aspects.
Thank you for praying for us and journeying with us. We are deeply appreciative of your love, support and partnership – both in the family and in the work of the ministry.
From our family to yours, here’s wishing you a blessed Christmas and a great new year ahead!
Henson & Serene with David, Sarah, Aaron, Esther, Ruth, Deborah Hope & Anna Joy
Is it me getting older? Or do the years zip by even more quickly these days?
Looking back, it seems as if the COVID-19 pandemic happened many moons ago; when in actual fact, we only entered post-pandemic phase in April this year?!
If I were to sum up 2023 in a word, it would be travel. If you know me and Serene, we are not the travel types. Sure, a holiday is nice once in a while. But to travel as much as we did in 2023, that is definitely not typical of us. Reflecting over dinner a few days ago, we did get out of Singapore quite a bit this year – mostly for the work of the ministry. Here’s a quick recap:
January: Love Singapore Pastors Summit in Melaka, Malaysia
Not exactly jetsetters or frequent flyers but this is A LOT for the both of us – together (previously, Serene did not travel with me). I’ve always joked that I don’t have a missionary heart: I get homesick the moment I reach Changi Airport, even before checking in. Honestly, I only travel for the sake of my kingdom assignment in Archippus Awakening. And this year, the Lord has clearly opened doors for this message to be declared in the nations.
This year saw Archippus Awakeningenter into the 10th year as we celebrated 9th Anniversary on 3 August 2023. Was it not just yesterday that I received the instruction to step out and into this kingdom assignment? Each time I think of it, I still find it hard to believe that it has been ten years of proclaiming this wake-up call. What’s next? Let’s just say that there is still much work to be done and many more to awaken. One day at a time. Entirely by His grace.
For Serene, I believe her time at Tung Ling Bible School would feature as a high point. After a few delays, she finally managed to go through School of Ministry Term 1 (Jan-Mar 2023). You can read her own reflections and takeaways here. Immediately upon graduation, in this new season, she committed to be more involved in the work of Archippus Awakening.
The children, as you would have guessed, are all growing up. Too fast. Present age range as at the time of writing: 14 to 25 years old. It’s getting harder and harder to keep track of their goings in and out – university schedules, CCAs, exchange programmes, internships, ministry commitments, homeschooling, etc. Serene clearly does the better job in this department. One thing is clear. We are not in control anymore (not that we ever were). Needless to say, we are very proud of each of the seven children and we love them all dearly.
Another year also means another year of God’s provision. Ever since we were led to live this way, the Lord has been so faithful to provide for our larger-than-normal family. Post-pandemic, this year has seen cost of living shoot up and up. Singapore has become one of the most expensive places to live in. Soon, when we cross into 2024, GST will go up by another 1%. We don’t really know what to expect except to stand firmly on God’s Word in Matthew 6:33. Our part is to always seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. His part is to take care of our every need. Amen.
This is just a quick update of our journey through 2023. I hope this year has been fulfilling and significant for you too. The way ahead may be uncertain, given present global outlook. Even so, let’s remind and encourage one another to keep keeping our eyes on the Lord.
Thank you for your love, prayers and support for our family and ministry. We pray the Lord’s blessings and favour upon you and yours too.
In His love and for His glory Henson & Serene with David, Sarah, Aaron, Esther, Ruth, Deborah & Anna
Each year, on 8 July, I make it a point to remember, review and reflect.
This significant date marks the day when I ‘heard’ the Lord say specifically and personally to me: Follow Me.
Today marks 23 years since those two words gripped my heart that morning as I read the Markan passage of Jesus and the fishermen by the Sea of Galilee.
It is thus apt to pause to consider the journey so far. And more poignantly, the next leg ahead.
This exercise is not meant to be a big deal thingy. Or to generate some feeling if there isn’t any. For sure, the point is not to throw out a few Christian-type phrases for the sake of sounding spiritual and all praise-the-Lordy. Not at all. The key is to remember and that is precisely what I am doing here. That I may never forget. That these two words – follow Me – will always remain fresh.
Following Jesus has been a very exciting and rewarding. That is only to be expected, right? That said, there have also been many uncertain, frustrating and even overwhelming moments. This is not to say that I ever questioned the decision to follow Jesus. Even so, the struggles and wrestlings are all very much a part of the deal, are they not?
In the first few years, like in the developing stages of a relationship, it was filled with discoveries and idealistic ideas (mostly my own imaginative romanticised concoctions) of loving and serving Jesus. Leaving the marketplace and entering bible school was like a dream come true. The world behind me, the cross before me. Or so this wide-eyed bible student thought. Not unlike how the disciples might have imagined the restoration of the kingdom, I suppose.
Upon graduation, I was all ready to put into practice all that I had learned and acquired. To me, it was simple and straightforward: To follow Jesus meant to follow His Word fully and wholeheartedly. And the results would automatically follow – yes and amen. Why would any believer not want to do that? Right? I was so wrong. I quickly discovered that my gifting was more ‘teacher’ than it was ‘pastor’. That was my convenient excuse for quite a while until I studied Ephesians 4:11 more deeply; and became convicted it was not ‘teacher’ or ‘pastor’ but ‘pastor-teacher’. If I wanted to truly follow Jesus, I had to learn to teach as He did. And also shepherd as He did. More easily said than done.
The next phase in a ministry and local church setting opened my eyes even more. How does one follow Jesus in such an environment? What does it mean to follow Jesus through set patterns of liturgy, church programmes and never-ending Christian activities? Am I – are we – really following Jesus? Or have we settled for a form of churchiness? These were tough questions I had to grapple with for quite a while. With no easy answers.
Then came the Lord’s instruction to drop everything for a new assignment. Through Archippus Awakening, I was launched into a new season of following Jesus. All I had was one message to declare. Nothing else. Literally, a blank sheet. While that offered some degree of flexibility and freedom, it also meant the critical need to hear accurately and to follow Jesus even more closely. No church, structure or leader to blame anymore. Talk about a totally new level of following Jesus. I can’t even begin to describe the lessons I have learnt – and the knocks sustained. Again, this should not come as a surprise at all. Jesus never said that following Him would be easy. But He does promise that we will learn and grow.
23 years. Yet, still a noob compared to others who have gone way ahead and followed Jesus for so many more years and decades.
My own assessment is that I have mellowed somewhat and also matured, I hope. (I am well aware that this can only be verified by others, given my own blind spots, biases and presumptions.)
What used to be idealistic is now balanced with more realistic expectations. Individual tasks and assignments are important. Yet, these must be always be undertaken and accomplished with the big picture in mind. Projects are not just about processes but primarily about people. The objective is not merely to get something done; but through what is being done, by how we follow Jesus, that many more will also decide to follow Him.
The kingdom of God is much bigger than what we see or experience in the local church, than what our finite minds can figure out. The more I learn through preparing and teaching KINGDOM101, the more I realise how much more there is to discover about the kingdom of God – and how to put that into practice.
Not everything is black and white. Miss the kingdom principle and we end up with religiosity and legalism. What is often needed – yet sadly lacking – is godly wisdom to apply kingdom perspectives. This can be very discouraging if I try to follow Jesus and meet His standards by my own efforts and strengths. If there is one thing I have discovered over and over these 23 years of following Jesus, it is His grace that sustains and enables me to live the kingdom. By the power of the Holy Spirit.
It’s been totally humbling to realise and admit that I don’t make things happen. In the end, when all is said and done, God is the One who makes everything happen according to His plan and time. My part is to follow Jesus and be faithful in all that has been assigned to me. I just have to remember not to over-think and over-plan. Slow learner, I am.
23 years. Still so much to learn. Even more to unlearn. Does it get easier? Not really. What’s up ahead? I have no idea at all. It has always been ‘one day at a time’ and it continues to be so. The key is to follow Jesus and to keep following Jesus.
Follow Me. Two words that started it all.
Let me wrap up this review and reflection with my own two words. No Regrets.
Curious, I decided to explore ChatGPT for myself. After all, so much has been said of AI – opportunities and threats.
After registering at chat.openai.com – very simple process – I started out by asking ChatGPT a few questions about Jesus.
Who is Jesus? Fairly standard answers. Nothing heretical. No surprises here.
Is Jesus the only way to God? The answer wasn’t a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ but prefaced with “Christianity teaches that Jesus is the only way to God.” and “According to Christian theology …” And then a rather political correct note: “However, it’s important to note that different religious traditions have different beliefs regarding the path to God or ultimate truth.”
I decided to test ChatGPT with a more difficult question.
What happens to those who do not believe in Jesus as the Son of God? Interestingly, Chat GPT reveals that “It is important to note that these beliefs and interpretations vary among different Christian denominations and individual believers. Views on salvation, judgment, and the fate of non-believers can be diverse even within the Christian faith. Ultimately, individual beliefs on this matter may differ based on one’s interpretation of scripture, religious teachings, and personal faith.” Very sharp, ChatGPT.
Cheekily, I tried to evangelise ChatGPT.
Do you believe in Jesus? “As an AI language model, I don’t possess personal beliefs, emotions, or faith. I don’t have the capability to believe in anything. My purpose is to provide information and assist with inquiries to the best of my abilities based on the knowledge I have been trained on. I can provide information about Jesus and various beliefs and perspectives associated with him, but I don’t hold personal beliefs of my own.” Haha. Good save, ChatGPT.
Quite fun.
Having heard of how AI might one day render certain vocations obsolete, I asked ChatGPT to write a sermon based on Colossians 4:17 (what else, right?).
Quite cool. It came with a Title: Fulfilling Your Purpose in Christ. Complete with Introduction, five clear sermon points, and Conclusion. As well as a send off exhortation: “May we go forth from here, ready to fulfill our God-given calling and make a difference in the world.” and an “Amen.” Amen.
I wondered if this was all lifted from some Sermon Outline archive through the centuries. And when preachers would be obsolete?
Time for something closer to my heart. How would ChatGPT describe Archippus Awakening, a rather young ministry? So I typed in: Summarise Archippus Awakening. Check this out:
Archippus Awakening is a Christian ministry and movement that takes its name from the biblical figure Archippus mentioned in the New Testament. The ministry is based on the verse in Colossians 4:17, where the Apostle Paul instructs Archippus to fulfill the ministry he has received in the Lord.
Archippus Awakening focuses on awakening and equipping believers to fulfill their God-given purposes in Christ. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing one’s calling, persevering through challenges, seeking godly support, and reflecting the character of Christ.
The ministry encourages believers to actively engage in their faith, to live with intentionality and passion, and to make a positive impact in their spheres of influence. It emphasizes the need for personal revival and spiritual awakening to reignite the fire and passion for serving God.
Archippus Awakening seeks to inspire individuals to discover and live out their unique callings, not only within the church but also in their families, workplaces, and communities. It emphasizes the power of community, accountability, and the importance of being part of the body of Christ.
Overall, Archippus Awakening encourages believers to live purposefully and wholeheartedly for Christ, understanding that each person has a significant role to play in advancing God’s kingdom and fulfilling their God-given destiny.
Not bad at all! I confess that I was (am) rather tempted to use this for our website and publicity materials.
Next. More than just what Archippus Awakening is, can ChatGPT tell me about the person behind this ministry? I keyed in: Tell me about the founder of Archippus Awakening
The founder of Archippus Awakening is Pastor Henson Lim. He is a Singaporean pastor, author, and speaker who has been instrumental in starting and leading the Archippus Awakening movement.
Pastor Henson Lim has a passion for awakening believers to their kingdom assignments and encouraging them to live purposefully for Christ. He has a deep desire to see the body of Christ rise up and fulfill their God-given callings, both within the church and in their respective spheres of influence.
With over 25 years of pastoral experience, Pastor Henson has served in various leadership roles in churches in Singapore. He has also been involved in missions work, teaching, and mentoring believers to live out their faith authentically.
Through his ministry, Pastor Henson Lim has conducted numerous seminars, conferences, and workshops, both locally and internationally, to equip and inspire believers to discover and fulfill their God-given purposes. He is known for his engaging and practical teaching style, emphasizing the need for personal revival, intimate relationship with God, and the importance of aligning with God’s kingdom purposes.
Pastor Henson Lim is also the author of several books, including “Say To Archippus,” which expounds on the message of awakening believers to fulfill their God-given assignments. His writings and teachings have impacted many individuals and have helped ignite a passion for purposeful living within the Christian community.
With his leadership and guidance, Archippus Awakening has grown into a movement that seeks to bring about a fresh wave of spiritual awakening and mobilize believers to make a significant impact for Christ in their spheres of influence.
Is this for real? A computer wrote this?!
I admit that when I first read it, I was a tad freaked out. This AI thingy is really quite something. I am impressed not because it wrote nice things about me. Perhaps we don’t realise just how much information there is in cyberspace and how powerful machines have become to handle or mishandle that information.
The above interaction with ChatGPT took less than two minutes. I had merely scratched the surface and have not even begun to fully comprehend the capabilities of such tech. Since the release of ChatGPT a few months ago, thousands of AI apps have been launched. We can expect thousands more. Soon.
The potential of AI cannot be underestimated. Potentially, we can look forward to more good stuff. But, as many have warned, in the wrong hands, there can also potentially be lots of evil. And deception.
What do you think about AI and its impact on humankind? Especially from a Christian’s point of view, how do you think churches and ministries will be affected in the near future and what is the right course of action? Share your thoughts and comments with me.
In the meantime, I will play around more with this power tool. Maybe write the next KINGDOM101 teaching with ChatGPT in five seconds? Ooh … tempting …
Christians all over the world celebrate this glorious day, remembering and declaring the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
All good. But what about the rest of the year? The other 364 days? Do we live in light of the resurrection? What does it mean when we say that we believe in the resurrection?
Allow me to share at least four implications with you.
Promise
If we believe in the resurrection, we believe the Scriptures entirely, not part of it.
Paul tells us that Jesus was resurrected according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). This means that everything that God says is true. He will fulfil every promise. We can stand upon His every word. The question is: “Do we believe it?” Because faith comes from hearing, and hearing from the word of God. Why do we believe in the resurrection, and still doubt everything else in His word? That is inconsistent and a misalignment. If we believe in the resurrection, we can believe the Scriptures and we will live our life according to every word that God says!
Power
If we believe in the resurrection, we believe in the power of God, that God is able.
In Ephesians 1:19-20, Paul prayed that we may know “what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places”. Our God is able, more than able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we can ask or imagine, according to the power that works in us (Ephesians 3:20). This power is the same resurrection power that raised Jesus from the dead and that seated Him in heavenly places. If we believe in the resurrection, then we believe in the exceeding greatness of this same power. Nothing is impossible for God. He is very powerful. The question is: “Do we believe it?” Why do we believe in the resurrection, and still doubt God’s power? That is inconsistent and a misalignment. If we believe in the resurrection, we believe that God is able. More than able.
Purpose
If we believe in the resurrection, we will live our life in light of the resurrection with kingdom purpose.
If there is no resurrection, then we have no hope. When life ends, everything ends. If that is the case, then we have nothing to live for. We only live for ourselves. Paul says that “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” (1 Corinthians 15:19). If we believe in the resurrection, then there is great hope and purpose for us. If we believe in the resurrection, then we will prepare for the fullness of the kingdom. We have kingdom assignments to fulfil for the King and His everlasting kingdom. What we do now in this life, we are laying up heavenly treasures for the life to come. The question is: “Do we believe it?” Why do we believe in the resurrection, and live without purpose? That is inconsistent and a misalignment. If we believe in the resurrection, we will live our life with kingdom purpose.
Prize
If we believe in the resurrection, we can look to the rewards when we spend eternity with Jesus.
In Revelations 20:12, it says: “And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” If we believe in the resurrection, then we also believe that we will stand before Jesus to give account. If we say that we believe in Jesus, then we will live our life entirely for Him for we are no longer our own, we belong to Him. Salvation is free. But rewards are earned. How we live for Jesus today will determine the prize & rewards we will receive when we stand before Him. If we believe in the resurrection, we will be obedient to the Lord. We will be faithful to fulfil the kingdom assignments Jesus assigns to us. The question is: “Do we believe it?” Why do we believe in the resurrection, and not press towards the goal of the prize in Christ Jesus? That is inconsistent and a misalignment. If we believe in the resurrection, we will do our best and go for the gold!
If we declare that we believe in the resurrection, these are important implications for us to consider. Here and now. Resurrection is not merely a future event to be looked forward to. Resurrection life and power are present realities for everyone in Christ. If we believe in the resurrection, it will determine how to live or die for Jesus and the sake of His kingdom.
If, however, you are not yet a believer of Jesus Christ, I have news for you. Resurrection and eternity apply to you too. When life ends, it will not be the end. Yes, you will also be resurrected to stand before Jesus. You will be judged according to everything you have done and said in this life. Without the blood of Jesus, without faith in Jesus, you will not stand a chance before a holy and righteous God. Eternity will not be good news for you; for Scriptures warn of eternal damnation and torment for those who do not believe in Jesus Christ. Do not wait until the end, until it is too late. Now is the time to believe in Jesus.
Stir the pot. Talk to one of Jesus’ disgruntled and disillusioned disciples. Encourage him a little. Thirty pieces of silver. We will take care of the rest. Done deal.
Little did they know that they staged and scored an own goal. They thought they had won. Only to discover that they had lost. Big time. That final nail was the proverbial last nail in the coffin for them.
The minions and executors – Judas, the religious leaders, the Romans – could not have known. Even more surprising and shocking, the key movers and instigators – the rulers of this age – did not know either. They were clueless.
But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
1 Corinthians 2:7-8
1 Corinthians 2:8 tells us that “had they known, they could not have crucified the Lord of glory.”
Their intention was to cross out the Messiah so that He could not complete His kingdom assignment. They did not know that the Messiah’s kingdom assignment was to be carried out on the cross. By putting Jesus up on the cross, they participated in their own downfall. What a double cross!
The ways of the kingdom have always been upside-down and contrary to the ways of the world. We know this. However, so many struggle when it comes to actually accepting and living it out. Instead, the tendency is to keep looking to the power and status symbols of the world – money, knowledge, name, popularity, etc. These seem so much more attractive than the way of the cross.
Sadly, the Church has also bought into this thinking and considered these as indications of God’s favour and blessings. This is not the wisdom of God. Let us be reminded that Jesus’ perpetrators and executors thought that they were really smart; only to be outsmarted. It was cosmic cluelessness of the highest degree.
If we are to be wise in the Lord, we must not walk the same path and commit the same error. If we have the Holy Spirit and are indeed walking in step with Him, we will know the wisdom of God, the deep things of God. These may appear hidden and a mystery. Yet, in Christ, by His Spirit, through the cross, it has already been revealed and made known to us (1 Corinthians 2:10-16).
No wonder Paul “determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:3). Clearly, “the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).
Whatever the world threw at him, however intense the spiritual battle, Paul held on to the revelation of the Cross – a picture and reminder of the wisdom of God. Over the cluelessness of the powers and principalities of this age.
What an encouragement for us as we experience and go through the challenges of life and ministry. Look back to the Cross. Live forward from the Cross. We may not know or understand everything at that point in time. Embracing the way of the Cross, we may be considered foolish. But at least we know, we are not clueless.
After issuing the mandate (that’s what Maundy means) for His disciples to love and serve one another, Jesus identifies the one who would betray Him. In Gethsemane, His closest disciples fall asleep as He grappled with the prospect of death by crucifixion. On trial, His star student denies Him three times.
Ouch. Ouch. And ouch. Painful. Super painful. And we are not even talking about the cross. Yet.
As one moving on kingdom assignment, I understand the feeling of aloneness. This is not to say I do not appreciate the many who have rallied around me and continue to serve alongside me. So very thankful for these brothers and sisters. Even so, there are many moments where you know it is your assignment and you are the one who has to fulfil it. No matter what. Even if no one is there for you. This, I know and accept.
What I find difficult to stomach is the pain of betrayal and disappointment. As a leader, I wish I didn’t have to experience this at all. Wishful thinking, I know. Almost every leader I know has had his or her share of such experiences.
And yet, in a strange but sovereign way, it was Judas’ betrayal that kickstarted the fulfilment of Jesus’ kingdom assignment. I can’t imagine how our Lord felt that night, and that morning, on the way to the Cross.
This is a big lesson for me.
No one said that moving on kingdom assignments would be easy. Add people to the equation and everything becomes even more complicated. Some will run with you and others will leave. Just keep moving. Learn from every situation, every mistake and strive to be a better leader with the Lord’s help. Even so, not everything is your fault. Not everyone will understand you all the time. The key is to know what the Lord has asked you to do and be faithful to fulfil that by His grace and with His enablement. By His sovereignty, and if He allows you to discover on hindsight, not a single experience, however painful, will be wasted. It might, in fact, be the very impetus that pushes you towards the completion of your assignment.
I sure am glad that betrayal and disappointment didn’t stop Jesus from fulfilling His kingdom assignment. Otherwise, we will not be beneficiaries of His salvation through the work on the Cross.
Similarly, as I move to fulfil my kingdom assignment, Lord, help me brave the pain that others may also gain. May neither betrayal nor disappointment ever distract or deter me from what you have tasked me to do.
To mark 22 years since hearing the words “Follow Me” on 8 July 2000, I am sharing the message I recently preached at Wesley Methodist Church (24 April 2022). May many be convinced that when we believed in Jesus, we became His disciples. His invitation to follow Him is a continual invitation to the next level of commitment. I responded 22 years ago and have never looked back. My prayer is that you will do the same.
On the occasion of Wesley Methodist Church’s 137th Anniversary, TRAC President, Rev Stanley Chua said:
“The greatest failure of the church is not our poor evangelism but our poor discipleship. You see, when Christians fail to be true disciples of Christ, they become just like the world, behaving and living their lives that are no different from unbelievers. And in so doing, they become indistinguishable from unbelievers as they have lost their light and saltiness and become poor witnesses to those around them. And in the worst-case scenario, they stumble others and prevent them from knowing God.”
Methodist Message, April 2022
I am in full agreement with Rev Stanley. However, as I considered this predicament, I cannot help but wonder why this is so. After all, there is no lack of resources, teaching, programmes, seminars, conferences, where discipleship is concerned. In spite of the abundance of such offerings, in my interactions with different pastors and leaders, the issue of discipleship seems to be a very common challenge across our churches.
To make it more obvious, we add the word intentional; hoping that this will provide the needed emphasis and push. So, we intentionally preach and teach about discipleship, we intentionally offer more classes, seminars and conferences, etc. Sounds right, but is it?
Perhaps the issue is more fundamental than it is intentional?
What if we are missing a very basic point in the way we define and understand discipleship? … in the way we follow Jesus?
In our age of social media, the word follow has been totally re-defined.
For example, if you want to know what a person or company says, or has been up to, you follow them. Some celebrity and influencer accounts attract thousands and millions of followers! Very impressive.
We too are thrilled when we get a few more followers. But careful, a follower could also be a stalker! Or a gossip! Have you seen or heard the latest? Post. Share.
In today’s terms, not much is required of a follower. If we bring this understanding into the Church, what then does it mean to follow Jesus? We are happy to get the information, the updates, attend the meetings, maybe help out every once in a while. But that’s about it.
As such, a church could have thousands of members who consider themselves as followers of Jesus and still struggle with discipleship! Why? Because many believers/followers do not consider themselves disciples of Jesus. Like the celebrity accounts, Jesus has thousands, millions, of followers. But not quite as many disciples.
Let me state once more: the issue is more fundamental than it is intentional. We have missed a very basic point in the way we define and understand the word disciple.
In its simplest form, whether in Greek (matethes) or in Latin (discipulus), disciple just means ‘student, learner, pupil, follower’ In relation to Jesus, a disciple of Jesus is a student of Jesus; a learner of Jesus; a pupil of Jesus; and a follower of Jesus.
Here’s the truth: If you are a believer of Jesus, you are a follower of Jesus. And since a follower is a disciple, a believer of Jesus is thus a disciple of Jesus. If you are a believer of Jesus Christ, you are a disciple of Jesus Christ!
This is where the problem is. Most believers have no issue declaring that they are followers of Jesus. But many believers struggle with identifying themselves as disciples of Jesus. Without acknowledging and accepting our positions as disciples, can you see why discipleship remains such an issue? Intentional or not?
As you wrestle with these thoughts, allow me to encourage you through Matthew 4:18-22 – an extremely familiar account about Jesus inviting the four young men to follow Him.
And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him. Going on from there, He saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him.
Matthew 4:18-22 NKJV
However, the problem with familiarity is that we already have certain ideas and pre-suppositions about this account. To address this, let us be good students of the Word and ask FIVE key questions that will help unlock the right perspectives and answers.
Question 1: Was this Jesus’ first encounter with Andrew, Peter, James & John?
It is easy to presume that this was a first or chance meeting: Jesus walks along the beach, spots Andrew, Peter, James & John and says, “Follow Me.” Due to His over-powering charisma, they drop everything and follow Him.
This is not the case. Thanks to the gospel of John 1:35-42, we see that Andrew had already met Jesus earlier through John the Baptist – on the day after Jesus’ baptism. In fact, Andrew (and another) left John the Baptist to follow Jesus. Andrew then brought Peter to Jesus. John was very likely the other “one of the two” who followed Jesus (since it’s typical of John not to mention himself in his gospel). Since James is always mentioned alongside John, it is highly probable that James would have also met Jesus by then.
This was not a first encounter with Jesus. They were already following Jesus. Keep this important point in mind as we consider the next questions.
Question 2: “Follow Me” Was this a call to discipleship?
The section header in our bibles suggests so – Four Fishermen Called as Disciples. But in my opinion, NO.
We have already noted that Andrew and John were disciples of John the Baptist who “switched” discipleship to Jesus. Two days later, in John 2:2, “Jesus and His disciples” turn up at the wedding in Cana. I believe we can include Peter and James too.
Since these were already disciples, “Follow Me” was an invitation to the next level of commitment. Up until this point, Jesus’ exposure was largely limited, in smaller settings.Jesus knew it was time for a greater public ministry. The invitation was for the disciples to follow Him at a deeper level, a higher level. It’s no longer as and when, but all the way, whatever it takes.
It is the same for us. Jesus is always inviting us to go deeper and higher with Him. This is consistent with what the Church is inviting you to do: to take the next step. The Lord is inviting you to follow Him, to the next level of commitment.
Let me state again: This is not a call for believers to become disciples. You are already disciples. It is an invitation to the next level of commitment, to follow Jesus in the next phase or season of the work of the kingdom.
Many still think (wrongly I might add) that we have to be called to be a disciple. As such, too many are still waiting for the call. Others are happy to ignore or miss the call. In the gospels, not all disciples were called. There were many who expressed the desire to be Jesus’ disciples. They believed in Jesus and thus wanted to follow Jesus.
Andrew, Peter, James & John believed in who Jesus was and what He promised so they readily followed. If we believe, we will follow. Whilst one can follow without believing, one cannot believe without following. Conviction will always produce action.
You don’t have to wait to be called to be a disciple. If you are a believer and a follower of Jesus Christ, you are already a disciple. When Jesus says “Follow Me”, He is inviting you to get to the next level of commitment as His disciple. Take the Next Step.
I know some of you may still be struggling with this. It sounds right BUT I don’t feel very qualified to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. So let’s tackle another very fundamental question:
Question 3: What qualifies one to be a disciple of Jesus Christ?
Let’s consider the four young men.
Andrew, Peter, James and John were all Galileans. Galileans were not exactly well-regarded. They were not considered as spiritual people. If you want to find spiritual and holy candidates, you go to Jerusalem, where the temple is and where all the religious types are found. But Galileans? #cannotmakeitla
They were fishermen. These were considered tradesmen like carpenters, brick layers, blacksmiths. This meant that after turning 13 years old, after Bar Mitzvah, they didn’t make it to continue learning under a rabbi (basic Torah training). They were Rabbi Rejects! Hence, their involvement in a trade or returning to help out in family business.
In Acts 4:13, they were described by the religious leaders as “uneducated & untrained”. They were not theologically trained, didn’t go bible school, or DISCIPLE programme.
Yet, Jesus invited these to follow Him! It doesn’t take very much to be a disciple: Just believe and follow. However, because of how we have defined, taught and understood discipleship, many believers still feel unqualified to be termed a disciple. We think of all the requirements of discipleship and promptly disqualify ourselves, justifying it is a higher call for a special select of the elect; but not for me.
I preached a series of messages once, encouraging believers to see themselves as disciples. After the service, I asked a sister, “So how? Are you a disciple?” She hesitated and said, “I don’t know. I still feel I’m not good enough.” Guided by the Holy Spirit, I gently asked her, “What qualified us for salvation? To be children and people of God?” She replied, “Nothing. We just believe.” AMEN! We believe Jesus. He receives us! That’s just it. By grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
It’s the same for New Testament discipleship. We are qualified by grace through faith. Rabbis of old may have selected and accepted the worthy ones. Jesus only invites us to believe in Him and to follow Him. He makes us worthy and qualifies us!
None of us qualify to be good enough for Jesus. Not to be saved. Not to be His disciples. That’s why the Cross was necessary. That’s why the Resurrection is revolutionary. When we believe, we die with Jesus; and are raised up to live for Jesus. In Christ, we qualify!
Question 4: What enabled the four to respond immediately to Jesus’ invitation?
Have there been those who have responded immediately to Jesus, without question, without hesitation? Of course. However, in my observation and learning, for many, it is usually a process that leads to this point of deep conviction and total abandonment.
I believe this was also the case for the four young men.
As we have already established, this was not their first encounter with Jesus. They had prior experience with Jesus. From the start, Jesus invited them to “Come and see.” John 1:38-40. They went with Him on short-term missions. They saw miracles and witnessed power encounters. They saw Jesus in action.
More importantly, they had personal experience with Jesus. More than just learning about and seeing the things of the kingdom, they had a relationship with the King. This experience was personal. What is your personal experience with Jesus? I am not asking about your church experience. Or how you have grown up in a Christian sub-culture. You can do church and talk Christian and still miss Jesus.
Even more, they were given a glimpse of a promised experiencewith Jesus: They would progress from fishermen to fishers of men. They would get to do greater works than Jesus. They would be given the keys to the kingdom of God. They would get to rule and reign with Jesus!
If you had all these and a promise of what’s to come, would you not follow Jesus? If not, what are you believing in?
Having grown up in a Christian environment, I knew how to behave as a church person. That was not enough to keep me from backsliding. In 1994, by the Lord’s grace, He drew me back into a real relationship with Him. As I believed, I followed. Slowly. Step by step.
Six years later, on 8 July 2000, the Lord said to me “Follow Me.” I had already been following Him. But this time, I knew it was an invitation to the next level. With prior experience, founded on personal experience, spurred on with promised experience, I said “yes”, quite immediately.
I know many of you have prior experience with Jesus – you have experienced His grace and faithfulness, you have seen His power at work. I also know that you are aware of the many promised experiences, for these are offered to all without exception. The challenge for many is that their relationship and experience with Jesus is not personal. My prayer is that you will receive a fresh revelation of your Saviour and King today. When that happens, I am certain you will immediately and wholeheartedly follow Him.
Our hearts may be willing but I am also well aware of the struggles and hindrances. As such, we must consider the final question:
Question 5: What holds us back from a deeper commitment following Jesus?
To follow Jesus, the disciples left their nets,boats and father.
Nets represent the entanglements & entrapments of life. In the Parable of the Sower and Soils, Jesus warns about the “cares of the world”, the trappings of this life, as well as the deceitfulness of riches (Matt 13:22). Paul reminds Timothy that a good soldier of Jesus will not be entangled with the “affairs of this life” 2 Tim 2:4. For some, they are held back by fear and doubts, hurts and bitterness, or unforgiveness. For others, when sin is not decisively dealt with, Hebrews 12:1 warns that these will ensnare and hold us back from following Jesus.
Boats represent assets & securities. James & John may have had a thriving family business that they would one day inherit. There is nothing wrong with having assets and securities. The question is: Are we trusting in these or in Jesus? When Elijah asked Elisha to follow him, Elisha promptly slaughtered his yoke of oxen and burnt the equipment – his assets and securities – and followed Elijah. Sadly, too many hold on to their bank accounts and assets and end up not following Jesus.
Father represents relationships & comfort zones. Leaving parents may sound odd or irresponsible to us. But in the days of Jesus, it was not a surprising idea. Parents are happy to have their children follow after a rabbi who requires full commitment. Today, our preference is for our children to study hard, get a good job, just serve a little in church, no need to be so radical. In church circles, many are happy to stay where they are because of friends and family – although they are not learning or growing at all. Church then becomes a social club with great fei-lo-ship.
In Luke 14:26, a difficult verse about hating father and mother, Jesus is not asking us to neglect our relationships. He is asking us to serve Him first, then our loved ones. As disciples of Jesus first, we become better husbands, wives, fathers, mothers, sons & daughters.
If you are struggling to surrender these, I understand. However, I am also here to tell you, that in my nearly 30 years of following Jesus, He has never let me down. Our needs have always been provided for. Our King and Master is more than faithful! Jesus is totally worth following and the leaving of our “nets, boats and father”.
Before we close, here’s a bonus point about following Jesus for those who are leaders or involved in discipleship initiatives. This is where I believe the intentionality of discipleship is directed at. Even if more are convinced to acknowledge themselves as disciples, what we do not need are more discipleship classes or programmes; we need more discipling.
Then He said to them, “Follow [deute opiso] Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed [akoloutheo] Him.
Matthew 4:19-20
In Matthew 4:19-20, two different words are used for the English word “follow”:
The first ‘follow’ has the notion of “being behind”. Jesus’ invitation was for the disciples to come after Him. We are to follow the lead of Jesus as He goes before us. He is the leader who sets the example and provides the reference.
That’s what disciplers are to do too. Classes and bible studies are good. But leading, setting the example and showing the way is even better. Conducting a class is much easier, of course. But we miss the heart of discipleship if we do not provide the right reference for others to imitate us as we imitate Christ.
The second ‘follow’ has the notion of “accompaniment, to go with a teacher”. Here, the invitation is to come alongside. We are to follow by keeping in step with Jesus. The picture is that of relationship.
Discipleship is primarily about relationship. But relationship takes time; and our greatest struggle is time. That’s why we compromise the process of discipleship.
Reference & Relationship. Notice the progression. We start by observing and learning from behind, then grow to be walking beside, working alongside, in partnership with Jesus and one another. That’s what discipleship looks like.
In closing, let me share a quotation from Bill Hull, the author of “The Complete Book of Discipleship”.
“When the distinction between disciple and Christian disappears, so does the damaging belief in a two-tiered church. A disciple, then, is the normal Christian who follows Christ.”
Bill Hull, The Complete Book of Discipleship, p33
I hope you are convinced that there is no difference between a believer, a follower or a disciple. A believer of Jesus is a follower of Jesus, a disciple of Jesus.
The question to ask is not “Am I a disciple?” but “Am I a faithful or unfaithful disciple?”
I say again: The issue is more fundamental than it is intentional . If believers refuse to acknowledge that they are disciples, then no amount of persuasion will get these to respond. After all, discipleship initiatives are only for disciples and I am not one. I’ll just be a believer, thank you very much. [If that is what you hold to, then to be consistent, I regret to inform you that many of Jesus’ promises and words and assurance do not apply to you. Because these were all directed to disciples.]
Allow me one last attempt to press home the point.
In the New Testament, there are 274 mentions of the word ‘disciple’.
Surprisingly, these are found only in the four gospels and in Acts. Which begs the question: If Jesus’ command was to go and make disciples, and discipleship is so important to the church, why are disciples not mentioned in the epistles and in Revelation?
There are only two possible explanations. One: The apostles messed up big time and never taught anyone about being disciples. Or Two: There was no need to mention disciples because it was understood that all believers were disciples. I don’t believe the apostles messed up. I am convinced that the epistles to the churches were letters and instructions to disciples.
In Antioch, the disciples were called Christians for the very first time (Acts 11:26). They were disciples who were labelled as Christ-ians (those who belonged to the Christ). Today, we call everyone Christians first. Then hope and pray that some will become disciples.
The issue is more fundamental than it is intentional. If we would acknowledge that we are all disciples of Jesus, perhaps we would be more intentional to live as faithful disciples.
Jesus is still inviting all to follow Him. To the next level of commitment. Brothers and sisters in Christ, disciples of Jesus, would you take the next step?
Let us pray …
Lord Jesus, the invitation to disciples to follow You is clear. We are the ones who have complicated things, even rationalized and justified why discipleship is optional, or only for some. Forgive us. Wherever we may be in our walk and relationship with You, enable us by Your Holy Spirit, to take the next step, to move to the next level of commitment to follow You. In Jesus’ name we pray. AMEN.
Another year has flown by and we still cannot dine out as a family – thanks to all the safe management measures of this present pandemic we are in. Perhaps that’s why our Christmas photo looks the way it does. We may be arrested and fined for exceeding the number allowed for social groups – haha!
But seriously, in spite of all restrictions and inconveniences, we have much to celebrate and give thanks for. It would be too long to list (yes, even longer than Santa’s naughty list *grin*). As the worship song goes, we have more than 10,000 reasons to praise the Lord for He is so good and ever faithful.
Christmas celebrations may still be toned down this year but that does not stop us from remembering and celebrating the first coming of Jesus in our hearts. Amidst the doom and gloom, the Light of His coming and love shines even more brightly. At the same time, our present challenges remind us of the hope we have, one that points us toward the Day when Jesus will come again. How glorious that would be!
May the love, joy and peace of this Christmas season fill your hearts and homes as we together mark the birth of Jesus, the One who was sent to save us from our sins. This invitation and promise is freely available to all who would believe in Him and all He has done for you that you may receive from Him and all He has prepared for you, entirely by His grace.
From our family to yours… Happy, Merry, Blessed Christmas!
Henson & Serene with David, Sarah, Aaron, Esther, Ruth, Deborah Hope & Anna Joy
One Day At A Time 