RHCCC DTM Latest Sermon

A Love That Cannot ForgetSpeaker: Rev. Shu-Ling LeeScripture: Isaiah 49:1-15 NIV

Sermon NotesResurrection People-Our WorkSpeaker: Rev. Ho-Ming TsuiScripture: 1 Corinthians 15:58Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.—1 Corinthians 15:58We are Easter people living in a Friday world, and our work declares that Friday is not the final word.(1) The Resurrection Stirs Our Compassion for the HurtingHe executes justice [mishpat] for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.—Deuteronomy 10:18This is what the Lord Almighty said: “Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor.—Zechariah 7:9-10aThe Gospel’s Impact: We look at someone in need and we see ourselves.(2) The Resurrection Gives Us Confidence in What We’re DoingThe Resurrection proves that death has no grip on the person of Jesus, but also on the work of Jesus.What can I do?1. Start with the person next to you2. Pray that God would open your eyes

Resurrection People-Our WitnessSpeaker: Pastor Jonathan MoeScripture: Luke 24:46-48, Acts 1:8The Big Idea: The resurrection doesn’t just give us a message; it makes us its witnesses. 1.The Resurrection Makes Evangelism an Announcement, Not an Argument • We are witnesses announcing a reality!2.Witness Begins With "We Have Seen" • A witness is someone who can say: "This is what I have seen" • The Power of the gospel is not just in abstract ideas — it is in lives transformed. 3.The Resurrection Gives Courage for the Awkward Conversations • We are joining Him in what he is already doing. • Matthew 28: 16-20 • The great commission = the great co-missionHow do we Live as a Resurrection people?1.Witness in everyday Spaces • Where has Jesus been real to you lately? • Moments of peace, guidance or grace? • Be Real2.Witness as a Community • Support one another - help each other • Church events are not just activities; they are ways of being present If you have encountered Jesus and experienced his grace, his presence, his life— Then you are a witness.

Resurrection People-Our WalkSpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: Romans 6:1-14Big Idea: The resurrection is not merely a past event we celebrate but a present power we inhabit. Because Jesus is alive, we are called to walk in a fundamentally new kind of humanity — one that is being renewed from the inside out.1. The Resurrection Redefines Identity2. The Resurrection Breaks the Power of Sin3. The Resurrection Gives Hope to Our StruggleThe Walk of a Resurrected People1. We do not seek to trade on the mercy of God and to make it an excuse for sinning.2. Those who follow Christ are committed to a different walk of life.3. There is more than a mere ethical change in our lives when we accept Christ. There is a real identification with Christ as Resurrection People.Application• If you have not yet been baptized, consider taking the next step in your faith journey!• Keep a journal of your spiritual journey as you become more like Christ each day.

Road to the Cross: The Lonely Road to the CrossSpeaker: Pastor Jonathan MoeScripture: Mark 2: 1-12Big Idea: Jesus walked the loneliest road to the cross so we would never walk alone.1. The Reality of Isolation (v.1–2)- Truth #1: Isolation is often the (barrier) before the miracle. 2. The Power of Community (v.3–4)- Truth #2: If you isolate, you stagnate. If you connect, you move. 3. The Importance of Forgiveness (v.5–10)- Key truth #3: “Forgiveness is the greater miracle—because it costs more.” 4. The Cost of the Cross (v.8–12)- Truth #4:Jesus walked alone…so we don’t have to.He takes our sin...so we can receive His righteousness.Because He was forsaken....we are never abandoned.

Road to the Cross: The Road of ShameSpeaker: Rev. Joey LingScripture: Luke 7:36-50MAIN IDEA: As RHCCC continues the journey on the road to resurrection, we are being led to confront and release our shame in exchange for God’s grace and forgiveness.1.The Courage to Bring Our Shame to Jesus2.The Danger of Self-Righteous Shame3.The Gospel Exchange: From Shame to GraceWalking the Road of Shame Toward the Cross (Application):1.Confront our shame honestly2.Bring our shame to Jesus3.Receive the forgiveness Jesus offers

Lent - Road to the Cross: The Prideful RoadSpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: Luke 17:11-191.Jesus Looks at the Heart2.Jesus Gives Mercy to All3.Jesus Invites Us to Look Inward4.Jesus Desires that You be Made WellOur rightful response: To receive Jesus’ invitation to see how God has been merciful to us and respond with a heart of gratitude.

Lent - The Painful RoadSpeaker: Rev. Kelly J. TamScripture: John 5:1-15Who was he? | What was his pain?He was not named. | The Pain of EmptinessHe was sick for a long time. | The Pain of JudgementHe was alone. | The Pain of LonelinessHe was not a Follower. | The Pain of Being LostGod is near to the broken-hearted.—Psalm 34:18

Lent - The Busy RoadSpeaker: Rev. Dr. Shu-Ling LeeScripture: Mark 6:30-44Why do some of us love staying busy?- Self-worth- Hight Status- Numb/AvoidOn the Busy Road of Life…1. Jesus invites us into His rhythm of Rest and Work2. Jesus invites us into a Restored Life.Conclusion:YOU are not the source or solution, Jesus is.Will you point others to Your Bread of Life?

Following Our Generous Giving GodSpeaker: Rev. Dr. Sophia WongScripture: 2 Corinthians 8:1–98 And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. 5 And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. 6 So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. 7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you[a]—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.8 I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.—2 Corinthians 8:1–9Why Christians give1. Everything Belongs to God• We are not owners — we are stewards.• Stewardship is not about how much we keep, but how faithfully we manage what God has placed in our hands.2. God Is the Generous and Gracious Giver• He gave everything — for us. He gave Himself.3. Our Response: Becoming Generous and Gracious Givers• We give because we are changed.How Christians give: TithingGiving should be:• Prayerful• A portion of the money your have earned (1 Corinthians 16:2)• Cheerful, not fearful (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Sermon NotesRested and Ready: Experience God DeeplySpeaker: Pastor Jonathan MoeScripture: 1 Kings 19:1-211. Elijah goes from a huge win to total burnout—and God meets him right there in his weakness (v1–4)2. God feeds Elijah and lets him rest before saying anything, showing that renewal comes before direction (v5–8)3. God speaks quietly in the silence, reminding Elijah that He’s not done with him and reconnecting him to purpose and people (v9–21)Reflection Questions:Leaders: Are we creating space for silence and encounter with God?Members: Am I expecting to meet the living God?

Rested and Ready: Embrace NewnessSpeaker: Pastor Kelly J. TamScripture: Acts 10:9-23Prepares us to share the Gospel to new people and in new waysReminds us that we are merely followers of God’s planInvites us to experience joy in pursuing God’s purpose for our lives• Rest creates readiness (v.9-10)• “Faithfulness” hinders growth (v. 13-16)• Newness requires imagination (v. 15-17)• Trust the change (v. 21-23)

Rested and Ready: Unlearn to rejoiceSpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: Philippians 3:1-16Big Picture: Release what hinders joy in Christ. Paul counts all as loss to gain the surpassing joy of Christ.1. Paul Commands Us to Rejoice in the Lord So We Safeguard Joy Against Deceptive Threats (v.1-3)Joy Alert (v.1): “Rejoice in the Lord” is command under threat!True Confidence Checklist:1. Serve God by His Spirit;2. Boast in Christ Jesus; and3. Put no confidence in the flesh2. Paul Exposes His Impressive Resume as Loss So We Forsake False Confidence for Christ (v.4-6)Forsake false confidence by exposing the emptiness of past winsCount our blessings, face our limits3. Grab the Surpassing Gain of Christ (v.7-9)A radical renunciation (v.8) - “I count everything as loss” - all or nothing4. Paul Presses On to Know Christ So We Strain Forward with Mature Grit Toward the Prize (v.10-16)Lock in on the prize by pressing forward with mature gritFour action verbs from Paul:Know Christ and the power of his resurrection (v.10),Press on - imperfect but pursuing (v.12),Forget what lies behind (v.13), andStrain toward the goal for the prize (v.14)Application: Unlearn to RejoiceFor the Leaders: Release Old Traditions.Ask: Which habitual practices serve our mission, and which have become joy-robbing obstacles?Action: Conduct a ministry audit in fellowships/small groups.For the Members: Release Old Expectations.Ask: What’s one church expectation that started good but now hinders joy?Action: Share one “release” in group discussions.

Rested and Ready: Rest and ReclaimSpeaker: Rev. Alex ChanScripture: Matthew 11:28-30“My soul can’t find rest unless it rests in You.”Why are we so restless?The illusion of false restJesus modelled Rested and ReadyJesus’ invitation to true rest• Requires faith and intentionalityReclaiming Rhythms of GraceApplicationWhat are you carrying that Jesus never asked you to carry?What false versions of rest have you been trusting?What do you need to reclaim this week?

Sermon NotesRested and Ready: Prune and PlanSpeaker: Pastor Shu-Ling LeeScripture: John 15:1-8

The Hope to Be Like ChristSpeaker: Pastor Quang NguyenScripture: 1 John 3:1-3Everyday English Usage of HOPE• “A wish or desire” for something but you are not certain that it will happen.Biblical meaning of HOPE• “HOPE is a joyful and confident expectation of God’s goodness.”2 great pillars of HOPEI. The HOPE to be WITH ChristII. The HOPE to be LIKE Christ.I. The HOPE to Be WITH Christ (Hebrews 13:5, Matthew 28:20, John 14:16)1. The Hope of heaven (2 Corinthians 5:8, John 14:1–2)2. The Hope of Christ’s return (Titus 2:13, 1 Cor 15:51-52)3. The Hope to walk with Jesus tomorrow (Matthew 28:20, Psalm 27:13).II. The HOPE to Be LIKE Christ (1 John 3:2)1. Desire it! (When we realize how much God loves us - 1 John 3:1)2. Believe it! (We will become like Christ one day – 1 John 3:2)3. Live it out! (Purify yourselves now – 1 John 3:3)

New Year, Continuing MissionSpeaker: Pastoral Intern Jonathan MoeScripture: Mark 5: 2-13The Big Idea: Spiritual warfare is real, but it is not a battle between equals. Jesus Christ possesses absolute authority over the evil one and breaks the bondage of sin. Freedom from sin allows us to live out God’s purpose.Mark 5: 1-9 - Christ's AUTHORITY confronts the POWERS of DARKNESSMark 5: 10-15 - Christ's AUTHORITY Breaks the BONDAGE of SinMark 5: 18-20 - Our CONTINUING MISSION after VictoryReflection Questions:Have we been relying on our own effort to overcome our sin?What is the thing that Jesus needs us to free us from?

Behold: Joy for All PeoplesSpeaker: Pastor Shu-Ling LeeScripture: Luke 2:1-20INTRODUCTION: What sparks “joy” for you? What is advent? Why do we observe the advent season?“Advent marks the beginning of the Church calendar. It’s the start of a new year for the Christian. It reminds us that fresh starts & new beginnings are not products of our willpower, but expressions of God’s grace in Christ”.—Rich Villodas Jr.“The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect, and who look forward to something greater to come.”—Dietrich Bonhoeffer  Hymn: “Joy To The World”  How & Where can we find JOY in this difficult, polarizing world? 1. Joy is found in Jesus, the Humble King (v.1-8) 2. We have Good News of Great Joy, but will we choose to receive it daily? (v. 9-16) 3. Joy is meant to be shared (v.17-20)  ConclusionRejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.—Philippians 4:4-8

Behold: God with UsSpeaker: Rev. Kelly J TamScripture: Isaiah 7:14All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Behold! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’).—Isaiah 7:14A “Blue Christmas”Honest Hope:Isaiah 7:141. Isaiah 7:14 is a promise spoken amid uncertainty.2. Isaiah 7:14 is revealing a new perspective.3. Isaiah 7:14 is a reminder that God is near.Application:1. What is the context of your life?2. Behold, look above.3. Behold, look again.4. Behold, look inside.

Knowing Jesus, Modelling JesusSpeaker: Rev. George MahScripture: John 1:1-14Big Idea: To follow Jesus, we must first know Jesus – who He is shapes who we are and how we live. Knowing Jesus leads to modelling Jesus, and modelling Jesus multiplies disciples.In John 1:1–14, the Gospel unveils four profound revelations about who Jesus is and why they matter for us.1.Jesus is the Eternal Word (vv. 1-5)2.Jesus is the Promised One (vv. 6-13)3.Jesus is God in the Flesh (vv. 14)4.Jesus is the Model of God’s Mission (vv. 4-5/14)Call to ActionKnow HimModel HimJoin His Mission

When God InterruptsPastor Michael SetoMatthew 2:1-16Our human nature is to control everything (we reject God’s rule)Embrace God’s disturbances(Matthew 2:1-9)Who was King Herod?Herod: “King of the Jews”Herod was disturbed• Herod was disturbed and all of Jerusalem with him.• Jesus’ arrival signifies a massive disturbance.• The idea of Jesus as King vs. The reality of Jesus as King• We’d rather have the posture of comfort than surrender to GodHerod fights against God’s plan(Matthew 2:10-16)• Herod destroys others to save himself• Jesus offers Himself to save othersA “fully-surrendered” life should look DISTURBEDLiving surrendered to Jesus’ rule:discern - listen - embraceWhere am I experiencing disturbances?• Conflict• Choices• ChangesJesus invites us to let go of our grip and trust His way.

POWER: Empowered & Gifted for The Missional LifeSpeaker: Pastor Shu-Ling LeeScripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11

Alive By the Spirit - Presence: God Has Entered The ChatSpeaker: Pastor Susie ChoiScripture: John 10:27My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow.—John 10:27God is always communicating but the question is, can we hear him above the noise pollution that surrounds us? How does God work in our lives to tune our hearts to the Shepherd’s frequency?Jesus points us to four truths in John 10:27:1. My Sheep Relationship2. Hear My Voice Result3. I know them Reason4. They follow Me Response

Alive By the Spirit - PERSON: More than a ForceSpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: John 14:15-21, 26-28Who…or what do you seek for guidance in life?Person of the Trinity: The Holy Spirit is more than a forcePersonal God: The Holy Spirit interacts personally with believersPersonal Relationship: The Holy Spirit brings us into relationship with GodBig Idea: The Holy Spirit is more than some distant all-powerful “force” of divine energy from God.The Holy Spirit is God who is a faithful guide, companion, and helper in our lives for God’s purposes.

Sermon NotesAlive By the Spirit: PURPOSESpeaker: Pastor Quang NguyenIntroductionOver this month, we’re going to be teaching about the• PURPOSE of the Holy Spirit• PERSON of the Holy Spirit• PRESENCE of the Holy Spirit• POWER of the Holy Spirit.Who He is1. “Another”2. “Counselor” / Paraclete3. The Holy Spirit is a person, a divine person of the Trinity who is called alongside us to be our helper, advocate, comforter or counselor forever.What He does1. Testifies about Jesus26 “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. 27 And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.—John 15:26-27 (NIV)2. Convicts us of sin, especially unbelief7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.—John 16:7-11 (ESV)3. Guides us to truth in Christ13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come—John 16:13 (NIV)26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.—John 14:26 (NIV)4. Brings glory to Jesus14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you.—John 16:14 (ESV)5. Unites the Church – binding us together in peace and creating one body in Christ16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[c] in you.—John 14:16-17 (ESV)3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;—Eph 4:3-4The Holy Spirit is the one who convicts us of sin, guides us to truth in Christ, unites the church, and constantly points us back to Jesus for the Christian life today!

Being WithSpeaker: Pastor Jesse SudirgoScripture: Deuteronomy 15:1-5, 7-11———1. Idealism and RealismThe Year for Canceling Debts1 At the end of every seven years you must cancel debts.2 This is how it is to be done: Every creditor shall cancel any loan they have made to a fellow Israelite. They shall not require payment from anyone among their own people, because the LORD’s time for canceling debts has been proclaimed.3 You may require payment from a foreigner, but you must cancel any debt your fellow Israelite owes you.4 However, there need be no poor people among you, for in the land the LORD your God is giving you to possess as your inheritance, he will richly bless you,5 if only you fully obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands I am giving you today.6 For the LORD your God will bless you as he has promised, and you will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. You will rule over many nations but none will rule over you.7 If anyone is poor among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward them.8 Rather, be openhanded and freely lend them whatever they need.9 Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: “The seventh year, the year for canceling debts, is near,” so that you do not show ill will toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing. They may then appeal to the LORD against you, and you will be found guilty of sin.10 Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart; then because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to.11 There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.—Deuteronomy 15:1-11God’s law calls for both idealism and realism:“There need be no poor among you” (v.4) a vision of justice and abundance.“There will always be poor in the land” (v.11) a recognition of ongoing human need.Idealism grounded in the eschatological hope, Realism grounded in an unreasonable grace———2. Moving from Doing for to Being with(Based on Samuel Wells)There are different ways to engage in God’s mission:• Working for – Doing things on behalf of others.• Working with – Partnering alongside others.• Being for – Advocating for change at a larger scale.• Being with – Sharing life, presence, and relationship.“Being with” shifts our focus from outcomes to relationship. It is not about fixing others but about entering their experience and walking with them in mutual trust.“Being with is not about finding solutions, but about companionship amid struggle and distress.”—Samuel Wells———3. Faithful Presence and ProximityGod’s call to love the poor is not fulfilled from a distance. It happens through presence, proximity, and participation.Henri Nouwen reminds us that compassion requires entering another’s pain:“No one can help anyone without becoming involved, without taking the risk of being hurt, wounded, or even destroyed in the process.”—Henri NouwenWe meet Christ when we draw near to those who suffer. Transformation happens not through power, but through presence.

Mission: Beyond Inviting to Sunday ServiceSpeaker: Rev. Shu-Ling Lee

Mission: Lessons from ChinaSpeaker: Pastor Quang NyguyenScripture: Luke 12:16-2116 And he (Jesus) told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’21 “This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.” —Luke 12:16-21———1. Life is not about becoming more and more comfortableApplication:• Where in your life are you just coasting, trying to become more and more comfortable?• Is it in accumulating riches but not being rich towards God?• Are you trying to keep relationships with others too comfortable?• Is your spiritual life too comfortable?———2. We all need to do something meaningful with our livesRick Warrena. God designed us to make a difference.b. We were created to make a contribution.c. We were knit together to meet needs.“[God] has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do” —Ephesians 2:10 TEV“Before I made you in your mother’s womb, I chose you. Before you were born, I set you apart for a special work.” —Jeremiah 1:5 NCVApplication:• What are you doing for Christ that will last?———3. People need Jesus“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men[c] by which we must be saved.” —Acts 4:12 ESVApplication:• Who are you reaching out to?

“Focused” - Jesus’ TemptationSpeaker: Pastor. Kelly J. TamScripture: Matthew 4:1-11Trial (What is the hardship or struggle?)Trust (What draws us closer to God?)Transition (What is being refined?)Transformation (Who Are we Becoming?)Hardships are unavoidable, growth is our choice, and transformation is God’s work.————————————————Matthew 4:1-113 The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread."4 Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.""————————————————Deuteronomy 8:33 He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord————————————————————————————————Matthew 46 "If you are the Son of God," he said, "throw yourself down. For it is written:"'He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.'"7 Jesus answered him, "It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test."————————————————Deuteronomy 6:1616 Do not put the Lord your God to the test as you did at Massah.————————————————————————————————Matthew 49 "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me."10 Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan!For it is written: Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only."————————————————Deuteronomy 6:1313 Fear the Lord your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name.————————————————The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ ”—Matthew4:3-4Trial: Self-sufficiencyTrust: DependenceTransition: Endurance & CourageJehovah Jireh (יְהוָ֣ה יִרְאֶ֑ה)“The Lord will Provide”Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “ ‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’ ”Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’ ”—Matthew4:5-7Trial: FaithTrust: ObedienceTransition: Patience, Resilience & ConfidenceEl Emunah (אֵל אֱמוּנָה)“Faithful God”Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’ ”—Matthew 4:8-10Trial: Idolatry and CompromiseTrust: SurrenderTransition: Humility & Peaceאֵל שַׁדַּי (El Shaddai)“God Almighty”

“Rested”- Moses, Israel and the MannaSpeaker: Rev. Dr. Shu-Ling LeeScripture: Exodus 16:1-12,17-20,27-30How has God provided in the last 40 years at RHCCC?BIG IDEA: If you don’t trust in God’s provision, and rest/work in the way He’s designed you for, the fruits of your labour will eventually rot.Will we, in the church, take His sabbath command seriously?TRIAL - What does the trial look like in this story?Background of Exodus 1616:1-1216:17-2016:27-30TRUST - What does trust look like in this story?Can you learn to trust that God is your provider? (Reject Greed)Can you learn to trust that God’s rest for you is part of your good? (Reject Control)Is Jesus your ultimate reason to trust God? (Reject self-salvation)TRANSITION - God does provide… but can you CONTINUE to trust and rest in Him?TRANSFORMATION - What does Transformation look like in this context? In our context today?TRULY “RESTED” - A transformed person in Christ  the Lord of the Sabbath… and they know the sabbath was made for them!REFLECTION1. Have you taking Sabbath Rest seriously before the Lord? Why or why not?2. Will you learn to embrace your own God-given limits and trust the Great Provider?

Part 2– “Strengthened” — Israel’s in the WildernessSpeaker: Pastor Joey HoScripture: Numbers 32:13The Series Framework: Trial → Trust → Transition → TransformationBook of Numbers Storyline1. The beginning of their journey from Mount Sinai (Numbers 1-10)2. Wilderness of Paran (Numbers 10-19)3. Wilderness of Moab (Num. 20-36)TrialsGod used 2 ways to lead and guide the Israelites during their time in the wilderness: Pillar of Cloud & Pillar of Fire“Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite. 2 “Has the Lord spoken only through Moses?” they asked. “Hasn’t he also spoken through us?” And the Lord heard this.”—Numbers 12:1-2TrustTrusting in God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees.- God wanted the Israelites to trust in Him for their daily dependence for manna and water.- God wanted the Israelites to trust in Him for physical protection from the enemies- God wanted the Israelites to trust in Him for direction as they were aimlessly following a cloud by day and fire by night without knowing the destination.“The Lord’s anger burned against Israel and he made them wander in the wilderness forty years, until the whole generation of those who had done evil in his sight was gone.”—Numbers 32:13TransitionTransition: A period or phase in which change is happeningEvery step of the way in the wilderness and in the people’s rebellion, God was always providing for them.TransformationGod strengthens His people through trial, trust, transition, and transformation—using wilderness hardships not to break us, but to build us into a covenant nation.Where has God strengthened our church in the last 40 years?“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”—Joshua 1:9The last 40 years of YLD stand as a testimony to God’s provision, protection, and power.

“Cleansed” - Noah’s FloodSpeaker: Rev. Ho-Ming J. TsuiScripture: Genesis 7: 1-24 "God has to wash you clean before He can make you new.”  TRIAL: What does the trial look like in this story?(Genesis 6:5-13)  TRUST: What does trust look like in this story?(Genesis 6:8-9, 14-22)  TRANSITION: God’s 40-Day Wash Cycle(Genesis 7:1-24, 8:1)  You have to trust in the WHO rather than try to figure out the WHY. Word: We trust that God keeps His promises (the WHAT) Power: We trust God’s ability to work all things out for our good (the HOW) Speed: We trust in God’s timing (the WHEN)  TRANSFORMATION: What does transformation look like in this context?(Genesis 8:15-22)God’s Two-Step Cleaning Process:Mortification: Washing away the old nature — subduing or putting to death the deeds of the sinful natureVivification: Bringing in the new nature — setting your heart and mind on the things of the Spirit “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”—2 Corinthians 5:17 Reflection:Have you resisted God’s ongoing cleansing work in your own life? What if God has been cleaning our church for a season to come?

The world outside of our worldSpeaker: Mr. Yu-Jen YangScripture: Matthew 28:18-20

The Ultimate Gift: New LifeSpeaker: Pastor Jonathan MoeScripture: Ephesians 4:22-24There are three phases in the process to moving towards being set apart for God’s purposes1. Put off Your Old Self (v.22)2. Be Made New (v.23)3. Putting on the New Self (v.24)Where do we start?• Look at yourself first • be ruthlessly honest about our sins and shortcoming • Go to School • Learn what it means to be Christian• Live your Baptism • “Putting off” and “Putting on” occurs during baptism, but living as a Christian is a continual process and not optionalClosing Thought – Are we still holding on to our old life or will we fully commit to the new life God has given us through Jesus?

DTM AnniversarySpeaker: Rev. Shu-Ling lee

When Trust Wavers: The Quiet Power Of DoubtSpeaker: Rev. Aaron OwenScripture: Matthew 4:1-11Casting doubt is the enemy’s tactic for destroying trust.Trust is essential for us to deepen our relationship with God. The devil will attempt to thwart or destroy our ability to go deeper with God by getting us to distrust Him by casting doubt.3 WAYS SATAN CASTS DOUBT IN OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD1. Doubt in God’s PERSON (v.3-4)• Satan tempts Jesus to question whether the Father is good & will meet His needs• Satan similarly tempts us to question God’s Character – is He really good? Does He really love me? Can I trust Him? Maybe I need to look out for myself because God isn’t going to look after me.2. Doubt in God’s PROMISES (v.5-7)• Satan tempts Jesus to question: Can you really trust the Father? How do you know His promises are reliable?• Satan tempts us to stress test God as a means to grasp at certainty & control over a situation.3. Doubt in God’s PLANS & PURPOSES (v.8-10)• Satan tempts Jesus with a pain-free way to get to the end result of bringing all the nations & kingdoms of the world under His authority & rule.• Satan tempts us to get our desired results by bypassing God’s plans & purposes.

Sermon NotesRooted Together#5 - Hospitality: Welcoming the Stranger vs. ExclusivitySpeaker: Pastor. Kelly J. TamScripture: Matt 25:31-46; 1 Peter 4:9-11Culture of Community--------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------Culture of Inclusivity | Gratitude & AppreciationCulture of Interdependence | Commitment & FaithfulnessCulture of Presence and Participation | Commitment & FaithfulnessCulture of Honesty | Truthfulness & LoveCulture of Forgiveness and Reconciliation | Truthfulness & LoveCulture of a Shared Mission | Hospitality & BelongingCulture of Hospitality (Welcome) | Hospitality & BelongingThe practice of hospituality……fosters belonging and gives an invitation to shared life.…is the intangible way that we make someone feel when they enter our space.…literally and metaphorically making room for anyone who wants to come and belong.Culture of Hospitality:1. Hospitality Welcomes the Stranger and Creates a Space for Them (verse 35)2. Hospitality Builds and Sustains Community by Showing That Everyone Is Seen and Valued (verse 40)3. Hospitality Will Cost Us (verse 44-45)4. Hospitality Is Countercultural (verse 34)Call to Action:

Rooted Together#4 Truthfulness vs. Harshness/AvoidanceA Truth-Filled CommunitySpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: Psalm 86:11-13; Eph 4:17-251 . The inward expression: The “undivided heart”2 . The outward expression: A community called to truth-filled living3 . Problem: Trust is fragile, sin disrupts trust4 . Source: Trust and the Human Heart5 . Practice: Speak truth in loveBig Idea:Truthfulness forms the basis for trust, and trust is essential to community

Rooted Together#3Faithfulness vs. Non-CommitmentAre You Obeying His Word?Speaker: Pastor Stephen Hsu Scripture: Matthew 21:28-32[28] “What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’[29] ” ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. [30] “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go.[31] “Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. [32] For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.—Matthew 21:28-32Big Idea: We please God when we REPENT & obey His Word3 TESTS for our church community1. Are we listening to God’s Word? [28]2. Are we obeying what God says? [29-30]3. Do we REPENT? [31-32]“The church is always being reformed according to the Word of God.”—Jodocus van Lodenstein (1674)Christian Discipleship 101You can’t learn new truth if you aren’t obeying what God already has taught you.NEXT STEP1.2.3.

Rooted Together#2From Consumerism to Gratitude: Three Shifts for Church CommunitySpeaker: Rev. Ho-Ming J. TsuiScripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18A community is a group of people who share an identity-forming story that is so important to them that it defines an aspect of who they are.The Story of Consumerisma) Consumerism started as a marketing strategyb) Consumerism has become a dominant worldviewc) Consumerism has infiltrated the church12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.—1 Thessalonians 5:12-18Shift 1: From Entitlement to Appreciation (vv. 12-13)Application: Thank someone not only for what they’ve done for you, but acknowledge the cost of their service and express appreciation for their heart to serveShift 2: From Apathy to Responsibility (vv. 13b-15)Application: Identify someone in our community who fits into one of Paul’s categories—someone who seems disheartened, struggling, or needs encouragement.Shift 3: From Comparison to Contentment (vv. 16-18)Application: For the next month, begin each day by thanking God for three specific things about our church community.Conclusion: If we want to cultivate a culture of gratitude, we must immerse ourselves in a story of grace. The gospel creates grateful people.

Rooted Together#1 – IntroductionThe Importance and Fragility of CommunitySpeaker: Rev. Shu-Ling LeeScripture: John 17:20-23

Jesus & Mary Magdalene:A Most Fragrant WorshipSpeaker: Pastor Johnny CheungScripture: Mark 14:3-93 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. 4 There were some who said to themselves indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. 9 And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.—Mark 14:3-9The Worship of Lord Jesus3 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head.—Mark 14:3Who was Jesus to Mary?a. Rabbi?b. Loved One?c. Miracle Worker?The Worth of the Offering4 There were some who said to themselves indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me… 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial.—Mark 14:4-6, 8The World will Remember9 And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.—Mark 14:9

Courage Unleashed: Living a whole-hearted lifeSpeaker: Rev. Darren HerboldScripture: Joshua 14:7-81. Wholehearted Conviction: Holding on to the one who holds the world.2. Wholehearted Perspective: Living for the Father’s glory.3. Wholehearted Consistency: Faithfulness in the Mundane, Miraculous, or Unfair.

YLD SundaySpeaker: Pastor Alex ChanScripture: 1 Samuel 1-3BIG IDEA: When Adults Leads By Example, God Raises Up the Next Generation1. A Parent’s Life Shapes the Heart of A Child2. ⁠The Example of the Church Deepens Their Faith3. ⁠Maturing Faith Is Not Instant—It’s a Lifelong Journey of Surrender, Struggle, and Transformation4. ⁠Trust God with Our Children: Releasing Control and Embracing God’s Greater PlanCall to Action: How to Reach Generation Alpha1. Teach them something that AI Cannot2. Connect them to a Church Community3. Plant Hope, Always

Planting Hope, Always:Sharing our HopeSpeaker: Rev. Ho-Ming TsuiScripture: 1 Peter 3:15We evangelize to share our hope.———1. Are you excited to share your hope?But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord…—1 Peter 3:15The joyful effects of the gospel motivate us to share our hope.———2. Are you ready to share your hope when people ask?Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have….—1 Peter 3:15The transformative power of the gospel demands an explanation.Our hope is found in the person, work and return of Jesus:I. In the person of Jesus, God emptied himself of his glory (upside-down aspect)The person of Jesus (incarnation) gives me hope because it teaches me there is a new way to live.II. Through the work of Jesus, God substituted himself for us (inside-out aspect).The work of Jesus (substitution) gives me hope because it tells me God loves me.III. At the return of Jesus, God will make a new world (forward-back aspect).The return of Jesus (resurrection) gives me hope because it declares that better days are ahead.———3. Are you living in such a way that your hope is visible?But do this with gentleness and respect—1 Peter 3:15The humble nature of the gospel leads us to demonstrate it with gentleness and respect———Practical Ways To Share Your Hope:1. Prepare your storyHow has the person, work and return of Jesus changed your life?Your story answers the WHY.2. Pray for opportunitiesEvangelism is more about sharing than winning3. Practice presenceBe fully present with the people God brings into your life

Planting Hope, Always: MinistryEmbodying Our HopeSpeaker: Pastor Angela LukScripture: Matthew 5:14-161. Our Light of Hope is Meant to Shine• Hope in Christ is not a private feeling—it’s a public calling.2. We Minister Through Who We Are and Where We’ve Been• God often uses the very things that make us “us” to reflect hope3. Keep the Lamp Burning—Let Us Persevere in our Ministry!• Ministry is not a one-time act—it’s a rhythm of life.Conclusion: YOU are a Light of Hope

Planting Hope, AlwaysFellowship: We Fellowship to Nurture Our HopeSpeaker: Rev. Sophia WongScripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42–47We worship to express our hopeWe fellowship to nurture our hopeWe grow in discipleship to deepen our hopeWe minister to embody our hopeWe evangelize to share our hope———1. God in Our FellowshipTherefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.—1 Thessalonians 5:11And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching.—Hebrews 10:24-25Koinonia:The Greek word Koinonia, translated as fellowship, refers to being as committed to each other as we are to Jesus Christ.God in Community:Human need for connection: We are made in His image, we were never meant to walk alone. Genesis 2:18, “It is not good for man to be alone.”Jesus’ Ministry:A Laboratory of Love:———2. Hope in Our FellowshipL.I.F.E.: Acts 2:42–471. L: Life together (Acts 2:42): Spiritually“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”2. I: Invest Generosity (Acts 2:44–45): Materially“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.”3. F: Foster joy (Acts 2:46–47a): Emotionally“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.”4. E: Extend invitation (Acts 2:47b): Socially“And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”Fellowship should be Christ-centered, not clique-centered.———3. God’s StoryA Wake-Up Call in Kenya———4. Call to Action: We Fellowship to Nurture Hope!• Shoe Drive: We aim to collect 25,000 pairs of gently used shoes. Each pair, costing $3 to ship, can save a life. The container will be converted into a school in Kenya.• Blood Drive: One in seven hospital patients needs blood. Post-pandemic, many await surgeries.• Basket of Blessings: While we receive many gifts at Thanksgiving/ Christmas, it’s time to give back. By faith, we’ll prepare 400 baskets for newcomers—Syrians, Afghans, Ukrainians, LMJ, Adam House, and needed families in RH.———Conclusion: Commit to Fellowship, Commit to Hope

Planting Hope, Always:Discipleship: Deepening Our HopeSpeaker: Rev. Shu-Ling LeeQuestions: How do you define Discipleship?What is involved for Discipleship?———1. Hope Begins with Abiding in Christ (v.5)“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.—John 15:5the Lord delights in those who fear him,who put their hope in his unfailing love.—Psalm 147:11To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.—Colossians 1:27Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,—1 Peter 1:3Essentials 2 → Worship, Word, Prayer, Stewardship———2. Hope Grows through Fruitful Living (v.8, 9-17)15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?”“Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”16 Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”17 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?”Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.”Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.—John 21:15-17———3. Hope Multiplies through Intentional, Relational Discipleship (v.8, 16; Matt 28:19-20)8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples..You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. —John 15:8, 16Question for this Present-Future:What about the advent of AI and Discipleship?———Conclusion“Hope is the confident anticipation of good that is not yet here, based upon the knowledge and experience of God.”—Dallas Willard13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.—1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

Planting Hope, Always:Worship Expresses our HopeSpeaker: Rev. Kelly TamScripture: Psalm 71:17-1817 Since my youth, God, you have taught me,and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.18 Even when I am old and gray,do not forsake me, my God,till I declare your power to the next generation,your mighty acts to all who are to come.—Psalm 71:17-18God calls us to share the inexplicable hope that comes only from God—to proclaim His marvelous deeds for the next generation and to testify to God’s faithfulness in joyful times and seasons of sorrow.God Calls Us into WorshipCome, let us bow down in worship,let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;for he is our Godand we are the people of his pasture,the flock under his care.—Psalm 95:6-7Hope is not wishful thinking……it’s rooted in God’s character.…it’s anchored in the future.…it’s active in participation.1. Worship expresses our Hope in God’s character (v 6)2. Worship expresses our Hope in the Covenant (v 7a)3. Worship expresses our Hope in the Good Shepherd (v. 7b)The Path Forward1. We celebrate 40 years of God’s Faithfulness2. We embrace new liturgies and expressions of worship3. We continue to sing and declare the Hope we have in God!