Category: Today’s Word

Acts 2:42-47. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. ⁴³ Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. ⁴⁴ All the believers were together and had everything in common. ⁴⁵ They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. ⁴⁶ Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, ⁴⁷ praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

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The most important reason God called us as His church is to worship Him. This calling is not incidental; it is foundational. From the beginning, God’s desire has been to dwell with His people and receive their worship. As He declared through the prophet Isaiah, “The people I formed for myself, that they may proclaim my praise” (Isaiah 43:21). Worship is not simply one aspect of the Christian life—it is the very reason for our existence as God’s people. Everything else we do as the church flows from this central purpose.

Therefore, the church of Christ must urgently restore the blessing of worship in the lives of all believers. In our performance-driven and distracted culture, true worship is often reduced to a weekly event or an emotional experience. But biblical worship begins with hearing and responding to the Word of God. The believers of the Early Church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching because they understood that the Word is the voice of the living God—active, powerful, and able to transform lives (Hebrews 4:12).

Where the Word flows regularly and abundantly from the pulpit, the weary are renewed, and the spiritually lifeless are revived, just as the dry bones in Ezekiel’s vision rose to life and stood as a vast army (Ezekiel 37:1-14). This is not symbolic language alone—it is a spiritual reality the church must recover and live in.

As God’s Word takes root in the lives of believers and bears fruit, people begin to witness its fulfillment in their own circumstances. Faith grows. Trust in God deepens. Hope is restored. The Word becomes more than information—it becomes the foundation of transformation. This is how the Word of the Lord spread widely and grew in power in the Early Church, not through human strategies or persuasion, but because people witnessed the living power of the Word at work. As the church lives under the authority and power of Scripture, it becomes a light to the world and a refuge for the broken.

Worship is also an intimate fellowship between the Father and His children. It is a sacred encounter in which we not only offer ourselves to God but also receive from Him. In worship, we are reminded of His unconditional and unchanging love. This love does not depend on our performance or worthiness, but flows from His nature. As we respond in thanksgiving, our distorted identity is restored, and our lost authority as His children is recovered. We cease striving to earn God’s favor and begin to rest in the joy of being His beloved, living as bold witnesses of Christ.

As we rediscover who we are in Christ, our hearts, desires, and lives begin to change. We begin to desire what God desires. We are moved to obey His Word—not out of fear or obligation, but out of love. We begin to love one another as Christ has loved us. This love creates true fellowship, where believers share their lives, support one another, and live with the favor of all the people. This kind of unity, however, is not something we can manufacture. It is not the product of effort or agreement, but the gift of God’s Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit can empower us to transcend our differences, overcome prejudice, and maintain the bond of peace.

Whether we are gathered in the church building or worshiping in our homes, one truth must remain at the center—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is what Scripture refers to as the breaking of bread. It is not just a ritual, but a living remembrance of the gospel. The cross is where reconciliation happens—not only between God and humanity, but among people, families, and nations. The gospel is not just good advice—it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).

When we embrace the gospel as our own—”my gospel” (Romans 16:25)—we live out the threefold office of Christ. We reconcile the world to God because Jesus is the True Prophet who led us to the Father (John 14:6). We overcome the forces of darkness because Jesus is the True King who broke the power of Satan (1 John 3:8). We bring healing to our communities because Jesus is the True Priest who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice (Mark 10:45). And when Christ is exalted in this way, the Lord will add to our number daily those who are being saved. Evangelism becomes the overflow of a worshiping, unified, gospel-saturated church.

Prayer sustains all of this. Prayer changes everything. Throughout Scripture and especially in the book of Acts, we see that when the church prayed, God acted. He poured out the Holy Spirit, healed the sick, opened prison doors, multiplied disciples, and transformed cities (Acts 1:14, 2:42–47, 3:1–10, 4:23–31, 6:1–7, 12:1–24, 13:1–3,  16:13–15, 16:25–34). Every major turning point in the early church was preceded and accompanied by prayer. Prayer was not a supplement to the work of God—it was everything.

So we must become a praying church once again. We must intercede for our pastors, our leaders, our children, our schools, our workplaces, our cities, our nation, and the nations of the world. Prayer is not the last resort—it is the first work. When we pray, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and unleash His power into our world.

And by the Holy Spirit’s power, we must be ready to minister to those suffering under generational spiritual problems and family curses. These are not imaginary or psychological issues—they are deep-rooted spiritual realities that require spiritual solutions. The church must rise as the body of Christ to heal the broken, restore the oppressed, and block the disasters afflicting our cities and our world. We are not powerless spectators—we are watchmen on the wall:

I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem;
    they will never be silent day or night.
You who call on the Lord,
    give yourselves no rest,
and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem
    and makes her the praise of the earth. (Isaiah 62:6-7).

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Prayer. Father, help us—Your church—to recover the full blessing of worship, the joy of true fellowship, the authority of the gospel, and the power of prayer. Awaken us to our identity and calling. Empower us to live not as spiritual beggars, but as sons and daughters of the King. Let us be the people You formed for Yourself, that we may declare Your praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Acts 4:32-35. All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. ³³ With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all ³⁴ that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales ³⁵ and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.

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The only thing that can truly unite our church in heart and mind is the gospel of Jesus Christ—His death for our sins and His resurrection for our eternal life. No strategy, program, or human effort can bring about the unity that only the gospel provides.

When the first church in Jerusalem continued to proclaim this gospel, the grace of God became visible everywhere. As a result, the believers were filled with joy and favor, and their communities were transformed. The Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved (Acts 2:47).

This same work of God can and will happen again if today’s church returns to the authentic gospel and proclaims it not with mere words but with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction (1 Thessalonians 1:5). This was exactly what happened in the church of Thessalonica.

Though they received the message amid severe suffering, they welcomed it with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. Their lives bore unmistakable evidence of the gospel’s power. Their faith became known everywhere, and the Lord’s message rang out from them across entire regions (1 Thessalonians 1:6–8).

They didn’t merely agree with the gospel intellectually—they turned from idols, served the living and true God, and lived in expectation of Christ’s return. In the same way, if we receive and proclaim the gospel with this kind of Spirit-empowered conviction, God will move again in our generation.

The world around us is hurting and desperately needs the healing grace of God. But for that to happen, the church must rise to its calling. We must expose what Satan has done to all generations, especially our young generation—how he has confused their identity, numbed their hearts, and led them into despair. We must also confront the spiritual depravity that has spread through our culture and block the disasters and calamities that have come upon the world.

This is not the responsibility of governments or school systems. While they may play a role in shaping society, they do not hold the calling or the authority to bring about true spiritual transformation. That responsibility belongs to the church of Jesus Christ. Only the church has been entrusted with the gospel—the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.

The Early Church understood this clearly. They embraced their divine calling to be salt and light in a dark and decaying world. They proclaimed the truth boldly, lived it out faithfully, and became a model for us to follow in every generation.

That is the kind of church we need today. A church that will remain faithful to the truth of the gospel in every circumstance. A church that is filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit. A church that places its faith in God alone. A church that will stand firm against the idols of this world. A church that will protect and proclaim the gospel until the return of Christ.

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Prayer. Father, awaken Your church all over the world. Lead us back to the pure gospel. Fill us with the power of the Holy Spirit, and use us to proclaim the name of Jesus with boldness until He returns. In His mighty name we pray, amen.

Revelation 1:12-20.  I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, ¹³ and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. ¹⁴ The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. ¹⁵ His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. ¹⁶ In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.

¹⁷ When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. ¹⁸ I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

¹⁹ “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. ²⁰ The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

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The resurrected Christ reigns as the sovereign Lord over His church throughout the world. He has entrusted His church with a single, eternal mission: to proclaim the gospel to all nations until the day He returns in glory.

To fulfill this task, He has given His church the only message that can save the world—the gospel that Jesus is the Christ, as foretold from Genesis 3:15 through Exodus 3:18, Isaiah 7:14, and clearly declared in Matthew 16:16. This gospel is not a human idea but the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation from the beginning.

He has prepared His church to carry this message of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20). They are not delivering mere information; they are ambassadors of Christ, pleading with the world on God’s behalf.

He has also provided the absolute method to reach every nation: making disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Triune God, and teaching them to obey everything Christ has commanded (Matthew 28:18-20).

Even now, the risen Christ works tirelessly with His church from His throne, confirming His word with accompanying signs (Mark 16:20). He is not passive or distant. He is actively engaged in every part of His church’s mission.

John’s vision in Revelation reveals Christ walking among the seven golden lampstands, which represent the churches. He holds the seven stars, representing the leaders of the churches, in His right hand. He has full authority over the power of darkness and commands angelic hosts to speak to and protect His church. He encourages, warns, corrects, and strengthens His church to this day.

Jesus is deeply involved in His church. He holds His servants in His hand and walks among the churches with sovereign authority—holding the seven stars and walking among the lampstands (Revelation 2:1). He is the First and the Last, the One who died and came to life again (Revelation 2:8). His rule is eternal and unshakable.

He governs His church through His unchanging Word as the sharp, double-edged sword (Revelation 2:12). This Word discerns, pierces, and transforms. It exposes the motives of the heart and brings life where there is death (Ezekiel 37:1-14, Hebrews 4:12).

He also appears as the righteous Judge.  He is the Son of God whose eyes are like blazing fire and feet like burnished bronze (Revelation 2:18). He sees the spiritual reality of each church and addresses it with truth and justice. He refuses to allow compromise with the assembly of Satan (Revelation 2:9).

He knows the deeds of His church (Revelation 3:1). He sees beyond outward appearance and reputation. A church may appear alive but be spiritually dead. No human accomplishment or religious program can fool the all-knowing God. He does not measure success by numbers or buildings but by truth and obedience.

A church that loses its saltiness is like salt that has lost its flavor—useless and trampled underfoot (Matthew 5:13). When the church compromises the gospel, conforms to the world, or loses its spiritual distinctiveness, it can no longer fulfill its purpose to preserve truth, proclaim Christ, and shine light in darkness. Only when the church remains rooted in the gospel and empowered by the Holy Spirit can it retain its saltiness and carry out its mission as the salt of the earth.

We must remember that Jesus possesses absolute authority over His church. He holds the key of David (Revelation 3:7). What He opens, no one can shut; what He shuts, no one can open. He opens doors for the gospel and closes the doors to falsehood. When the church acknowledges His sovereignty, the gates of hell will not prevail.

Jesus oversees His church with faithfulness and truth—He is called the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation (Revelation 3:14). Just as He has always been faithful, He desires His church to be faithful and true to Him. He counsels with patience, warns with compassion, and disciplines in love.

He rebukes not to harm but to restore (Revelation 3:19). His correction comes from love, not anger, with the purpose of leading His church to sincere repentance and renewed devotion. Like a father disciplines a child he delights in, Jesus desires His people to turn from apathy and return to Him with wholehearted faith. He wants His church to know His heart for the world—that none should perish but all come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). Through repentance, the church recovers its identity, renews its mission, and shines the light of the gospel once more.

A church God desires is one He remembers and honors for its work produced by faith, its labor motivated by love, and its endurance sustained by hope in the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:3). This is a church whose every action flows from a deep trust in God’s covenant, whose service is driven by sincere love for Christ and others, and whose perseverance is anchored in the unshakable hope of His return. It stands as a living testimony of Christ to the world.

As Jesus loved the church and gave Himself up for her, we too must love the church with all our heart and mind. We must pray for our spiritual leaders, support one another in the mission field, and keep our eyes fixed on the global task. The world is desperate to hear the good news that Jesus is the Christ. Let us move beyond the boundaries of our local congregations and denominational lines. Let us unite as the body of Christ to carry out the Great Commission He has entrusted to us.

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Prayer. Lord Jesus, watch over Your church and cause us to arise and shine the light of the gospel to all nations. In Your mighty name, Amen.

Colossians 1:3-5. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, ⁴ because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people— ⁵ the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel.

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We are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of His household. We are the church, being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit (Ephesians 2:20-22). We live every day in the identity Christ has given us.

This means the church is not just a place we go to on Sundays—it is who we are, every moment of every day. When you go to work, you are the church. When you’re with your family, you are the church. When you’re alone, you are still the church, carrying the presence of the living God.

We must be careful not to grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). The way we treat one another, the words we speak, the thoughts we hold—these are not small matters. In the church, we must put off all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander. Instead, we must be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave us.

Above all, we must love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Love is the true foundation of the church. Without love, even truth becomes a weapon; even ministry becomes burdensome. But when we truly grasp how Christ has loved us, our hearts will be moved with compassion for the lost and the weak, and our lives will become living testimonies of the gospel.

As the church, we do not fight against people, but against spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). The devil knows the power of a church that is united in Christ. That is why he constantly tries to sow discord, jealousy, and division. But if we hold to the gospel—if we fix our eyes on Christ and pray together—no power of hell can stand against the church.

In this generation, God is calling His church to return to the true message of the gospel—that Jesus is the Christ—to restore the true altar of worship, recover the power of prayer, and reach the 237 nations and 5,000 tribes with the message of the cross. Each member is essential. Every believer has a role. There is no one too weak or unimportant in the body of Christ. God delights in using what the world considers weak to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27).

So today, ask God to use you in His church. Not according to your ability, but by His grace. Offer your heart, your time, your gifts. Let your daily life be a platform for Christ’s glory. Through you, may people see the power of the gospel and be drawn to the Savior.

And let us not give up meeting together. Let us encourage one another daily, and stir up one another to love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:25). Let the church grow—not only in number, but in faith, love, and hope.

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for the love that covers all sins. Help me love deeply, forgive fully, and serve Your church with joy. May our church be filled with Your Spirit and shine as a light in this generation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Acts 1:4-11. On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

⁶ Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?”

⁷ He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. ⁸ But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

⁹ After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.

¹⁰ They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. ¹¹ “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

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When Jesus reigns over your life, nothing can shake you. You will stand firm in faith, rooted in the One who is the Christ—your true Lord and Savior.

The power of Satan will no longer have any hold over you. The curse of sin will be broken once and for all. You will begin to live the life of heaven here on earth. This is the life of victory and peace that unfolds when Jesus becomes the Christ—the reigning King of your life.

Jesus rules not with oppression but with love, grace, and mercy. His lordship brings rest and peace. His commands are not burdensome (1 John 5:3), and He invites you, saying, “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28–30).

When Jesus reigns, He fills you with the greatest power—the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5). This is not optional, because you cannot overcome the world, sin, or Satan’s strategies with your old way of thinking, sinful nature, or worldly patterns. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit can you receive a new heart and a new vessel to contain the heavenly blessings Jesus has prepared for you.

Jesus desires to transform you by His grace, not only to renew your heart but to make you a vessel of blessing to others. His grace is not just for personal healing but for equipping you to reflect His love, truth, and compassion in a broken world. As you continue to seek His grace and yield yourself daily to His lordship, He will reshape your thoughts, desires, and actions to align with His perfect will.

Jesus also called you with an extraordinary purpose. He wants to take you on a journey to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). He wants you to see and experience what He finished through the cross and the resurrection. He wants you to witness firsthand how powerless Satan truly is before the risen Christ and before those who confess and believe in Him.

Jesus wants you to understand why He is the only way and the only answer. He could carry out His work without you, but He has included you in His plan to save the nations. He calls you to be part of His team because He loves you.

The more you experience His love, grace, and mercy, the more your heart will align with what matters most to Him—evangelism and missions. You will begin to see the world through His eyes and long for the salvation of others.

He has also promised to return. He will come again and bring all things under His authority (Acts 1:11). This will be fulfilled when the gospel is preached to the ends of the earth (Matthew 24:14). Then, He will establish His kingdom and reign in righteousness and justice (Isaiah 32:1). This is the eternal hope we hold in Christ.

Therefore, do not worry about anything or be discouraged by anyone. Wait eagerly for His return and walk faithfully in the covenant journey He has prepared for you. Rediscover His will for your life. Lay down your own thoughts, your ways, and your ambitions. Align your desires and plans with His.

When you lose sight of God’s will, you will only focus on your problems. In every situation, pause and ask, “Lord, if you are willing” (Matthew 8:2). Change the pattern of your prayer by seeking first His kingdom and His righteousness. Let Jesus rule your life in His kingdom.

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Prayer. Lord Jesus, govern all my thoughts and all my ways. I lay down my own desires and plans before You. Lead me in the path of righteousness. In Your precious name I pray, amen.

Mark 16:19-20. After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. ²⁰ Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.

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Do not be discouraged, no matter what happens in your life today. Jesus is alive, and that changes everything.

Through His death on the cross and resurrection from the grave, Jesus destroyed the works of the devil. He broke the chains of sin and darkness that once held us captive. By rising from the dead, He secured eternal redemption for all who believe in His name. We are no longer bound by fear, guilt, or condemnation.

The Bible declares that through Christ Jesus, the law of the Spirit who gives life has set us free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2). Because of this, we now have confidence to approach God’s throne, where we receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

You are not alone. The same Jesus who walked with His disciples is walking with you today. You are a witness of the living Christ in this generation. So do not fear trials or persecution. The Lord who stood by His people in the past is standing by you now.

When Stephen, the first Christian martyr, faced death, he looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of the Father. He said, “Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God” (Acts 7:56). Jesus had not left him alone, and He will never leave you either.

You may feel weak and fragile like a jar of clay, but what matters most is what is inside you. And you carry the greatest treasure of all—Jesus Christ. That is why, even when you are hard-pressed on every side, you will not be crushed. Even when you are perplexed, you do not need to despair. Even if you are struck down, you will not be destroyed. The power that sustains you is not your own; it comes from God (2 Corinthians 4:7-9).

So begin this day with renewed strength and confidence. Do not be discouraged by what you see or hear. Lift your eyes above your circumstances. The Lord will protect you and carry you through every challenge until the day He calls you home.

Even in the midst of a storm, when Paul was a prisoner for the sake of the gospel, the Lord sent an angel to stand beside him. The angel said, “Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you” (Acts 27:24). God preserved Paul’s life and the lives of others on account of the mission he carried, the Roman evangelization. Your calling is just as precious in God’s eyes.

The gospel is so important that God moves even nature for the sake of His messengers. As you walk in God’s covenant for world evangelization, you are playing a central role in the story of redemption. Jesus said, “This gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (Matthew 24:14). That mission includes you.

Rediscover your identity in Christ. Remind yourself of the true purpose of your life. Don’t let anything in this world deceive you or take away the blessing of sharing the gospel. Don’t be afraid of people. The risen Jesus Himself is working with you today as He did with His disciples with the power of His throne (Mark 16:19-20).

With this promise, He commands us to go and make disciples of all nations, to proclaim the gospel and heal the sick, to strengthen wandering believers, and to raise the next generation from the grip of darkness. This is the mission He has entrusted to you.

So walk in the power of the resurrection. Jesus Christ is alive and living in you.

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Prayer. Father, help me to stand as a witness of Christ—the resurrection and the life. Let me experience the power of the risen Jesus in my life, that I may save this generation with the gospel. Help me to enjoy Your presence every moment of this day. Break down all the forces of darkness and unbelief in my life in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

2024.07.23 District Message
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:1-12

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There was a boy in elementary school who kept asking for something, so his parents bought him a camera. He loved it so much that he carried it around all day taking pictures. That much was fine, but he skipped school to take those pictures. What would you have done? You probably would’ve said, “Give it to me right now!” and taken the camera away. “You have to go to school—why are you skipping it?” But the mother had a different perspective. She said, “You must have a talent in this area,” and encouraged him. That boy grew up to be Steven Spielberg, the world-renowned film director.

As we grow older, we tend to become fixed in our ways of thinking. So don’t become rigid; stay flexible. Mothers often scold their children from their own level of understanding. But your children have infinite potential, so you must be cautious. Otherwise, you’ll inevitably pass on your own limited level. As you know, Edison once boiled a watch in hot water when he was a child. From a so-called “normal” person’s perspective, he would’ve seemed crazy—but that’s how he became the king of invention.

Perhaps right now, there’s something in your heart that feels like a problem. Most of you probably have something, even if it’s small. Or maybe something will arise in the future, especially in daily life—like, “My child is the problem,” or “My husband is the issue,” or “There’s this problem at church.” That happens. But take a moment to consider: what’s really been troubling your heart lately? Then try to think about it from the opposite perspective—you’ll discover something amazing.

[Reverse Thinking and the 25 Answers (Matthew 5:1–12)]

That’s what we call “reverse thinking.” You may think something is a problem and see it only that way, but there’s another side to everything. That’s very important. When you look from the opposite angle, what comes? The 25 answers. This happens very often.

So before worship today, maybe you’ve noticed that around us, there are more strange people than good ones. That happens a lot. Try looking at things from the other side, and you’ll find amazing answers. After hearing this, one church leader shared that her husband used to come home late every night, drinking under the excuse of work. When he’d come home and ask for water, instead of scolding him, she would bring it and say, “Thank you.” Even drunk, her husband was expecting nagging—but she thanked him. He asked, “For what?” She replied, “Thank you for working so hard for the sake of our family. I’m grateful you came home. And I’m thankful for your good health—because if you were sick, this would be much worse.” That moment made her husband pause and reflect. “That’s right… if I keep this up, I’m going to die.” When she nagged, it never reached him—but her one word turned his thoughts around. That’s how powerful this kind of (reverse-thinking, 25-answer) moment is.

▣ Introduction – God’s Preparation

If we’re not careful, we’ll live by our own standards, levels, and norms. And when that happens, we can’t see what God has prepared. That’s the key point—we must see what God has prepared. But by nature, we tend to interpret, listen, and speak based on our own framework and level.

(Opposite side) Daily Life
God has prepared something tremendous, and just by shifting to this (reverse thinking), just by looking at the opposite side of our thoughts, our daily lives can be filled with true answers.

About 10 years ago, when I’d go to the U.S., there were Korean, Chinese, and Japanese restaurants. But Japanese restaurants were always in upscale neighborhoods, while Korean and Chinese restaurants were often in poorer areas. What surprised me was the Korean restaurant signs—they looked like signs from the Korean War era, completely outdated. They didn’t even realize it. But Japanese restaurants had very modern, high-class signage. Naturally, the way they raised their children, worked in church, and lived daily life all matched that level. Recently, though, things are changing. Korean food is gaining popularity, K-pop is booming, and perceptions are shifting. Yet many Koreans still struggle to update themselves. That’s when we must change completely—go to this (opposite side).

▣ Main

1. Jesus – Breaking the Mold
If you really want to receive answers, take a look at what Jesus taught. He completely shattered the mold—everything He taught was the opposite of what was expected. That’s when real change happens.

What did He start with?

1) Blessing
He redefined what it means to be blessed.

2) Prayer – Kingdom
Even prayer, He explained in a completely different way. Israel was under foreign rule—so was holding onto a government position really a blessing? Jesus asked. “Is your current comfortable position really comforting when your nation is collapsing? Isn’t it better to be poor in spirit?” Right? Jesus pointed it out precisely. “Isn’t it better to mourn than to rejoice in your position? Shouldn’t you be meek, not boastful? And even more—those who are persecuted are blessed.”

As I read the Sermon on the Mount, I realized something deeply. In my second year of university, I randomly attended a lecture by a pastor on the Beatitudes. He spoke softly but was clearly a scholar. I’ll never forget it. I later learned he was Pastor Sang-Geun Lee from Daegu—quite a famous teacher, often referred to as Dr. Lee. As I listened to his lecture, it became deeply engraved in me.

Even Jesus’ teaching on prayer was the exact opposite of what we expect. “Do not babble. Do not pray to be seen by others.” That makes sense. When elders lead corporate prayer, they naturally prepare more. But Pharisees literally prayed to show off. Jesus said that’s unnecessary. He said, “Go into your room”—not to insist on praying in a room, but to say, “Don’t pray to be seen.” He even said, “Do not ask for this and that.” That shocked me. Right—if God already knows, why ask? “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness.” From then on, I stopped asking in prayer. When the kingdom comes, everything follows.

2. Remnants (RT)
Let’s take one example: Joseph.

1) Slave – Economy
He was sold as a slave. Remnants must remember this. If you think too much about your home, school, or church situation, you’ll become a slave to those thoughts. Joseph used that time to study the economy. That’s important.

2) Prison – Politics
He was falsely accused and imprisoned. No way out, no one on his side. That’s when you need to look to the opposite side. Joseph learned politics there—because he was placed in a cell with politicians. Even today, there are different cells for different people. This prison housed only politicians, and Joseph saw (politics) firsthand. That’s how the way opened.

3) King – Mission
Eventually, he stood before the king. What would we do in such a moment? It’s overwhelming. But Joseph didn’t actually interpret the dream himself—he said, “I cannot interpret it.” The king could’ve been furious! But Joseph said, “God will reveal the dream to the king.” He carried out his mission well, even when the answer came.

4) Prime Minister – Missions
He never aimed to be prime minister—but it just happened. If you truly hold onto what God has prepared, you’ll receive things you never asked for. Joseph didn’t take revenge—not a single one. He became a powerful prime minister, entrusted by the king with full authority: “Run Egypt as you see fit.” That’s when Joseph began full-fledged missions. Isn’t that amazing?

Always try this: when a problem arises, don’t just see it as a problem. Look at the opposite side. Some people say, “I’m so lonely.” Then you’ll live lonely forever. Try the reverse: God has given you incredible time. Right? Amazing time. Sometimes when we travel for a conference, we’re placed in the city; other times, deep in the mountains. Wherever it is, just go. Some people complain, “I’m so bored here.” But for me, it’s a golden opportunity to finish all the assignments I’ve been putting off—and it works out so well.

The problems you face in daily life are actually full of answers. If your family is struggling, remnants should think: “Ah, God is showing us what we need.” Not to fight about it—but to pray. Most people miss answers, and they miss them in daily life. That must be remembered.

3. God’s Things
Once you look to the opposite side, you begin to see God’s things.

1) My Thoughts
Once you see God’s answers, your own thoughts become less important. Right? If the answer is clear, why push your own thinking? Your level doesn’t matter. Once you reach this point, others will notice, “There’s something different about this person.” Then people begin to open up. That’s when evangelism begins. Don’t neglect your workplace duties to run around evangelizing—that’s not good either.

2) God’s Things (God’s Plan)
As you enjoy these answers, you begin to see God’s things—His plan. Just as the title says.

3) Three Things
Then you begin to see three things:

(1) Why? – Concept
First, you see why you’re here. Then answers begin.

(2) What? – Content
Next, knowing the “why,” you can see clearly what you must do.

(3) How? – System
Once you know the “why” and the “what,” the “how” becomes clear.

In more specialized terms:
“Why” = Concept
“What” = Content
“How” = System
Remnants must remember this.

For example, when constructing a building, the concept is the vision of what kind of temple to build. The content is the design. The system is how it functions. With a little prayer and a different perspective, answers unfold like this (entire message).

This happens to me often. Of ten people I meet, one may be agreeable and nine may not. But even from those nine, I learn a lot when I think from the opposite side. Sometimes while driving, people get angry at me even when they’re clearly at fault. When I roll down my window and say, “I’m sorry,” they’re shocked and drive away smiling. I just thought, “This person must be in a hurry.” When people are in a rush, they act without thinking—like they’re sick. So don’t argue. Some people even shoot hunting rifles over such issues.

In the U.S., people greet strangers with a smile. If you pass someone with a frown, you might get shot. It’s a cultural habit. In an elevator, Americans always say “Hi,” whether they know you or not. Korean people ride the elevator with a frown, staring at the wall—and then they might get shot. So be careful.

Reverse thinking opens up many things. That’s why I reached a conclusion: if you go where “nobody” is, there’s no competition. It’s the same in work. People are missing out. When I first started as an assistant pastor, no one asked me—but I took the outdated church member lists and cleaned them up. I visited members who were discouraged and hadn’t come in years. When I said, “I’m the new evangelist,” they were shocked. “No one’s ever come to see me!” Just that one visit changed their heart. No one had reached out. That’s the power of “nobody”—no competition.

▣ Conclusion – Absolute Plan

In the end, once you discard all the noise and clutter in your thinking, you’ll see it: God’s absolute plan.

Foolish people often criticize others. But I look at the opposite side. We already know what was wrong—looking from the other side reveals how to awaken, save, and guide the person. People who don’t pray or who lack insight ask, “Why does Pastor Ryu tolerate that?” But when I look at the other side, I see God’s plan—and even His absolute plan. So even when I face criticism, I’m always thankful. Those moments become lifelong blessings in prayer. There’s so much good on the other side. Right?

Throughout today’s worship, may you enter deep grace and witness healing, power, and the coming of God’s kingdom. I bless your children, your workplace, and your field in the name of Jesus Christ.

Prayer. God, thank You for giving us new grace and opportunity today. Make us witnesses who see Your plan. May today be a precious day to receive new strength. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

2023.07.16 District Message
Scripture Reading: Genesis 41:1-38

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If you go to the countryside in our country right now, there are many empty schools. That much is understandable, but even in semi-urban areas—between cities and rural villages—schools are shutting down. Why? Because there are no children. When I went to Hamyang, I asked what the locals liked most, and they openly said that it was nice to see many people coming in, as it meant the population was increasing. If this continues, Korea may soon face a serious crisis due to population decline. Why is this happening? For about 30 years when we were young, people were taught to have fewer children. Our politicians didn’t understand the spiritual world, so they just said whatever was convenient at the time. Because of that 30-year-long education, it will take 300 years to reverse.

Even believers don’t really understand this spiritual reality. When this spiritual reality is established, powerful answers come. But when it is wrongly formed, terrifying consequences follow. Communism and capitalism are still in conflict today. Communism—formed by these people—is a terrifying force unseen to the physical eye, greatly destroying the world.

If we understand this, we will come to know the spiritual reality and the 25 answers of prayer. This is what Pharaoh said of Joseph in Genesis 41:38: “Can we find anyone like this man, one in whom is the spirit of God?”

[Home, Church, Work]

You must first build spiritual houses in your personal life, family, church, and work. From now on, you must pray for your unseen family, church, and work.

[Bartizan]

You must clearly build an unseen bartizan. Try it.

[Concentrated, Continuous Prayer]

This is not mere repetition. What is needed is concentrated, continuous prayer. Then you will see amazing reality unfold. Start like this. Many people do things haphazardly. Truly decide what you will do for your family, church, and work—build the bartizan and continuously pray. Amazing things will arise.

Even now, I keep praying, “What must I do to establish 1,000 bartizans?” Pray with an actual plan. First, this (spiritual reality) will change. Because people don’t believe in this aspect, they only talk about what they can see.

[Hebrews 11:1–3 – Substance and Evidence]

Hebrews 11:1–3 says, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Though it’s unseen, it is substance and evidence. Even though I haven’t grasped it yet, what I hope for is substance. Though I cannot see it, it is evidence. Those going through hardship must hold onto this spiritual reality exactly as it is.

“Ah, what can I do when it’s so difficult?” Let me give just one example. When I first came to Yeongdo, our church was the smallest in the area, and we didn’t even have a building. Before coming to Yeongdo, my prayer was: “Even if I have no ability, if God is with me, it’s enough.” After arriving in Yeongdo, my prayer changed: “It will work because it’s Yeongdo.” Right? There was nothing there. It was by God’s power. So I determined to follow only the gospel, only evangelism, and only the Word. This spread endlessly throughout the world. Now, more works are arising abroad than in Korea. It must be that way. People who hear the Word just once overseas are experiencing works of God.

Just this week, in a certain country that has both a prime minister and a king, they were using the prayer journal. I asked why, and they said someone introduced it to them and they liked it so much that they’ve continued. The king even said, “I must visit Immanuel Church in Korea.”

So if you feel like it’s difficult, there’s no need to wonder why or what to do. You must hold onto God’s absolute plan. Our church is not acting a certain way because it’s in hardship. I didn’t see it that way. I believed that revival not aligned with God’s Word is not true revival. Right? That eventually leads to problems and no works. Any movement that strays from the Bible, no matter how large, is dangerous. Then, works began arising, even in places we’ve never been.

▣ Introduction – Reason

What is the reason? We already know three things.

1. The World’s Kingdom

The world’s kingdom thinks that as long as you eat and live well, it’s enough. But we are not at that level.

2. The Kingdom of Satan

Satan’s kingdom takes advantage of the worldly kingdom, which believes it’s fine to just live well.

3. God’s Kingdom (Work)

God gave us the final message through Christ: the kingdom of God and His work.

We understand the reason. These are things completely unseen, so those who only know what they see have no value. But true works arise here. In the end, answers come according to one’s level. In the end, answers come to what you think about. So faith is important.

▣ Main

Then what should we do?

1. Spiritual Reality – God’s Plan

You see reality and facts, but you must not only look at those. You must see the spiritual reality. Reality only extends so far—beyond that, it’s false. It’s just the visible layer. More important than that is the hidden reality. And even more important is the truth, which exists separately. Right? We must not be deceived. By understanding the spiritual reality, we can see God’s plan. Then, answers come.

2. The Lowest Place – The Highest Place

What else? We must not start carelessly. We must always begin at the lowest place and move toward the highest. If we start moderately, we cannot reach the highest. For example, if I have no money, I can’t start as if I do. I must start with what I have. If I only have 3, I must begin from 3. Starting at 20 would result in failure. From the lowest place to the highest.

What emerges at this time?

1) WIO
Holding onto the blessing that God is with me and enjoying Immanuel and Oneness.

2) CVDIP
Then, you’ll definitely see the covenant journey—CVDIP.

3) Absolute
From that point, we firmly hold onto God’s absolute plan and covenant. If it can or cannot be done, why risk your life on it? Hold to what is absolutely guaranteed. So during Sunday worship, hold onto the covenant all day and concentrate—not repeating, but with focused, continuous prayer. One day, it will appear as an answer.

3. Circumstances

Even before the answer appears, the solution comes first. So if you understand this spiritual reality, you’re okay in any circumstance. We all face circumstances.

1) With
In every circumstance, there is evidence of God being with you.

2) Preparation
In every circumstance, you see what God has prepared.

3) Victory
And in every circumstance, knowing the spiritual reality and actual reality, God prepares you for victory.

(1 Corinthians 10:13)
1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “God will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” It also says, “He will provide a way out.” So today is an opportunity. When you worship on Sunday, you can cast aside all other thoughts. Pray, “God, let this be the day I truly build a spiritual bartizan.”

▣ Conclusion – Answer

If you concentrate like this, one day the answer will become visible to you. At that time, many unseen things will also become visible. But the conclusion we must draw is this: the answer is not the important thing—it’s what’s rightfully yours. Since we are human, we tend to focus only on the answer. But what God has prepared for you is far greater than anything you imagine—even beyond your own understanding. That’s why now is your opportunity.

When I talk with many of today’s young adults, I can tell they haven’t internalized this message. That’s understandable, but if you stay like that, what will happen in the future? What if an answer comes? Even that could become a problem. What if no answer comes? That too will be a problem. So your thoughts, prayers, and faith must first hold onto this unseen bartizan, because it will surely be fulfilled.

Prayer Content

As you continue this way, your prayers will start forming. Your prayer content will be established. Keep praying with that. During today’s Sunday worship, don’t just go through the motions. After the message ends, enter into deep prayer.

(5 Powers)

Lastly, if you enter into deep prayer, the five powers will be restored. The first of the five powers is this: you gain a spiritual strength that no one else understands—not even yourself. So in some ways, it’s not burdensome. When I preach, I hold onto a particular Word. And it’s such a joy to keep praying until God gives me the answer from that Word. I get excited. Then I deliver that—not my thoughts, but what’s in God’s Word, what God desires. I continue to pray for that. There are many blessings in this “joy,” if I can call it that.

May today’s worship be a time for you to restore these five powers. I bless you in the name of Jesus Christ.

Prayer. God, thank You for giving us the strength to carry out world evangelization and for blessing our work to be used for world evangelization. May we receive new grace today. Let this be the day we receive new strength that no man can give. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

Hebrews 10:23-25. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. ²⁴ And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵ 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.

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Our Lord Jesus Christ loved His church and gave Himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). He promised to guard His church from the evil one (Matthew 16:18). Throughout history, He has been transforming the world through His church. To this end, He promised to strengthen His church to stand firm on His covenant and watch over His saints—those who have received and believed Him as the Christ.

Are you living in despair? Still trapped in the patterns of this world? God did not call you to live like that. You are a child of the King. He is watching over you with eyes like blazing fire (Revelation 2:18). He is leading you to the ends of the earth to be His witness (Acts 1:8).

After Peter’s denial, Jesus asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” (John 21:15). Jesus came not to condemn Peter for his failure but to restore him. In the same way, even when we fall into temptation, our Lord does not break His relationship with us. Rather, He comes to us again and again with words of love, grace, and encouragement. His death on the cross and His resurrection are the ultimate proof of His relentless love for us.

In our moments of despair and hopelessness, Jesus draws near and revives our hearts through His Word. “They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’” (Luke 24:32). When the two disciples met the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus, everything changed. They returned to Jerusalem and proclaimed that He was alive (Luke 24:33–35).

Our Lord works with us when we pray. “One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon” (Acts 3:1). As they devoted themselves to prayer, God raised up a crippled beggar and opened the door to the gospel in Jerusalem. In the same way, when we pray in Jesus’ name, we will witness God’s perfect timing and His work of salvation.

Those who understand the heart of God and pray will be used in His plan for world evangelization. When the church in Antioch worshiped and fasted, they were led by the Holy Spirit. “The Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off” (Acts 13:2–3). It was through this church that God accomplished world missions in Asia, Macedonia, and eventually Rome.

Why did God use Paul? Because he was a man of prayer. “On the Sabbath, we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer” (Acts 16:13). The answer to Paul’s prayer came as “The Lord opened her [Lydia’s] heart to respond to Paul’s message” (Acts 16:14). That was the beginning of the church in Philippi.

Through Paul, God also set a slave girl free from the power of an evil spirit. “Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortune-telling” (Acts 16:16). Again, it happened at the place of prayer—God’s perfect time.

Even when Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, they fixed their eyes on God in prayer. “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose” (Acts 16:25–26). God’s plan went beyond freeing them from prison. That night, He saved the jailer and his household (Acts 16:30–31).

Even today, Jesus watches over His church. Today’s Word reminds us of the vital importance of the church. The Lord’s presence among His gathered people strengthens the church and helps us remain steadfast in the Word, prayer, and evangelism. Through fellowship and mutual encouragement, the church becomes the vessel through which Christ works powerfully in the world.

But just as Jesus warned the early church, Jesus warns today’s church against idolatry, deception, and false prophets (Revelation 2:20, 3:1). In particular, He gives a grave warning to those who maintain a form of religion without true life. A church that does not know the mystery of Christ may look godly outwardly but denies the power of the gospel (2 Timothy 3:5).

We must take these warnings to heart, especially as we see many churches around the world bound by traditions and legalism, while lacking the true life and power of the gospel. Through the proclamation of His Word, He rebukes, corrects, and restores His church.

When the gospel is preached in all nations, He will return just as He promised (Matthew 24:14). So let us lift our eyes beyond our current situation and approach the throne of God with boldness in prayer. Let us continue gathering as His church to pray for our communities, our nation, and the world.

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Prayer. Lord Jesus, thank You for watching over me with eyes like blazing fire. Thank You for encouraging me through Your Word. I believe You will guard me from the evil one. Make me a person of prayer. In Your precious name I pray, Amen.

1 Corinthians 3:16. Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst? 

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The primary concern of our resurrected Lord Jesus Christ is His church. This church is not merely a building or a weekly event—it begins with you. You are the temple of the living God, and the Holy Spirit dwells within you, as it is written in Today’s Word. This indwelling presence makes you unique, holy, and set apart for the work God prepared long before the foundation of the world.

The Holy Spirit did not promise to be with you only for a moment—He promised to be with you forever (John 14:16). He fills you with the power of His throne so that you may carry the gospel to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). More than that, He reveals truths you do not yet know, guiding and helping you in all things (John 14:26-27, 16:13).

When you come to understand that you are the church of God, everything imprinted in you begins to change. The imprint of the world and your old nature is replaced with Christ and the DNA of the gospel. Your thoughts will shift. Your nature will be renewed. You will begin to enjoy prayer throughout the day, not as a burden but as a source of life and power. The work of the Holy Spirit will be made visible through your life, touching everyone you encounter.

Wherever you go, the church goes. When you gather with even one or two fellow believers, Jesus promises to be in your midst:

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:19-20)

This is the essence of the church Christ desires—a people who gather in His name, united in faith and prayer, seeking His kingdom to come through world evangelization. When the church prays in His name, nothing is impossible. The gates of hell will not overcome it.

The believers of Early Church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer (Acts 2:42). When the church is restored to its true foundation in the gospel, a life-changing work of God will follow:

“All the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).

Find someone who understands the mystery of Christ and begin to pray together. You will see the glory of God fill that place. God will establish His church among you, and no force of darkness can prevail against it.

Pray for your church. Pray that it would be filled with the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit, ready to bring salvation to those afflicted with spiritual problems, family curses, and generational disasters. Through the church, God’s light can block the darkness that has come upon our nation and the world.

A church without the gospel, without spiritual essence, will not last. Herod’s Temple, though magnificent, was destroyed in 70 A.D., just as Jesus had foretold. But the church built upon the foundation of Christ will never fall. Only the church that lives for one purpose—to proclaim the gospel to all nations—will endure every hardship and persecution that comes.

The world will hate the church of Christ. Their own families will even reject some. But this will become the greatest opportunity to testify about Christ. Those who are filled with the Holy Spirit will rise above all circumstances and overcome with God’s power.

God has given your church the solution to the fundamental problems of the world. He has entrusted it with power to overcome the forces of darkness. He has given it the key to block disasters, heal broken families, and restore the land. Pray that your church may rise again with the glory and power of the true church of Christ. Pray that it may be used to advance God’s kingdom here on earth.

Do you know where your primary mission field is? It is the very place where God desires to establish His church—where you live, where you work, where you study. Aquila and Priscilla realized God’s plan in their tentmaking business. They partnered with Paul to plant a church in Corinth (Acts 18:1–3). They opened their home for worship and supported many evangelists. Paul mentioned them in his letter to the Roman believers:

“Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my co-workers in the ministry of Christ Jesus. In fact, they once risked their lives for me. I am thankful to them, and so are all the Gentile churches. Also, give my greetings to the church that meets in their home.” (Romans 16:3–5)

In the same way, God wants to establish His church in and through your life, that others might see the light of Christ shining through your work, your relationships, and your faith. A church with three courtyards for all nations (Matthew 28:18-20), prayer and healing (Mark 16:15-18), and children or remnants (John 21:15-17).

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Prayer. Father, may Your church be established where I am today. May the light of Christ shine through me and my work by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.