Berita NECF - January-February 2005

7/31/2019 Berita NECF - January-February 2005

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http://www.necf.org.my/html/berita_f.htm P P 5 8 7 2 / 1 2 / 2 0 0 5 JANUARY FEBRUARY 20 05

E D I T O R I A L

The Factor

In the p ast, doctrinal issues andheret ical teach ing were themain reasons for church splitsan d divisions. The scenario has

changed over the years. Today, the main

cause is most likely the conflict ofpersonalities.

A church on the verge of splittingmay appear to be fighting overcontroversial issues, but in reality, it isthe protracted struggle, clash oropposition between personalities, ideas,and interests of strong-willed individualsthat are tearing the church apart.

Differences, even clashes, betweenleaders in a church do not in themselvesconstitute conflict of a destructive kind.

Transparency in terms of views andexpression of differences can be signsof vitality in a congregation. It is whenwe defy peaceful resolution and becomeprotracted and entrenched in thepersonality clashes that the issues becomecontentious and destructive.

A church split usually finds its rootsin our passion to make ourselves ourneeds, our opinions, our group, our goals,our theo logy the centre of our egoisticpursuit. It is the I factor; the self-

centeredness and individualistic mind-setthat cause the separation. The attitude ofmany Christians is that unless somethingrepresents their views, or conforms totheir positions and beliefs, it is notacceptable.

Pride and obstinacy are the strongestadvocates for church splits. The refusalto admit wrong and the unwillingness to

submit to authority inevitably lead to thebreakup. Typically, the situation will becontrolled and influenced by deception,manipulation and domination. It is the

manifestation of such carnal acts that hurtand divide the Body.

James expressed clearly this weaknessof the leadership of the church today.What causes wars, and what causesfighting among you? Is it not yourpassions that are at war in your members?You desire and do not have; so you kill.And you covet and do not obtain; so youfight and wage war. (James 4:12).

Can any good come out of church

splits?Generally, one would view church splitsas something sinful and in contradictionto G ods call for unity. A conflict betweentwo parties in a church may at any timeaffect an entire congregation; unresolvedtensions between pastors and leaders mayrob the church of effective leadership;and disputes between members may lead

to fragmentation of the Body.As a result, people are hurt; some

leave the church or ministry, or worseleave the faith. The question often raisedin times of conflict is: Is it the will of

God and is it biblical?Let us look at the biblical principle

of divorce and derive a parallel from theword of Jesus in Matthew 19:8, Mosespermitted you to divorce your wivesbecause your hearts were hard. But it wasnot this way from the beginning. Jesussaid the reason for this tolerance was thehardness of their hearts and because ofthis, they were permitted to divorce theirwives.

Moses complained of the Israelites

in his time, that their hearts were hardened(Deut. 9:6; 31:27) against God. Thisimplied that their hearts were hardenedagainst their relationships; they weregenerally violent and outrageous. Theysuccumbed to their appetites and theirpassions, and if they were not allowed todivorce their wives, they would havetreated them cruelly, to the point ofmurder.

Likewise, the weaknesses of humanleaders, personality differences, and the

inability to work together may necessitatethe splits. It is tolerated, but not intendedby God. Church splits occur out ofexpediency to minimise damage or hurtto relationships. The split is acceptab leas long as the separation is amicablyeffected by all concerned parties.

The other justification of a churchsplit is mentioned in Acts 15:3940.There was a sharp disagreement betweenPaul and Barnabas over their choice of

in Chur ch Spli tsI

Spec ial Repor t : LIGHTING UP OUR NATIONPages 7 to 1 0


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NECF MALAYSIA COUNCILChairman

Rev. Datuk Dr Prince Guneratnam

Vice-Chairman

Rev. Dr Eu Hong Seng

Honorary Secretary

Elder Kong Yeng Phooi

Honorary Treasurer

Mr Samuel Ang

Committee Members

Rev. Justin Wan

Rev. Ng Kok Kee

Rev. Dr Dexter Low

Rev. Foo Moy Ping

Rev. Tay Wah Seng

Rev. Lim Soon Hock

Dr Khoo Kay Hup

Mrs Grace Hee

Mr Chua Keng Seng

Advisor

Mr David Boler, K.M.N.

NECF MALAYSIA STAFFSecretary-General

Rev. Wong Kim Kong,J.M.N.

Executive Secretaries

Ann Low (Prayer)

Kathryn Tan (Finance)

Lim Siew Foong (Research)

Ngeh Hoong Eng(Chinese)

Alfred Tais (Bahasa Malaysia)

Patrick Cheng (Administration

& Church Relations)

Ong Juat Heng (Communications)

Rev. Lai Moo Him (Special Projects &

Church Relations North)

Sandy Tan (Secretary-Generals Office)

Confidential Secretary

Ching Bee Gaik

Administrative Secretaries

Adeline Koh

Maggie Teoh

Sangan Mutang

Administrative Assistants

Yvonne Chin

Jouslly Buaya

EDITORIALEditorRev. Wong Kim Kong

Assistant Editor & Writer

Ong Juat Heng

ADDRESS

32, Jalan SS2/103,

47300 Petaling Jaya

Selangor, Malaysia

Tel: 603-7727 8227

Fax: 603-7729 1139E-mail: [email protected]

In mid-December 2004, massivefloods submerged large sections ofthe East Coast of Peninsular

Malaysia. Some lives were lost and manypeople were evacuated.

Then the tsunami that resulted fromthe earthquake caused many more livesto be lost. Yet the damage inflicted onour shores pale in comparison to thedevastation seen in countries such asIndonesia, India, Sri Lanka and Thailand,to name but a few. No one in the way ofthe waves was spared their impact. At lastcount, more than 150,000 had lost theirlives.

Every day of our lives is potentiallyour last day on earth. I wonder what went

through the minds of the thousands uponthousands as they saw the tidal wavesapproaching and as the waves crashedover them. The things they wanted to dobut now would not have time for. Thethings they wanted to make right but didnot get down to doing them.

Perhaps some intended to seek Godsome day but it was now too late. Werethere Christians among those whoperished who wanted to serve God, butprocrastinated? Those who wereoverwhelmed did not expect the waves

of death, but the waves came anyway.This devastating occurrence, coupled

with other destructive events around theworld, is also a grim reminder of Jesussoon return.

In response to a question to Hisdisciples concerning signs of His secondcoming, Jesus said, many will comein my name, saying, I am the Christ, andthey will lead many astray. And you willhear of wars and rumours of wars. Seethat you are not alarmed, for this must

take place, but the end is not yet. For

nation will rise against nation, andkingdom against kingdom, and there willbe famines and earthquakes in variousplaces. All these are but the beginningof the birth pains (Matt. 24:38).

How then should we live in the lightof lifes uncertainties and Jesus soonreturn? Peter tells us how. He said, Butthe end of all things is at hand; thereforebe serious and watchful in your prayers.And above all things have fervent lovefor one another, for love will cover amultitude of sins. Be hospitable to oneanother without grumbling. As each onehas received a gift, minister it to oneanother, as good stewards of themanifold grace of G od. If anyone speaks,

let him speak as the oracles of God. Ifanyone ministers, let him do it as withthe ability which God supplies, that in allthings God may be glorified throughJesus Christ, to whom belong the gloryand the dominion forever and ever.Amen (1 Peter 4:711).

Let us therefore: Live seriously and soberly

having a clear mind understanding ofGods purposes and plans, always beingself-disciplined, self-controlled (vs. 7).

Live watching and praying being

alert and awake, not just only bringingprayer requests before Him but stayingin close communion with the Lord bymeditating on His Word (vs. 7). ThePsalmist says, his delight is in thelaw of the Lord, and on his law hemeditates day and night. He is like a treeplanted by streams of water that yieldsits fruit in its season, and its leaf doesnot wither. In all that he does, he prospers(Psalm 1:23).

This picture (contributed by Trinity Baptist Church,Alor Setar) shows a scene after the tida l waves hitKuala Muda, Kedah.

SEE PAGE 6

Lessons from theTsunami


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Behold, howgood and how

pleasant it is forbrethren to dwell

together in unity! Psalm 133:1

FROMFRONTCOVER: THE I FACTOR IN CHURCH S PLITS

NECF Malaysia has called for a round-the clock prayer seasonbeginning Jan 21 to Feb 20 in response to the serious eventsplaguing the world and the country.

The Indian Ocean tsunami aftermath problems, thedengue danger in Peninsular Malaysia, and the continuingterrorist threat to the world at large are just a few of the

issues that require our unceasing intercession. Recently,Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan reminded Asiangoverments not to be distracted by the tsunami disaster andrelax their guard against terrorism (The Star, Jan 14). Just likethe battle against terrorism must go on unhindered and withkeen vigilance, our intercession to God must be passionateand without any rest.

Isaiah 62: 67 say, I have posted watchmen on yourwalls, Jerusalem. They will never be silent day or night.

Whoever calls on the LORD,

do not give yourselves any rest,and do not give him any rest

until he establishes Jerusalem andmakes it an object of praisethroughout the earth (emphasisadded).

Likewise, let us not give ourselves any rest(by our intercession) and do not give Him any rest (with

our cries) as we commit to pray for H is work and purposesto be fulfilled in our nation. Pray Psalm 46.You may sign up for the half-hour slots: On our website www.necf.org.my; or Manually through your church (fill in a form); or SMS your slots to Ann Low at 016-334 9239; or Forward your slots to the NECF office by fax 03-

7729 1139; phone 03-7727 8227; or [email protected]

PRAYER ALERT

co-workers for their missionary journey. The Greek wordparozysmos in the verses refers to provoking, stirring up,arousing. It certainly indicated a very sharp contention betweenthem.

Good came out of the dissension, for through it, twomissionary journeys instead of one were made one to Cyprusby Barnabas and Mark, the other to Syria and Cilicia andultimately Europe by Paul and Silas. Probably both Paul andBarnabas were right in their assessments of Mark. However,because of the differences in their perception of the issue, theyagreed to depart.

The lesson here is that the parties of contention must work

towards amicable solutions for their differences and departure.As in the case of Paul and Barnabas, Paul later spoke of Barnabasin positive terms (1 Cor. 9:6; Col. 4:10), showing that they laterreconciled.

The final outcome of a church split depends on thewillingness of the concerned parties to amicably resolve theconflict. The success in the parties future ministries also lie inthe reason for the separation, and the willingness of the partiesto assume responsibility of their weaknesses and failure. If thesplit is truly for the sake of the Kingdom, both parties ministrieswill flourish.

However, church splits can be avoided if early interventionis sought. It is appropriate for the parties involved in the conflict

to resolve the problems directly and personally according to theprinciples established in Matthew 18.

If after both parties have tried to resolve their issues betweenthemselves and there is no sign of progress or potentialreconciliation, the leadership must be willing and humble toseek third party mediation. The involvement of a credibleChristian leader may help to resolve the conflict or at leastminimise the damage to human relationships.

In Malaysia and Singapore, church splits have brought forthchurch growth with the emergence of mega churches. But thisgrowth must not be used to justify church splits. It is the mercyand divine hand of our G od who is able to work good out of

a bad situation.

Many churches in Malaysia have experienced restoration andreconciliation of hurts and wounds as a result of past bitter

splits. Some have experienced tremendous church growth whileothers have been successful in their respective ministries.

Conclusion

The issues are sometimes not so clear-cut. For example,personality clashes can be disguised as doctrinal conflicts.Those who think they are right doctrinally can also feel it istheir right to have things their way. Paul told the strong inCorinth that he had given up his right to receive life supportand that they too should give up their rights for the sake forthe weak (1 Cor. 9).

Human nature likes to emphasise personal right. The Bible

requires that we give up our rights for the sake of the Church.Is the Bible anti-individual? No, because a true individual isone who has self-control over his/ her own desires and is ableto defer to others. This is a profound paradox. May God helpus to obey His Word.

T hough I am free and belong to no man, I mak e myself a slave to

everyone, to win as many as possible. (1 Cor. 9:19)


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Brother Yun, how do you reply to the accusations that

you are a fraud and that your testimony is a big lie?Good tree bears good fruit, bad tree bears bad fruit. From thefruit, you can know whether the tree is good or bad. Whatpeople say about me is not important. What is important is thatJesus knows who I am and I know who I am. I know whom Iserve. I actually dont like to explain or clarify those attacksbecause according to Gods Word, everyone has to bear hisown cross to follow Jesus. But I have aboslutely no ill feelingstowards those who have attacked me.

Some people say Im a liar, my testimony is false. Actuallythese are not necessary because firstly, they dont glorify God.Secondly, they wont edify the listeners, and thirdly the people(who make the allegations) wont get any benefit. I was in Paris

in early January at the annual BTJ meeting. It was the thirdmeeting and it was the same with many e-mails and phone callsasking people to avoid the meeting. But despite all the rumours,over 1,000 people turned up and many people accepted Christ.

After the meeting, several people came up to me andapologised to me for not attending the last two meetings becausethey listened to the rumours. They wanted to attend this time tofind out for themselves. The rumours are a hindrance to thegospel and the Great Commission.

At the meeting there were two other speakers, Dr ErnestChan (principal of a leadership institute in the US) and DennisBalcombe (Senior Pastor of Revival Christian Church in H ong

Kong). They told me they were not happy with the rumours

and if the rumours were not clarified, that would hinder people

from coming to Jesus and obstruct the BTJ movement. Theysaid they would write a letter to that will help to clarify therumours. I think the letter has been faxed to the Singapore BTJoffice. I realise that wherever I go, there will be opposition.

Can you comment about your experience in prison

where you fasted for 74 days without water and food?Some people have said you are claiming to be greater

than Jesus who only fasted 40 days.

Let me clarify that it wasnt my intention to fast and pray at thattime. At that time, I wanted to die because I was not able topreach the gospel, to serve Him. There was no point to live.Also, I did not want to betray my brothers and sisters because

the prison guards wanted me to name them. I did not want tobe Judas, to betray them. So I decided not to talk, drink and eat,hoping I would die. But even though I did not eat and drink, Idid not die for He has other plans.

The allegations against you give the impression thatthe house churches in China are very divided.

The situation in China is the same as other places. There aredenominations. I believe the BTJ vision is from God and nomatter how many people oppose it, Gods will shall not behindered. During my time here in Malaysia, I have been really

Bro. Yun: Rumour s Obstr uct Gospel

SEE NEXT PAGE

heH eavenly M ans visit to Malaysia caused

quite a stir with thou sands flocking

to his meetings in Petaling Jaya, Kuala

Lumpur, Penang, Ipoh, Malacca and Johor

Baru. At the end of his whirlwind trip spanning the

north and south of Peninsular Malaysia, many peoplehad responded to his challenges to: receive Jesus as

saviour, commit their lives to sharing the gospel, or

participate in the Back to Jerusalem (BTJ) mission to

bring the gospel to the many nations lying between

China and Jerusalem.

Liu Zhenying or Brother Yun as he is known

worldwide has indeed been an impactful witness for

the Lord here. Yet, his visit was not without controversy.

Even as he was preaching, e-mails questioning and

attacking his authenticity were circulating fast. Mostof them pointed to a website that was specially set up

to refute his testimony, alleging he is a fraud who is out

to gain wealth and status. The website carries pictures

of several China house church leaders such as Samuel

Lamb Lin Xiangao, Moses Xie Moshan and Allen Yuan

signing a letter calling for his repentance.

Berita N E CF executive secretaries Ong Juat Heng

and N geh Hoong Eng met up with Brother Yunseveral minutes after his arrival back in Petaling Jaya

from his Ipoh meetings, and unabashedly raised the

allegations and posed other questions to him. The

interview lasted less than an hour, for he was being

hurried off to a dinner and was set to travel to Malacca

and then Johor Baru the following day.

TThe greatesttemptation ismans applause.


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FROMPREVIOUSPAGE: INTERVEIW WITH BROTHER YUN

encouraged by the response from the people to the vision. Wedont have to bother about rumours. You see the fruit and yourecognise the tree.

Do you still keep in contact with the other house churchleaders in China?

In this era, communication is advance. Even while in Malaysia,Im constantly on the telephone with the leaders. China is no

longer closed. Now, if you have a passport and visa, you canleave the country. So every year, they will come out of Chinaand we will meet at some place for one to threeweeks to exchange news and to pray. (For securityreason, Brother Yun asked that we do not mentionthe places that they have met thus far.)

H ow many countries have you visited thus

far and what has been the response to theBTJ vision from the countries you have

visited?

Not more than 40 countries. The response is good

but I would say that it has been most impactful inEngland. In South-east Asia, the Christians inPhilippines have responded very well. One Christian theredonated a five-storey building to be used as a training centre forthe BTJ mission and right now there are over 80 people fromChina being trained there.

The response in Singapore has also been very good, eventhough they did not hear about the vision from me. Some

Christians there went straight to China and found out what thevision was. They have started a BTJ office in Singapore. Aftercoming to Malaysia and seeing the response, I believe thatMalaysia will be in the frontline of the BTJ movement becausetheres unity among your pastors. I know that when I go off,Satan will continue to try to destroy the work. But fear not,nobody can destroy what God has planned.

Compared to your life in China where you endured

severe hardship, life now must be far more comfortable.

What temptations do you face and how do you keepyourself right?

The greatest temptation is mans applause. Thisis why before I preach, I always ask people togive God a clap offering. If Gods grace leavesme, theres nothing I can do. About money, Ivealready decided long ago I wont bother about it.If anybody asks me how much I receive (here inMalaysia), Ill ask him to ask Rev. Wong (NECFsSecretary-General). Its the organisation thatinvites me to come, so they are in charge of themoney. My responsibility is to preach the message.

Another thing, I have decided long ago neverto be alone with a woman. But I think the mainaccusation now is that I claim to be an evangelist. I never saidthat. But because people have responded to the salvation callthrough my messages, they call me an evangelist.

Every day, I spend at least two hours with God to hear Him.I dont want to hear my voice, other peoples voice or Satansvoice. I want to hear Gods voice.

THE NECF Malaysia Prayer Commission will host the thirdSouth-East Asia Prayer Consultation in O ctober in KualaLumpur. Christians leading in their countries prayermovements from 11 nations in the region are expected toattend the yearly gathering, which started in 2003 on the

initiative of the International Prayer Council. The consultationaims to network the prayer movements in the region andupdate participants on the prayer efforts in each country.

NECF Prayer Commission E xecutive Secretary Ann Lowsaid NECF agreed to host the gathering when she attendedthe 2nd consultation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia lastNovember.

In May, the commission will hold the 2nd N ational PrayerConsultation, also in Kuala Lumpur. This annual event, whichstarted last year, is a gathering of local prayer leaders fromall regions throughout Malaysia. They will spend three daysbeginning May 1 exchanging news and discussing ways to

enhance the prayer network within the country.

New Members

We welcome the following into our Fellowship asOrdinary Members:

Persatuan Persaudaraan Kristian RumahVictory, Kuala Lumpur,represented byMr MokSew Kwong

Triang Christian Church, Pahang, pastored byLim Fong Yock

Sidang Kepenuhan Kristus, Malaysia,pastored by Hasin bin Pieh

Jubilee Outreach, Penang, pastored by AlfredPhua

Charis Sanctuary AG, Kuala Lumpur, pastoredby Looi Kok Kim

Calvary Charismatic Centre, Sandakan,pastored by James Kwan Kok Fatt

Sanctuary Praise, Rawang, pastored by AllanTan

The Salvation Army, Malaysia, represented byGillian Downer

We also welcome five people as AssociateMembers: Mr Danil Raut, Pr Chok Fui Lin, PrChristie Judhisthi s/o Mohadebo, Mr Satyaseelana/l Seenivasan and Ms Naomi Chee Mee Ching.

THE NECF Foundation has chosen Malacca as the venue for

its first anniversary celebration to raise awareness of its ministryto the peninsulas southern churches. The foundation will joinhands with the Malacca Pastors Fellowship to organise thecelebration to be held in May.

Look out for further details in the next issue.

NECF To Host Regional Prayer Consultation

NECF Foundation Anniversary

From the

fruit, you can

know

whether the

tree is good or

bad.


6/16

From left: Hoong E ng (Executive Secretary), Pr Grace (Prayer), Rev. Foo (Chairperson), Pr H iew(Vice-Chairman), Rev. Wong (Social Concerns and Rep. of Seremban and Malacca),

Elder Lim (E ast Coast Rep.), and Pr Albert (Southern Rep.).

Chinese Commission Formed

THE NECF Malaysia ChineseCommission has finally been formed withthe appointment of six Christian leaders

as commission members. The formationwill further accelerate the work of uniting,equipping and strengthening Chinese-speaking evangelical churches inMalaysia.

The commission members, who willserve a two-year term beginning Jan 1,

Chairman: Rev. Foo Moy Ping(Academic Dean of Jubilee InitiativeMalaysia and NECF Council Member)Vice-Chairman: Rev. Hiew Yee Onn(Chinese pastor of New Life RestorationCentre, Petaling Jaya)Secretary: Sis. Ngeh Hoong Eng (NECFExecutive Secretary)Prayer: Pr Grace Lee (Chinese pastorFG A Kuala Lumpur)Social Concerns and Representative

of Seremban and Malacca: Rev. PaulusWong Too Tiang (Chinese pastor ofAgape Assembly, Seremban and ChineseLanguage Division Supervisor ofAssembly of God Malaysia)

Representative of Southern Region :Pr Albert Cheng (Senior Pastor of FullGospel Church, Johor Baru)Representative of East Coast Region :Bro. Thomas Lim Kok Beng (Elder ofCalvary Charismatic Church, Kuantan)

COMMISSION LINE-UP

represent the Chinese-speaking churchesin all regions in Peninsular Malaysiaexcept Penang and Ipoh. Suitable

representatives for both regions will beappointed in due time. With the supportof the six members, the work ofmobilising and coordinating NECFsprojects, such as the yearly 40-dayNational Fast and Prayer, will beenhanced.

Live with fervent love exerting your love to the utmostdegree, just like an athlete in a race. Seek to demonstrate agapelove. Love even your enemies and forgive, because love forgives(vs.8).

Live showing hospitality without grumbling showacceptance, love and kindness. Be gentle and sincere. As youhave opportunity, do good to all, especially those in the Bodyof Christ (vs. 9).

Live using the gifts God has given to you both naturalabilities such as music, art etc. as well as God-given spiritualgifts and abilities such as teaching, preaching, prophecy andother godly graces. Let us serve one another with these gifts(vs. 1011).

This year, determine to be G ood stewards of the manifoldgrace of God. Let your light shine before others, so that theymay see your good works and give glory to your Father who is

in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

FROMPAGE 2: LESSONS FROM THE TSUNAMI

Clari f icat ion

NECF Malaysia extendscondolences to the family of thelate Dr Abraham Peter Tong

who went home to the Lordon last Dec 12. Together withnine others, Dr Tong foundedthe Full Gospel BusinessmensFellowship Malaysia in 1979and was the N ational Presidentfrom 1988 until his departure.

Dr Tong was credited for the growth of the ministry inMalaysia which grew from a single chapter in Kuala Lumpurto over 100 chapters throughout Malaysia in 25 years.

Dr Tong left behind his wife, Sarah Maureen; daughterDr Melinda Tong and her husband Dr David Fong, and sonDr David Tong; and two grandchildren Rachel and Joshua.

CONDOLENCES

WE refer to the editorial in Berita NECF,NovemberDecember 2004.

The comment made on John Calvinsacts in Geneva, such as engaging spiritual

policemen to ensure the people did theirdevotions, was not meant to deny hisgreater positive contributions to theKingdom of G od.

It has also been brought to our

attention that Michael Servertus deathsentence was not Calvins personaldecision but that of a 25-membercouncil. In fact, Calvin appealed for

beheading as a less painful death(instead of burning at the stake) but hisappeal was rejected.

We regret the misrepresentation thatmay have arisen.


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2002 Merdeka Prayer Raly in Kuala Lumpur

The yearly 40-DayNational Fast and Prayerthat culminates on thecountrys independenceday (Aug 31), is a key

event in the Malaysian evangelicalcalendar. It is one rare occasion that drawstogether churches throughout the country West and East to do one thing: fastand pray for the nation.

NECF Malaysia started theintercession campaign in 2001 with the

conviction that prayers would change thepolitical, social and economic andreligious landscape of a nation, according

Ligh ts UpNECF 40-Day Nat ional Fast and Prayer

to NECF Secretary-General Rev. WongKim Kong.

The campaign kicked off with 40,000Christians participating and by 2004, ithad grown to 90,000 participants. (Thefigures are based on the sale of the prayerbooklets used as devotional guides duringthe 40-day event.)

The spirited growth within the shortfour-year period points to a rising prayermovement in the Malaysian EvangelicalChurch. The water level of prayer is

slowly but surely rising, said Grace Hee,Chairperson of the NECF PrayerCommission. The commission is directlyresponsible for mobilising the campaign.

And the movement is not confinedto the adults children and youths tooseem to be hopping into the intercessionbandwagon, judging from the sale of20,000 childrens prayer booklets that first

went on sale last year.In addition, the yearly fast and prayer

movement has gone beyond theevangelical circle, with Christians fromthe mainline and Roman Catholicchurches signing up. Increasingly,Malaysian Christians, irrespective ofdenominations and theological leanings,are recognising the crucial need tointercede for the country, and the NECF-initiated event provides the platform forthem to come together to petition G od.

Furthermore, the event is an avenuefor Malaysian Christians, who haveemigrated or are living overseas, to prayfor Malaysia.

As Grace pointed out, I know allChristians believe in prayer. And the 40-day initiative has given them a season andreason during the year to pray for thenation.

...40-dayinitiative hasgiven them aseason andreason duringthe year to prayfor the nation. Grace H ee

br


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Rev. Wong added, Unless Godintervenes in the establishment of anation, any human effort will be futile insustaining peace and harmony.

This year, the commission is targetingat least 100,000 Christians to flood theseason.

H OW IT BEGANL ighting U p Our N ation actually began inthe year 2000 when NECF mobilisedchurches in 14 capital cities to holdcombined-church prayer rallies on the eveof Merdeka (Malaysias independenceday).

The event was a memorable one withthe telephone link-up from Kuala

Lumpur to a few major cities. Some

100,000 participants listened in to theconversations between Rev. Wong andrepresentatives from the other cities. Theexperience inspired a wonderful sense ofunity, as the churches felt connected asone Church.

Churches were also urged to carry outcommunity work and take part in theirtowns Merdeka celebrations or paradeson Merdeka day.

The 2000 event saw somebreakthroughs in church unity in several

places where churches from different

denominations gathered for the first timefor worship and prayer. Churches alsoreported breakthroughs in reaching outto their communities when they took oncommunity projects, such as hospitalvisitations, street clean-ups, feeding thepoor, carnivals and fun fairs.

INTRODUCING TH EN ATIONAL FAST AND PRAYER

Spurred by churches glowing responseto the L ighting U p Our N ation initiative,and sensing Gods direction to strengthenand hasten the intercession movement,NECF decided in 2001 to launch anationwide 40-day fast and prayer thatwould lead up to Merdeka Day.

The campaign wouldbe based on Isaiah 58scall to loose the chainsof injustice, untie thecords of the yoke, to setthe oppressed free andbreak every yoke.

NECF had hopedthat the fast and prayerwould make a deepimpact on the MalaysianChurch, which in turnwould impact thecountry.

And what an impactit has since

made. But first, lets look at the prayerbooklets, produced by NECF and writtenby its Prayer Commission members,which served as a daily devotional guidefor the 40-day fasting period.

PRAYER BOOKLET

The prayer booklet is an integral part ofthe 40-day National Fast and Prayer, for

besides being a daily devotional guide forthe fasting period, it indicates the numberof Christians taking part in the event.

The first booklet published in 2001was a simple 24-page A5 guide with onlythe Bible references for the days readingand prayer pointers.

In writing the guide, NECF had tobe mindful that Christians from all walksof life and various denominations wouldbe participating in the national campaign.Hence, the booklet had to cater to a wide

range of Christians with varied opinionson fasting. Prayer Commission ExecutiveSecretary Ann Low recalled someresponses to the commissions proposalon the various types of fast thatparticipants could choose.

We listed several types of fast, suchas the total fast where the participantabstained completely from solid foods,and the one-meal fast where the daysfood intake excluded one meal. We alsomentioned the Daniel Fast, which ruledout eating meats and other favouritedelicacies or favourite foods such ascoffee.

Some people were not happy withour coffee suggestion, which came as asurprise, she laughed. But on the whole,this first attempt was a good start as itgave us a better understanding of theChurch in the different way we approachfasting but ultimately, the goal is the same.That is, fasting and praying are simplycoming before God with a humble heart,acknowledging our need of Him and

dependence on Him.In addition to catering to the various

LI GH TS UP : Church representatives at the first Lighting Up Our NationMerdeka rally for the Klang Valley region in 2000.

COMMUNI TY CONT RIBU TI ON: Kuantan Christianshelping to clean up the Kuantan beach on Aug 31, 2000.

2001

2004

20022003


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approaches to fasting, NECF also had toconsider the different language-speakingChristians. Since a national fast shouldencompass the whole nation, NECFdecided to print the booklets in the fourmajor languages English, Chinese,Bahasa Melayu and Tamil.

Forty thousand copies of the firstprayer booklet rolled off the press andwere snapped up within a short period,

mainly by NECF member churches, whopaid 50 sen per booklet to cover the costof production.

The following year, NECF startedwork early on the booklet and the endproduct was a 60-page guide withadditional information on fasting, aweekly theme for more focused praying,space to record the participants reflectionand short meditation notes.

Encouraged by the previous yearsgood response, NECF increased thequantity of printing to 60,000 copies. Thistime round, the booklet came with acharity meals-saving paper box for theparticipant to put in the money savedfrom his fast (see Money for Charity).

Once again, the booklet/ savings boxsets, at RM1 per set, were snapped up byNECF member churches and others,signifying a mounting interest in the

prayer campaign.In 2003, with more experience at

hand, NECF strengthened the contentsof the booklet by including a section onpraying daily for other countries to reflectNECFs desire to look outwards into thewelfare of other countries. This timeround, 67,000 sets (booklet and meals-saving box) were sold.

Last year, the figure increased to over90,000, thanks in part to the newchildrens edition published in English,Chinese and Bahasa Melayu whichreached about 20,000 children and teens.Devotional thoughts for the childrensversion were written by teens aged 12 to16 years and the booklet was attractivelydesigned to draw the children to thecontents.

MONEY FOR CHARITY

A year after launching the National Fastand Prayer in 2001, NECF added thecharity dimension by urging participantsto donate the money saved from their fastto charitable organisations. The moneywas collected by their churches and sentto NECF, who then distributed it toselected Christian and non-Christianorganisations, both here and overseas.

Rev. Wong said the idea of donatingthe money saved from fasting came fromIsaiah 58:67, Is this not the fast that Ihave chosen: To loose the bonds ofwickedness, To undo the heavy burdens,To let the oppressed go free, And thatyou break every yoke? Is it not to shareyour bread with the hungry, And that youbring to your house the poor who arecast out; When you see the naked, thatyou cover him, And not hide yourselffrom your own flesh?

This was followed by Gods promisein the next two verses, Then your lightshall break forth like the morning...Thenyou shall cry, and He will say, Here I am.

Right from the start, it was agreed thatabout a quarter of the collection wouldbe given to foreign welfare projects,including those in Muslim countries.Rev. Wong explained that by giving tothe needy in other lands, we will learn

to look beyond our own needs.Furthermore, charity should beextended to those in need, regardless oftheir race and religion. By giving to ourneedy Muslim friends, we hope to defusethe conflict between the Muslim andChristian worlds, he added.

On the average, 265 churches sendin their collection yearly to NECF. Acursory glance at the contributingchurches shows that many are located inthe smaller towns, indicating that thecampaign was especially beneficial tosmall-town churches. Though the amountthey gave was smaller compared with thebigger-town churches, what little theygave came from their big hearts,observed Ann.

To date, about RM1.675 million (asat Dec 16, 2004) has been collected andRM1.014 million has been distributed.The balance will be given out as and whenthe needs arise.

ROUND-THE CLOCK

INTERCESSIONLiving amidst a technology-poweredenvironment, it was inevitable that the40-day Fast and Prayer event hit theInternet sooner or later.

In 2004, it went on-line with theintroduction of Praying R ound-the-Clock(PRC) on the NECF website, with a sign-up format allowing Christians to log intheir prayer time slots and the towns theywished to pray for. Alternatively, theycould e-mail their choices to NECF or

sign up manually through their churches.

Illustrations, drawnby children, filled

the inside of thechildrens prayer

booklet.

Differentapproaches, samegoal. Ann Lowcommenting onfasting.

CHEE RFUL GIVERS: Some participants brought the money they had saved from fasting to theKlang Valley Merdeka Prayer Rally in 2003. NE CF Finance Execu tive Kathryn Tan (seated)


10/16

PRC, a 24-hour intercessionprogramme throughout the 40-dayfasting season, has its Scriptural basis onJesus parable in Luke 18 men oughtalways to pray and not lose heart andLeviticus 24 the fire on the altar mustnot go out.

The programme focuses on prayingfor towns and regions throughout

Malaysia with the hope that this wouldhelp change the spiritual, social, economicand political landscapes of the locales.

A total of 257 towns were listed inthe website for prayer. The first attemptdrew over 1,500 people who prayed overthe towns within the four regions (Central,East Coast, Northern and Southern) inWest and East Malaysia.

MERDEKA PRAYER RALLY

The combined-churches prayer rallies are

the climax of forty days of fast andprayer, a once-a-year occasion forchurches of different denominations tocelebrate together Gods goodness to thenation and intercede for the rulers andleaders of our land.

They are held in cities throughoutthe country, usually on Merdeka eve,though some places have held the rallies

in the midst of the fasting season toaccommodate their churches schedule.

Usually, the pastors fellowships ofthe towns organise the rallies, guided bya standard programme prepared byNECF. Where there is no p astorsfellowship in the town, NECF wouldorganise the rallies with help from therepresentatives from various churchesthere.

More than just an occasion forchurches in the same location to come

together for prayer, the Merdeka prayerrallies have become a unifying point forthe churches.

In some towns, the prayer rallies werethe first occasions where churches in thetowns assembled for worship and prayer.Banting and Batu Pahat were two suchtowns. The rallies therefore representeda breakthrough in church unity.

Flags are an important part of the Merdeka prayerrallies. Below pix shows NECF staff-members atthe prayer rally preparing thejalur gem ilang fordistribution to participants. With flags raised

(above pix), participants would shout Merdeka,Jesus is Lord at the stroke of midnight.

Teens committ ing their lives to praying and following Jesus at the 2003 Klang Valley PrayerRally on Merdeka eve. On the right is Dr Cindy Jacob, who was the guest speakerat the National Prayer Conference held just before the rally.

THE churches increasing willingness

to consider the Lightin g Up Our Nation

programme as a necessary event in

their yearly calendar has been a big

boost for all who have laboured in the

ministry of intercession.

The spillover effect is the growing

church unity that is demonstrated in

the Merdeka prayer rallies. In addition,

the programme has st i r red many

Malaysian Christians to have a greater

passion and love towards the country,

and instilled in them a more prayerful

attitude for the nation.

BEACON OF LIGHTChinese-speaking participants show theirlove for the nation at the Klang ValleyChinese Merdeka Rally in 2003.

In recognitionof theevangelicalseffort inpromotingnation welfareduring theMerdekaseason, theGovernment in2003 startedsending its

representativesto the Klang Valley Merdeka Prayer Rally.Above pix shows the then Min ister ofEnergy, Communications and MultimediaDatuk Amar Leo Moggie reading a messagefrom Prime Minister Dato Seri AbdullahAhmad Badawi at the 2003 rally, while leftpix shows Ministers in the P rime MinistersDepartment Datuk D r Maximus Ongkiliand T an Sri Bernard Dompok (2nd and 3rdfrom left respectively) at last years rally.


11/16

IN response to the Tsunami catastrophe,

NECF Malaysia contributed a total ofRM136,000 to four separate groupscoordinating relief work in their regions.

The Sri Lanka Evangelical Allianceand Indonesia Evangelical Alliance eachreceived an initial sum of RM38,000.NECF is considering giving more as itawaits reports from its two counterpartson the progress of relief work in theirregions.

Locally, RM50,000 was distributed tovictims in Penang, Kedah and Perlis. Theamount was handed over to NECFsofficial representative, Rev. Lim SoonHock, who is coordinating relief workwith the various aid organisations andchurches. Rev. Lim is senior pastor ofGeorgetown Baptist Church and also anNECF council member. NECF alsohanded RM10,000 to CREST (CrisisRelief Services and Training).

Meanwhile, northern churches arepooling their resources together to help

Waves of Supportfor Tsunami Victims

the victims. The L ove Penang N etwork

(LPN) together with the Penang PastorsFellowship (PPF) immediately establisheda fund to help the affected ones in Penangisland.

Both PPF and LPN comprise some50 churches from various denominations.On Jan 6, the representatives visited PulauBetong in Balik Pulau and distributedRM60,000 to 40 fishermen whose boatswere destroyed in the incident.

LPN has also suggested to churchesto adopt villages for better fo llow-upand holistic support. I believe thechurches here will cooperate to make thisa reality in the near future, said LPNchairman Pr Koe Choon H uan. He addedthat currently, two churches are workingtogether to visit the affected families inone village, while a few churches areworking on another village.

Because of the help rendered, manyhomes have been opened for visits andcounselling, Pr Koe commented. I thank

Pulau Betong fishermen hope to get back to sea soon once their boats are repaired, thanks in part tothe cash gift from Penang churches under the Love Penang Network group and Penang PastorsFellowship headed respectively by Pr Koe Choon H uan (front row, far right) and Pr Andrew Chong(back row, far left).

God for the excellent spirit of Christianlove and cooperation (among thechurches). My prayer would be for theChurch of Christ to rise up to thisoccasion to be involved in the lives ofthe affected villages, sharing the kindnessand love of God with no stringsattached.

Over in Sungei Petani, Kedah, thepastors fellowship met on Jan 12 and

decided to pool resources together tofurther help the victims in Kuala Muda.Earlier, individual churches visited therelief centres on their own and distributedfood, clothings and cash. Trinity BaptistChurch distributed food aid to victimswith the support of NECF, whichcontributed over RM1,700 to encouragethe church in its relief effort.

Charismatic Christian Assembly(CCC) members visited the disaster areaat least seven times and has thus far given

out over RM8,000 in cash and kind tosome 50 families. The churchs elder, DrSunny Tneoh, said that besides cash, theygave the families cooking utensils and gascylinders so that they could cook for H ariRaya Haji.

He added that his church hascommitted to visit the families monthlyfor the next 12 months, and are alsoraising funds to help the fishermen repairtheir damaged boats.

Left pix: Trinity BaptistChurch members donatedfood items to the KualaMuda re lief centre in SgPetani, Kedah. Theirdonations were received byvolunteers manning thecentre.

Right pix: Members fromCharismatic ChristianAssembly with some of theaffected families after one of

their visits.

Collection as at Jan 26 RM235,852

NECF will continue to receive donations

on behalf of its partners who are working

in the affected places. Please send your

donation to:

NECF Malaysia

32, Jalan SS2/103,

47400 Petaling Jaya

Selangor

NECF Tsunami Fund Update


12/16

CHRISTMAS came early last year to 51local charitable organisations throughoutthe country when they received chequestotalling RM360,000 from NECFMalaysia. At a simple ceremony at theNECF office last November, Minister inthe Prime Ministers Department Datuk

Dr Maximus Ongkili gave away thecheques on behal f o f NECF torepresentatives of the organisations runby Christians and other religious groups.

The money was part of the over halfa million ringgit raised at the 2003 NECF40-Day National Fast and Prayer, anannual drive organised by NECF inconjunction with Merdeka Day tomobilise Christians to fast and pray forthe countrys welfare.

NECF had earlier given RM100,000

from the 2003 collection to the DarfurChildrens Fund while another RM20,000was given to the Haiti Childrens Home.

Early Christmas Cheer for the NeedyBefore giving out the cheques,

Dr Ongkili thanked NECF forpartnering the government incaring for the poor and needy ofsociety. At a press conference afterthe ceremony, NECF Secretary-General Rev. Wong Kim Kong

said the focus of giving for the2004 collection would beeducation and social development.He explained that contributionswould be made to schools,especially those in rural areas, thatrequire funds for building repairsor facilities, and projects thatpromote community development.

However, NECF will continue toallocate a quarter of the yearly collectionto foreign welfare projects, particularly

those in Muslim countries.By giving to the needy in other lands,we will learn to look beyond our own

ABO UT 150 people attended last D ecember N ECFThanksgiving Tea (Klang Valley region), jointly organised bythe NECF Prayer and Research commissions. The yearlygathering was initiated by the NECF Prayer Commission in2001 as an occasion for Christians involved in the ministry ofintercession to gather for reflection and thanksgiving.

Last year, the Prayer Commission felt that the partnershipof the Research Commission would make the occasion morebeneficial to participants. At the gathering, Research Commissionchairman Steven Wong explained that knowledge of currentissues would lead to more specific and accurate intercession.

Research Executive Secretary Lim Siew Foong then presenteda short talk on religious liberty in Malaysia. She touched on thevarious state laws that restrict the propagation of religions andthe difficulty civil courts are encountering in exercisingimpartiality when hearing conversion cases. Siew Foonghighlighted several current court cases that relate to theindividuals rights to practise the religions of their choices, suchas the Lina Joy case

Participants then gathered in small groups to pray over thevarious issues raised. The meeting concluded with a time offellowship over traditional Malaysian tea-time snacks. Oneparticipant shared, Its so easy to forget that all we have comefrom the Lord. This Thanksgiving Tea is a reminder to expressour heartfelt gratitude to the Lord.

A week after the Klang Valley tea gathering, the Kuantanpastors fellowship held its own Thanksgiving Tea attended bysome 70 people from seven churches. The gathering was in linewith N ECFs plan to make the yearly NECF Thanksgiving Teaa regional affair outside of the Klang Valley. Prayer ExecutiveSecretary Ann Low and Siew Foong were at the Kuantan

gathering to share what God had been doing the whole year.

New Cup for Tea Affair

needs, Rev. Wong said. Charity shouldbe extended to those in need, irrespectiveof their religion or race, he added. Wealso hope that our contributions to our

Muslim friends will help to defuse theconflict between the Christian andMuslim worlds, he said.

Datuk Dr Ongkili presenting a cheque to a representativewhile Rev. Wong looks on. On the far left is Datuk Dr LimThuan Seng, Bukit Gasing MP.

IN the early 1900s,Borneo was amysterious land, ahuge island in theSouth China Sea,alive with stories of

wild men,headhunters and theWhite Rajahs. It wasagainst this backdropthat the story of SIBbegan, and D runk before D awn, T he M usical was set.

The musical, produced by SIB KL in celebration of its 10thanniversary, was a showcase of young Malaysian talents, withcomposers, orchestrator, playwright and lyricists, all aged below25.The musical was staged to standing ovations at fourperformances last D ecember to over 4000 people.

But more than a glamorous display of vocal and musicaltalents, drama prowess and special effects, the musical was a

celebration of the fortitude of Christian brotherhood, a powerfultestimony of a group of people moving constantly in a unifieddirection, fulfilling their destiny and His purpose, resonatingGods grace and mercies at every turn.

Today, SIB has gone beyond the shores of Borneo. In justunder 10 years, SIB planted 35 churches in Peninsular Malaysiawith SIB KL as the sole English-speaking congregation.

At the churchs anniversary dinner attended by 2000 people,its senior pastor, Dr ChewWeng Chee, challengedthose present to press onand take the next decade

with a renewed passion.

Drunk Before DawnDazzles Crowd

Women to Womenwill be back

next issue.


13/16

The Oxford AdvancedLearners Dictionary ofCurrent E nglish defines acrony as a close friend;companion; close associate

(noun). In the business world, there arefurther implications to the words cronyand cronyism. The latter, in particular,is taken to include the cosy and oftencorrupt connections between politicians

and businesses.Linkages between business and

government or business and politics arefrowned upon because of the basicpremise that such intertwinedrelationships lead to unfair trade practicesand biased awards of contracts. It is nolonger know-how (meritocracy) thatdictates the recipient of the lucrativebusiness contracts but know-who(cronyism) who wins the day.

Against the background of

globalisation and internationalinvestment, it cannot be denied that Asianbusiness practices, cultures and values arevery much alive. Before a judgment callis made that is cronyism is bad andAsian businesses and politicians need toget their house in order it would beopportune to understand Asian cultureand then later derive a biblical perspectiveon ethics and cronyism.

The root of cronyism is noteconomics but politics more specifically,

loyalty to the ruling elite. This goes backto the days when royalty offered favoursto certain segments of the citizenry.Perhaps it is this sheep-like loyalty thathas turned many businessmen into servilecronies.

This k owtow disease, however,brings many economic advantages.Licenses that may normally take monthsor years, or even refused, can bemiraculously processed with clinicalefficiency if the right politician or highgovernment official is known. Loan

officers can be transformed into the mostgenerous and accommodating bankers ifthe right name is dropped.

On a more practical level, this servilityis expressed in the form of gift giving tothe ruling elite (note the distinction withbribes!). These can represent appreciationor a desire to reciprocate for mutualbenefit. Some say that cronies may evendeliver. Privatised superhighways,breathtaking airports, glittering towers ofoffice blocks, monuments to a nations

greatness, may all be done by so-called

By Cheong Seng Gee

cronies.

Guanxi

In order to be successful in the Asianbusiness context, a crony or tycoon (usedinterchangeably here) must be arecognised master of the art of guanx i(personal relationships).

A case in point is the venerable LiKa-shing, whose network of connections

was reported as incomparable byAsiaweek. He became a folk hero of sortsin his hometown of Chaozhou insouthern China, for his generousdonation in building a university. He wassaid to have shared breakfast congee withJiang Zemin, the (then) premier of China.

When Jiang went to Hong Kong, first,for the 1997 handover from the British,and then for the opening of Chek LapKok airport, he stayed at Lis hotel bothtimes. This was said to be a special honour

and privilege accorded to Li. Also, Lispartner in developing Beijing commercialcomplexes was reported to be Tung Chee-hwa, a long-time friend before becomingthe chief executive of Hong Kong.

Would tapping such ties to facilitatethe making of business be any differentfrom either cronyism/ corruption?

Interestingly enough, it was aEuropean Parliament report on post-1997 Hong Kong, which cited theundue and dominant influence ofsome local tycoons and said that Lis

family businesses account for betweenone-quarter and one-third of stockmarket capitalisation.

At one point, the (former) PrimeMinister of Malaysia, Dr Mahathirhimself jokingly said that all cronies werehis friends.

The big questions that arise are: (a) Isthere a distinction between guanx i andcronyism? (b) Should one be tolerated orencouraged and the other frowned upon?(c) What is the difference between doing

business among friends who are trusted,

honest and reliable thus having unfairadvantages versus offering businesscontracts on an open bidding basis?

Gifts or bribes?

It is important to think as a Christianwithin a background of Asian culturalnorms and practices. Otherwise, we mightbe guilty of throwing the baby with thebathwater.

Relationships in our culture are often,though not exclusively, built on the givingof gifts. But how do we draw the dividingline between a bribe and a gift that is givenin appreciation and/ or to cement arelationship?

Think of the wedding dowry, whichare gifts of money or goods given to thefamily of the bride or groom. These giftsseal the relationship between the twofamilies although excesses and punitivedemands have resulted in financial

hardships and debts.Another example is the close familyties in Asian societies, which often resultsin charges of nepotism, whether in largeconglomerates or small and medium sizeones. Yet, there may be overwhelmingreasons for so-called nepotism. What iffamily members are capable andprofessionally qualified? Moreover, anAsian Christian may be condemned ineyes of the community if he or she failsto take care of his or her familymembers.

The West is no exception. We canthink of Rupert Murdoch and his sontrailblazing in the business corporationof News Corporation Ltd.

Christian Response

Alec Hill states the following marketplaceprinciples from Colossians:

The emphasis on the Lordship ofChrist over all aspects of life

Pauls concept of Christians being

SEE NEXT PAGE

Cronies or Buddies?

G od grant m e the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;

the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to k now

the difference.


14/16

in Christ has direct bearing upon howbelievers should behave in the work andbusiness environment

Business should not bear a lowermoral standard from the church orpersonal holiness and

The kingdom of Christ is alreadyrooted in this world.

What Hill emphasises is that themarketplace provides a visible arenawhere believers can tangibly demonstratewhat being in Christ means. The seedyside of business for example, greed,manipulation and cronyism providesChristians with a stark backdrop againstwhich their values of service andcommunity must shine. To do otherwisewould be to don the old dark nature andadmit defeat.

At the same time, we should avoiddual-moral standards wherebymarketplace morals are lower thanchurch morals just because the formerare the real world. Hence, we shouldavoid the philosophy espoused by thebusinessman Dan Drew: Sentiment isall right up in that part of the city whereyour home is. But downtown, no. Downthere, the dog that snaps the quickest getsthe bone.

External pressures, inner

inadequacies

Christians should also not underestimatethe overpowering effects of externalpressures. Richard Foster identifies thepressures as money, sex and power orthe triple sins.5 The evil one tempted theLord Jesus Christ during the 40 days inthe wilderness with the same pressures(Matt. 4: 111). We only ignore these toour detriment.

The prosperity gospel and the healthand wealth theo logy serve to warn us of

the dangerous and pervasive effects onour entire being in the form oftemptations and compromises. If ourtheology is not right, then we easilysuccumb to these temptations and greatwill be our fall.

It is in this context that we are to bekeenly aware of our inner spiritualinadequacies and our seeming lack ofspiritual resources. We have to rememberthat sin is a pervasive corrupting powerin our human nature and must be

recognised as such. Because of its

corrupting influence, the whole humannature gets tainted and we easily succumbto it whether we are evangelical or liberal,charismatic or orthodox. It is in thesestruggles that we need to humbleourselves in order to seek out sufficientpastoral help in the so often lonely battlesin the marketplace.

Pastoral help in the form of a spiritualor prayer network accountability groups

would certainly be helpful as it involvesus in dialogue, counselling and prayer.Only then are we much better preparedto deal with ethical issues of cronyismand the powers that be.

Rev. Hwa Yung advocates for anIncarnational Model in developing atheology of social engagement. Thismodel is rooted in the way Jesus relate tothe world, that is Jesus identifies with theworld; is separatedfrom the ideologiesthat rule it; and assures its transformation

by His death, resurrection, and second

coming (note the bold italics). Hwa Yungoutlines some key guidelines that can behelpful in dealing with the issue ofcronyism and unfair trade practices.Among them are:

All forms of active corruption andcronyism (my addition here) should beabsolutely prohibited, e.g. outright lies anddishonesty in procuring lucrative businesscontracts, defective products, outrightexploitation of workers, bribing in orderto gain unfair business advantage andshoddy workmanship which endangers

lives. Avoid as much as possible any

form of passive acceptance of cronyism.This may smack of compromise for thosewho are used to seeing things in clearcontrast. While G ods moral demands areabsolute, a certain degree ofaccommodation to human weaknessesmay be necessary, for example in both Oldand New Testaments, there isaccommodation to polygamy, slavery andthe Roman taxation system. There is

recognition in the Bible that not everything

can be changed overnight.On this side of heaven, we sometimes

have to accept realities: until Christreturns, corruption and cronyism willcontinue in one form or other. This iswhere we need to learn to pray this prayer:G od grant me the serenity to accept the things I

cannot change; the courage to change the things Ican; and the wisdom to k now the difference.

Conclusion: The Mustard SeedEffect

A good lesson from history is perhapsthe story of Lord Wilberforce and hisClapham sect. After 43 long and arduousyears of persevering in the Britishparliament, they finally succeeded inabolishing slavery.

One may argue that theseachievements were built upon the spiritualand moral foundations laid by the 18 th

century Evangelical Revival in Britain. It

does not lessen their accomplishments in

any way. Rather, their lives pose afundamental challenge to Christiansworldwide until today.

Do we dare to ask God for grace toenable us to stand firm against thetemptations of money, sex and power(cronyism included)?

We need to have a holistic worldviewand a theology of social engagementtogether with spiritual and moralauthority to effect the transformation. Intodays Asian context, do we want to takefor granted as Asian Christians to form

lobby groups against cronyism or evenchallenge the unscrupulous corporategovernance?

Let us remember that the Kingdomof God works like a mustard seed,humble in its beginnings but mighty inits conclusion.

Th is is an excerpt from the article entitled

Cronyism in Asia: A Vocational Response,

which is available in the just-released Forum IV

(see next page).The writer is a member of the

NECF Malaysia Research Commission.

FROMPREVIOUS PAGE

...the marketplace provides a visible arena where

believers can tangibly demonstrate what being in Christ

means. The seedy side of business for example, greed,

manipulation and cronyism provides Christians with a

stark backdrop against which their values of service and

community must shine.


15/16

s Christians, do we think too little?O r do we think too much? If weare indeed thinkers, then are we

only thinkers, or, also people of action?Isfasting and prayer the final answer to the

moral wickedness and corruption of ourtimes? Or is it the surrendering ofourselves in order to enable the answersto prayer to be worked out through us?Ought we to be a sleeping Jesus, calmand confident in the storms of adversityin life, or an angry Jesus who acts clearlyand unambiguously against oppressorsand unjust moneychangers in the world?How do we decide what to be and when?Is the Kingdom of God still to be usheredin or is it already here?

Christians are divided on every oneof these questions and have been forcenturies. Not only do our worldviewsdiffer, but we have often shown atendency to defend them fiercely,gracelessly and, at times, unrighteously.We seek to be salt and light to a tastelessand darkened world but end up manytimes being anything but. It does not helpthat relatively few of us today know muchChurch history. In our ignorance, wedeprive ourselves of a valuable body ofknowledge to help us understand the past,

walk in present repentance and humilityand make godly choices for the future.

Biblical standards and teachings areabsolute and eternal, but much of howwe think and act is not; they are shapedby the political, economic, social andcultural circumstances of our times. Byemphasising some parts of Scripture anddownplaying others, we are, wittingly orunwittingly, relativising it. The things thatwe accept or reject thus often reallyamount to nothing more than what our

environment, needs and interests dictate.

RecoveringBiblical

Direction

for Pr esentIssuesThus, we need constantly to cross-checkour assumptions and norms against theunchanging Word of God. We need thewhole counsel of God.

Given this, there is really little groundto be doctrinally or theologically arrogant,superior and condemning. We would do

well to remember Pauls reminder that,for now, we see but a poor reflection asin a mirrorand can only know in part(1 Cor. 13:12). We would do well also tonote that the unity of the Church is notfounded on the supremacy of a doctrinebut of love and service to Almighty God.God, in His omniscience and sovereignty,has used, is using, and will use those ofpractically every stripe and inclination toaccomplish His good purposes inrestoring this fallen world.

The NECF Malaysia ResearchCommission is dedicated to helpingrecover biblical direction, meaning andapplications to issues of life. From thelatest Harry Potter movie offerings tobreakthroughs in genetic engineering andstem cell research, there are myriadconcerns that Christians face. It shouldbe obvious from the foregoing that wecannot and, indeed, do not, consider oursto be the final word on the matter.Nevertheless, however flawed anddisjointed, we believe that the process of

quiet reflection and (quite often heated)discussion by members themselvesquite diverse produces what arecomparatively fair and balancedviewpoints. These, we hope, can be usefulreferences for Christians who arestruggling with the very same issues intheir lives.

The 11 essays in this volume revolvearound the theme of the realities ofChristian living in Malaysia. The first threeare held together by a common thread

that of addressing practical issues. They

Doin g T he

R ight T hin g ,published byKairos ResearchCentre, is pricedat RM15 eachand not RM10 asstated in ourprevious issue.

touch on the knowledge-based economy,education and vocation, and cronyism.(If the topics in this volume seem rathereclectic, this is because the interests ofthe Research Commission members areso.) This reading is likely to be of interestto those about to enter or who have justentered the workforce.

This is followed by four essays in thearea of social concerns. They include the

widespread practice offeng shui, mediaand culture, entertainment and youth andearthkeeping. These are of importancenot only to believers in general but pastorsand church leaders. The final four essayscover matters of religious liberty, politics,Christian intercultural communicationand apologetics. Christians in Malaysiaare uniquely blessed but the environmentalso poses special constraints andchallenges. These have to be understoodby all in order to discharge our duties as

both Christians and citizens. Alsoincluded are selected statements andreports that have been issued in the pasttwo years to address issues of global andnational concern, and of those to theMalaysian churches.

Christians can take two approachesin the matters raised. They can ignorethem and thus run the risk of beingignorant or they can engage them andopen themselves to the possibility ofbeing engaging. Of the two, we obviously

prefer the latter route. Our deliberationsare meant not only to add to the minisculestorehouse of Christian knowledge inMalaysia; they are also meant to instigateaction. We also work closely with theNECF Prayer Commission, believingstrategic and knowledgeable intercessionto be the key to changing this world ofwhich we are Gods stewards.

After all the intellectual cogitation anddiscourse are over, it is only by prostratingourselves as supplicants before G od thatwe will find true peace and fulfilment.

Steven W ong is the Chairman of the N E CFR esearch Commission

ABY STE VEN WON G


16/16

THE death toll has surpassed 280,000as bodies continued to to be recovered

one month after the catastrophe. InIndonesia, which leads with over 228,000deaths, the president has ordered a haltto counting corpses; instead workers areto focus on collecting data on refugeesand those who are in hospital, and findingthe missing.

The Indian Ocean Tsunami, causedby a submarine earthquake off Sumatra,travelled as far as and caused damage toEast African countries including Kenya,Seychelles, Somalia, Tanzania and

Madagascar. The Asian countries affectedare Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Burma,Thailand and Malaysia. Two-thirds ofMaldives was flooded as a result.Scientists said the earthquake was sopowerful that it tilted the earth on its axis.The devastation was so great thataccording to reports from Banda Acheh,Sumatra, it could take could take a monthto collect all the bodies in the area forburial.

Meanwhile, there are fears of human

traffickers kidnapping orphaned childrenfrom refugee camps and selling them forcheap labour or the sex trade. The childrenalso face sexual harassment at the camps.Praise God for the welfare groups thathave raised these issues and pray for firmaction to be taken to protect the childrenand women against the wicked.

In the midst of such great sufferings,our God is ever-present with those whoare hurting. His compassion isdemonstrated through the thousands ofaid workers and the donations of

concerned people. Pray for the newlyformed association of the churches andChristian organisations in the affectedcountries as they channel money and aidto the victims so that the Christian witnesswill be a testimony of Christs love. Prayfor the coordination, wisdom and strategyin the ministry of love.

Pray that this catastrophe will causepeople to think about eternity and seekfor the life that will never perish. Pray forGods love to be manifested through the

T S U N A M I - H I T C O U N T R I E S those countries that have thus far beenhostile to the good news.

Pray also for effective, well-coordinated efforts by governments and

international relief agencies so that aidwill quickly reach the suffering. There hasbeen an outpouring of sympathy fromall over the world. Support is being raisedvia television and other media. Pray thatall the money raised will actually get tothe victims quickly. Pray againstcorruption on the part of irresponsibleparties.

Continue to pray against any outbreakof diseases. Finally, pray for thoseministering to the emotional needs of the

victims. There will be long-term effectsof this tragedy. Pray for emotionalrestoration.

E UROPEAN countries and Westernnations in general are turning fromtheir historic Christian roots andaccepting a secularism opposedto religious thinking. It is now moredifficult for Christians to freely expresstheir faith and for Christian ministers topreach from the Bible without beingcriticised, fined, sued or even sentto p rison.

In many post-Christian countries,persecution may soon be a stark realityas a Christian religious majority graduallybecomes an unwelcome minority. WhileChristian cultural traditions maystill be accepted, the moral and spiritualvalues are rejected as intolerant and old-fashioned. Modern-day attacks onbelievers take many subtle forms in theface of a growing aggressive and

intolerant secularism. This is especiallyobvious at all levels of education.

Christians in the West need to beaware of the coming danger and preparefor it. The imperative is a true spiritualrevival. Pray for: God to bring truerepentance to the once-Christian andnow-backslidden nations of the West;the churches in the West to stand firmfor the Lord and godly values; andChristians to be strengthened by the Lordto speak Gods truth even when

THE reclusive Himalayan nation ofBhutan, between India and Tibet,

is an unassuming stronghold ofrepression of Christians. ThoughBhutan promotes peace and harmony inlifestyle and culture it issystematically trying to marginalise, if noteliminate Christianity. Government andBuddhist authorities denounceChristianity as a threat to national cultureand religion.

Harassed and persecuted,Bhutans Christian tiny minority facesconstant challenges such as public

beatings, employment discrimination, andrefusal of basic utilities, business licences,identity cards, and even schooling.Most Christians worship secretly, fearinggovernment reprisal.

Please pray for Bhutanese Christiansamidst circumstances that testtheir faith, and that the light of the gospelwill illumine the authorities, the monarchy,and Buddhist leaders. Pray for strength,encouragement, and wisdom to undergirdBhutans Christian community, asking that

God will meet their daily needs; and forincreased entrance by and openness tothe gospel message, especially among theyouths, some of whom are discontentedwith an agrarian way of life and desire amore materialistic lifestyle.

B H U T A N

T H E W E S T

CONTINUE to uphold our Eritreanbrethren in prayer. On D ec 31, 2004 , 60Christians from the Rema CharismaticChurch in Asmara were arrested whilecelebrating the New Year in a pastors

home. Over 400 Christians from theillegal minority churches are imprisonedin Eritrea simply for their commitmentto follow Jesus.

Other believers are in solitaryconfinement and many more of all agessuffer detention in overcrowded metalshipping containers rife with infectiousdiseases. Believers are tortured to try tomake them renounce their faith. Eritreanauthorities keep denying that any religiousminorities are persecuted. Please pray for

E R I T R E A

Documents

Berita NECF - January-February 2005