Had a lunch with brother Chris. One of the few surviving members who attended very first month of New Song in my living room back in 2008.

I’m always encouraged to see people venturing out in faith. And Chris is doing just that: following new path without losing hope in Christ. Also, he’s been supporting New Song past few months from South Korea. It (gift and heart) was a great encouragement to me, wife and many others in church. It’s hard to find a loyal friend like him these days.

Lord’s blessing on your school, work and kingdom work with Charles!

Hey guys,

I just don’t have time this week to complete PDF file. But remember this:

Speak to yourself, before yourself talks to you (Ps. 42)

Speak the Gospel to yourself everyday, every hour.

Tell your soul: “there is great ‘I’ than my ‘i’” (Ex.20:2) It’s about Jesus. All about Jesus. Not about me.

Please remember to pray for

(i) this Saturday Presbytery meeting at 9am: very very important

(ii) Summer Missions (thank God, I can go with you): sometime July 5th and after

(iii) Garage Sale

(iv) Small Group leaders meeting this Sat 7pm

(v) Various Ad campaign that we are launching

Last week, after my workout session (yeah..really), I turned on the TV and watched Travel Channel’s pizza story: how Italian immigrants came to the new world (NYC) and infected American with new influenza known as pizza. And they traced the history back to the Lombardi’s: the very first pizza store in America (quote Travel C on this). And because it was cheap (5c/pie) and easy to carry, many poor Italian immigrants flocked to the joint and soon became a phenomenon.

Then came my brother-in-law from LA and he was staying in The New Yorker Hotel for a few days. So took my family to the city to get a slice of history. And thought I would share some pix with those of you who are not from NYC:

That’s Empire State Building.

with the help of Kwan’s Droid (gives voice guide turn by turn), we arrived at Lombardi’s (original Lombardi’s went out of business when the neighborhood changed, and the current owner bought it from L’s grandson and continued the legacy).

That’s him. The current owner.

recognize her?

we were escorted to the 2nd floor: but 1st floor looked more cozy.

our 2nd pizza of the night: yeah, had no time for photo for the 1st one

kids happy with Uncle Kwan

this is the original oven taken from the original shop. This is real piece of history.

Not bad, not bad. If you haven’t tasted Brick Oven (that uses real log) pizza, you’re missing out big time..

right across from the street, another pizza joint. And looked better!

How far can I go? Isn’t it ok to be sexually involved if we are going to get married anyway?

Maybe those are the questions that many of you are asking.

I often think that the part of our sanctification process as believers of Christ is our worldview changing process (informed, transformed by the Biblical principles). Sanctification is surely more than that, but is not less than the total transformation of our worldview(s) in obedience to the Gospel. So, how one looks at sex (their [world]view on sex) often reveals person’s Spiritual condition.

What is your answer to the question? Is pre-marital sex ok?

But more importantly, what does God say about the matter?

This booklet by Tim Lane caught my attention as I was ordering some books by other CCEF guys (CCEF, FYI, is a pioneer institution which developed “Biblical” counseling: using Bible in counseling). I mean it’s a no brainer, right? A pastor (at least, right-minded one) will not say pre-marital sex is ok. But  I bought it anyway to see how he would develop his “NO.” So what does he say? In a word: “Don’t even get started!” He puts it more graciously but spends only 2 pages on the section that asks “How Far is Too Far?”

I understand that this is a booklet. But…

I feel bad (since I like CCEF guys) so I will say some positive things: if you look at the flow of his topics in the booklet (28 pages), Tim is trying to answer the question [how far] indirectly by giving you a general outlook on sex from God’s perspective. So he spends more time establishing Biblical view of sex. When you think about it, his strategy makes sense. After all, “How far can I go?” is a wrong question. And he knows it very well: giving you a list of Do’s and Don’ts will not get you far, unless you see sex as God sees it.

Summary:

(i) God’s NO to pre-marital sex is for your help, protection and good: after all God created you and sexuality. He knows what’s best for you.

(ii) Sex according to the Bible is not inherently sinful or evil. God wants us to enjoy sex only in the context of marriage. Why?

(iii) Because sex is not a casual activity: sex has temporal and eternal consequences.

(iv) Where does Bible condemn pre-marital sex? Can you show me the passage?

-1 Cor.6:13–Paul says our bodies were not meant for sexual immorality. Here, the Greek word for “immorality” is porneia, distinguished from “adultery.” Since Paul uses another word to describe “adultery”: sex outside of marriage, “porneia” must refer to sexual act that is not condemned by the word “adultery.”

(v) Sex is not merely physiological activity: it affects the whole body and soul of the two people who engage in sex.

What if you have already crossed the line? What if you (Christian) are already sexually active and see no way out? Then, be comforted by the grace of God. In Christ, you are rescued, forgiven, and purified. Turn to Christ in Holy Spirit for your change. And seek community of the believers where people could pray for/with you. Fight temptation in a real tangible way.

Don’t be discouraged if you fall back into sexual sin. Jesus died for your sins, and he stands ready to forgive you when you come to him in honest confession. And Jesus not only died for you, he also rose from the dead. His resurrection means that God’s power is now available to all who call upon his name. It’s his power that will change your deepest desires, so you will want your life-even your sex life-to please him in every way.

As I was reading this booklet, I’ve noticed that the material is very similar to Tim Keller’s sermon “Sexuality and Christian Hope.” Identical passages, identical developments. It will take some time for you to dig (redeemer website) but it’s the best sermon on sexuality that I’ve ever heard. And the book is nearly identical to the sermon.

Hello, this is Adam, the intern.

In recent light of being accepted into the OPC, I thought it would be good for our church (and whoever else who reads our church blog) to know what Presbyterianism really is about, at least on the basic level. It’s also good to see how Presbyterianism is set apart from other denominations.

Presbyterianism comes from the word, “presbyter,” which means elder. Presbyterianism has its roots in the Reformed tradition, following the footsteps of John Calvin from the Reformation era. We believe that the Bible is the authority of God, spoken by him, inspired (means through the Holy Spirit) to write by those who wrote the Bible. We also believe and uphold the Westminster Confession of Faith, signed in 1646.

In America, there are many different Presbyterian denominations that branch out  from the original. The most common denomination that you would see everywhere is the PCA (Presbyterian Church of America). We, the New Song Church, are in the process of joining the OPC (Orthodox Presbyterian Church). The OPC started to mainly defend the Biblical truths from modernism and liberalism, which are very prevalent in much of today’s churches.

Last Saturday, during the OPC presbytery meeting I got a taste of what’s in the Book of Church Order. All Presbyterian churches follow the book for guidance and laws concerning how a church operates. In a Presbyterian church, Ruling Elders are those who operate concerning all matters church-related, like missions, finances, discipline, etc. Teaching Elders (or Pastor, in our case) are those who teach the word (sermon) and practice sacraments (baptism and communion).

-This practice of sacraments, namely, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, is what sets us apart from other denominations. For example, we Presbyterians practice infant baptism (called paedo-baptism) while Baptist churches do not. We also do not encourage those who are not baptized (those who have not confessed that Jesus Christ one’s Lord and Savior publically through baptism)  to take part in the Lord’s Supper until they are baptized in a church.  That’s one example.

-Another is concerning the election of saints. We believe that the elect will go to heaven, while the rest will not. There are churches that do not believe in eternal damnation (i.e. hell) to those who do not believe and confess their faith in Christ.

-We follow the 5 Points of Calvinism (Total Depravity, Unconditional Election, Limited Atonement, Irresistible Grace, and Perseverance of the Saints), as opposed to the 5 Points of Arminianism (I don’t want to get too into this, but it has to do with we are able to receive grace on our own, as opposed to as a gift from God).

To sum it up, what sets Presbyterianism apart from other denominations is the elder-ship within the church, and the practice of the two sacraments. It gets a lot deeper than that, but that’s something a seminary student should be dealing with. This basic knowledge, I believe, is enough for the everyday Christians and non-Christians alike.

(i) Our good brother, friend Gerald has gone back to Korea after 15 yrs here in Queens. New Stage. New Life. May our God put new songs of praises in his life: Meditate on Genesis 28, Gerald. You will be missed, terribly.

(ii) I got to talk to (finally!) mystery girls. They are all in QC and St. John’s. Welcome! Hope someday you guys will stay after the service for fellowship.

(iii) Yesterday, we had a couple visiting us: the first couple who actually stayed after service to talk to us. If you are reading this (The Chen family), “Thank you for your kind words. Blessings to you.” Also, I was notified by our treasurer for the love offering you gave to the Lord. Apart from the amount, I am just so thankful for your heartfelt love for the church of Jesus Christ. I have put your name in my blackberry (Prayer Topics).

(iv) Couple weeks ago, I received a random phone call. A Korean lady asked about our church saying she has a married daughter who does not attend church anymore. So I asked her to give their names so I could just pray for them. Whether they come to NSC or not, I’ve been praying for this couple; that they may find Jesus anew. I believe in the power of intercessory prayer. And the lady thanked me with many words.

(v) I received an email from my dear friend Peter K (Suzanna), saying even though they can’t come to NSC anymore (since relocation), they would like to support the church. Once again, I was so encouraged by the love/friendship. I don’t deserve this kind of love. Only the Lord knows what you are going through Peter. May our God sustain you in all things.

(vi) Peter Cho (1988-2010: correct me if 1988 is wrong). We watched your father’s interview & I shared Elder Cho’s Christ honoring testimony with the church. May God use all things for His glory.

(vii) Christian & Sophia Chung: I told Christian Sunday night, “I’m proud of you Christian.” No one at his age in our church. Helping daddy building Jesus’ church without complaints. God will bring us some families, so Christian and Sophia could worship Jesus with songs of praises and the Word of God.

(viii) Rev. David Kim & Kang Min Suk JDSN: thank you always for your prayers, without which, there is no New Song Church.

(ix) My mom & Susan: what can I say. Thank you for putting up with me. Bad husband and bad son. I love you.

(x) OPC: thanks for extending your hands of fellowship to us: we are but a child. We need your prayers, love and guidance. Can’t wait til I join you guys.

(xi) Members of NEW SONG: I thought to myself yesterday afternoon, “wow, I have the best people!” I said that to myself for the first time, to my shame. Thanks for putting up with me. I say this with the Apostle: my little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you! (Gal.4:19)

Few days ago, I encountered Facebook comment by my dear cousin sister Ann saying “RIP, Peter Cho.” Next day, as feared, I heard it was indeed Deacon Cho’s (Now he’s an elder) first son. Yesterday, privately & personally, I mourned. I cried. I prayed.

Deacon Cho was my uncle’s best “church” friend. When I got to Texas back in ’94, on Sundays, I went to my uncle’s church in Houston most of the time (sometimes, my uncle’s ARP church near Galveston). There they worshiped (I sat there, since I was not a Christian), sang in the choir, ate lunch, played in front of church yard, practiced for next week’s choir, and stopped by at Korean Mart before we headed back to Deer Park, TX. There I met this godly man, father of two. He was always welcoming and loving, but what surprised my teen-age-consciousness was the impression that his Christian faith was REAL. There was something about him: he also graciously accompanied me and my mother to Comp USA to buy my first PC, and also introduced me to s’mores.

Years passed, I spent most of time away from Houston and when I came back, I was heavily involved with the ministry and never really went back to my uncle’s church.

Now, the kid I knew has gone to the Lord. Saturday he was missing. Sunday they recovered his body from the bottom of that beautiful yet deadly lake.

Yesterday, my mom who also knows the Cho family well spoke with my aunt in Houston. This is what my aunt said to my mom:

“We went to comfort Elder Cho and the family. But we were comforted by him. He’s calm and talked to us about Jesus. Peter’s younger brother who was only a feet away from his brother in that icy cold-muscle numbing waters was crying ever since, yelling “WHY?” To him, this is what Elder Cho said, “There is no ‘WHY’ thrown at the most wise, holy, gracious, good God. We don’t understand. But this incident is in the perfect will of our God. I thank God that now I can counsel other people (in Church) for their losses as a man who can truly sympathize with their sorrow. Needle is piercing my heart every second. I miss him so much.” Elder Cho asked my aunt and others not to wear Black on his son’s funeral this weekend (the day that Peter was supposed to receive a prize for all-A’s for four years at UT austin, and acceptance into Ph.D./M.D. program into UT Medical School, with full scholarship is now his funeral day). “Funeral is a happy day. My son went to be with his Savior. Do not wear black, but wear normal, casual clothes.” 3 weeks ago, Elder Cho confronted his son with this question, “Do you have real Jesus in your life or not? If not, your accomplishments are nothing.” Then, they had all night discussion and Peter told his father, “even if I die tonight, I know I will be in heaven.” Elder Cho also asked his pastor to preach the Gospel explicitly to many teens, college friends who will be attending the funeral (because mass media has reported Peter’s death all over Texas, many of his friends are contacting Peter’s family for funeral information). To that end, we shall pray. Peter’s death may produce new life in many young people’s lives who do not know who Jesus Christ is.

Thanks Elder Cho for clear, gospel centered, Jesus honoring leadership in this time of suffering.

[from newsongNY.org/blog]

WSCal has made Dr Ferguson’s lecture/sermon available: Here.

I’ve listened to the first one. This is a good one. Something that I will remember for a long time as a Christian and pastor.

Watch (rather than listening to them) if you can.

“The Pastor and His Heart” by Dr. Sinclair Ferguson from Westminster Seminary California on Vimeo.

hey guys =)

This is Linda Park from New Song.

I wanted to share my experience of sponsoring a child through World Vision.  World Vision is well known organization through out the world. As a child, I would remember one of World Vision sponsor [celebrities] coming into churches to describe about World Vision. Seeing many commericals, attending into huge christian camps, and retreats World Vision would always be there and show video clips and a tent full of children photos to be sponsored. Ever since I was in junior high school, I wanted to sponsor a child. Being at a such young age I was afraid to ask my parents for help. I did not know how they would respond. So throughout my whole high school years I would always have World Vision in mind but never took action. I was too young and immature to take responsibility. After I turned 21, I finally took action for my words. I was scared to the commitment, and to tell my parents about it, but I realized I did not care what they would say because helping a child is far more important. So I went on the home page of World Vision and sponsored a child. The following day I told my parents about World Vision and they were more than happy. Than I realized, you have to trust on God. Through him all things are possible.

The steps to sponsor…

There are many ways to sponsor a child, You can either go online at www.worldvision.org

or call the free toll # at  1-888-511-6548.

World Vision explains every question you have. Saving less than $2.00 a day can help a child. It is the cost of $35 a month to help. You may choose the child you wish to sponsor. You learn briefly background of him/her. Sponsoring will help your child to get clean water, education, help the community around him/her, and most importantly bring them to Christ. You can also, visit your child, write, and send gifts to show the love you have for them. You do not have to sponsor a child, you can always help by donating.

Through this experience, I wanted to show someone in need express the love I recieved in Christ. Loving, praying and caring for someone in the other side a world is a gift. The experience is undescribable. I challenge you guys.

I often give Christian books as gifts to my friends/church members because a good book can change a person’s life. And when you are a local church pastor, you would look for something substantial yet easy to read books, otherwise, people won’t read it. So with that in mind, I purchased the Doctrine book by Mark Driscoll. Few thoughts:

1. Yes, it’s written in a conversational tone making the reading a breeze: after all, it’s re-working of his sermon series.

2. There are enough meat in the book covering essentials of Christian orthodoxy.

3. I like many Scriptural references in the footnotes: rather than quoting scholars extensively, Driscoll gives Biblical references. This is my favorite feature of the Book.

4. Very favorable treatments of N.T. Wright and James D.G. Dunn, without any warnings: which is not at all surprising.

5. Mark Driscoll being a leader of New Calvinism: Well, I couldn’t trace much back to the Reformed traditions/thinkers. So, when people say Mark Driscoll is a hope for Calvinism, I take it to mean: There is a strong emphasis on Predestination/Sovereign grace-election/Sacraments. But you see, “Reformed” cannot be equated with simple Predestinarian theology. And there are too much indiscriminate usages of secular non Christian authorities.

6. Strong emphasis on evidentialism/probability apologia: I didn’t expect him to know Van Til.

*Now the question comes down to this: will I give this book to my church member?

Yes and No.

Yes, simply because there are not many books in this manageable size (overall 400 pages, but chapters are not too long) with enough essentials. I mean, there are none…(this entry level doctrine books) other than Stott’s Basic Christianity and Packer’s Knowing God (not at all good Reformed books)

No, because many ‘doctrines’ are what Mark Driscoll perceives them to be. Doctrine is Driscoll’s own personal digest. And I find it more Evangelical than Reformed. But an average Christian wouldn’t know the difference. So, we need more books (like this, we need these in our ministry) by the Reformed. Not ‘critiques’ but more positive ones for popular level.

*if I would give something to a serious Bible student, I would give Reformed Dogmatics: not too hard, not verbose, clear…it’s just…too big