Community Church HK Podcast

For the Sake of the World: Beauty

Living in a world that often prioritises outward appearances, it is important for us to remember that the true essence of beauty lies within. As 1 Peter 3:4 reminds us, "Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” With this encouragement, let us then seek to cultivate a spirit that shines brightly amidst the chaos. Together, we can inspire others to see beyond the surface, recognise the profound worth of inner beauty, and celebrate our unique journeys to uplift one another!
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================This Week's Scripture:// Key Verses //John 3:16-17: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
1 Peter 3:3-4: Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewellery or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.
Isaiah 53:2-3:He grew up before him like a tender shoot,    and like a root out of dry ground.He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him,    nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.He was despised and rejected by mankind,    a man of suffering, and familiar with pain.Like one from whom people hide their faces    he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.

For the Sake of the World: Evangelism

In a world where uncertainty looms and hope often feels distant, we are called to stand firm in our faith. As 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” That is a wonderful reminder that each of us can contribute to a greater narrative of faith and unity, inspiring others to seek and find their own hope in Christ. Together, we can be vessels of God’s love, reaching out to those who feel lost or disconnected. 
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================This Week's Scripture:// John 4:4–14 //So [Jesus] came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?"
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

For the Sake of the World: The Call to the Church

In a world where division can often prevail, let's draw inspiration from Acts 2:44: "All the believers were together and had everything in common." As we navigate the challenges of life, let's come together in unity and support. Whether it's through sharing resources, lending a helping hand, or simply being present for one another, our collective strength can bring about positive change. Let's embody the spirit of community and love that binds us. Together, we can make a difference for the sake of the world.
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================This Week's Scripture:// Acts 2:43–47 //Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 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, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

For the Sake of the World: Goods (Part 2)

In a city as vibrant and dynamic as Hong Kong, we are blessed with opportunities to excel in many areas—faith, speech, knowledge, and love. As we navigate these bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, let's also remember to excel in the grace of giving. In these times of change and growth, let's focus on how we can contribute to our community and the world around us as we are inspired by 2 Corinthians 8:7 (NIV), which says: "But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” Together, let's make Hong Kong a beacon of hope and kindness.
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================This Week's Scripture:// 1 Timothy 6:6-10, 17-19 //But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs...
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

For the Sake of the World: Goods (Part 1)

In a world where we often cling tightly to our possessions, this verse reminds us of a profound truth: everything belongs to God. Indeed, giving isn't just about money—it's a heart matter. When we recognise that all we have is a gift from God, it becomes easier to open our hands and hearts to others. As we go about our week, let's challenge ourselves to see our resources through this lens. How can we use what we've been entrusted with to bless others and make our city a better place?
If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect
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================This Week's Scripture:// Matthew 6:19-25 //Treasures in Heaven“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Do Not Worry“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?

For the Sake of the World: Gifts (Part 2)

As we reflect on our purpose in this vibrant city of Hong Kong, let us remember the words from Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Let us always continue to embrace our calling to uplift one another. Whether through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or simply spreading kindness, each of us has a unique gift to share. Join us this Sunday as we work together to make a difference and embody the spirit of compassion and community that defines our city.
If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect
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================This Week's Scripture:// Matthew 13:1-9 //The parable of the sowerThat same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered round him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop–a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.’

For the Sake of the World: Gifts (Part 1): The Bigger Picture of Gifts

In a world that often feels divided, the power of gifts—both tangible and intangible—can bridge gaps and foster connection. Inspired by Acts 16:15, where Lydia opens her home to Paul and his companions, we are reminded of the beauty of hospitality and generosity. Lydia's invitation wasn’t just about offering a place to stay; it was an act of faith and community that transformed her life and the lives of those around her.
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================This Week's Scripture:// Acts 16:12-15 //From there we travelled to Philippi, a Roman colony and the leading city of that district of Macedonia. And we stayed there several days.
On the Sabbath we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshipper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. When she and the members of her household were baptised, she invited us to her home. ‘If you consider me a believer in the Lord,’ she said, ‘come and stay at my house.’ And she persuaded us.

For the Sake of the World: Generations

In a time when our world faces unprecedented challenges, let us remember the enduring goodness and love of the LORD. As Psalm 100:5 reminds us, "For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Let us continue to stand united in faith and hope, knowing that our actions today shape the world for tomorrow. Together, we can create a legacy of love and resilience that will inspire those who follow us.
If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect
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================This Week's Scripture:// Key Verses //Proverbs 16:31: Grey hair is a crown of splendour; it is attained in the way of righteousness.
1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
Psalm 92:14 (NIV)They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green… 
Psalm 8:2 (NIV)Through the praise of children and infants you have established a stronghold against your enemies…

For the Sake of the World: Ground (Part 2)

As we reflect on our role in caring for creation, let’s remember the profound words from Genesis 2:15: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” Indeed, we are witnessing the need for Christian stewardship more than ever as pressing issues like air pollution, plastic waste, and biodiversity loss are impacting our beloved city. The recent climate reports remind us that we must act now to protect our environment for future generations. Let us continue moving on this journey of creation care as we strive to live in harmony with nature and fulfil our responsibility to protect God's creation.
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================This Week's Scripture:// Colossians 1:15-20 //The supremacy of the Son of GodThe Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

For the Sake of the World: Ground (Part 1): It’s More than Just Trees

Last month, Hong Kong celebrated National Ecology Day 2024, so it is also good for us to reflect on how God has called us to be stewards of His creation. Creation care goes beyond just planting trees of course—it's about living in harmony with the world that God has entrusted to us. In the face of pressing environmental challenges like climate change and pollution, we have a responsibility to make choices that honour God's creation. Let us also be inspired to put our faith into action. We are God's masterpieces, created to do good works that make a difference in caring for His world.
If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect
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================This Week's Scripture:// Genesis 1:1-19 //In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.
And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light ‘day’, and the darkness he called ‘night’. And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day.
And God said, ‘Let there be a vault between the waters to separate water from water.’ So God made the vault and separated the water under the vault from the water above it. And it was so. God called the vault ‘sky’. And there was evening, and there was morning—the second day.
And God said, ‘Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.’ And it was so. God called the dry ground ‘land’, and the gathered waters he called ‘seas’. And God saw that it was good.
Then God said, ‘Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.’ And it was so. The land produced vegetation: plants bearing seed according to their kinds and trees bearing fruit with seed in it according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the third day.
And God said, ‘Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years, and let them be lights in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth.’ And it was so. God made two great lights – the greater light to govern the day and the lesser light to govern the night. He also made the stars. God set them in the vault of the sky to give light on the earth, to govern the day and the night, and to separate light from darkness. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the fourth day.