JICF Sunday Sermons

The Apostle Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:7 "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." If not in this life, but certainly on the day of judgment we will all face the consequences of things we have done whether good or bad - or have left undone.This Sunday, as we learned from 1 Samuel 4:2-22, we reviewed what Israel, Eli as its high priest and Eli's sons did which were displeasing to the Lord, the near term consequences they and others faced as a result, and the long term ramifications of their sins.It is a sobering reminder and encouragement to live our lives in light of eternity.

When the world is unstable and chaotic, God remains a stable, solid rock. He is a fortress of protection and calls upon us to trust and rest in Him.Psalm 46 encourages us to look to our God when a crisis arises. In Him, we have peace despite turmoil.

This Sunday we explored 1 Samuel 3:1–21. We learned about how God called the boy Samuel in a time when the word of the Lord was rare.We saw the importance of learning to listen humbly to God's voice, the serious consequences of Eli's failure to restrain sin in his household, and the beginning of Samuel's ministry as Israel's final judge and first prophet.

Even in times of spiritual failure, God remains holy, watchful, and at work. As sin unfolds in the house of God, He does not look away—He lovingly warns, justly corrects, and quietly raises up faithful servants to carry out His purposes.This passage teaches us that in seasons of spiritual failure, God's plans are not shaken. His holiness calls us back to reverence, and His providence assures us that He is still guiding His people with wisdom and care.

What happens after God answers our prayers?Hannah's song in 1 Samuel 2 reminds us that faith is more than testimony—it is a growing relationship. This message reflects on how faith matures from need into love, and from love into rest, learning to trust God's sovereignty and finding contentment in His presence.

In our barrenness and brokenness, God can bring life.

Can God's sovereignty go hand in hand with our responsibility? Do God's providence requires our obedience?As we start our new series, Yusup Lifire taught us that The book of First Samuel reveals God's providence at work in a times of uncertainty and spiritual decline. As God faithfully guides His people through imperfect leaders, common people and unexpected events, He calls them to listen to His voice and walk in obedience. Faithful obedience invites blessing; disobedience brings consequences.As God fulfills His promises, He calls His people to trust Him, listen to His voice, and respond with faithful obedience. This book reminds us that God's providence never excuses passivity—rather, it summons us to live responsibly under His sovereign care.

In Sunday's message, Hendra Suhartanto reminded us that life is short, and every day matters more than we realize.Come! Let's explore together God's call to live with eternal purpose in light of our limited time on earth.Drawing from Romans 12, Psalm 90, and the Great Commission, this message challenges us to stop drifting, renew our minds, and live transformed lives that intentionally make disciples.As a new year begins, discover how God wants to use your remaining days—not for comfort or conformity, but for lasting impact that reaches souls and glorifies Christ.

Ebenezer means stone of help which will us to declare and remember God's help and faithfulness in our lives especially over the past year.

As we come to the end of our advent series we look to the fulfillment of the promises of God of Peace, Hope, Love and Joy through the birth of Jesus.However, the first coming of Jesus points us towards his second coming and all the promises of God in Christ will only be fulfilled with his second coming.We come to look at what God promised his people through Isaiah, to what has been fulfilled through Christ's first coming and what are still to come to help us reflect on what is it that we are still looking forward to and what we should be building our hope on.

Why do so many people feel empty during the season that promises happiness and festivity?Because true joy is not found in gifts, traditions, or celebrations — it is found in a Savior.In this Christmas message from Luke 2:8–14, we will explore the difference between being merry, being happy, and experiencing the deep, unshakeable joy God announced through the angels: “Good news of great joy for all people.”Discover how Jesus brings light into our darkness, peace into our chaos, and hope into our emptiness — and how this joy can overflow into generosity, worship, and transformed lives.Come and rediscover the joy that cannot be bought, manufactured, or lost…because Joy has a name — Jesus.

While the world searches for the ever-elusive perfect love story, God has written the perfect love story before creation even began.Before the foundation of the world, the eternal GOD - Father, Son and Holy Spirit – live in perfect overflowing love.Before there was sin, before there was law, before there were sacrifices, before there was a nation, there was love.And it's out of that love that He created us, pursued us, redeemed us, and called us to Himself.As we draw near to celebrate Jesus' birth, we are going to walk through the most famous verse in the world. There are many verses in Scripture that believers cherish deeply, but none is more universally known than John 3:16. But sometimes, because this verse is so familiar, its depth becomes invisible.Nevertheless, here we find the motivation behind the incarnation. We find the reason Jesus was born. We find the foundation of the Christian faith, the hope of humanity, and the revelation of God's deepest desire. That is His love.

Discover the true meaning of Christmas in “The Peace That Must Be Shared”—a powerful message about how the Prince of Peace saves us, sustains us, and sends us.While the world longs for relief from anxiety, guilt, and brokenness, real peace is found only in reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ. From the angels' proclamation in Luke 2:14 to Christ's call to be peacemakers and soul-winners, this sermon reveals how the peace we receive must become the peace we share.Come be reminded that Christmas is not just a season to celebrate, but a mission to fulfill—bringing others to the Savior who alone can make them whole.

From God's first promise in Eden (Genesis 3:15), to Isaiah's vision of a light shining in the darkness, to the angel's announcement to Mary, Scripture shows that Jesus is God's long-awaited answer to our deepest needs.In His birth, the true Light enters our world, and in His return He will make all things new.

In this sermon, Tommy Lee walked us through as we explore what it means to live with a Gospel mindset—a way of seeing and engaging the world shaped by faith, love, and hope in Christ.Drawing from Colossians 1:3–8, we'll see how the gospel transforms not just what we believe, but how we live, love, and bear fruit in every aspect of our life.

Are you content in whatever circumstances you find yourself?Or are you dissatisfied with your life?Please join us this Sunday to hear why God may want you to be exactly where you are in regard to you marital/family status, job/career, or financial situation - and the dangers we may face if we are not content with where God has placed us!

As John Ng joined us this Sunday, he shared with us that emptiness is part & parcel of our Christian experience. It comes in all shapes & sizes: unanswered prayers, deep pains, financial insecurity, business collapse, economic disasters, or loneliness of dying, etc.Where is God in all these? How can we flourish in these seasons. Learn from the prophet Habakkuk…'Though the fig tree does not bud…I will rejoice' Hab 3:17

In Sunday's message, Lee Khen Seng taught us that waiting is one of life's hardest lessons—but it is also one of God's greatest tools for transformation.In seasons of delay, confusion, or silence, God is not absent; He is actively shaping our faith, renewing our strength, and aligning our hearts with His perfect will. Isaiah reminds us that “those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.”In this message, we will explore how biblical figures like Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Jesus, and Paul flourished in their seasons of waiting—and how we, too, can turn waiting into worship, trust, and fruitful service.Discover how active waiting, not passive waiting, leads to spiritual renewal and a deeper walk with God.

Suparno Adijanto joined us on Sunday to remind us that life is full of transitions: career changes, moving cities, marriage, parenting, children leaving home, leadership shifts, even spiritual seasons.Israel faced a time of transition when moving from Moses to Joshua.How can we flourish—not just survive—in seasons of transition?

Due to the fact that we live in a fallen world, most of us face seasons of isolation and loneliness.Is it wrong to feel lonely?Is there something I can do about it?These questions, and more, will be answered as we look at seasons of loneliness and isolation faced by Joseph, Paul, and even Jesus—and what we can learn from God through them.

In Sunday's message, Hendra Suhartanto reminded us that in biblical times, financial constraint often meant the stark reality of not having food or drink, as in the story of the widow and her son in Elijah's day who faced starvation (1 Kings 17).Today, our struggles may look different. Even if we can still put food on the table, financial pressure can weigh heavily with rent, electricity, water, transportation, healthcare, and endless bills. Needs that were once luxuries have become basic necessities, leaving many feeling crushed though they appear fine outwardly.The question we wrestle with is this: if God is truly our Provider, why does He allow seasons of financial dryness? Scripture shows us that constraint is not meant to destroy us but to deepen our dependence on Him.True flourishing is not measured by what sits in our bank account but by trusting the One who holds our lives together. Even in scarcity, He reminds us that life is sustained not by possessions, but by His faithful provision.

Why is there suffering if God is a good God?Have we ever wondered about this?There will be definitely be times of pain, loss and grief in our lives. Why does God allow suffering in our lives? How should we respond in times of suffering? Can we flourish in a season of suffering?In this sermon, Melvin Gan reminded us to deal with some of these questions so that we can see the purposes of God in difficult periods of our lives.

Elijah experiences a great victory on Mount Carmel, but at what personal cost? After such a great victory Elijah allows the threat of Queen Jezebel to send him into the desert where he wants to die. But, he finds healing in the gentle whisper of God on Mount Horeb. In Sunday's message, Jackson Crum taught us that this passage has much to show us on to find healing in our trauma and suffering.

In Sunday's message, Yusup Lifire reminded us that every believer walks through seasons when God feels distant, prayers seem unanswered, soul feels dry. We do not feel excited to pray, to read our Bible or to worship.Why is this happening in our spiritual lives? What is God doing? What should we do? How and what fruit can we bear in this season?

In Sunday's message from Psalm 23, Sandjaja reminded us that life is a journey of changing seasons. In the Bible, seasons can mean more than just the natural cycles of spring, summer, fall and winter. Biblically, the word season points to God-ordained times or appointed periods in life.There are moments in our lives where God is doing something specific in His plan, both in creation and in our personal journeys. Every life is a story written in seasons.

In this passage, Barry Rowan reminded us to see how Jesus took time to pray. Through prayer he learned his mission from our Father and was willing to have that mission modified as he journeyed through life.Sharing from Barry's own experiences, we will see how Jesus' story connects with our own. Our hope is that we will go beyond a prayer life to living lives of prayer as we see God's will embedded in every circumstance of our lives.

Let's explore what Scripture says about the value of relationships—especially family and friends—and how we can treasure them as God intended.

God is sovereign and will complete all his purposes and promises no matter what. In Acts 27:27-44, we see his sovereignty in the details of Paul's life as he journeys to Rome. It may seem puzzling and confusing that God caused Paul to go through a shipwreck. His sovereignty over the details of Paul's life is written down to comfort and strengthen us in our time of difficulties because we know God is good and is sovereign over the details of our lives.

Paul was finally on his way to Rome. Traveling by sea, they encountered violent storm that caused them to drift uncontrollably. And they began to lose all hope.In this life, we are bound to encounter violent life's storms. How should we, as believers, navigate through life's storms?Paul was finally on his way to Rome. Traveling by sea, they encountered violent storm that caused them to drift uncontrollably. And they began to lose all hope.In this life, we are bound to encounter violent life's storms. How should we, as believers, navigate through life's storms?

As the apostle Paul is giving his defence in the climax of his trials, the hope that has driven him all this time shines through and it shocks those who are listening to him. For Paul's concern is not about his freedom, but about the hope of the promises to Abraham, to the Prophets and those given by Jesus. The challenge for us is to examine our lives to see whether we cling to the same hope or some other false hope that Saul once did as well.

In Acts 25, Paul stands trial yet again—this time before corrupt leaders, false accusations, and shifting political schemes. Outwardly, he is a prisoner, but inwardly, Paul is the freest man in the room. This passage reminds us that true freedom isn't found in circumstances but in Christ. As we see Paul entrust himself to God's sovereign hand, we're invited to trust that no earthly power can derail God's purposes. Come discover how the unstoppable Gospel shines bright even when surrounded by worldly power—and how we, like Paul, can live unchained.

Have you ever found yourself in season of struggle - where prayer feels like a battle, and life feels like a wrestling match with God Himself? - in this sermon, Wrestling With God, We'll journey with Jacob as he wrestles through the night with God. The encounter isn't just about physical conflict - it's about transformation. Discover how God meets us in our deepest struggles, how our greatest battles can lead to our genuine blessings and how brokeness can lead to a new identi

Are we easily intimidated by others and thus hesitate the share the Good News with those who need to hear it? Are we clearly able to communicate the Good News? Do we feel defeated when others don't respond positively to the message? Please join us this Sunday as we learn from the Apostle Paul in Acts 24 as he responds to accusations made by Ananias, the High Priest before Governor Felix.

There are times in our faith journey that life seems to spin out of control. Threats arise. Plans fall apart. People betray us. A disease haunts us. Financial woes creeps upon us. Darkness appears to be closing in, and God is silent. And in these moments, we cry out to God: "Where are You, God?" And God still stay silent.And yet, in His silence, God's providence assures us that God is not only present but actively orchestrating every detail of our lives for His glory.

We explore how the early church faced hardship with bold faith, and how those same themes are playing out in the church in Iran today. Through Scripture and powerful modern day true stories, we'll be reminded that no matter the challenge or opposition, God is not finished yet. Because Jesus is truly alive, He is still writing a beautiful story—and we are invited to live into it.

Acts 22:22–23:10 Jesus spent a good deal of time preparing His disciples for how hard it would be to follow Him. It should not take us by surprise that in this world we will have tribulation for the sake of the gospel. It was this type of situation that Paul found himself in our text for today's sermon. How would he respond? How will we respond?

In Acts 22:1–21, Paul shares a deeply personal story — not just of his past, but of a radical encounter with Jesus that changed everything. This is more than a testimony; it's a declaration of God's grace, power, and purpose. Like Paul, each of us carries a story that must be told — a story that speaks of redemption, transformation, and a calling to do the will of God. Don't hide your story — let it point others to the One who rewrites destinies.

Paul came to Jerusalem fully aware that many Jews wanted him dead. Yet he followed God's will, even when it led him straight into danger, because he cared more about others' eternal souls than his own well-being. This week, examine Paul's arrest in Jerusalem and reflect on God's calling in our own lives—and the cost of truly following Jesus.

Where do strength and courage come from in the midst of confusing & difficult times? What does the Lord want us to know? How does He want his children act?

We continue our journey through the Book of Acts by looking at how Paul handled complex cultural and spiritual tensions in Jerusalem. Through his example, we are challenged to live with a mission-minded heart that honors God and builds up His Church.We reflect on three key truths:Celebrate the Harvest—Even When It's Not Yours (vv. 17–20a)Rejoice in how God works through others, even when you're not in the spotlight.Lay Down Our Rights, Lift Up Others (vv. 20b–24)True unity often requires humility and sacrifice.Build Bridges, Not Barriers (vv. 25–26)Seek peace and understanding to foster a united witness for Christ.

In our Christian walk, we often assume that obedience to God will lead to blessing, and it does. But blessing, in the biblical sense, doesn't always mean ease or safety or richness. Sometimes, the path to obedience takes us through storms, trials, and painful goodbyes. And yet, it's in those moments that our faith is most clearly displayed not only to others but also to ourselves.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most pivotal event in human history, especially our Christian faith. What is the significance of it for our belief, behavior, and hope for the future?

We are living in uncertain times. We need to learn to trust God even in these times.

What kind of people did Jesus call to follow Him and why is it good news? Is following Jesus worth it? Come discover these answers as we look at the call of the first disciples of Jesus.

No one escapes trials in this life. Sometimes people attack us. Sometimes situations in the world affect us negatively. Sometimes our own behaviour brings us into terrible hardship. How do we face this kind of suffering? In Psalm 62 David gives us a Spirit-led snapshot of his own cry to God and the confidence he has in the Lord. This is a great opportunity to arm ourselves with the same thinking as we face the realities of living in this world.

God brings about changes in Joseph and Pharaoh, but it all works according to His sovereign timing. We should take confidence in waiting on God to use us to impact others with the gospel.

In Acts 20:17-38, Paul meets with the elders of the church in Ephesus for the last time. Join us as we learn from his powerful advice to church leaders—wisdom that applies not only to leadership in the church but also in our families and every position of influence where God has placed us.

In Acts 20:9 Eutychus fell asleep during Paul's sermon, fell from a third-story window, and died. Paul brought him back to life. It's easy to condemn Eutychus, but what about us? Week after week, we hear the Word, yet how many of us are spiritually asleep? We may be awake physically, but are we truly alive to the Father's business? If not, it's time to WAKE UP! Just as Paul revived Eutychus, God's Spirit is here to awaken us to His purpose and reignite our passion. The time for complacency is over!

Throughout history, we have seen how the Gospel of Jesus Christ is able to transform society. These transformations happened even when faced with great opposition. How can we be used by God to bring about societal transformation? What should we do when facing opposition? And what part does God play in all this? Please join us this Sunday as we look in God's Word for the answer to these questions

How do you perceive evil spirits, sorcery and the occult? Do you underestimate them or even deny their existence? Or do you overestimate and live in fear of their power? Or have you even been involved in them? How do you perceive and experience the power of the name of Jesus over evil spirits? Let us see how God demonstrated His power in the cult and magic center of the Roman world.

All Christians are called to be disciples of Jesus, and we are to be them holistically. What does it look like to be a holistic disciple of Christ? Let's learn by looking at the life of Jesus' disciples in Jerusalem.