Discipleship is Key
Last Saturday, 24th Nov, a referendum was held in Taiwan. We are thankful for how smoothly it went, and for how clear the public opinion is: “Preserve family values!” We are greatly delighted to see this sentiment expressed more strongly than expected, in the answers to the three controversial questions*. These “referendum” results expressed the will of the Taiwanese people in defending social ethics and family values, now in turn the Taiwanese Government must discharge her constitutional duties.
Even after this “referendum”, we must continue to pray and watch over Taiwan’s government and society, praying that these results shall be accordingly executed by legislation to guard the system of marriage of one man and one woman. Similarly, in Hong Kong, we shall, through the discipleship and care of “Tree of Life” protect the systems of marriage, family and education.
As our church starts “planting Trees of Life everywhere in 52 years”, this weekend marks the graduation of the Bible School, and we have a new record high number of graduates. May I exhort everyone, “Glorious church begins with couple’s relationship, and healthy church starts with healthy family.” The keys to both lie in discipleship. Only through discipleship in couple’s relationship and family, can the church be established and grow to become the Tree of Life, healing people.
Due to our own weaknesses and sinful natures, or hurts from broken family relationships, we need the Redemption and Healing of Christ Jesus. In the church, through the “Tree of Life” principle, we disciple and care for others, we train them in righteousness and rebuild broken families. Politics and legislation may change the marriage system, but can neither help with life struggles nor provide a way out of life dilemmas.
Dear brothers and sisters, in this crooked and perverse generation, we desperately need more Trees of Life. Through discipleship, we shall present a way out to the world, to the adversely affected family and marriage. Therefore, let us prepare, because you and I must partake in this. • [2018.12.2]
*Note: In the 10 questions asked in the referendum, three were about family values: “Restricting marriage under Civil Code to one man and woman”, “Not implementing the homosexual aspect of Gender Equality Education Act” and “Protecting the rights of same-sex couples outside of the Civil Code”. These three questions received “For” vote of 72.48%, 67.44% and 61.12% respectively.