The Normal Christian Life {Book Review}

BOOK TITLE: The Normal Christian Life

AUTHOR: Watchman Nee (Nee To-Sheng)

ISBN: 978-971-789-194-1267-2

THEME: Christian Living/ Spiritual Growth

PUBLISHER: CLC Publications

OVERALL RATING: 4.9/ 5

PAGES: 255

As a Christian Have you ever asked yourself,—“Am I living the normal Christian Life?” “Am I walking in the path that God wants me to walk in?”But wait, what really is the normal Christian Life? Maybe, you’ll say it is reading the bible, praying, going to church by Sundays… and that’s it, but there’s more than that.

Watchman Nee gives us the secret of a normal Christian life, and that is to put Christ in your life, make him your life, dying to self so Christ will be glorified.Compiled from the records and private notebooks of Nee (Nee To-Sheng) which are meticulously translated by Angus I. Kinnear, this book is a must have to any Christian who longs to live a Christ-centered life.

With 1 Million in print, there is no wonder that this book has reached that peak. Every pages of this book is clearly, well-written & well- inspired from the bible, particularly from the book of Romans and Ephesians. Nee reveals the essential steps in the personal faith and walk of the believer and emphasizes the cross, blood and resurrection of our Lord Jesus which contains fresh spiritual insights very good for our spiritual walk.

Get ready to experience breakthrough in your life as you read this book and as you long to live for the sake of Christ, let Christ be your life, live the normal Christian Life!

Get your copy now! I am telling you,you’ll love to read it over and over again!

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“I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ livethin me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

-Galatians 2:20 KJV

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Watchman Nee (1903-1972) was a noted Chinese Bible teacher and Christian leader. He began his preaching ministry while still a university student. From 1923 to 1950 Nee founded 200 churches. Starting as small groups meeting in rented houses, these self-supporting congregations became strong spiritually and gew rapidly, continuing to develop their China’s Cultural Revolution. Nee was arrested in 1952 and found guilty of false charges; he was imprisoned until his death in 1972.

ABOUT THE CLC PUBLICATIONS

CLC Publications (formerly Christian Literature Crusade) is the English language publishing house for CLC Ministries International. Headquartered in Fort Washington, PA, CLC has published books for the Deeper Christian Life for over 50 years. Our focus has been to publish books by trusted authors with a clear and timeless message. Some of our better known authors from the past include Watchman Nee, Corrie ten Boom, Amy Carmichael, Andrew Murray and Roy Hession. Today we are also publishing books by well known authors like Warren Wiersbe and Michael Catt.

Many of our books are influenced by the message of the Keswick movement starting in 1875 in England and therefore some of our older authors have British origins or spoke on the Keswick stage at one time or another. While we do not limit our publishing to the theology of this movement, we are certainly excited to be able to convey the message of the Victorious Christian Life to a new generation.

As a part of CLC International, our books are sold and distributed in countries all over the world including but not limited to the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, India, the West Indies, and the Philippines. We are committed to being a significant part of fulfilling CLC’s international purpose of making evangelical Christian literature available to all nations so that people may come to faith and maturity in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Disclosure: A review copy of this book is provided for review by CLCPhilippines

for more info. visit: http://www.clcphilippines.com/

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What Worship Style Are You?

Today’s post is more of a poll than it is a teaching.
I want to know…what worship style are you?
Piano? Banjo? Organ? Guitar? Synth? Vocoder?
A few weeks ago I shared my criteria for selecting new songs as well as how I find new songs.
A friend of mine messaged me privately when I mentioned who the “staple” songwriters were that I look for.
You see, he leads worship with predominantly “Black Gospel” music. The most “crossover” artist he does is Israel Houghton. But he’s into songs from Judith Christie-McAllister, John P. Kee, William Murphy, Vashawn Mitchell, James Fortune, Charles Jenkins, Kurt Carr, Byron Cage, and Fred Hammond.
Me? These songwriters and artists aren’t even on my radar. But the question begs to be asked: should they be?

Is the Guitar Overtaking Worship Music?

What’s interesting is that this type of music doesn’t require the ever popular, guitar-oriented worship band with two singers. It’s driven by a couple keyboards, organ, 6-9 singers, and sometimes even a choir.
I know for me, this type of music doesn’t get included in my repertoire. I’m as white as white can be. But it got me thinking: why don’t I include this type of music on occasion? Am I missing a beautiful element of diversity in my services?
What worship style are you? Do you feel the style of your church isn’t given voice in our current, modern worship music?
And it seems that most churches are conforming to the guitar, tenor-vocal driven, modern, pop/rock worship sound.
As the body of Christ all over the world, our styles should be unique. The message of the Gospel never changes but as we incarnate that truth in different cultures it needs to take on new flavor.
So I want to hear from you, friends. What worship style are you?
What music do you select? Who are you listening to?
You can leave a comment

SOURCE

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Holy Ground Album {Review}

ALBUM TITLE: Holy Ground

ARTIST: Citipointe Live

BEST TRACKS: Holy Ground, The Ninety-Nine, Emmanuel, El Shaddai

OVERALL RATING: 4.50/5

Brisbane, Australia’s Citipointe LIVE just released its 8^th and latest live praise and worship album – Holy Ground. It has 12 tracks in a CD+DVD format, a great resource to any Christian specially to lead worshippers. It is already available in Australia and worldwide through iTunes and is set to release here in the Philippines on the 15^th of July 2013.

It was recorded live at Citipointe Church by their key lead worshippers-- Aaron & Becky Lucas, Joel Ramsey, Chardon Lewis, Beau Lamshed and the Citipointe worship team. The majority of the songs were written by Aaron Lucas, Joel Ramsey and Collin Moore.

The album title was taken from the passages in the book of Leviticus 20:26 (The Message): “Live holy lives before me because I, GOD, am Holy. I have distinguished you from the nations to be my very own.” While the album art depicts the burning bush when YHWH spoken to Moses.

THE ABSOLUTE, words & music by Aaron Lucas, this song declares the Lordship of Jesus Christ; the absolute truth of His Kingship and endless power. It was led by Aaron Lucas, and it started and ended with a shout “All glory to You” (taken from the end of the chorus). It has resemblance to the worship anthem “Break the Silence” (also from Citipointe). “You’re the absolute King of endless worth… Awesome God of truth…”

UNSHAKEABLE, words & music by Aaron Lucas, this song proclaims the unshakeable hope found in Jesus for He is Elohim—The All-Powerful One. This energetic song was also led by Aaron Lucas. Christ alone is the Unshakeable and the Solid Rock on whom we can put our trust—a song of Faith. “The waters crash around but my feet will remain on Christ the solid rock…”

HOLY GROUND, words & music by Aaron Lucas, the title track of the album. This song is short in composition but intimate, which makes it an ultimate worship anthem. Its chorus is very powerful and will surely stir up your spirit as you shout the holiness of God.  This song is easy to master and so congregational. As you sing this song, an atmosphere of worship will surely touch your heart as if you are Moses, back in the bible times—having an encounter with GOD in the burning bush. “I stand on holy ground, lifting a holy sound… Angels dancing all around…”

THE NINETY-NINE, words & music by Collin Moore, led by Becky Lucas, this song was taken from Matthew 18:12 (NIV), “What do you think if a man owns a hundred sheep, an one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one who wandered off?” It declares the love of God for humanity that he chose to leave the heavens above to save us—to find us who were lost. Our God is YHWH Rohi—the Lord our Shepherd. ”Merciful and Mighty, for love you left the ninety-nine.”

EMMANUEL—GOD WITH US, words & music by Chardon Lewis, led by Chardon Lewis, this song is an anthem of praise for our God who never leaves us. It is a broad declaration of faith—“whom shall I fear, for you are always near,” Chardon sang soulfully (as always) never forget Becky’s powerful second voice as the drum line beats. It’s my favorite track in the album, so powerful!

WE’VE COME ALIVE, words & music by Joel Ramsey/ Colin Moore; it proclaims the All-Sufficient GOD—YHWH El Shaddai. His faithfulness through the ages and His power to save is the message of the powerful chorus.

EL SHADDAI, words & music by Joel Ramsey, led by Becky Lucas, this song is another worship anthem for the God who saves, our only hope. Becky’s voice never fails us to give us very soulful and anointed songs that will surely push anyone to a moment of worship. “Jesus our hope El Shaddai there is no one like you!”

SURRENDER, words & music by Aaron Lucas, another song led by Becky. As the title conveys, this song is an anthem of surrender. Beautifully crafted, this song will surely put you at the foot of the cross to surrender everything.

HOLD ME NOW, words & music Beau Lamshed, it started with strums of guitar, this song coveys the Power of God who created us that resonates with Psalm 139:13 (NIV), “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” I love how the song ends, a shout of “I am Yours!”

HEAVENLY LIGHT, words & music by Joel Ramsey/ Aaron Lucas; a Father to the fatherless; Eyes to the blind; Hope where all hope is gone, your name is Jesus Christ—A declaration of our need of Jesus for He is the only one who can complete us. You will surely love the part when the choir/ congregation sings as the guitar strums.

GLORIOUS, words & music Aaron by Lucas, Joel Ramsey & Collin Moore; It shouts the glory of our God who has conquered the grave because of his love. This song has an excellent guitar line; you are free to dance as you listen to it, what an energetic song indeed!

UNFAILING FATHER, words & music by Joel Ramsey & Collin Moore, an awesome song to end the album. Very congregational, it exalts our Unfailing God—the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, who was and is and is to come (Revelations 1:8 NIV). This song is prayer of the heart, giving and surrendering all authorities and dominion to our God, “Your kingdom come, your will be done… my forever King, Heaven’s royalty…”

I don’t know how to express my joy to listen and worship with this phenomenal album. It is an absolute declaration of worship to our Living, Powerful, All-Sufficient, Never Failing and Ever-Loving God. Every song in this album is beautifully written, spirit-breathed and so anointing! As soon as it reaches the music stands/ record bars in you place, I encourage you to get your own copy! It is very great resource indeed. Shalom! Emmanuel—God with us forevermore! J

Disclosure: A review copy of this album was provided by Citipointe LIVE. Special thanks to Ps. Mark & Leigh Ramsey and to Ms. Vanessa Johnson.

ABOUT CITIPOINTE LIVE:

Citipointe Live is worship team birthed from citpointe church Brisbane and Have a great passion for the local church. Devoted their church vision 'to unmistakably influence our world for good and for God', Citipointe Live travel internationally bringing changing worship and trainging to churches and conferences world wide

For more info., visit: http://citipointelive.com/

ABOUT CITIPOINTE CHURCH:

Citipointe Church (formerly Christian Outreach Centre Mansfield) is a Pentecostal Christian church founded in 1974. It is the founding church of the Christian Outreach Centremovement. The founding campus is located in the Brisbane suburb of Mansfield, in Australia. The church's senior pastors are Mark and Leigh Ramsey, who have held the position since September 2000.

For more info., visit: http://citipointechurch.com/

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Revealing Jesus 365 Day Devotional Book

Multiple Award Winning singer, songwriter, world-renowned worship leader, author and speaker -- Darlene Zschech released her latest book Revealing Jesus. It has a companion worship album in CD/DVD format by the same name. I encourage you to get your own copy of this 365 Day Devotional book, it would make an awesome gift for yourself, friend or for your relatives.

When I got my copy from my very generous aunt, I was surprised by its very rare and elegant hardback that is literally glimmering; it will attract any person’s attention.

If you are longing for intimacy with God, and if you desire to plunge deeper in knowing of Him, this book will help you. Born out of Darlene’s own yearning that she poured onto the pages of journals and meditations, this book speaks of the finished work of Jesus Christ in the cross—how He tenderly cares for you and wants you to know Him.

Honest, raw and beautifully written, every pages of this devotional book will inspire you, empower you and will encourage you in your daily journey with Jesus. Each month is focused to a study of a particular character of Jesus:

January – Faithful

February – Solid Rock

March – Shield

April – Holy One

May – The Gate

June – Savior

July – Risen One

August – Redeemer

September – Breath of Life

October – Peace

November – Friend of Sinners

December –Messiah

Darlene Zschech urges us to come, sit at the feet of our lord, be strengthened in your weakness, embrace His love for you and breathe in His peace.

JESUS, BE REVEALED!

About The Author

Darlene Zschech is acclaimed worldwide as a singer, songwriter, worship leader, and speaker--most notably for her involvement in the music from Hillsong Church over many years. Although she has achieved numerous gold albums and her songs are sung in many nations, her success stands as a testimony to her life's passion to serve God and people with all her heart.

Mark and Darlene's life commitment to do whatever they can to bring answers and relief to human suffering prompted the birth of HOPE: Rwanda to bring hope and healing to that nation seemingly forgotten since the genocide of 1994. As this HOPE has spread into Cambodia, Vanuatu, India, Uganda, and beyond, their work through HOPE: Global continues to gather momentum. They also actively work with Compassion International serving the world's poorest children. notably for her involvement in the music from Hillsong Church over many years. Although she has achieved numerous gold albums and her songs are sung in many nations, her success stands as a testimony to her life's passion to serve God and people with all her heart.

In 2011, Mark and Darlene became senior pastors of Hope Unlimited Church on the beautiful Central Coast of New South Wales, where they now live with their family. While they travel extensively and have the honor of ministering around the globe, Darlene says, "First and foremost I am a woman who simply and wholeheartedly loves Christ, and serves Him through loving my family, serving the church, and speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves."

Thanks to my aunt Emily Bustos for giving me a free copy. :)

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LWP#1: Justine Paolo Gadiano Parcasio

Last week, I contacted a friend of mine, whom long ago I found because of the social networking site Facebook, isn't that great and awesome?

I selected him as the pilot/ first lead worshipper whose profile is to be featured here in my worship blog. Thank GOD, he responded so quickly!

His profile goes like this...

Name: Justine Paolo Gadiano Parcasio

Current City/Location: Baguio City, Philippines

Church: Grace Communion International - Baguio City/La Trinidad Church

Denomination: Grace Communion International

Years leading worship: 2 years

Active members: 60-70 members

Favorite Worship song: Our God by Chris Tomlin

Instrument(s) you play: Guitar

Favorite Worship song: Our God by Chris Tomlin

Instrument(s) you play: Guitar

Last two books read:“Hearing and Understanding the Voice of God” Compiled by Frank A, DeCenso Jr.

and “The Shack Revisited” by C. Baxter Kruger PH.D.

Q1: How would you describe the set up of your church?

-Our local church usually use the “ Blended Style” of worship where the songs are a combination of hymns and contemporary songs representing the different generations of the church family.

Q2: Please share your journey to becoming a lead worshipper.

-My journey as a worship leader started when I was a child, when my parents bring me to church regularly (this is what Proverbs 22:6 is all about). Since childhood, my parents encouraged me to render a “special music” at church with my sister or even with my whole family. And as I grew up, I came to know the Lord Jesus Christ on April 21, 2004 through my aunt Auey at the age of 9 and on December 26 on the same year, I got baptized. From then on, I started attending praise and worship concerts of Darlene Zschech live in Manila last 2010, Hillsong United Aftermath Tour last 2011 and other local Christian concerts. In our church, I started joining the worship team as a back-up singer until our senior pastor asked and encouraged me to lead worship. My first time to lead worship was during the Pastoral Team’s Conference on May, 2011, which was held at Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City. The second time was last year, June 10, 2012 during our church’s 36^th Anniversary which was held in a resort on top of the mountain. Since then, I was continually assigned as a worship leader at least once a month. I am so excited for the things God has prepared for my future as a worship leader/lead worshipper.

Q3: I know you have a unique working relationship with your pastor, why is this important for pastors and lead worshipper to cultivate?

-It is very important for a worship leader to cultivate a good relationship because the pastor serves as the father and shepherd of the church. It is always right to consult and seek spiritual wisdom from the pastor every now and then about your worship line-ups like the songs and scriptures. 

Q4: What type of tech tools are you using in your church?

-Laptop, LCD projector, instruments and sound system.

Q5: What are some of your favorite worship resources?

-Our church’s hymnal (WCG/GCI Hymnal).

-GCI Manila’s Worship Lyrics Compilation (for power point slides, song chords and lyrics)

-Various Christian CDs and DVDs.

- www.gci.org

                                                         - www.trinitarianworship.blogspot.com

                                                         - www.worshiptogether.com

                                                         - www.darlenezschech.com

                                                         - www.youtube.com (for song searches)

                                                         - www.ibethel.tv

Q6: What is the biggest lesson you have learned in leading worship?

-The biggest lesson I’ve learned in leading worship is that for me not to focus on myself as a worship leader but to focus and depend on the ultimate and perfect worship leader who is the Lord Jesus Christ. When your focus is on the Lord Jesus Christ, all the worries, hindrances and imperfections will disappear and worship will be a genuine expression of our love for God.

Sample Praise and Worship set

CALL TO WORSHIP: Psalm 127

-We Praise Thee O God, Our Redeemer (Hymnal)

-Kay Buti Buti Mo Panginoon

-Give Us Clean Hands (Chris Tomlin)

-Great Thy Faithfulness

                MESSAGE/SERMON

                COMMUNION

                OFFERTORY SONG: (Special Music)

                                -Ang Dakilang Katapatan

                CONGRAGATIONAL PRAYER

                CLOSING SONGS:

                                -For You Alone (Don Harris)

                                -You are good (Israel Houghton)

                BENEDICTION

My final words and advices to aspiring and new lead worshippers

---For aspiring and new lead worshippers, it is very important to set a time solely devoted for you and God. This is the time where you seek God through prayer, reading His word and even singing the songs you have chosen for your worship set/line-up as a your personal worship. It is also important to have time for you as a worship team to practice at least once a week. In our church, our worship team meets regularly every Wednesday, the time used to practice the songs and take time to pray for each other. When you do this regularly, you allow the Holy Spirit to train, teach, equip, correct and soak you with His presence personally and the group as a worship team in your worship leading journey. . . amazing journey!!!

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Lead Worshipper Profiles

Starting this week, I will start a "program" in this blog..

and it is the...

YES!, the LEAD WORSHIPPER PROFILES, you read it right from the title :)

Every month I will post different profiles of different lead worshipper to post it here in my blog. Its main purpose is to know them and to get different advices and insights from them for us to learn from.

So, are you ready? GET READY! :)

If you know a lead worshipper who is willing to share to us his/her profile, kindly contact me in my e-mail: marcdanielrivera@gmail.com

Many Thanks & Blessings!

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