WELCOME TO GFC!
Praise God you've found us! Welcome to our website. We are a Christian community where everyone is welcome. You matter to God and to us as well. If you are looking for a church dedicated to obey the Great Commandment and the Great Commission, you are at the right place. We have a celebrative type of worship where we focus our heart's affection and mind's attention to God. We worship Him in Spirit and in truth, with reverence and awe, biblical, and acceptable to Him. We are committed to fully obey the Great Commission--make, mature and multiply disciples and churches unto all the nations. I hope you and your family could visit us in one of our worship celebrations. You may also check out our small group schedule if you desire to grow as a devoted Christ's follower and transform your community. Find one nearest you or do the honors of hosting one at your home.
Looking forward to seeing you soon,
Pastor Armando De La Merced
June 1, 2023
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for what He has done through the recent Youth Camp wherein 150 participants representing ten churches including ours took part. Our young people and our counsellors came back revived, strengthened, and challenged to grow in Christ and direct their passion in glorifying His Name.
This weekend, we'll celebrate the Lord's Supper in obedience to Christ's command to do it until He comes again. May it be a time of worship, thanksgiving, and rededication of our lives to Him who died and rose again from the dead for our salvation. I will preach the Word on THE URGENCY OF THE GREAT COMMISSION (Mark 16:15-16). Whatever amazing things God made you to be, He has made you for His mission. He saved you and transformed your life forever and now He desires to use you for His global purpose--the Great Commission. What is the Great Commission according to the words of Christ? What could motivate each one of us to engage in reaching the lost in our community and among the unreached? How do we join God in His mission that will spread the fame of His Name and transform lives, marriages and families, and cultures?
With you in declaring His glory to the nations,
Pastor Arman
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May 27th
Dear GFC Family,
Glory be to our great and awesome God who sent His Son who in turn offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice for our forgiveness and salvation! Apart from His work of redemption and free grace, we remain in bondage of sin, fear, power of Satan, and hopelessness. This weekend, we honor our heroes who gave their lives for our freedom, but we give the highest honor and matchless devotion to Christ who gave Himself for our greatest freedom--our spiritual freedom!
We will miss our youth this weekend for they will be at the Youth Camp from May 26th to May 29th. Let's thank God for the ministry of Camp staff and volunteers, and for the participants' eagerness to grow in Christ and learn new skills to be on missions with God and for God. Let's pray for the youth to have an encounter with the Living God that their lives be transformed and their passion be directed towards God's purposes.
Don't miss the conclusion of our series on The Fear of the LORD. This weekend, I will preach the Word on WORSHIPING GOD WITH HOLY FEAR (Hebrews 12:28-29; Psalms 96:1-13). The fear (reverence and awe) of the LORD is essential to true worship. Yet, it is lacking in much of today's worship gatherings. Worship is done casually and the holy presence of God is disregarded or disrespected. How do we apply the fear of the Lord in the way we worship Him? One way to show reverence and awe to God in worshiping Him is to not disregard the Lord's Day (Heb 10:25). Learn more this weekend and come with a heart hungry to know Him and His ways.
God alone is worthy,
Pastor Arman
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May 18th
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for answering our prayers for relationships (God, family, unsaved loved ones and friends, and church), and for resources we need for sustenance and for missions. Let's praise Him who is awesome in His greatness, majesty, and authority. Let's pray that He unite our hearts to fear(reverence) His Name (Ps 86:11), and to give us the grace to pursue it diligently as a treasure more precious than silver and gold (Pro 2:1-5).
This Lord's Day, we shall gather in God's presence to worship Him with reverence and awe! I will preach the Word regarding, WHAT JESUS TEACHES US ON FEARING GOD (Mt 10:26-33). The key to spiritual growth, intimacy with God, and faithful obedience to Christ's commands is having the fear of the LORD in our hearts. What does it mean to fear the LORD? How does it displace all other fears? Why is it essential to discipleship and to the accomplishment of the Great Commission? How do we increase in the fear of the LORD in a culture where such fear is a lost art? Find answers and get your soul nourished in the Word this weekend. I'm glad to be worshipping the Lord with you and to encourage one another in our walk with Him.
Standing in awe of HIM,
Pastor Arman
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May 11th
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for pulling us on board to the greatest mission in the world -- the Great Commission! His mission is our mission. Because we are compelled by the love of Christ and by the ultimate goal of spreading His glory throughout the world, we join Him in accomplishing His mission. Let us faithfully do our part and take our specific role as witnesses, ambassadors, and disciple-makers...'til everyone hears the Gospel of Grace.
This weekend, I will preach the Word on, WOMEN WHO FEAR THE LORD (Exodus 1:8-22). This Mothers' Day, we will hear about how God delights, uses, and blesses people who fear Him. Women who fear the LORD are women of blessing and impact. They are powerful role models for us all, whatever station of life we are in. How does our reverential awe of God's greatness affects our wise decisions and courageous actions? Why is this attitude crucial to our home, to our church, and to the nation? Come with a hungry heart for the Word of Truth and get nourished and built up with it.
Blessed to be a blessing,
Pastor Arman
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May 04, 2023
Dear GFC Family,
Praise God who is the Source of our strength and of our great courage. He commanded us to be strong and be very courageous (Joshua 1:7) in times of great affliction and trouble. He is dishonored whenever we are paralyzed by doubts and fears. May it not be so! May we in faith in Him and in His promises unswervingly obey God's commands. May we feed our strength and courage by His Word (v.9).
This weekend, I will talk about, WHAT IT MEANS TO FEAR THE LORD (Proverbs 1:7, 9:10). The fear of the LORD is missing in the world and is misunderstood and lacking in many churches today. Our text says that those who have no fear of the LORD do not have true wisdom-- they are fools! What is this kind of fear about? In what sense is it the beginning of wisdom and why? How do we cultivate the fear of the LORD? Let us come together for worship this Lord's Day and let's get nourished in God's Word.
Awed by His incomprehensible greatness,
Pastor Arman
May 9th, 10 am- 2:00pm: Leadership Summit, Staples Mill Road Baptist Church, Glen Allen, VA.
May 14th: Mother's Day (Bring your family and friends).
May 21st: Baptismal Service
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April 28th
Dear GFC Family,
Let's praise God who is the sovereign King over all and who rules with power and majesty forever (Ps 103:19; 145:13). He is sovereign over creation, over history, over our circumstances, over our enemies, over Satanic forces of darkness and evil. Because He is on His throne, nothing can stop Him in accomplishing His purposes and in fulfilling His promises. Let us trust Him in all things and for all things!
This weekend, never let trivial matters hinder you from worshipping the Lord and fellowshipping with His people. I will conclude our series on the Holy Spirit by this message -- WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT REVIVES HIS CHURCH (Ephesians 5:1-21; Acts). The command to be filled with the Spirit is in Ephesians. The examples of a Spirit-filled church experiencing revival is in the Book of Acts. God intends His church to experience the empowerment of the Holy Spirit through the Spirit-filled life which leads to spiritual revivals. What is true revival? What precedes it? What are the effects of it in our lives and in our ministries? Get ready for the mighty movements of the Holy Spirit when we fully yield our lives to His control.
Grateful to God for your service,
Pastor Arman
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April 20
Dear GFC Family,
Praise God for being the Ultimate Mover and Sender in missions! The second batch in 2023 of 61 IMB missionaries with their 31 children are being prepared to go to the unreached peoples. Also in the Philippines, a new batch of global missionaries had gone through pre-field training. Thank God for giving us a part in that mission. Let's pray for these missionaries and more will be sent. Let's keep doing our part as intercessors, givers, senders, and goers.
I'm looking forward to the joint worship of the Lord event with four Fil-Am churches in the area. This Saturday, April 22nd, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, at McLean Bible Church, we will have fellowship and worship together. We were "fellowship starved" during the pandemic. Now is our chance to gather again without fear and to which the only attraction to join is-- the presence of God in worship!
Let us not miss the assembling of ourselves together for worship this weekend. I will talk about, WHEN THE SPIRIT-FILLED LIFE BECOMES A REALITY (Eph 5:16-21). No believer should deny himself of the wonderful experience of being filled with the Holy Spirit. It is God's command to every believer, none excepted or excused. Therefore, it is His will for us to be filled with the Spirit -- the norm and not the exception in Christian living. What does it mean to be filled with the Spirit? Why is it the need of the hour in our lives and in our church? How do we experience its reality daily and in a sustained manner?
Abiding in Christ with you,
Pastor Arman
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April 13th
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for your response to His message on Christ's resurrection! When God raised Jesus from the dead, He made a positive action and an affirming statement that validates Christ and His redemptive work. Because He lives, our faith is absolutely true, our own resurrection is guaranteed, our lives are awesome, and our mission is paramount to our existence. Our hearts are filled with hope, for the tomb of Jesus is empty!
Don't miss this weekend's message on, WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT MOVES (Ephesians). When the Holy Spirit came to indwell and fill the hearts of the early church, their lives were radically transformed. Paul illustrates in Ephesians the wonderful change that happens to a church that is surrendered to the Holy Spirit's control. Every chapter reveals the titles of the Holy Spirit and what He does in and through the Body of Christ. Who is the Holy Spirit? What happens when He moves in us and among us? How do we appropriate the wonderful things He has for us today?
We are not alone,
Pastor Arman
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April 06
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for Spring break and for an opportunity to honor Him by celebrating Christ's resurrection this weekend. Because Christ has died to redeem us from the penalty, power, and practice of sin. Then, He was buried and on the third day rose again from the dead conquering sin, death, and Satan, we who trusts in Him have, 1) The great grace of salvation we received, 2) The great change we anticipate, 3) The great victory Christ won for us, and 4) The great thanksgiving we will celebrate, and 5) the great encouragement to be steadfast and persevere in serving the Lord (1 Cor 15:1-4, 35-58).
This weekend, we will talk about WHY CHRIST'S RESURRECTION REALLY MATTERS. Since Christianity rises or falls with Christ's bodily resurrection, Satan hates this truth. The enemy inspires arguments against it by fabricating lies saying its a fraud or a fiction. However, God made an affirming statement regarding Christ's resurrection. Christ died, was buried, and on the third day, He rose again from the dead. It validates all of Christ's claims about His identity, about salvation from sin, and about His inspired teachings. It also validates our own resurrection. The resurrection actually happened in history. It is real and it really matters to all, believers or not, and to the nations. Find out the compelling evidence for it and its powerful implications for us. Bring your family and friends this Lord's Day for a worshipful and meaningful celebration of Christ's resurrection.
Christ is our Living Hope,
Pastor Arman
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March 30, 2023
Dear GFC Family
Praise God because His goodness "endureth continually" (Psalm 52:1). He is light, and in Him is no darkness (1 John 1:5). The whole earth is full of His goodness (Psalm 33:5). He reigns in mercy, and righteous justice (James 2:13). His hands are open to satisfy the desires of every living thing (Psalm 145:15-16). He is worthy of worship, thanks, and trust!
Last weekend, we learned about the role of the Holy Spirit in missions. He is bringing God's mission into completion. Revelation 7:9 says that one day, people out of every nation, every people, every tribe, and every tongue, will gather around around Christ throne to worship Him. That's our hope and our encouragement to take part in His awesome mission. Are you joining God in His mission? How are you living under Christ's mandate to "Go therefore and make disciples unto all the nations...?"
This weekend, we'll have a break from our series on the Holy Spirit. We will talk about, THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST (1 Peter 1:18-19; Revelation 5:9-14). Do we know the significance and are we experiencing the power of the Blood of Christ? Someone has said, "There is a scarlet thread that runs through the Bible." The Bible is about Christ and about His shed Blood of Redemption. What does the Bible says about the precious blood of Christ: its meaning, its significance, and its power. Don't miss this message and bring someone who might need to hear it this Lord's Day.
Thankful for the Cross,
Pastor Arman
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March 23
Dear GFC Family,
Blessed be our God who is the "Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction," so that we may be able to comfort others (2 Cor 1:3-4). He comforts us through sorrows and troubles. He comforts us in death by assuring us of our salvation which Christ secured for us through His death and resurrection. He comforts us with the Holy Spirit's presence who is living in our hearts forever.
This weekend, we'll continue our series on the Holy Spirit. I will preach the Word regarding, THE HOLY SPIRIT: THE POWER FROM ON HIGH (Lk 24:46-49; Acts 1:8; Eph 1:18; Rom 15:13).There is only one way to live a life pleasing to God and serve Him effectively --through the power of the Holy Spirit! Herein is the certainty of Christ's promise and the injunction to wait until His disciples are endued with power from on high. The Holy Spirit has come upon every believer since Pentecost. How do we experience Him empowering us for life and service today? How do we appropriate His exceeding great power that is available and works towards us? If you are sick and tired of spiritual impotence and barrenness, don't miss this message this Lord's Day.
With you in spreading the fame of His Name,
Pastor Arman
***Homegoing Service for Lynn Deguzman, Ate Femy's and Brother Jun's sister, will the this Sunday, March 26th, 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, at Miller's Funeral Homes, Golansky Blvd, Woodbridge.
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March 17th
Dear GFC Family,
Let us praise God who is worthy of our absolute trust! Yes, we face life's troubles and sorrows, but we have God on our side who is our Refuge, Defense, and the King on His throne (Psalms 11). What can we do if the ungodly are trying to destroy our moral and spiritual foundations? We can trust God confidently, suffer cheerfully and patiently, we can pray, and we can speak up the truth. Let us trust Him with all of our hearts (Pro 3:5-6).
The Lord has laid in my heart to preach the Word this weekend on the subject, THE HOLY SPIRIT: OUR DIVINE COMFORTER (John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). Knowing the fact that we are not alone in this life and in the service of God gives us tremendous courage, strength, and hope! The One with us always is the Almighty and gracious Holy Spirit who is our Comforter or Paraclete. He is in us, with us, and for us in times of sorrow, difficulty, and weakness. He is always available to help us overcome life's challenges, fulfill our calling in missions and ministry, and much more. Discover who He is and the graces He has for you as a disciple desiring to grow in Christ and to join God in His awesome mission to the world.
Spirit-empowered for missions,
Pastor Arman
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March 09
Dear GFC Family,
It is impossible to live the Christian life and be all that we could be as disciples of Christ and as His Church apart from the Holy Spirit. It is imperative therefore to have a grasp of the truth of the Spirit. I thank God for your positive feedback as you listen to our messages on this subject. I'm excited to see what transformations the Spirit of God will do in our lives, families, and church, as we learn and apply His truth.
This weekend, I will preach the Word regarding, HOLY SPIRIT: THE FATHER'S GOOD GIFT (Lk 11:9-13). We absolutely need the graces of the Holy Spirit who indwells us! Spiritual vitality is lacking in many professing Christians. Churches are weak and need revitalization. Jesus is teaching us to ask the Father for the work of the Holy Spirit activated and experienced daily both in our Christian lives and in our ministry of extending His Kingdom to the world. How does prayer and the ministry fo the Holy Spirit related? Why is the infilling of the Holy Spirit required to every believer? Find answers from God's inspired Word and experience all the wonderful things the Holy Spirit has for you.
Learning to walk in the Spirit with you,
Pastor Arman
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March 03
Dear GFC Family,
There are two comings that made an infinite change in the human race. The coming of Christ to purchase our salvation, and the coming of the Holy Spirit to apply that salvation in our hearts and enable us to live holy, powerful, and impactful lives for God's glory. Thank God for the tremendous hope these two comings bring to us!
This weekend, let me introduce to you the Person of the Holy Spirit. I'll preach the Word on GETTING TO KNOW THE HOLY SPIRIT (Acts 19:2; Jn 14:16-17, 16:7-8, 13-14). The truth of the Spirit is an essential part of God's revelation to us. Where this truth about Him is neglected and His presence is absent or ignored, there is weakness and ineffectiveness in the Christian life, in the ministry, and in the mission God has called us to fully engage in. How could we know Him deeper and experience His mighty works in and through us? What are the far reaching effects of knowing the Spirit and living in the realm of the Spirit day by day in your life, in your ministry, in our home, and in your church? Find answers from the Word this Lord's Day. Get nourished with it, restored, built up, and fired up.
In His grip and grace,
Pastor Arman
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February 24
Dear GFC Family,
The Lord has done great things in my recent mission trip to the Philippines. Thanks for your prayers and for the mission team I worked with. I'm grateful to God for all of you who worked together in continuing our ministries while I'm away.
This weekend, I can't wait to preach another message from the Word about revival. I will talk about, A CHURCH DESPERATE FOR REVIVAL (Psalm 85:1-13). God is ready and willing to bring revival in our hearts and in our church in answer to a prayer of faith. What is true revival? Why are we in desperate need for revival today? How do we seek God for such blessing? Find out the conditions, consequences, and cautions of revival that we may experience the mighty work of the Holy Spirit in bringing revival to our hearts.
Praying with you and for you,
Pastor Arman
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January 12, 2023
Dear GFC Family,
This weekend, we will celebrate our church's 23rd Anniversary! Let us give glory to God for what He's done since our church's humble beginning. Let's tell the next generation about the Lord's worderful works from its beginning, its growth and its changes over the years. Let's thank God for faithful members and leaders He has used and are using today. Let us step forward in faith and seize the opportunites He is giving us to know Him and make Him known.
In view of our Vision R3 in 2023, I will preach the Word on A CHURCH THAT MULTIPLIES HEALTHY DISCIPLES AND CHURCHES (Acts 9:31). The churches in the Book of Acts grew, not by addition, but by multiplication. Many churches and missions organizations have a high frustration level with regards to this area. What are the necessary conditions for a church to experience fruitfulness that glorifies God? What kind of a church God uses in spiritual multiplication? How do we see this pattern illustrated in the Book of Acts? How could it happen again and again today?
A blessed anniversary to all,
Pastor Arman
***
You are welcome to join us in our Fellowship Lunch immediately following our Worship Celebration.
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January 12,2023
Dear GFC Family,
Please pass the word, "Our Church's Anniversary is approaching near." On January 22nd, 2023, we will celebrate what God has done in and through us for 23 years. It will be a great time of worship, homecoming fellowship, and rallying our church family together in glorifying God by multiplying disciples and churches.
This weekend, I will preach the Word about renewing our commitment to worshipping God together -- WHY WORSHIP GOD WITH YOUR CHURCH FAMILY (Lk 10:25-28, Heb 10:19-25). Worship is the church's greatest purpose, highest priority, and foremost privilege. If so, why church worship service attendance and engagement is at all time low these days? Why are there many professing Christians not eager to worship the LORD with others during the Lord's Day? How do we cultivate the spiritual habit of assembling together for worship? Pray with us that the Spirit of God will use this message to lead us into spiritual renewal.
In His grip and grace,
Pastor Arman
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January 05
Dear GFC Family,
What a great way to jumpstart the New Year together last weekend! Our God is the God of fresh starts. He makes all things new. In Christ, He made us new creations, His mercies are new every morning, He makes a new way when there is no way, and He gives us new opportunities for growth and greater usefulness in His Kingdom. Let's face the New Year, not with fear, but with faith in God who will watch over us, hear our prayers, and bless us from the beginning of the year to the end of the year!
This weekend, I will talk about WHY CHURCH MEMBERSHIP MATTERS (Acts 9:26). Your church family plays a significant role in your spiritual life. One sign of true conversion to faith in Christ is desiring to identify with a local church. Why is it that many people nowadays don't feel the need to identify themselves with a local church through church membership? Why have many professing Christians drifted from the church -- not eager to worship and pray together, grow together, and serve together? Hear what the Spirit of the LORD is saying to us through His inspired Word this Lord's Day. Pray that He will use this message to call us in consecrating our lives to Christ and to His church.
Glad to be a part of God's wonderful family,
Pastor Arman
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December 29, 2022
Dear GFC Family,
Year 2022 is almost over, let us thank God, the God of All Grace, who have shown us His goodness, His faithfulness, and His sufficient grace. As we welcome 2023, let us face the new year not with fear but with faith in Him who cares for us, who never leaves us nor forsake us, and through whom all things work together for good. Let us look unto Him who looks upon us always from the beginning of the year to the end of the year (Deu 11:12). Let us delight in communing with Him in prayer with a desire to obey His will from the beginning of the year to the end of the year. When we do, we'll live our lives enjoying Him and His blessings, making a significant impact in the lives of others, and glorifying His Name thoughout the year!
This weekend, join us this first day of 2023 in thanking God for all that He has done in 2022 and in hearing about His vision for us for the new year. Let us jumpstart our new year with a time of worship, gratefulness to God, Lord's Supper Celebration, and consecrating ourselves to Him and for His glorious purposes. I'll talk about GFC VISION 2023. For two months now, the Lord is impressing in my heart His message in Acts 9:31. This text provides us an answer to the question, "How do we move forward from a major disruption to rapid multiplication of disciples? This message is crucial in uniting our spirits toward God's vision for His church and for making year 2023 a year of renewal and impact. Don't miss it!
A blessed New Year to you and to your family,
Pastor Arman
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December 22
Dear GFC Family,
Christmas is the celebration of Christ's birth and of our new life because of Him. It is also a time of anticipating with hope His return as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We have more reason to come to church for worship this weekend -- Christmas Day! While others plan to skip church this Sunday, let us not forget to gather for worship.
Christmas is also a God-given opportunity to explain why Christ was born as the Incarnate Son of God. This weekend, I will talk about the fourth reason why Christ has come. My message is on CHRIST'S NATIVITY DISPELS DARKNESS (John 12:46-48; 8:12; 1:4-6,9; Luke 1:78-79). He said Himself that He has come into this world darkened with sin and evil to shine as the Light of the World. The backdrop of Christ's coming is darkness. People live in sin, ignorance of the truth, hopelessness, and are waiting for a greater darkness- death and judgment. Christ came to shine in our hearts and end our dark night forever. What happens when Christ's light shines in and through you? Why do people choose darkness instead of Christ? How could we spread Christ, the One True Light, to someone living in darkness this Christmas?
Merry Christmas,
Pastor Arman
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December 15th
Dear GFC Family,
Christmas is a great time for celebrating Christ! We may reflect upon His wonders and hail Him as the Incarnate Deity with awe, or be distracted from it by consumerism and commercialism. Let us keep our focus on the Christ of Christmas -- worship Him, spread the Christmas cheer by telling others the Good News, and by serving others in humility.
This weekend, join us in a Baptismal Service at the Main Sanctuary from 12:05 noon to 12:20 p.m. Then, we'll proceed to the Fellowship Hall for our Worship Celebration and Livestreaming (12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.). I will preach our third Christmas message -- Christ's Nativity, the Arrival of the KING (John 18:36-37; Isaiah 9:6-7). In this message, we'll see Christ's perspective on Christmas. He said Himself that He was born and He has come into the world to be our Savior-King. Learn why this is Good News, a fact in history and experience, and an incredible source of hope. It also presents to us a challenge to be sure that we are saved and that we belong to His Kingdom -- a Kingdom of truth, righteousness, joy, and peace!
Glory to our Eternal King,
Pastor Arman
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December 08
Dear GFC Family,
Greetings in the Name of our Immanuel -- God with us (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22-23)! He is not just a sign that God is with us, but He is God with us in person. His presence is our strength and comfort. He came to be our Savior (1 Timothy 1:15). He is with us forever through the indwelling Holy Spirit wherever we go to make disciples (Matthew 28:20). Absolutely nothing can separate us from Him (Romans 8:35-39).
Don't miss our second Christmas message this weekend! I'll preach the Word on CHRIST'S NATIVITY IS ABOUT SALVATION (Luke 19:10; 2:10-11; Matthew 1:21). Pondering upon the truth of Christ birth as God incarnate who left heaven to seek and to save the lost and fills our hearts with awe and gratitude to Him. It also makes us missional this Christmas season. Considering His claims of who He is and why He came to the world changes the way we celebrate Christmas. He said that He has come to seek and to save the lost. What has He done for our salvation? How can we join Him in reaching the lost especially our family and friends this Christmas? Pray with me that the Spirit of God will use this message to find the lost and those found may spread the Gospel that brings great joy to all peoples.
Spreading the Christmas cheer with you,
Pastor Arman
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December 01
Dear GFC Family,
The year 2022 is almost over. Let us thank our Lord Jesus Christ who is leading us from triumph to triumph through trying times and discouraging circumstances. Let us finish this year focusing on Christ -- our glorious Redeemer, sovereign King, and the hope of all the nations. As we celebrate His grand miraculous birth on that first Christmas day, let us worship Him with great awe and joy, spread the Gospel to our family and friends, and renew our steadfast commitment to His Great Commission.
This weekend, don't miss the opportunity of having an encounter with God through worship and the Lord's Supper celebration. I will preach the Word regarding, CHRIST'S NATIVITY ENDS FEAR (Luke 2:8-14; Hebrews 2:14-15). The fear of death is a universal problem caused by sin and guilt. Christ came in the flesh as God Incarnate, our Immanuel, and sacrificed Himself on the cross. Through His death, He conquered death, destroyed Satan and removed that fear. Learn the truths that take away fear. Discover how you can enjoy a fearless Christmas.
With you in spreading the cheer of Christmas,
Pastor Arman
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November 24th
Dear GFC Family,
Happy Thanksgiving Day to you all! Of all people in the world, we, Christ's disciples, have the greatest reason to be thankful to God for each day and forever more. Remember to give thanks unto the LORD for every blessing that flows or ebbs in your life. Let's thank Him in times of abundance and comfort or in times of lack and discomfort. Let's thanks Him in worship, prayer, singing, and in action. It is indeed good to give thanks unto the LORD and sing praises unto His Name!
This weekend, plan to worship with us. Our God is most worthy of our praises and thanks. I will preach the Word about, ABOUNDING IN THANKSGIVING (Colossians 2:6-7; 1:3-14; 3:17; 4:2). The more we know the Superior One, the more thankful we'll become. He fills our lives with blessings far greater than this world can afford: inheritance, deliverance, forgiveness, reconciliation, relocation from the Kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of light, indwelling Holy Spirit and so much more. We're forever grateful to God for what He's done and for what He'll continue to do. Learn why and how to super abound in thanksgiving this Lord's Day.
Grateful and thankful to God for you,
Pastor Arman
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November 17th
Dear GFC Family,
Thanksgiving Day is just around the corner. Acknowledging and practicing the preeminence (first in priority and significance) of Christ in our lives make us more grateful to what God has done for us. Every day becomes a Thanksgiving Day for the redeemed.
Come with us this weekend to worship the Lord and to encourage one another in the faith! I will preach the Word on, CHRIST: SUPREME LORD OF THE CHURCH (Colossians 1:17-18; 2:19). Christ being fully God and fully man, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, Redeemer of the Church through the blood of the cross, is also the Head of the Church. What does His Headship mean to us today? What are its implications in our lives and in the way we engage ourselves in His church as covenant members? How do declining churches weakened during the pandemic get restored in attendance, engagement, vitality, and growth? Find answers and hope from the Word this Lord's Day!
Grateful to God for you all,
Pastor Arman
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November 10
Dear GFC Family,
Happy Veterans Day! We give thanks to God for those who served in the Armed Forces to protect our freedoms including religious freedom. In a world full of wars, He is our hope. We look forward to that day that God will end all wars (Isaiah 2:4).
We're blessed last weekend for seeing all of you joined us in honoring the Lord's faithful workers -- Deacon Nelo and Teacher Lorna! Wish them well and pray for them as they retire to the Philippines.
This weekend, we'll talk about Christ: Supreme Lord of Creation (Colossians 1:15-17, 20). Behind this awesome universe is it's Creator who is glorious, great in power, wisdom, and goodness. That's another reason why we trust Him as our Sufficient Savior and give Him first place in our lives. What are the five facts about Christ as the Creator of all things? What are the "Fingerprint" evidence for Christ being the Creator of this immensely vast universe? How does this evidence compare with the evidence claimed by evolutionist for evolution? How do we exalt Christ our Supreme Creator? Find answers from God's infallible Word this Sunday. Looking forward to worshipping the Lord with you.
Great is the Lord and worthy of praise,
Pastor Arman
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November 2
Dear GFC Family,
Thank God for your response to His Word regarding His call to humility. May we keep on reflecting Christ's humility in all our relationships and in all that we do such as worship, prayer, service, and missions. Let us celebrate God for His goodness and faithfulness in answering our prayers and in sustaining us through life's storms and difficulties.
This weekend, I'm excited to start our new series based on the book of Colossians-- CHRIST ABOVE ALL. In this series, we'll learn an amazing truth about Christ that could change our lives deeply. He is supreme over all creation and none surpasses His greatness and glory! He is Lord of Creation, Lord at the Cross, Lord of the Church and every Christian. Because He is who He is, we live in this world demonstrating, declaring, and defending His preeminence. My first message on this series is CHRIST: LORD AT THE CROSS (Colossians 1:1-23). Christ is preeminent in our lives and in the world because He is our sufficient Savior from sin and its consequences. What does this truth mean to us? How do we proclaim and defend this truth while engaging our culture with the Gospel?
Jesus paid it all,
Pastor Arman
Note: We'll have a Lord's Supper celebration and a Farewell Lunch for the Tabas this weekend. Don't miss it!
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October 27th
Dear GFC Family,
Praise God for every answered prayers and for every fresh manifestations of His goodness and faithfulness to us! I commend you, by the Word of His grace, for your generosity, faithful service, love for one another, and perseverance in hope.
This weekend, since "Better is one day in God's court than a thousand elsewhere," let us look forward to worshipping our Living God -- the LORD of Glory! Let us not miss the conclusion of our series on Humility. I will preach the Word on, HUMILITY AND OUR PURSUIT OF GOD'S GLORY (Romans 1:21-25; 11:36). Man's chief end is to enjoy and exult God forever! But, how exactly do we live for His glory? In this message, we'll learn a sobering fact that whatever we do and however we behave, without humility, we will fail to give glory to God. Pride exalts self and robs God the glory only He is worthy to receive. Our best efforts, even our worship and our prayers will become pharisaical legalism apart from humility. A humble person will always submit to God's will, give thanks to His grace, and live excellent lives for His glory. Discover what the Bible teaches on how we live such kind of life in this age of self-exaltation, and pursuing greatness through worldly power, wealth, fame, and wisdom.
Soli Deo gloria,
Pastor Arman
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October 13th
Dear GFC Family,
Greetings in the Name of the One who is our Burden-Bearer and Rest-Giver (Mt 11:28-30)! When life's burdens due to sin and its consequence are too heavy to bear, Christ's gracious invitation is, "Come to Me all of you who are weary and heavily burdened, and I Will give you rest." When you come to Him by faith, He will give you "salvation rest" for He carried your sins at the cross (Isa 53:6). When you take up His yoke by submitting to His will and learn of Him as His disciple, He will give you His "sanctification rest" and in eternity, His "glorification rest." None have been or will be rejected who comes to Him in sincere faith, for He is "humble and meek."
I'm excited to preach the Word this weekend on, HUMILITY IN CHURCH RELATIONS (1 Peter 5:1-11). One of the undermined key factor for developing a healthy church is humility. What are the specific duties of Elders/Pastors to their flocks and vice versa? How could they work together in accomplishing God's purposes for the church even in times of severe afflictions? Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, says to us -- "Clothe yourselves with humility." Find out what it means and learn what God promises to those who do.
Resting in His sufficient grace,
Pastor Arman
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October 06, 2022
Dear GFC Family,
The Name of our LORD is to be praised, "for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever" (Psalm 107:1; ESV). He is indeed by nature, in essence, in all His works, forever, infinitely good! He counted us among the redeemed through the precious blood of Christ. We experience His general mercies through His daily provision for our needs, and special mercies during tough times. May we not lax in the giving of thanks and in offering Him praise through our lives.
Let us prepare our hearts for worshipping our Living God this weekend. I will preach about CHRIST'S TEACHINGS ON HUMILITY (Matthew 11:28-30, selected verses). Why is developing a Christ-like character of humility essential to a life and ministry that honors God? What could we learn from the life and teachings of Christ on humility? What does He expects from you and me who claim to be His disciples? Find out this Lord's Day and get ready to offer Him our sacrifice of praise with the fruit of our lips giving thanks.
Grateful to be in His service with you,
Pastor Arman
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September 29
Dear GFC Family,
Praise be to our God Almighty, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and our Heavenly Father who cares for us! Hearing His promise "Casting all your cares upon Him; for He careth for you" (1 Peter 5:7) is like music to our ears when we are overwhelmed with anxieties, troubles, heartaches, and concerns. It invites us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt us (v.6) --when health is weakened, every efforts in ministry failed, every door has shut up, every prospect looks dark. Your Father cares for whatever cares you have right now. Cast all of them or lift them up to Him in prayer. He will care for you and lift you up.
This weekend, let us pursue God's glory through praise, adoration and thanks. Join us, bring your family and friends, and you'll be glad you did. I will preach on CHRIST'S HUMILITY (Philippians 2:1-11). Let us be amazed by the depth and incomprehensible greatness of Christ's humility shown at the cross. Let us be transformed by the power of Christ's humility. Let us draw practical lessons on humility -- humility before God, humility in discipleship, and humility in daily living. Never miss this message for trivial reasons. Pray that the Holy Spirit will use this message to lift us up, fire us up, and build us up.
HE must increase and I must decrease,
Pastor Arman
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September 22
Dear GFC Family,
May this scripture bring encouragement and hope to you today -- "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you" (Romans 16:20; HCSB). Greater is He who is in you, the God of Peace, than he who is in the world. He sent Christ, our Redeemer, Reconciler, and Satan Crusher (Gen 3:15; 1 Jn 3:8). He crushed Satan's head at the cross and He fights your battles against temptations, deceptions, oppressions. His grace is essential to victory. Therefore, pray, use your spiritual armor and the Sword of the Spirit, and overcome all through Him!
It's time to get back to the basics of Christian living! To give "our utmost for His highest", we are to be disciplined and willing to make sacrifices for our spiritual growth: a) Live out and share the Gospel, b) Have a daily quiet time with God, c) Worship together, c) Make disciple-makers, d) Be a good and faithful steward, and e) Serve the LORD with gladness.
This weekend, bring your family and friends to our Worship gathering! I will speak about CALLED TO SERVE GOD (Romans 12:1-12). Would you like to be used by God in making an eternal difference in the lives of others? Then, be available to fully engage in the service of God through His church. Every Christian is called to a total consecration of life for worshipping and serving God. What is God's criteria for Christian service? How do we identify, exercise, and express our spiritual gifts in the context of a diverse church? What happens when each member of the Body of
Christ is fully functioning with loving unity and harmony with one another?
Thankful to God for serving Him with you,
Pastor Arman
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September 15, 2022
Dear GFC Family,
Let us "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4) for He is the Source of pure and constant joy. In His presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). By His grace, our names are written in heaven, we have peace with Him and of Him, we are more than conquerors over any struggles, and we have hope of His glory.
Heads up this weekend! Join us for a sacred time of worship and a refreshing encounter with our God. I will preach the Word on Becoming a Good and Faithful Steward (Luke 19:11-27). Every Christian is a steward of spiritual and material resources entrusted by Christ to be used for His purposes until His return. He made us stewards of the Gospel, our life, our time, our talents, our treasures, our touch (influence and testimony), and the use of technology. One day, He will call us to give an account of our stewardship. Would you be rewarded or rebuked? How do we become good and faithful stewards?
In His service with you,
Pastor Arman
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September 08
Dear GFC Family,
This weekend, as the nation commemorates 911 tragic event, its survivors and its heroes, let us gather in worshipping our God almighty, and in celebrating His goodness and victory! God alone is able to give hope of peace, lasting change, and life beyond death. His grace reaches and transforms even worst sinners. Let us cry out to God to bring revival, spiritual awakening, and healing throughout this great nation. Let us retaliate against evil by repaying evil with good (Romans 12:18-21).
I'm looking forward to giving thanks and praise to our God of Glory with you all this Lord's Day. I will preach the Word on DEFEATING PRAYERLESSNESS (Matthew 6:5-14; Romans 8:26). If you long for a powerful prayer life and if you desire to get back on track in the habit of communing with God in prayer, this message is for you. Prayerlessness is a sin of disobedience to God that leads to reproaching God, spiritual deficiency, and church decline. It is a symptom of a heart that is loosing its affection towards God and unbelief in what He can do in answer to prayer. What steps do we need to take to defeat prayerlessness?
Praying with you and for you,
Pastor Arman
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September 01
Dear GFC Family,
Greetings in the Name of our God who is the King of Glory (Melekh Hakkavod)! He is our all-glorious awesome God, our righteousness, all-sufficient Savior, and omnipotent Commander in Chief (Psalm 24:5-10). In Revelation 11:15 and 19:11-16, He is Jesus who reigns over all and above all, on earth as it is in heaven. Through Him, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
Be with us this Lord's Day for worship and Lord's Supper Celebration. Our God is worthy to be sought and worshipped. Pray with us that He move in a mighty way to get us back to: the Gospel, the Church, disciple-making, and the Word.
This weekend, I will preach the Word on GET IN THE WORD (Mark 1:35; Psalm 1:1-3; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Devoting to God our best time each day to commune with Him in prayer, scripture meditation, and worship is our most important duty. Being nourished, nurtured, and strengthened in the Word are essential to our maturity, stability, and usefulness in service. How do we read the Word profitably (2 Timothy 3:16-17)? What could help us stick to this important privilege and special appointment with God?
In His grip and grace,
Pastor Arman
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August 25
Dear GFC Family,
How have you all been these days? In whatever circumstances you've been through or are going through, trust God who never changes in His: nature, power, love, goodness, and faithfulness in keeping His promises! Trust His sovereignty in effecting change in your circumstances however impossible they may be to change. How?-- through prayer of faith! Daniel prayed for Change -- the restoration and revival of God's people (Daniel 9). It happened! Christ instructed His disciples to pray for their enemies and persecutors (Matthew 5:44). Then, in Acts 9, we see Saul, the violent persecutor who terrorized the church got saved and became Paul the great preacher of the Gospel. Coincidences? Certainly not!
The pandemic has messed up everything we are doing as God's people. It's time to get back to doing the right things we have been doing before as an expression of our "first love" to Christ (Rev 2:4-5). Let us then get back to the Gospel, get back to assembling together as a church, and let's get back to disciplemaking! This weekend, I will talk about MAKING DISCIPLES (Mt 28:18-20). Whether you have been a Christian for a couple of months or for five decades, God can use you in making generations of disciples where you are! What does it mean to disciplemake? How does it look like, and how do we fit that in our busy schedule? How can you become a disciple and a disciplemaker God saved you to become? Don't miss what the Spirit of God is saying to you and me this Lord's Day.
Sent and empowered to make disciples unto all the nations,
Pastor Arman
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH AND MINISTRY:
1. We encourage you to join our Small Groups. You will grow as an authentic, devoted, multiplying Christ's follower in the context of a loving Christian community. Healthy disciples make up a church that impacts the world for Christ.
2. We love to have you in our Prayer Meeting every Thursday at 7:00 pm at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/ 86283613341 (Passcode:4321). Our God is worthy to be sought in prayer. He helps us become a praying church with prayer-energized lives and ministries, making breakthroughs in world missions.
3. We would like you to belong to our Church Family. Sign up to our Discover Membership at GFC seminar. Know who we are as a church family, how we make an impact in people's lives, and how you can be a part of it.
4. We would like you to grow in Christ-likeness, strong in the faith, useful and victorious. Sign up to our Discover Spiritual Maturity workshop. Learn our vision to grow Christ-like, obedient, strong and fruitful disciples. Learn a simple pathway to Christian maturity.
5. We would like you to develop a servant heart. Sign up for Finding Your Ministry at GFC workshop. Find the joy of serving the Lord using your God-given abilities and gifts. Discover ministry opportunities where you can serve with effectiveness and impact.
PASTOR'S CORNER
