by Elder Peter Lim

Hello church family!

Every year, we have the joy of highlighting our CL graduates. We’re so thankful and encouraged to have seen God working in their lives these past few years, and we trust that God will continue to be glorified through their lives. Please pray for them as they move forward with their future plans.

Angie Tang

• What are your short/long term plans? Teaching Aide at Cambridge starting Fall 2021. Planning on pursuing a teaching credential eventually!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for the gospel and the word of God being faithfully preached every Friday. Also thankful for the staff/upperclassmen who constantly pointed me to Christ and encouraged me to consult God’s word for wisdom in all circumstances of life. These individuals lived their lives in such a way that Christ’s sacrificial love was demonstrated through their serving and care for the church body. So thankful for them, and also thankful for Peter and Patrick’s shepherding of us over the past years! (Not to mention all the fruitful weekly discussion groups, retreats, small group, EV opportunities, and fun fellowship activities :))

Ashley Yee

• What are your short/long term plans? I plan to find a job as an elementary school teacher here in San Diego, and plan to stay in SD for the foreseeable future!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for a community of believers and church body who continually uplift and focus upon bringing glory our Lord Jesus Christ. Over my years in CL, there have been countless individuals caring and encouraging me to focus my eyes to the Lord rather than self; in which, I am very grateful for such accountability and Christ-like love.

Bennett Wells

• What are your short/long term plans? My plan is to stay in San Diego for at least the next year
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am so thankful for the staff for leading us in group discussions and small groups, for the leadership of the church
  for shepherding us well, and for my fellow collegians for the encouragement, service, and fellowship we have enjoyed as the body of Christ.

Brandon Tsui

• What are your short/long term plans? Staying in San Diego! Working around the area
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Thankful for the wonderful staff who were always quick to encourage me and point me to Christ, especially in the midst of hardship. I’m so grateful to have built so many relationships and will be sad to see the one leaving SD go.

Caitlin Odulio

• What are your short/long term plans? I will be continuing my education at UCSD!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for the Lighthouse church body that has so selflessly served me and showed me God’s love. I am thankful for all the people who have helped guide me and point me to Christ. Thank you!

Clara Kang

• What are your short/long term plans? To stay in SD and in CL next year, while working part-time & preparing to apply for Occupational Therapy school. I’m planning on pursuing OT back at home in Orange County after my gap year but still making visits to SD of course.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m so thankful for the church and the people that have encouraged me, challenged me, and pointed me to Christ during my experiences and struggles. In the beginning, I really questioned how being at Lighthouse was in His good plan because I couldn’t see it as good in my self-seeking heart, but now I’m overwhelmed with gratefulness with how I feel like I am constantly being challenged in my faith to cling to Christ always & how I truly feel provoked towards good deeds by my brothers and sisters. I’m thankful for poured Christ’s love into me. Overall, God drew me closer to Him through the CL ministry, so I couldn’t be more thankful.

David Huang

• What are your short/long term plans? Moving back to Sac, finishing classes in the summer, job searching
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? The church family, the preaching, the different ministries, there are too many things to be thankful for throughout the past 4 years

Derek Shibata

• What are your short/long term plans? Getting married to Shelby!!!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’ve been thankful for the CL staff and Lighthouse leadership for constantly pouring out into us and investing so much time in us. I’ve been thankful for the opportunity to use my college years to truly glorify God and grow in my love for Him.

Ezra Lee

• What are your short/long term plans? I plan on going back to UCSD for a year to finish my master’s degree in structural engineering. In the summer and after master’s I plan on working for the company I’ve been interning at these past summers (Power Engineering). I’ll be down in San Diego and joining Salt & Light!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for the deep, Christ-centered friendships I made in CL. As I look back on my memories I praise God for how intentional my friends were with me in the conversations I had. I’m thankful for friends who would always point me back to Christ no matter the circumstances I was in. It was so evident that people really cared for me and my spiritual well-being above all else. I’m also thankful for how seriously people took God’s Word because it challenged me to also take it seriously. I’m thankful for all of the small group leaders I had who were so patient and kind as I grew. I’m thankful for Vallarta’s being open 24/7 so we could go there after Friday bible studies. And I’m thankful for so much more but I don’t think I can fit it all in this textbook.

Hannah Wangsa

• What are your short/long term plans? I plan to stay in San Diego and in College Life for another year as I complete some prerequisite courses and apply for occupational therapy graduate programs. So even though I’m done with school at UCSD, I’m doing more school in order to try to go to even more school, Lord-willing. :)))
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Even though I’m not leaving CL yet, I am so, so thankful for the people and teaching that God has used to grow me in Christlikeness. I chose UCSD on a whim since out of state tuition for another school I was considering was too much, but God was truly directing my steps and worked together so much good through LBC. I am grateful for the many friendships I have been able to form, my small groups, my class, the dedicated staff, EVERYONE! I have been encouraged, exhorted, challenged, & served in countless ways throughout the past three years. CL is truly so, so special. All glory to God!!

Jonathan Oen

• What are your short/long term plans? Currently, going to continue at UCSD in getting M.S. in Electrical Engineering and then hopefully get a job afterwards.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for the church as a whole. In particular I’m thankful for the faithful teaching week after week, the people who welcomed me, and personally the growth that came with it all in learning more about my sins and shortcomings and about how great our God is.

Jose Caballero Medrano

• What are your short/long term plans? I will be staying in San Diego for an additional year to work and build up a resume that I can apply to grad school with.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for the love that everyone has shown to me and each other. Not growing up in a Christian household I was unsure of what relationships founded in Christ looked like, but so many of you poured into my life and genuinely cared about me and my walk. To continue I am also super grateful for the role that small groups had in my life. To have such intentional and close relationships with my brothers is an experience that I will keep with me forever. I learned so much through these relationships such as how to pray, how to read my bible, how to have a desperation for God and so much more.

Joseph Jeong

• What are your short/long term plans? I got two more quarters of CL left, so probably stay
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Fellowship and discipline

Joseph Li

• What are your short/long term plans? Stay in SD and work remotely!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Solid and relevant biblical teaching, culture of meet-ups and discipleship, and a warm and welcoming community

Katie Chen

• What are your short/long term plans? I will be heading back home to the Bay Area to start my full time job in July!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am grateful to have been placed in a church that pushed me to grow in my faith and that God places so many brothers/sisters in Christ who point me back to the word/Christ in all situations.

Manfred Lau

• What are your short/long term plans? Short term: try to relax 🙂 (Really short term: finish this last quarter strong) Long term: UCLA Law
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Small groups — for reinforcing/reminding me of personal disciplines and keeping me accountable for personal, daily spiritual growth, which has been admittedly slow but without small group would be just dead. The way that older students reached out to me when I was a freshmen and demonstrated brotherly/sisterly love in Christ and made a good first impression, sermons on time and money, dating and relationships, the local church, what it means to “commit your life to Jesus,” and the extent of God’s grace when I often fail to live up to my new identity, edifying worship music — I’d never heard e.g. Sovereign Grace before and I like how the music seems to highlight the lyrics, being able to live with Lighthouse guys, encouragement I’ve had just talking with people about my problems and theirs

Maxwell Chen

• What are your short/long term plans? I am pursuing a graduate degree in neuroscience in the UK
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Friends I made and lessons I learnt

Noah Meeks

• What are your short/long term plans? I will be pursuing my Masters in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences at Cal State San Marcos.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for so many things, but one thing would be small groups. I’m so grateful for all my past small group leaders and members who have imparted their wisdom to me, kept me accountable, and encouraged me. Really appreciate the LBC College Life community.

Pin Daorueng

• What are your short/long term plans? My short term plan is to move to Chico after I get married! I’d be taking one semester of additional classes to fulfill an application requirement for my certificate program. Then, I’d be participating in a one-year certificate program for Clinical Lab Science! As for long term, Joseph and I plan to pursue missions in
  Thailand! In the meantime, we’re depending on God through the church and our Christian org to equip us in making disciples.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am so thankful for my salvation because of the Word that was preached so faithfully at LBC. I’m grateful for the lovely families and friends who shared their lives with me and was a testimony of God’s power and grace. I can’t tell you how much I appreciated the training I’ve received in EV and discipleship; the people before me have really been intentional to instill that in me through fellowships, Bible studies, ministry events, and more. Patrick’s sermons are always so full, which really set the bar high for me when it comes to studying God. And, I can never get over how easy it is to do life with LBC friends so instantaneously…this is true living!

Rachel Seo

• What are your short/long term plans? After Shelby’s wedding, I’ll be moving to Los Angeles for a full-time job! 🙂
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am so thankful for the leadership and staff within college life. They made me feel welcomed when I first arrived and I have been so encouraged by the care and attention they put into small groups and discussions on Friday nights. I am especially thankful for all of my small groups, for the accountability and opportunity to grow alongside other sisters.

Sarah Lau

• What are your short/long term plans? Stay in SD!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m so thankful for the faithful staff and leaders who pour into us! I’m thankful for Josh, Patrick, and Roger who taught us these past four years and their faithfulness to the Word! I’m so thankful for this ministry and that God put me here these past 4 years!! I’m also thankful that I’ve been able to meet so many sisters and brothers who have committed their lives to Christ and continue to grow each day, it’s so encouraging to see people grow!!

Shelby Proulx

• What are your short/long term plans? I am getting married at the end of June and will be staying in San Diego! I am currently looking for a full-time job related to math or statistics and hope to begin working after graduation and the wedding.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I am so thankful for the leadership and staff within college life. They made me feel welcomed when I first arrived and I have been so encouraged by the care and attention they put into small groups and discussions on Friday nights. I am especially thankful for all of my small groups, for the accountability and opportunity to grow alongside other sisters.

Tracy Zeng

• What are your short/long term plans? Short-term – I’m working for non-profits in San Diego. I’m working with San Diego Youth Services, an organization that supports youth in crisis, whether it’s foster, runaway, or homeless youth. Long-term – I’m hoping to get involved in diaspora Bible translation projects here in San Diego while getting my Masters in Biblical Studies. Long long term I’m hoping to be involved in church planting and Bible translation overseas.
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? I’m grateful for the people I’ve gotten to love and the people who have loved me. I love seeing collegians grow in Christ, and specifically in love for evangelism. I’m grateful that I can feel known here, even in this brief time.

Vivian Song

• What are your short/long term plans? SG- pass the NCLEX, become a RN, and work at a hospital! LG- go on a medical mission trip!
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? So so sooo thankful for God’s omniscience. I didn’t even want to transfer to SDSU because I wanted to stay at my home church. But God showed me that there were many areas that I needed to grow and learn that I couldn’t have if I just stayed where I was! It was truly a privilege serving CL <3

Yoshi Unno

• What are your short/long term plans? San Diego for another year
• Looking back at your CL experience, what are you thankful for? Fellowship with brothers and sisters as well as enrichment in the knowledge.

 

by Elder Peter Lim

Dear Lighthouse family,

Here are the graduates from College Life this year! These seniors have had to deal with the unusual pandemic situation so we were sorry for them to graduate without having a proper time to say goodbye to everyone. But God is sovereign and He will be glorified no matter what! Please pray for them as they move forward in life.

Alex Yu

• What are your short / long term plans? I’m pursuing a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? My salvation.

Allison Furmidge

• What are your short / long term plans? Stay in San Diego hopefully! I hope to find a job somewhere in California (SD, LA or Bay Area) and I don’t really have any long term plans, maybe get my Master’s at some point but I’m just waiting for any opportunities God has for me now.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? So much spiritual growth. Realizing the depth of my sinful depravity, defending my faith, and seeing the grace of God through all my experiences in college. And my friends! I already miss them so much.

Alyssa Tepe

• What are your short / long term plans? I am hoping to either move back home (LA area) or move up to the bay area to live with my older brother. In either location I am hoping to get integrated into a church and find an engineering job. But, anything could change, and I am hoping to go where God leads me.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I am super thankful for all the messages. Josh and Patrick were faithful to bring us God’s word each week. Thank you for that. My favorite series was Patrick’s “If I could give advice to College Patrick.” Those were convicting. I’m also thankful for all the people in college life, how we were able to walk alongside one another and encourage each other. I was encouraged to see the different ways that people would serve one another. It demonstrated their love for Christ and for each other.

Ashley Yee

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be attending grad school at SDSU in the fall (hopefully)!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for such a caring community of collegians (& the church body) over the years, as this was something I didn’t have the chance to have growing up at my home church.

Audrey Louie

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be staying in San Diego for the time being. I recently started a temp position as a research associate at a biotech company called Cellibre which is just down the street from church.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for all the CL staffers who committed their time and energy to build a relationship with us, to shepherd us with the truth, and to hold us accountable for our spiritual disciplines. I’m also thankful that God has blessed me with friends who love the Lord and point me to Christ.

Barry Lawlor

• What are your short/long term plans? I’ll be moving up to Pasadena to pursue a PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Caltech! That will be a 4-6 year program, so I don’t know what might come after that. Most likely I’ll go into industry afterwards, and seek to stay in CA. I’d love to return to SD at that point, but I certainly can’t be sure of where God will take me!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for so many things in my time in CL! To name a few: the many people who invested time and care in me, whether in formal discipleship, friendship, or living together; the chance to be involved in the church body as a whole (not just CL)–learning to love sacrificially, becoming a member, serving, and taking part in the joy of unity in the body of Christ; and honestly just the fun times together, whether at Retreat, Luau, Mission bowl, MNV, etc. or more informal things like $3 pizookie runs, trips to Tacos el Gordo or Irvine, apartment hangouts, all-day study sessions, etc. Ultimately the sweet and lasting relationships built in all of these things, and the ways that God has used those to deepen my walk with Him and love for others are what I’m most thankful for.

Beth Kushner

• What are your short / long term plans? I’m taking a gap year at home in LA to work and to apply for graduate school for a teaching credential/masters program. Once I complete graduate school, I would like to be a high school history teacher.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m so thankful for the faithful friends I’ve made in College Life. I am constantly amazed by the amount of people who have invested in me by speaking truth to me and loving me throughout the past four years. It was truly a blessing to be a part of this steadfast ministry.

Camila Franco

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be staying in San Diego at my current internship, but I am also looking for a full-time job at a pharmaceutical company doing research or quality control. In the long term I would like to go to graduate school and obtain a master’s in chemistry.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Looking back, I am most thankful for the opportunities that the Lord has given me, which he has used to grow me. It has been his providence and sovereignty that has shine in all the things that I have gone through in college. I am thankful for coming to San Diego and experiencing the best weather and the best food. I am thankful l to have met amazing people that have shown me what it means to live like Christ. I am thankful for faithful leaders that love to invest in collegians and strive to make disciples. College Life has truly been such a blessing and one that has impacted me for the rest of my life.

Coleton Wilson

• What are your short / long term plans? Finding a job here in San Diego and start the process of applying to graduate school.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I am grateful for the community, encouragement, and guidance of Lighthouse and the CL ministry. I found lighthouse during a time where I was discouraged in my walk, unsure about my faith, and wasn’t even sure I wanted to be a part of a church when I moved to San Diego. By God’s grace, I came to Lighthouse which immediately became a source of support and guidance. The teachings were as convicting as they were encouraging, the leadership was dedicated and loving, and the students and congregation were living examples of the joy of salvation in the gospel. My time in CL has helped grow my faith and strengthen my walk like never before. I will always be thankful for the teaching, relationships, and commitment to a high standard of christian living that CL and lighthouse has provided.

Courtney Chung

• What are your short / long term plans? I’ll be staying in SD to continue working at the UCSD Cognitive Science Department doing HR / Student Affairs.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for all the friendships and fun memories that I’ve made throughout the past 4 years. I’m so grateful to have friends who love, encourage, and point me towards Christ-likeness. In light of this pandemic, I’ve realized how lucky I am to have these friendships and a church family to miss. I’m also incredibly thankful for the leaders and staff of CL who have a genuine care and desire to shepherd our hearts. The time and dedication spent to prepare various activities, messages, and follow up with us even outside of CL is appreciated so much!

Dorothea Cheung

• What are your short / long term plans? Due to COVID, my work start date with Deloitte was delayed from August 2020 to January 2021! With these unexpected changes to work scheduling, I’ve decided to pursue a CPA license and will be taking classes to sit for the exam in, hopefully, fall of this year! Outside of studying, I plan on treasuring time with my family & friends, and building a new church community at Pillar Baptist Church up in the Bay Area!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Looking back at least last 4 years, I’m thankful for the faithful preaching of God’s word and how LBC members are quick to apply truth to their everyday lives! Everyone says that Lighthouse is a very special place, and I couldn’t agree more! This church body has blessed me immensely–encouraged me through joys and hardship, cared for me sacrificially, and challenged me to grow in a deeper love for God. I made some of my closest friends at Lighthouse, and I am so thankful for those who have loved me creatively, allowed me to be vulnerable in sharing my sins, and challenged my thinking! These acts of care can only be attributed to God’s amazing work in your guys’ lives! Thank you to all of our church leadership, CL staff, and members, for being committed to loving God and His people!

Emma Cary

• What are your short / long term plans? Planning to take the MCAT and apply to medical school!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for so many great friendships I’ve made at lighthouse and in college life!

Eunice Ko

• What are your short / long term plans? Moving back home to Norcal to work at Facebook.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? College Life has been such a blessing to me during my time in college. I have met so many people who have encouraged me and walked alongside me and learned from leaders that truly care for their flock and teach the word faithfully!

Evelyn Ma

• What are your short / long term plans? Undecided.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m so thankful for the solid teaching and guidance of lighthouse’s leadership as well as the wonderful opportunities to grow with College Life, especially on servant team! Thank you Peter, Josh, and Pastor Patrick for your faithfulness in shepherding us!

Ivey Do

• What are your short / long term plans? The plan is to move back home with my parents in the Bay Area for the time being and find a job in HR there.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m thankful for the consistent solid teaching, despite who the speaker is. At the church I grew up in, solid teaching was very dependent on who spoke. I’m also thankful for the opportunity to meet so many people who really love the Lord and are so servant-hearted. It was such a blessing to have this community throughout my four years of college.

Jane Lee

• What are your short / long term plans? My plan is to move back home (OC area) and hopefully find a nurse residency program at a hospital nearby.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? While attending CL I am thankful for the faithful servant team staff and church leaders who were so welcoming and willing to get to know each and every one of us.

Johanan Lee

• What are your short / long term plans? Find a job and work for a couple years, and consider pursing a master’s degree.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Faithful teaching of the Bible and making sure everything preached comes directly from it. The commitment of the staff and people to invest in, challenge, and encourage me.

Josalyn Cao

• What are your short / long term plans? I’m planning to take a gap year before applying for Physician Assistant programs!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Ah SO MUCH. I have so much to be thankful for here at LBCSD. It has truly been an encouragement to walk alongside people who have continuously and lovingly pointed me back to our perfect, unchanging Creator. Not only do I get to hear God’s word being preached here at LBCSD, but I also get to see it being lived out through so many people. Being able to witness others serve and love out of a heart that loves God has really been one of the sweetest things to see. I am so thankful for the church for consistently challenging me to grow in my faith, to confront the hard questions, and to truly reflect on my thoughts and actions. Spending the past 4 years here has been such a blessing, and I am thankful for it all.

 
Joycelyn Ma

• What are your short / long term plans? Currently, I will be in San Diego throughout most of the summer and after, in the fall, I will be back home to work on graduate school applications, while also looking for part-time jobs during the time I wait to hear back from schools. In terms of where I’ll go for graduate school, while IDEALLY, I would like to at least stay in California, ultimately, wherever I get in and to even be able go to graduate school is only possible by His grace and His perfect & sovereign will.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Looking back at my CL experience, I am thankful for the opportunities I had to fellowship and walk alongside other believers and collegians while building relationships centered on the common ground we have in Christ.

Justin Chang

• What are your short / long term plans? Short term: stay in the US and look for a job. Long term: go back home to Taiwan.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? The teaching, community, and unadulterated gospel. I feel extraordinarily blessed to be able to be in CL getting to know so many loving individuals with genuine pursuits for Christ.

Madi Ro

• What are your short / long term plans? I am going back to LA to be with my parents for the summer, and then will be off to teach English in Korea for a year!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I’m so thankful for the older sisters that have so faithfully poured into me and so selflessly guided me. I am also grateful for all of the friendships that I have made as well, and the opportunity to grow alongside one another.

Megan Gee

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be moving back home to NorCal to work for a few years and plan on going tot PA school or a nursing program.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I think I’m most thankful for how everyone at Lighthouse was so invested and loving towards me. They were there to help keep me accountable and encourage me.

Melissa Chow

• What are your short / long term plans? I’ll be staying in San Diego for the foreseeable future! I’ll be working at Mitchell as an Information Security Analyst and joining the S&L Ministry this upcoming year.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for the staff who have shepherded me throughout the last five years of my undergrad–who have pointed me to Christ and reminded me of God’s sovereignty and grace to me! I am thankful for my peers whom I’ve had the privilege to grow alongside, who have admonished, encouraged and prayed for me when I need it!

Monica Hall

• What are your short / long term plans? I plan to stay in San Diego and hopefully find a job down here so that I can stay here long term!
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Even though my time here in CL was really short, I am really thankful for the friends that I have made in the past year and a couple months. Thankful that through CL, these friends are some of my closest friends and are people I can trust to point me to Christ when I need it most.

Sarah Jung

• What are your short / long term plans? Planning to move home after spring quarter ends.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? Thankful for the biblical teaching and the faithful ways the leadership seeks to serve the ministry.

Shelby Proulx

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be taking classes online in the fall through Colorado State University to obtain my Masters in Applied Statistics and will hopefully graduate and start working in 2021 with the rest of my class.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I am thankful for the staff and leadership in CL. I felt like I didn’t belong as a USD student my freshman year, but the staff always encouraged me and made me feel like I had a place. I am very thankful for the small group leaders I have had and how they have continued to push me in my faith and relationships while humbly using their own lives as examples.

Tabitha Chua

• What are your short / long term plans? I will be moving back to the Bay Area to stay with family as I continue searching for a job in nursing.
• Looking back at your College Life experience, what are you thankful for? I am so thankful for faithful teaching of the Word that has caused growth in understanding and reverence of the Lord. I am thankful for the church family that holds each other accountable and loves one another!

by Josh Liu

Although College Life has ended, it will be helpful to highlight certain principles concerning the biblical foundations of marriage and family that we talked about during the school year.

(Again, the following notes are adapted from Dr. John Street of The Master’s University and Seminary.)

We can identify two kinds of families in the Bible: spiritual families and physical families.

Every person belongs to a spiritual family. Several passages in Scripture refer to believers as the spiritual family or children of God (1 Tim. 3:15; Eph. 2:19; 3:15; John 1:12; Rom. 8:16-17; Gal. 3:26; 1 John. 3:10). Other passages refer to unbelievers as children of the wicked one or of the devil (John 8:38-44; Matt. 13:38-39; Acts 13:10; 1 John 3:10). These spiritual families are based on one’s relationship to God and have eternal consequences. To become a child of God, one needs to be redeemed (e.g., have Christ’s redemptive work applied to a repentant sinner); otherwise, he remains a child of wrath (Eph. 2:3). The spiritual position, or family, of belonging to God is accompanied with commands of how one ought to conduct himself (Matt. 5:9ff; Mark 3:31-35). The spiritual family continues after our physical death (Rev. 21:7).

Every person also belongs to a physical family. God has defined the design, purpose, and responsibilities of physical families. While every human being is related—descendants of Adam and Eve—God intentionally creates family units through marriage (Gen. 2:24-25). This particular physical family is known as the traditional (nuclear, immediate) family, consisting of a husband, wife, and/or children and important childrearing responsibilities for unmarried children (Gen. 2:24; cf. Ps. 28:1-4; Eph. 5:22-6:4; Col. 3:18-21; 1 Pet. 3:1-7). The Bible also refers to the kind of family that would be regarded as extended family, including grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, etc.—any person with a near biological connection or association (cf. Gen. 10:5ff; Ruth 2:1; Luke 2:4; 1 Tim. 5; Mark 7). Physical families are based on birth, marriage, or adoption. The physical family is only enjoyed while on earth.

While it is the physical family that we seek to expound upon, it must be emphasized that one’s membership to the spiritual family of God is imperative. If you do not know God as your heavenly Father—through submitting to Christ as your Lord and Savior by faith and repentance and depending on His death and resurrection to save you from your sins—then you cannot “do” marriage and family God’s way; without faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb. 11:6; cf. Matt. 7:21-23; Is. 64:6). A fulfilling or “successful” (e.g., well-put together, enviable, conflict-free, “full-quiver,” etc.) marriage and family are secondary to being right with God. Even now, you are able to turn to Christ by faith and repentance and be accepted as a child of God.

As we now examine the physical family, we highlight several specific facts about what the family is and what it should be from God’s perspective.

First, the Bible teaches that the family—specifically marriage—is God’s response to man’s aloneness; marriage is a place where the deepest kind of friendships are formed and experienced. At the beginning of creation, God specifically created a helper for Adam (Gen. 2:18). The spouse is described as a companion, which refers to one who comes alongside or one who accompanies (Prov. 2:17; Mal. 2:14). In other words, the marriage relationship is to be a rich companionship. This one-flesh companion can be further characterized as the biblical friend: a true friend loves, is committed, and loyal (Prov. 17:17; 27:10); avoids flattery and rebukes gently (Prov. 29:5); is concerned about being a positive influence (Prov. 12:26); is sensitive to the likes and dislikes of others (Prov. 25:17, 20; 27:14); encourages and cheers others up (Prov. 27:9); sharpens others (Prov. 27:17); and is willing to sacrifice self and serve others (John 15:13-15).

Second, the Bible teaches that the husband-wife relationship should take precedence over other human relationships (Gen. 2:24). At creation, God intended for the spousal relationship to be permanent and the parent-child relationship to be temporary (e.g., in terms of authority-submission). Parents are to raise their children to leave the home and hold fast to their own spouse (cf. 1 Cor. 14:35). The primary relationship in the home is the husband-wife relationship.

Third, the Bible teaches that the family is to be a place where people are shown honor and respect. Children, in particular, are commanded to honor, not despise, curse, disgrace, scorn, or mock their parents (Deut. 5:16; Prov. 19:26; 20:20; 23:22; 30:17; Mark 7:10; Eph. 6:2). The husband is to delicately care for his wife (1 Pet. 3:7); the wife is to respect her husband (Eph. 5:33); the father is to treat his children with dignity (1 Tim. 3:4) and not provoke them to anger (Col. 3:21; Eph. 6:4); and children are to regard their own family (1 Tim. 5:4).

Fourth, the Bible teaches that the family is a classroom in which the most important lessons of life are taught and learned. Parents have a responsibility to pass on God’s greatness to the next children by instructing them of God’s Word (Deut. 4:9-10; 6:6-25; Josh. 4:21-24; Ps. 78:2-7). Parents have a primary role in the education of their children (though this is not necessarily an argument supporting the priority of homeschooling!).

Fifth, the Bible teaches that the family is a place of safety. God intended the family to be a help during the turmoil of life, which may include social rejection or ridicule, financial distress, physical illnesses or diseases, and spiritual challenges and weaknesses. For example, the husband safely trusts his wife (Prov. 31:11-12); the husband cherishes and nourishes his wife (Eph. 5:28-29); the husband shows his wife honor (1 Pet. 3:7); the God-fearing wife is a blessing to her home (Prov. 14:1; 31:26-28); spouses find satisfaction in one another (Prov. 5:15-20); the family provides for their household (1 Tim. 5:8); the husband provides for his children (Prov. 13:22; cf. 2 Cor. 12:14); and a wise son blesses his father (Prov. 10:1). The family (husband, wife, children) are meant to be a source of encouragement, help, support, gladness, and safety for one another.

This is a sampling of a God-honoring marriage and family—God’s intended design, responsibilities, and blessings. This biblical foundation ought to compel God’s children to prepare for and “do” marriage and family His way. Remember also to carefully watch over your soul by not idolizing (demanding, living for, sinning when not receiving or sinning in order to get) the blessings of the biblical marriage and family. Regardless of the physical family God has brought you into, you can glorify Him in your responses and hope in belonging to the eternal, spiritual family of God.

by Josh Liu

Marriage, which is instituted and defined by God, is under constant attack. Nuclear (traditional), legally separated, divorced, single-parent, extended, childless, blended, and stepfamily—the marriage and family situations and issues are complex. By God’s grace, His Scriptures reveal His design and purpose of marriage and family and are sufficient to address all situations and issues. For the 2017-2018 academic year, College Life seeks to equip its students with a biblical foundation of marriage and family.

(The following notes are adapted from Dr. John Street of The Master’s University and Seminary.)

Why is it important to know what the family is?

First, many today are minimizing the importance of the family or have erroneous ideas about what the family is.

For example, the United Nations General Assembly declared the International Year of the Family 1994, stating “Families assume diverse forms and functions from one country to another, and within each national society. These express the diversity of individual preferences and societal conditions.” In other words, the diversity of culture reflects a diversity of families. Therefore, there is no single definition of family or one model; anyone can (re)define what marriage and family are. Whenever man departs from the counsel of God, chaos and sin ensue. Much of the world has sought to indoctrinate every person’s mind, particularly young people, to believe that they are the authority in deciding issues related to marriage and family. By the power of the Holy Spirit, we must return to God’s Word—God defines what the family is. Since God has provided instruction for the family, man ought to know and obey what God has commanded.

Second, one of Satan’s primary objectives is to destroy the family.

Scripture describes believers as involved in a spiritual war (Eph. 6:11-12). Satan and his demonic forces are opposed to God and all that God stands for. Because of God’s design and purpose of the family, if Satan can undermine the family, then he can destroy society; family and the family unit are critical for society.

Satan knows the importance of the family. Satan knows that:

1. The command to multiply, fill, and subdue the earth was given to a family unit (Gen. 1:28-29). The family is the basic building block of every other social unit or institution. So, the family is unique and irreplaceable in God’s creation. God starts His revelation to man with extended teaching about marriage and the family; He did not start revelation by talking about the church, civil government, or other social institutions.
2. Distortions and deficiencies in the family will produce distortions and deficiencies in every other human institution. The proliferation of fields such as social workers, child protection services, elementary school counselors, child psychologists, Freudian psychoanalysts, arbitrators, divorce lawyers and planners, teen pregnancy centers, and so on at least highlight possible consequences of broken marriages and families. Also, an ungodly family member can have an impact on other family members (see Ex. 20:5; Josh. 7; Prov. 12:4; 14:1; 21:9; Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:21).
3. The family is a means of reflecting the communicable aspects of God’s nature. For example, the family is a means of reflecting the nature of His relationship with His people: husband-wife (Eph. 5:22-33; Rev. 19:9); father-child (Deut. 32:6-18; Rom. 8:12-17; 2 Cor. 6:16-18; John 1:12).
4. Family relationships affect our relationship with God. For example, the intimate filling of the Holy Spirit will manifest itself in submission in family relationships (Eph. 5:18ff), and a husband’s lack of care for his wife will obstruct his prayers (1 Pet. 3:7).
5. Family life is given among the requirements for leadership in the church (1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:8). If a man fails in the home, he is disqualified from being an overseer in the church. A man’s character and conduct among the most private and personal sphere of his life will reveal whether or not he is the kind of man God calls to shepherd His church.

Let this brief (and incomplete) introduction of the importance of the family prime you for further study.

• God holds marriage and family in high regard (cf. Heb. 13:4). Have you sought to glorify Him by preparing for or “doing” marriage and family God’s way by establishing a biblical foundation?
• As single people during their undergraduate careers, we would do well to prepare through biblical study and spiritual discipline (cf. Ezra 7:10; 1 Tim. 4:8).
• There is an enemy who opposes God and seeks to undermine His will, design, and purposes in creation. Stand firm on the truth of God’s Word to illumine your path in glorifying God with your family (cf. Prov. 3:5-6; Ps. 119:105).

by Josh Liu

I want to highlight the LBCSD members in College Life that are graduating this academic year. This is an opportunity to testify to God’s work in their lives. There is so much to be said about each student’s experience and encouragement to the church family that cannot be captured in this brief note. Yet I hope it encourages you and moves you toward glorifying God. Please take a moment to pray for them and look for opportunities to encourage them as they transition out of college.

ABE, BA, Sociology

It has truly been a joy to be part of College Life for the past three years. I am beyond thankful for the faithful preaching of God’s Word. Coming into College Life unsure of the gospel truth, the weekly hearing of the truth helped me to come to a biblical understanding of the gospel. God used it to rescue me from my sin and my self-righteousness. Even more so, God used the faithful teaching to conform me into the image of Christ. Shepherds, small group leaders, and peers have been so gracious to show me the Word, to help me put off the ways of sin, and to instead pursue holiness. Praise God for the work he has done in my heart through the Word! I am also exceedingly thankful for the Christ-centered relationships I was able to develop. We were able to eat carne asada fries together, to rejoice and weep together, and to pursue Christ together. It has always been such a blessing to serve alongside one another in campus EV, prayer, and class events. All of those are sweet memories that I will cherish as college wraps up. Again, I praise God for graciously granting me these relationships where we can strive side by side for the faith of the gospel. I will certainly miss College Life, as it has made a significant impact on my life. And for that, praise Him forevermore!

ALYSSA, BS, Child and Family Development

My time at Lighthouse has been nothing less than sanctifying and encouraging. I just wanted to say thank you to those who took the time to get to know me and invest in my life, for ministering and encouraging me to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and for pointing me back to Him when I lost sight of His loving kindness. I pray that this church body will continue to grow in their servant heartedness, welcoming and loving attitudes to all those who walk come through its doors, and give Him the glory and praise always. It’s been an amazing 4 years and I’m excited to see what more He’s got in store for LBC!

ANISHA, BS, Kinesiology

Hi church, praise God for leading me to Lighthouse Bible Church! God has softened my heart over the years and I have learned to call LBC my home. I am grateful for the community, teaching, love, and the bond that we all have in Christ. God has been working in my life and growing me in various ways. He is constantly reminding me of what it means to truly follow Christ and to cultivate a life full of prayer, thankfulness, and teachability. Thank you for taking me in, encouraging me, and loving on me!

CAVAN, BS, Business Administration

I just want to thank Lighthouse and the church family for creating such a loving and fun environment where I could grow with all of you. Genuinely appreciate the care and Christlike love this church body provides and will forever be grateful. Lighthouse has shown me what it’s like to be involved with the church body and serving one another whether it’s having one on one’s, hangouts/fellowshipping or serving in a ministry. “But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, that there may be no division in the body but that the members may have the same care for one another.” (1 Corinthians 12:24-25).

DANIELLE, BS, Molecular Biology

I honestly could not describe all that Lighthouse and specifically the people in College Life have encouraged me. When I first came to San Diego as a freshman I didn’t know anyone and was afraid of how college would change me. I am so thankful to say that my experiences in college have indeed changed me, but all for the better as the church challenged me to grow in grace and maturity. Through all the joys and pains of life these past few years, my mentors and peers in College Life were right there beside me to serve, encourage, and rebuke me as necessary for my sanctification. I love each and every one of my faithful brothers and sisters at Lighthouse more than I could possibly express, and I pray that we will continue to grow alongside one another as in Colossians 3:12-17.

HANNAH, BS, Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Hi Church! As I reflect on the past few years, I want to express my gratitude, love, and encouragement for you and for the ways God has used you mightily in my life. When I first attended Lighthouse, I remember being blown away by the love this church had for Christ. I met people who listened to sermons in their spare time– people who wanted to listen to sermons in their spare time. And I met parents whose love for God had grown over the years, and not faded, parents who shared the gospel with their children and were still active in the life of the church. I remember the church’s exclamations of joy and excitement when newly engaged and expecting couples were announced, and being amazed that everyone in the church seemed to know these couples and even care for them. I remember thinking that the sweet relationship between the Lighthouse Alliance so reflected the love between churches in the New Testament in a way I believed was no longer possible. And love for God overflowed into a love for others, of which I was an undeserving recipient. Throughout the years, the faithful preaching of God’s Word every week has pierced, convicted, challenged, and changed my heart. It has revealed to me all the areas of my life that I fail to submit to my King, the Creator of all things, the Righteous Judge, and the merciful Father who demands my everything. It reminds me of how small I am in light of who He is, and how my sin is ever before Him. It has encouraged me to live with conduct becoming of one redeemed, and to make the gospel the center of my pursuits. Your love, Church, has been an instrument that God has used mightily in my life. It has been a continual reminder of God’s grace to me, that He would even provide brothers and sisters who would strive alongside me. It is my hope that this brief description of how God has used this ministry and this church in my life would stimulate all of you to persevere, renew faith that God can use broken tools powerfully, and stir you to cling even tighter to Him amidst trials, knowing that He is the greatest treasure worth living for and that He walks with you. And I encourage you not to lose your first love, your love for Christ, “for from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:36).

JARON, BA, Political Science

Hey church family! These last four years have by far been the best four years of my life. I had never before been so challenged and so cared for spiritually, and I have no one to thank but God who has used you to teach me so much. Thank you for constantly displaying Christ’s love in spirit and truth and for teaching me to love others in a way that is only possible through Him. Though my time in College Life and college in general is over, I am reminded that the mission is the same even though life may look a lot different and that God will remain faithful through it all. I love you all so much and words cannot express my gratitude.

JESSICA, BS, Microbiology

I’ve been encouraged by the people in the various classes in CL by their desire to glorify God and point back to Christ in all they do and make sure every hangout isn’t just for the sake of having a good time. I’ve been constantly challenged to be pushed out of my comfort zone in a good way, be it hanging out with people literally all day, meeting with people I don’t know well, addressing housing issues, and confronting the hard questions in small group. Throughout it all, God has really used my time in college to teach me to trust in Him, that He is in control in every situation. Trials really are to be considered as not curses, but as His way of bringing us closer to Him and so we can depend on Him more with each passing day.

JOE, BS, Chemical Engineering

I am happy to have spent my undergrad years at such a strong, Bible teaching church. I have been encouraged by how much people are willing to serve one another and build each other up whether that be through church ministries, small groups, or one on one meetups. I personally felt Lighthouse most affected my spiritual growth in the area of evangelism, especially through the ministry of campus EV. Throughout my time here, I have noticed an increase in boldness for sharing the gospel, love for lost souls, and wisdom in the field of apologetics. These are things that I hope and believe will remain with me in the years to come.

KAREN, BS, Developmental Psychology; Minor, Biology

Hi Church! Words cannot describe how grateful I am for the past 4 years I spent with you all. I came in just wanting a solid church, and got not only a church that is dedicated to preaching the truth, but that is also so loving, intentional, and passionate to seek Christ in everything you do. Thank you for investing in, loving on, and spurring on my class and me as we pursued wisdom, humility, and maturity in our walks. I praise God for graciously giving me a church that always challenges me to continue growing in my faith and to preach the Gospel in whatever I do. I’m truly undeserving of you all and ever thankful that God placed me in San Diego! I can’t wait to see what God has planned in this next chapter of my life, and am so happy that I will still be able to run the race alongside y’all here for at least a little while longer!

KENNY, BS, Computer Science

It has truly been a blessing being able to be a part of the Lighthouse Bible Church San Diego church family, as I have been able to learn and grow under the teaching of faithful pastors and elders who hold a high view of the word. I am grateful for those who have faithfully and selflessly poured out their love and wisdom to the church during my time here, as it has been fundamental to my spiritual growth. In particular, I would like to thank the College Life staff who have led the collegians in Christ-likeness and encouraged and counseled us to seek to glorify God through all of our actions. Although my time in San Diego is quickly coming to an end, I will continue to pray that this church continues to seek to bring glory to Christ, and hold fast to the M.V.P. Statement.

MAGGIE, BA, Computer Science

Lighthouse has been a tremendous part of my personal walk with Christ during my college years. I have made many unforgettable experiences and have met so many amazing brothers and sisters. But most importantly, I have grown in knowledge and understanding of the love that is demonstrated through the Gospel. Christ’s love clearly shines through the genuine care the leaders and staff of College Life have for us collegians.

MEGAN, BS, Cognitive Science

Hi Church, it has been such a blessing to be able to attend Lighthouse Bible Church throughout my college years. I have learned so much and grown more in love with Christ here. Thank you Lighthouse for being dedicated to exemplifying God’s love for us through teaching, fellowship, and serving. I am very thankful for the College Life ministry and all the staff who poured out their time and love to invest in us. I am also thankful for all my brothers and sisters who have come alongside me and kept me accountable in this race. Thank you for pushing me to continually strive to grow in Christ-likeness. It has been an encouragement to see how God has been growing Lighthouse and I pray that He would continue to do so. Let’s keep striving to push one another to glorify God in all that we do!

NATHAN, BA, Urban Studies and Planning

I came to Lighthouse in Fall 2016 from recommendation from friends and family for a Church down here in San Diego and I’ve been immensely blessed in my couple years here in College Life. The biggest thing I’ve learned that has stayed in my time in College Life and College is taking God at his word in every step. That scripture is sufficient, has no errors and it is God speaking to us with every sentence and page. In so many different conversations, I’ve been directed back to the word of God and his sovereignty amidst my own shortcoming and need for growth. I can’t forget my first Friday night Bible Study where Josh preached on the Cross of Christ and as he had us open our Bibles, I knew this is the Church I wanted to stay at. My hope going forward from here for us both is to continually be guided by the scriptures and to be so anchored in our Lord for the days to come, however hard the storms may come.

NICK, BA, Communication

Thank you LBCSD for all the memories, teachings and encouragements! I have been blessed and enriched by the biblical teaching of our pastors, the servant hearts of the College Life ministry and the fellowship of so many like-minded people who share a passion for proclaiming and living out the Gospel. I’m so thankful for the intentionality and outpouring of love that I have felt throughout my college experience. I know God will continue to do amazing things through this church as he builds up disciples of Christ! Thank you to everyone who has advised, encouraged and even challenged me to live out my faith! You have all played a big role in my spiritual walk! I will cherish the numerous memories with College Life, praise team, retreats and countless hours of awesome fellowship! Thank you for all the amazing experiences and I pray you will all continue to grow in your spiritual walks!

NOAH, BS, General Biology

I have been so blessed with my time at LBC within the college life ministry. The community at Lighthouse has always gone out of its way to make me feel welcome and I have really appreciated their desire to seek and preach the truth of the gospel. It’s been a lot of fun getting to know people through random events at Lighthouse and I hope that the church will continue to reach out to others who come by LBC.

RENDALE, BS, Engineering Physics

Hello church family! These past 4 years have been the best in my life. Through this ministry I was able to come to saving faith. Through this ministry I’ve come to know what a loving church looks like. Through this ministry I’ve learned how to accurately handle the word of God and how important that is. Through this ministry I’ve learned what it really means to have the older men/women disciple the younger men/women. It was by God’s grace alone that I would be placed in San Diego for college, and by your faithfulness of proclaiming the gospel that even brought me to this church in the first place. Thank you for these years and may you continue to be a shining lighthouse of God’s truth in this dark world!

TIFFANY, BS, Child and Family Development

Hello church! I have been truly blessed by all the ways you guys have sought to encourage, serve, and shepherd me during the past four years of college. I have grown and matured so much in my faith through the strong teaching of God’s word and accountability from the members of the church. I want to thank the pastors and leaders of the church for their faithfulness in preaching and living out the gospel daily. I have been so encouraged by your genuineness and desire in seeking to love and care for one another. Thank you for pointing me back to Christ when I fall short and showing me the love and care that I do not deserve. Continue to live a life that exemplifies Christ and show Christlike love to those around you. I am excited to continue to grow and serve alongside you all this coming year as I will be sticking around San Diego for at least another year! Let’s continue to run this race together for the Glory of God!

TIMOTHY, BS, Biochemistry and Cell Biology

I thank God greatly for His grace and providence in bringing me to this church. It has been nearly three years since I first visited LBC on September 27, 2015 as a freshman in college. Back then I was unsaved and utterly lost in my sins. It is no surprise that I came out that Sunday morning not out of a love for God and a desire to worship Him, but out of a self-righteous habit of attending church service.

Ever since then, God has worked wondrously in my life through the church. Not only did He save me through the gospel, but He has been molding me into the image of Christ in several ways. First, He has regularly nourished me with the Word preached by the elders and leaders at LBC. Their faithful exposition of the Bible has caused me to mature spiritually and to more wholly fix my hope and trust upon Christ and His promises. Second, I am constantly encouraged and at the same time humbled by the Christ-likeness I see exhibited, especially in your self-sacrificial love for one another. As I have come to spend time with you, I cannot measure the amount of time, love and encouragement you have given me and other brothers and sisters. Your love, in turn, reminds me of His ultimate love for us on the cross, and spurs me to more fully obey 1 Peter 4:8 – “Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins.” Third, I am so thankful how the church has equipped me to live a more faithful Christian life, not only through the preached Word, but also through exposing me to the wealth of Christian literature. I am particularly grateful for having been shown how to pursue the Christian disciplines based on what Paul says: “[D]iscipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Timothy 4:7-8, NASB).

I have been blessed in so many other ways than those listed above. As He is the giver of all such grace, I praise Him and give Him thanks for what He has done and promises to do, not only in my own life, but in your lives as well. May we never grow complacent but say with Paul , “Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14, NASB).

VICTOR, BS, Computer Science

Hello church family! I’m so thankful and blessed to have been able to attend Lighthouse during these past 3 years of college, and have been encouraged by the love that everyone shows towards each other in their desire to exemplify Christ. I’m grateful for the dedication of scripture-based teaching, and have been constantly challenged through the weekly sermons at College Life as well as Sunday service. I’m glad and excited to be around at least one more year, and am thankful to be part of the church body here in San Diego.

by Josh Liu

In nature, we often observe energy travel the path of least resistance. Similarly, people typically choose the easiest or most convenient option. Unfortunately, a similar pattern is seen in many believers: they are simply going with the common grain. It’s easy to live like the world since it’s the path of least resistance; it’s hard to live against the world for Christ. Yet the transforming power of the Gospel enables and compels true believers to be faithful to Christ in all areas of life.

Overview

Pastor James Lee of Lighthouse Bible Church Orange County preached on the theme of “living unmistakably against the common grain” for our 2018 College Life Retreat. It was a great time of studying Scripture, examining our own lives, and considering how to be faithful to Christ in every area of life! Personally, it was also a blessing to be able to spend time with Pastor James and his family as they have been an incredible source of joy and encouragement.

The following provides a brief overview of the sessions:

Session 1: Faithful to Follow the Lord: The Cost of Discipleship (Luke 14:25-35)

Many fail to truly consider how much it costs to be a Christian. As Pastor James says, we up-play the freeness of the gift of salvation but we downplay the cost. Christ commands us to follow Him completely, with no regrets or conditions. In considering what it means to follow Christ from Luke 14, we must understand three non-negotiables: (1) accept His terms: absolute lordship (vv. 25-26); (2) accept His road: daily discipleship (vv. 27-33); and (3) accept His mission (vv. 34-35).

Questions for reflection/discussion:

1. It’s not about perfection but direction. How does your life evidence an exclusive allegiance to Christ?
2. In willingness to die, how will you specifically live for Christ right now?
3. Is there anything in your life that God is calling you to surrender to Him?

Session 2: Faithful to Daily Death: Our Gospel Debt to the Daily Dying of William Tyndale

William Tyndale’s singular devotion to translate and distribute the Bible, punishable by death at the time, demonstrated a faithful life transformed by the Gospel. Pastor James provides five observations that we can glean from the life of Tyndale: (1) the infinite worth and transforming power of God’s written Word; (2) the providential and merciful workings of God in history for His people; (3) the desperate everything found in light of the true Gospel; (4) the Gospel’s absolute demand of daily discipleship for the joy of suffering; and (5) the deeply personal and generational impact in which the life of ministry faithfulness can have.

Questions for reflection/discussion:

1. What can you give thanks to God from Tyndale’s life?
2. What’s one thing about his life that sticks out and challenges you to greater faithfulness?

Session 3: Faithful by Obedient Evangelism: The Sad Silence of God’s People in Their Call to the Nations (Jonah 4:1-11)

Pastor James masterfully reviews the Book of Jonah to show that Jonah is the story of God’s mercy not just to Nineveh but especially to a rebellious prophet. Ironically, Jonah is preaching repentance when he isn’t truly repentant in his own heart. In examining our own hearts of self-righteousness, pay attention to these three sad ironic contradictions in Jonah’s self-righteousness: (1) hearing grace for ourselves but hating grace for others; (2) inviting sovereignty for happiness but ignoring sovereignty for holiness; and (3) rejoicing in God’s great salvation but rejecting God’s saving smile.

Questions for reflection/discussion:

1. In what areas might God be exposing self-righteousness in your own life?
2. How have you withheld grace from someone? How can you show God’s grace to this person?
3. How can you specifically begin to pursue a lost soul?

Session 4: The Only Hope that Will Not and Never Disappoint (Selected Scriptures)

Everyone needs hope. Unfortunately, many think of hope as wishful thinking and desires. Yet biblical hope is absolute and completely certain. Where one places his hope (for help, fulfillment, provision, comfort, etc.) exposes the heart. Christians have true (biblical) hope because God is a God of hope (cf. 1 Pet. 3:14-15; Rom. 15:13; 1 Thess. 4:13). Here are three reasons why hoping in God will never disappoint: (1) God cannot and will not make empty promises; (2) Heaven is our true home forever and together; and (3) God’s kingdom is totally worth dying for and living for.

Questions for reflection/discussion:

1. Where do you find refuge, safety, comfort, escape, pleasure, or security? What do you think about most often?
2. How might you counsel or encourage someone who is hopeless?
3. How can you actively invest into eternity?

Session 5: Faithful to Honor Christ through the Hardships of Life and Ministry (2 Cor. 12:7-10)

Suffering will result in faithful obedience to Christ (cf. Matt. 5:10-12; Acts 14:22). Yet, as Pastor James said, God’s grace shines through to tell you that even at the lowest point of life, there’s a pathway to joy. Pastor James highlights three lessons from 2 Corinthians 12 in order to faithfully honor Christ through suffering: (1) trust in the purposes of divine sovereignty (v. 7); (2) be gripped by the sufficiency of divine grace (vv. 8-9a); and (3) delight in the paradox of divine power (vv. 9b-10).

Questions for reflection/discussion:

1. What does suffering reveal about the perfections and purposes of God?
2. What might God be teaching you through suffering that you otherwise wouldn’t have learned?
3. How might you encourage and counsel someone who is going through suffering?

Studying Scripture together was the distinct highlight of the retreat. Along with the sessions, we also had a great time of fellowship through team games, lipdubs, meal times, and more! Check out the highlight video!

by Josh Liu

Church history is one of my many weak areas that requires greater study. Beyond the rich history and heritage girding the Christian faith, the church today is blessed by the testimonies, ministries, teachings, and writings of generations of faithful saints. In particular, in 2017, the church celebrated the 500th year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, which exalted Christ’s atonement and the authority of the inspired, inerrant holy Scriptures in opposition to the corrupt doctrine and practice of the Roman Catholic Church. So, for the Fall, College Life Bible study went through a miniseries entitled “The Reformation”. After a brief history primer, we studied the five sola statements: sola scriptura (Scripture alone), solus christus (Christ alone), sola gratia (grace alone), sola fide (faith alone), and soli deo gloria (glory of God alone). The sola statements were developed over time and provide succinct summaries of the doctrines emphasized during the Reformation.

The following provides a brief overview of the miniseries:

1. A Reformation Primer – What was the Protestant Reformation? How did it begin? What were the key issues? Many, including myself, need a brief primer to the history, events, issues, and persons related to the Reformation.
2. Sola Scriptura Part 1 (Selected Scriptures) – Scripture alone, as the inspired Word of God, is our final and solely infallible authority for faith and practice, not the pope or church tradition. Since the beginning of time, God’s Word has been attacked. For example, contemporary practices of historical criticism deny the inerrancy, and ultimately the authority, of Scripture. God’s Word alone speaks clearly, truthfully, sufficiently, and authoritatively.
3. Sola Scriptura Part 2 (Ps. 119:9-16) – In application of the authority and sufficiency of God’s Word, we examined the sanctifying and purifying power of Scripture. To live a pure life that glorifies God, one must live, seek, treasure, learn, declare, rejoice in, meditate on, and delight in God’s Word.
4. Solus Christus (Selected Scriptures) – There is no mediator between God and man but Jesus Christ; any other supposed mediator (whether a priest, the pope, a saint, or Mary) must be rejected. Also, sinners are saved purely on the basis of Christ’s sacrifice; no works of penance can make a person righteous before God.
5. Sola Gratia (Selected Scriptures) – Ephesians 2:8-9 is clear: the salvation of sinners is solely the result of God’s grace (i.e., unmerited favor). The Roman Catholic Church teaches that Christ’s work on the cross introduced one into a state of grace whereby he/she would be able to perform good works that further merit grace (e.g., acts of penance). The selling of indulgences was meant to access such merit in order to lessen one’s time in purgatory. This grossly violates Scripture. Sinners—completely incapable and unwilling to turn to God—require God’s gracious intervention to save them from His wrath. The accounts of the adulterous woman, the praying tax collector, and the crucified criminal illustrate God’s grace to save.
6. Sola Fide (Rom. 3:28) – Justification is received by faith only and not on the basis of any of our good works. God’s grace to save through the atoning sacrifice of Christ is received by faith. Faith itself does not justify, but is an instrument in receiving Christ and His righteousness. Similarly, no human deed or effort can save. Good works are done in expression of faith.
7. Soli Deo Gloria (Rom. 11:33-36) – All glory and worship belongs only to God as the sole author and actor in salvation. His triune glory is not to be shared with saints, popes, or other church leaders. To be fair, 16th century Roman Catholic Church did not deny the importance of Scripture, faith, grace, and Christ, but the disagreement comes from the modifier “alone.” David Vandrunen says, “the fact that salvation is by faith alone, grace alone, and Christ alone, without any meritorious contribution on our part, ensures that all glory is God’s and not our own.” (God’s Glory Alone, 15).

Study church history! May it bring you to a deeper knowledge of and intimacy with Christ!

Editor’s Note: Josh’s observation that his knowledge of church history is relatively weak is a common one among modern-day Christians. One resource you might not be aware of is the “Church History” Sunday School series that was taught here at LBCSD a few years ago. Obligatory disclaimer: I (Stephen) taught it.

by Josh Liu

All Church Retreat is a special time for the whole church family to gather together for a weekend of personal fellowship and intense study of God’s Word. As the church grows (by God’s grace), these opportunities for whole-church intimacy become increasingly important. In serving in College Life, I am always encouraged by the collegians’ investment and participation in their church family.

The 2017 All Church Retreat (Nov. 3-5) focused on the theme, “The Mission Minded Church.” Tim Carns, pastor of missions and discipleship at Calvary Bible Church in Burbank, CA, gave four sessions: (1) A Mission-Minded God (Eph. 1:9-10, 4:11-16; Acts 1:8; 2 Tim. 2:2); (2) A Mission-Minded Gospel (1 Cor. 2:1-5; Zech. 4:4-7); (3) A Mission-Minded Home (Deut. 6:4-9; Ps. 78:1-8; Matt. 5:13-16); and (4) A Mission-Minded Heart (Jonah). In reflecting on the retreat and messages, here are brief interview responses from some of our students:

Abe Cheung

Pastor Tim Carns gave me a much-needed reminder that it is only the gospel that saves. No, not even vibrant and “hip” ministry events. No, not even spectacular and ear-appealing worship songs. No, not even pious and excellent conduct in the workplace. It is so easy to twist the simplicity and the beauty of the truth that the gospel saves. Sure, events, songs, and proper conduct are helpful towards the gospel ministry, but it should never replace the gospel itself. I definitely fall into this incorrect thinking too often—that Christ needs my extra work to save people. Then it becomes the gospel AND my deeds that save people. But rather it is only the gospel that saves. And I must depend upon that, not my works, to save people. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” (‭‭Romans‬ ‭1:16‬ ‭‬‬‬‬‬‬‬)

Christian Cheng

Pastor Tim Carns’ message on “The Mission-Minded Home” was, for me, a much-needed reminder of God’s grace in bringing my parents to salvation and working in them to foster faithfulness in my family. Like many others who grew up in a Christian home, I went to church every week, read Christian books, and attended kid’s programs like AWANA and BSF. For many church kids, these activities feel so normal. We don’t always realize how much our parents have blessed us by fostering the attitude of a mission-minded home. However, hearing Pastor Tim emphasize the importance of teaching sound doctrine and biblical character helped me recognize how faithful my parents have been in ministering to their mission field at home. When I first started college and moved away from family, the influence they had on me became more important than ever. As a collegian, I still look back on their wisdom and teaching and apply them to the way I live my life now. I’m thankful for my family and their faithfulness, and most of all, I thank God for using them as instruments to preach the Gospel to me.

Connie Pung

This year’s All Church Retreat theme about how to be a mission minded church was a great reminder of God’s will for my life here on earth. I was reminded of how it is only by God’s grace that I am able to receive the Holy Spirit and receive salvation through Jesus Christ.
The session on how to be a mission-minded home stood out to me the most. Although I don’t have believing parents, I am still able to witness the faithfulness of the parents at Lighthouse and see how they teach their children, truly hoping to see their child know Christ. It also reminded me that my focus on evangelism shouldn’t be solely towards peers and overlook the children—they are lost souls as well in need of a Savior.

Other than the messages, I think it was just encouraging to meet other people in the church from different life stages and be encouraged by how God has been challenging them. We may not be in the same area all the time, but we are able to still share this special bond in knowing that we are God’s children and instruments in furthering His kingdom!

Hannah Tan

A convicting lesson I took from retreat this year was the necessity, urgency, and beauty of sharing the gospel, and the need to be mindful of where my hope in evangelism is founded. Oftentimes, in the workplace and at school, I have bolstered my timidity to share the gospel with the mentality that my example will be enough to show people who Christ is. In Pastor Tim Carns’ second message, he challenged this mentality by quoting Romans 10:17, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ.” Pastor Tim emphasized that only the gospel, illumined by the work of the Holy Spirit, can save. I realized that to think my example alone is sufficient to bring people to Christ is to deny that the sole and sovereign work of God is the only means to salvation. I was reminded that we are not to be ashamed of the gospel, for only the gospel saves. And I was challenged to confront my Jonah-like heart, the heart that is quick to forget God’s mercy to save me, realizing that desiring salvation for and sharing the gospel with others is learning to love them more than I love my comfort.

Karen Chang

One significant lesson I learned was how the events that go on during our lives all point toward God’s greater plan. Session #1 was a huge reminder of how I have to break away from the tunnel vision I have on my own goals and desires in life to be a part of His bigger mission to preach and live the Gospel. It’s never my will that needs to be done, but His will. Ephesians 1:9-10 tells us that the mystery of His will is supposed to be revealed to us, not just figured out on our own. It is not us writing our own plans for what will happen in the future but God. All that we gain in wisdom and insight is a gift from God, and all of the actions we do and efforts we take to serve one another and/or evangelize are planned in advance by God. Therefore, I am to realize that the race we run is to fill a specific role chosen by God to see that Christ is lifted up to the ends of the earth. I pray that I can continue to prioritize Him first when managing my time, gifts, and resources so that I can fill my spot in His ongoing mission to make disciples of all nations!

Nathan Park

My most memorable moment from retreat was the encouragement and honesty that came from members of our church family during the time of sharing. Growing up, I’ve always heard the ambitious and passionate cry for missions being preached to students and children, but seeing that call for being “mission-minded” is for all of us as believers of Christ regardless of the particular life stage the person is simply a sober joy for me.

One significant lesson I learned was how the Book of Jonah turns itself to check the reader towards the end of the book. Essentially, God not only looks at the act of living “mission-minded” lives but he also checks the heart and motive to show his just mercy towards traitors and rebels like ourselves. It is by God’s grace we live “mission-minded” lives. In application of the messages I’m going to commit to praying and asking the Lord to show me areas where I am dull and careless about his mission and to turn and seek to weave Gospel-centered conversations in my own daily life. Whether working, studying, or serving, I seek to daily remember that, ultimately, we live for a “Mission-minded God.”

Zachary Preslar

This past retreat God made it evident to me that I do not simply reside at LBCSD as a student leader of College Life, but that my membership makes me part of the whole of the local church, and that I should not neglect to fellowship with the whole church body (Hebrews 10:24-25). Seeing the way our church emphasizes the wisdom of God, even to the children’s ministry has humbled me, because only in the Word can true wisdom be found. Wisdom apart from the Word is not wisdom, but foolishness (1 Corinthians 3:18-20), and God, through Sonlight, further expanded the priceless value of His wisdom to me when they led worship. God’s wisdom is timeless just as He is eternal (Psalm 102:23-28), whether you are just learning to walk or old enough to teach your little ones to walk.

by Josh Liu

College Life had its annual luau at the beginning of October. It was a great time with all of our semester and quarter students back together! We welcomed a number of new students as well! It is exciting seeing all of these students begin or continue their college careers. This stage of life provides unique opportunities to explore, learn, and mature; lifelong friendships are often formed during this time; habits and decisions are made that often lead to a particular direction of life. It can also be a confusing time.

During the devotional, Pastor Patrick began with recounting Israel’s lawlessness. Israel forsook God as their rightful King and did what was right in their own eyes (cf. Judges 21:25). Israel’s rebellion against God’s authority is illustrative of every person’s rebellion against God. Every person, in his or her depraved nature, rebels against God (cf. Ps. 2:1-2; Rom. 1:18-32). Sinners deceive themselves by believing that they are the rulers of their own kingdoms, declaring what they believe is right or true. Opinions, preferences, and personal desires become “law.” This self-inaugurating authority reveals itself in many ways. For example, a person may believe anger or premarital sex can be right simply because he or she feels that it is right, whereas God proclaims such acts as damnable sins (cf. Gal. 5:19-21). Or, abortion is declared right because of one’s personal claim over the body, though God declares every life precious and the body to be used to glorify Him (cf. Gen. 9:6; 1 Cor. 6:20). God has ultimate authority over all of His creation, over your life (cf. Rom. 9:20-21). God has the authority to righteous judge sinners, and the authority to graciously forgive sinners (cf. James 4:12).

By God’s grace, Jesus Christ came to redeem rebels into obedient servants (cf. Rom. 6:4ff; Titus 3:3-7). Those who repent of their sins and submit their lives to Christ through faith are liberated to truly live with Christ as Lord and King.

Here are some questions to examine your heart on what authority might be ruling you:

1. What can you not live without?
2. What would ultimately satisfy you?
3. What do you sacrifice for?
4. What do you spend most of your time, energy, thought, and money on?
5. Where do you find refuge, safety, comfort, escape, pleasure, or security?

Some common authorities (idols) may be a relationship, respect, material possession, accolade, comfort, control, etc.

Brad Bigney provided an insightful caution: good things can become god-things [idols] when we exchange the glory of God [God’s authority]. Let us seek to live for and submit to God in all that we do.

Here are some principles to help you live with God as your authority:

1. Prayerfully examine your own heart through what Scripture teaches on the responses to the questions above.
2. Prayerfully study and practice Scripture before coming to a judgment or decision based on your own experiences, opinions, or preferences.
3. Prayerfully practice appropriate silence or flexibility where God’s Word has not specifically spoken.
4. Prayerfully seek biblical counsel from godly mentors and leaders who will direct you back to the Word of God in all situations.
5. Pray through the truths, promises, and commands of Scripture in all situations.

God’s Word is our final and absolute authority for life and godliness (cf. 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:3). We must be saturated with God’s Word in order to appropriately live under the beautiful lordship of Christ. And we must be immersed in God-centered prayers–approaching His throne of grace through prayer (cf. Heb. 4:16).

by Josh Liu

The Mission of LBC is to make disciples of Christ, which encompasses baptizing and teaching (cf. Matt. 28:18-20). Small group ministries can be an effective means of discipleship for many churches. At LBCSD, it is one of the ways we extend accountability, instruction, and fellowship so that believers would spiritually mature.

Pastor Patrick has written on being a faithful small group participant:

• How to Get the Most Out of Small Groups (Part 1)
• How to Get the Most Out of Small Groups (Part 2)

We also desire to equip small group leaders to serve with excellence.

A small group leader is simply a servant of Christ seeking to help other servants of Christ mature. Therefore, small group leaders must prove themselves qualified with exemplary godly character, worthy of being followed. The Apostle Paul was able to humbly exhort other believers to follow in his example as he pursued Christ (cf. 1 Cor. 4:6; 11:1; Phil 3:17). To those considering or serving as small group leaders:

• How are you growing spiritually? Are you pursuing Christ first?
• How are your spiritual disciplines?
• Are you being faithful to Christ according to His Word?

Consider the following passages on godly character: Prov. 31:10-31; 1 Tim. 3:1-13; Titus 1:6-2:8; 1 Thess. 2:1-20; Rom. 12:1-21; Gal. 5:16-26; Eph. 4:17-32; Phil. 3:7ff; 2 Pet. 1:3-7.

Small group leading is essentially life on life discipleship. Discipleship is not a program; it is life (cf. 1 Thess. 2:8). The Apostle Paul’s example of shepherding and ministry illustrates this principle. He does not simply impart facts or govern decision-making. Paul not only pours out his heart into those whom he ministers, but also lives life with them. While structure or programs may help facilitate discipleship, they are not the defining marks of discipleship. So, a small group leader seeks to invest his or her life into the lives of the small group members in a way to walk with them and to mutually help one another grow. To those considering or serving as small group leaders:

• Are you willing to walk with individuals through their trials and failures?
• How are you practicing the “one another’s” with your small group members?
• Would you consider learning from your small group members and be vulnerable when appropriate?

Since small group discipleship is life on life activity, it requires love, time, sacrifice, and patience. Without a spirit of love, discipleship ministry will eventually become frustrating and will lead to sinful attitudes. A leader’s love for the Lord must be the foundation for his love for others (cf. Matt. 22:37-40). Also, life on life ministry is going to require time in order to make a good investment. The time required may be inconvenient or longer than expected. So, a small group leader will be expected to make some level of sacrifice. Discipleship ministry is seldom convenient for the leader. If a person’s attitude is that others must do all they can to accommodate him or her, he or she is not fit for leadership. Spiritual growth and change is oftentimes slow. The small group must practice compassionate patience because people most often do not take in lessons after being instructed only once. A leader must be prepared to teach the same lessons over and over until the small group member understands and applies that spiritual lesson. To those considering or serving as small group leaders:

• Have you considered or are currently practicing the appropriate love, time, sacrifice, and patience to be an effective small group leader?

The goal of small group discipleship is maturity in Christ (cf. Col. 1:28) and becoming a disciple-maker (2 Tim. 2:2). Small group members ought to be equipped to make other disciples (cf. 1 Thess. 1:6-8). The teacher needs to help students teach others. This is the disciple-making work that all believers are called (cf. Matt. 28:18-20). While it is a humble goal, leaders should desire others to excel beyond them. To those considering or serving as small group leaders:

• Are you equipping others for the work of ministry and to be disciple-makers?

We depend and praise God for His work to transform souls and sanctify His people into the image of His Son. We are also humbled that God may use us as His instruments to accomplish His sanctifying work.