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Serving God with Longsuffering

Written by Pr Kelvin Lim

Serving the Lord is the divine duty of every born-again Christian. The Bible exhorts the saints to serve the Lord (Romans 6:18; 1 Corinthians 7:22). The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gift(s) to every child of God to equip him for his service unto the Lord. Though not everyone would be called to serve in vocational ministries (such as pastoring God’s flock, teaching and preaching God’s Word, being an evangelist or a full-time staff of the church, etc.), it is nonetheless required of every saint to serve his heavenly Father while here on earth! And in the process of one’s service, God’s saint is bound to encounter difficult people and situations. Through it all, "the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient" (2 Timothy 2:24). In other words, he is to serve "with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2b).

The word "longsuffering" in the New Testament is made up of two Greek words, "makro" and "thumia". The literal translation of "makrothumia" is "long-tempered" (the opposite of short-tempered). According to Vine’s dictionary, "longsuffering" is that quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation. It does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish (cf. Luke 18:7; 1 Peter 3:20). Furthermore, "longsuffering" can also be defined as the quality that does not surrender to circumstances nor succumb to trials. It is the opposite of despondency and is associated with hope. Thus, "longsuffering" can also be translated as "patient" (cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:14b; James 5:7-8).

Longsuffering is a Characteristic of God

God’s longsuffering was abundantly manifested during the days of Noah (cf. Genesis 6-7). The imaginations of men then were so filled with "only evil continually" (Genesis 6:5b) that it grieved the LORD’s heart. The wickedness of men greatly provoked the LORD to anger. Yet, the LORD was "longsuffering to (them)-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9b). The LORD could have promptly punished mankind during the days of Noah for their wickedness but He restrained Himself. He called Noah, a preacher of righteousness, to warn the ungodly for 120 years about His impending judgment of flooding the earth, but they continued in their wickedness and believed not Noah’s preaching. They continued to eat, drink, make merry, marry and be given in marriage till it was too late (cf. Luke 17:27). Indeed, "the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a-preparing", just so for them to repent, but in the end only "eight souls (i.e. Noah and his family) were saved" (1 Peter 3:20).

The Bible speaks of God as "The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin" (Exodus 34:6-7a). Without a doubt, God’s abundant mercies and longsuffering can be seen in His dealings with His chosen nation Israel. God’s forbearance with Israel as a nation over many years is well documented in Scripture. Despite great spiritual declension characterising the reigns of northern Israel’s and southern Judah’s kings, God’s longsuffering was shown in His sending faithful prophets to warn of God’s impending judgment against idolatry and apostasy unless averted by repentance (cf. Hosea 2; Amos 5; Micah 6; Jeremiah 25:1-11). Alas, when repeated warnings fell on deaf ears, Israel fell to the Assyrians (2 Kings 17:5-6) in 722 BC, and Judah was subjugated by the Babylonians (2 Kings 25:1-4) in 586 BC. What followed were 70 years of captivity and exile in Babylon. Nevertheless, the covenant-keeping God would not discard His people forever; He only meant to chasten them for a season. No wonder upon the Jews’ return from captivity, Nehemiah was moved to testify of God’s longsuffering: "But … our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and hearkened not to thy commandments, and refused to obey, … but hardened their necks, … but thou art a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest them not" (Nehemiah 9:16-17).

Longsuffering is a Characteristic of the Fruit of the Spirit

Christians have been made partakers of God’s divine nature (cf. 2 Peter 1:4a). Upon being born into God’s kingdom, we are endowed with the Holy Spirit for the service of God. And "having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust" (2 Peter 1:4b), we are no more to walk after the flesh, expressing ourselves in "hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies" (Galatians 5:20). "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).

As Christians serving the Lord, trials and afflictions are unavoidable in our lives (cf. 1 Peter 4:12). In such times, the Holy Spirit will enable us to go through difficulties with longsuffering, among other God-honouring traits. The Holy Spirit will grant us the grace to bear up with those distresses, as well as to bear those injuries caused by evil mouths and wicked hearts. As we walk in the Spirit, manifesting "the fruit of the Spirit", we will be able to put up with the affronts hurled in our faces, and be ready to forgive those who offended us. Longsuffering (as one vital aspect of the fruit of the Holy Spirit) grows in the process of time, which can only come about through the trials providentially prepared by the Lord as a form of spiritual exercise to strengthen the patience of His children. These spiritual exercises help us to trust the Lord increasingly and thus mature in the faith according to God’s purpose.

Longsuffering is a Characteristic of the Christian’s Lot

The spirit of longsuffering is most needful – especially for those spiritually more mature – when it comes to serving God among His people. The apostle Paul is very mindful that in terms of temperament, God’s saints come in all shapes and sizes. Differences of opinion or in approaches to things could easily create friction, resulting in disagreements when Christians serve the Lord together. Hence, Paul pleaded with believers to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, … with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love" (Ephesians 4:1-2). It goes without saying that it is the spiritually strong who should take lead in doing the "forbearing", even being "kind one to another" and "forgiving one another" (Ephesians 4:32). Truly, "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves" (Romans 15:1). Spiritually-minded Christians are to "esteem other better than themselves" and to "look … every man also on the things of others" (Philippians 2:3b-4). This is the lot of every mature – and maturing – Christian.

Christians are also urged to "be patient (from the root word "makrothumia") toward all men" (1 Thessalonians 5:14b). The Lord Jesus told His disciples that "men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake" (Matthew 5:11). Ungodly men will persecute Christians for their faith and oppress them in many areas of life. Yet, we are encouraged to exhibit a longsuffering spirit in dealing with them! "But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ" (1 Peter 3:14-16).

Moreover, Christians are to be "patient (also from "makrothumia") … unto the coming of the Lord" (James 5:7a). The apostle James exhorts the saints to "suffer with long patience" until the Lord returns to take them back to be with Him forever. Christians are to bear up well and show restraint in the face of hostility or opposition amidst their service. Notwithstanding all our trials and afflictions in serving God, it will be worth it all when Christ returns and says unto us, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant". Meanwhile, we are to "stablish (our) hearts" (James 5:8) firmly upon God’s Word and be assured that our longsuffering in the midst of serving God will bear great testimony to others around us that can influence them for Christ. Thus, waiting patiently for the Lord’s return is also a form of serving God!

Conclusion

The need for serving God with longsuffering cannot be overemphasised. It is not only a godly trait, but also an important aspect of the fruit of the Holy Spirit, which will enable the spiritually mature Christian to persevere in his service, especially in the area of ministering to people (cf. Galatians 6:1; James 5:19-20).

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Report & Testimonies

GCM Gospel Rally Report

30th March 2019 was an exciting day for many of us serving in Gethsemane Children’s Ministry (GCM) in our church. It was the first time where activities were being organised simultaneously at three respective locations.

This idea of having simultaneous activities at multiple locations was suggested by our pastor when he realised the difficulties of gathering our children at a particular location for Daily Vacation Bible School (DVBS) last year. As such, if GCM’s activities were held in locations demarcated by regions, it might be more convenient for parents to bring their children. Therefore, our children won’t have to struggle with much travelling in order to partake of the spiritual blessings which the world cannot offer!

With that in mind, the GCM Committee went about to deliberate the possible venue options and accompanying logistical considerations of having a decentralised event for the sake of our children and their friends. A gospel rally was organised with the intention of sharing the glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, first to our own children and, at the same time, to their friends!

The GCM Committee would like to thank the LORD our God for the grace given to organise the gospel rally. As this was the first time we organised an event simultaneously at multiple locations, we truly thank God for the various hosts who enthusiastically opened their homes and booked the function rooms of their condominiums for this event. We also thank God for the helpers who volunteered in one way or another – from leading the songs to setting up the place, and dealing with logistic issues.

More importantly, we want to thank God for the parents who brought their children to hear the glorious Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, including the invited guests. Among the guests, we have Madam Hew and her children, Joyce and Joanna. They were invited by Mrs Chong, a regular worshipper. We also have Jacinda and her daughter Isabella, who are related to Brother Ricky Yang. Besides, Sister Bhel, who attends our Filipino Fellowship, also brought her friends, Macey, Lenie and Gloria, who came with Rebecca, Naicha and Alia, the respective children under their care. Later on, Sister Bhel’s employer and the toddler under her care came to join us over dinner. We took the opportunity to invite them to join us for worship on Sunday. In total, we had 62 adults, 28 children (including a two-year-old toddler) who attended across the three venues.

May the LORD our God be gracious to save some of those who have heard the Word concerning the all-important question: “Why did Jesus have to die?”.

In Christ’s service,
Pr Kelvin Lim


Testimonies of the 16th Bible Witness Retreat to Kerala, India

Amoz Choy

It was truly a great blessing to be part of the 16th Bible Witness Retreat in Kerala, India. I thank God for the six messages on the theme, “Church – A People of Prayer”, through which we heard God’s voice. In thanksgiving to God for His Word and as a reminder of the truths learnt, I would like to recount 4 key lessons learnt.

Firstly, we realise that there are souls that are given to our generation to save. God has given our spiritual forefathers lost souls to save in their generation, and by His enabling and the saints’ obedience, God has indeed saved them. In our generation, it is now up to us to preach the Gospel and reach out to the lost of our time. God has no other way to save the lost around us today but through the declaration of the Gospel – through us, the church!

Next, we learnt that preaching yields prayer, and prayer yields more preaching. They are likened to the two wings of a bird, both extremely vital and complementary for every church.

We also were taught that God’s decrees and promises do not negate the necessity of prayer on our part. It is part of God’s plan and will that we seek Him in prayer. We do not pray to the Lord because we do not believe His promises, but because we have faith and trust that He will accomplish His decrees.

Finally, we learnt that even in persecution, compromise is not the option. Rather, prayer is the divinely ordained means of help.

It was also a wonderful blessing to have the opportunity to meet and have Christian fellowship with Pastor Koshy’s parents and relatives. In this trip, we had the opportunity to see how God has truly worked in our pastor’s life and providentially brought him from so far away to have a far-reaching ministry in our midst. Indeed, God works in mysterious ways. May His name be greatly praised!

Jenice Choy

Praise and thank the Lord for this wonderful opportunity of Bible Witness Retreat in India, where we were taught on the topic, ‘Church – A People in Prayer’. Thank God for the timely reminder on the importance of prayer, and how we ought not to forsake or neglect the priority of prayer and the Word. Truly, how many blessings we often miss when we forget to pray! Thank God also for a blessed time of fellowship with Pastor Reggor, Pr Sujith and friends from Vizag, and Pastor Koshy’s family and relatives. All glory be to God!

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Some Thoughts in Thanksgiving to God on the 31st Anniversary of Gethsemane B-P Church

Today, as we celebrate 31st anniversary of our church, may our thoughts be towards our God who has graciously redeemed us from our sins through the blood of His dear Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, and gathered us together over the past 31 years for His praise and honour.

O How He Thinks of Us!

The immensity of God’s love and care for His church is truly indescribable. Each time when I think of the way He has spoken in the Scriptures about the church in relationship to Him, my heart is overflowed with thanksgiving, joy, peace and resolve to serve Him in His church. As I share with you how He thinks of and depicts the church, please take time to think of the richness of His loving purposes concerning us all in the church, as individuals and as a congregation. May the following divine depiction of the church uplift your hearts to joyful praise and service of our God!

  • We are God’s flock (Luke 12:32; Acts 20:28; 1 Pet er5:2, 3), His sheep (Matthew 10:16; 25:32-33; John 10:7-16, 26-27; 21:16-17; Hebrews 13:20, 1 Peter 2:25) and lambs (Luke 10:3; John 21:15).
  • We are the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 10:21; 1 Peter 4:17; 2 Timothy 2:20; Hebrews 3:2-6), His habitation (Ephesians 2:22), and a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5).
  • We are the temple of God (1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 2 Corinthians 6:16), even a holy temple (Ephesians 2:21).
  • We are a building of God (1 Corinthians 3:9; Ephesians 2:21), even the pillar and ground of God’s truth (1 Timothy 3:15).
  • We are the household of God (Ephesians 2:19), being of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10).
  • We are His chosen generation (1 Peter 2:9), even heirs of God (Romans 8:17; Galatians 3:29; Titus 3:7; Hebrews 6:17).
  • We are His kingdom – a holy nation, a royal priesthood, a peculiar people (1 Peter 2:9), fellow-citizens with the saints (Ephesians 2:19), and heirs of the kingdom (James 2:5).
  • We are His husbandry (a tilled or cultivated field – 1 Corinthians 3:9). In His field, we are the good seed that He plants (Matthew 13:38), even like a mustard seed that grows into a large tree (Matthew 13:31-32).
  • We are also the fruit-bearing branches of Christ, the Vine (John 15:5).
  • We are those whom He has grafted into the good olive tree (Romans 11:24).
  • We are His Bride (Revelation 21:2, 9; 22:17), His espoused chaste virgin (2 Corinthians 11:2).
  • We are the wise virgins who have readied themselves to attend the marriage feast of our heavenly King (Matthew 25:1-13).
  • We are His light in this dark world (Matthew 5:14; Ephesians 5:8), even the children of light (Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5). Hence we are children of the day (1 Thessalonians 5:5), saints in light (Colossians 1:12), and His golden candlesticks (Revelation 1:12, 13, 20; 2:1).
  • We are the salt of this earth (Matthew 5:13).
  • We are a band of pilgrims (1 Peter 2:11), and hence strangers on this earth (1 Peter 1:1; 2:11; Hebrews 11:13).
  • We are Christ’s soldiers (1 Corinthians 9:25-26; 2 Corinthians 6:7; 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Thessalonians 5:8-9; 1 Timothy 1:18; 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:4; 4:7).

May we rejoice to fulfil all His desires concerning us as His dear church on earth.


Anniversary Greetings

Dear Pastor, the Church Session and our beloved brethren at Gethsemane B-P Church (Singapore),

"And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers ... Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved … And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common … And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith" (Acts 2:42, 47; 4:32; 6:7).

As I think about the 31 years of the church’s existence, I am reminded of the passages quoted above from the Book of Acts (which are among the passages we considered in the recent Bible Witness Retreat), for I see a resemblance in how the church has grown from strength to strength through the faithful preaching of the Word and by prayer.

In all my years in the church, I have been greatly blessed by the uncompromising, faithful preaching of the unadulterated Word of God. Also, I am witness to how Pastor Koshy would call, if not challenge, the church to pray, even to fast and pray in the midst of the pressing needs and challenges that it has encountered through the years. To mention a few: purchase of the church van, moving of the church worship service from its previous location (in YMCA) to the present (Singpost Building), moving of the old church office into the Sunflower building (i.e. the previous Church Resource Center), the inaugural publication of the Bible Witness Magazine/inception of the Bible Witness Web Radio, the setting up of the TGCM-Singapore, the Ethiopian building project, and the newly acquired property at 33 Ubi Crescent. All these are but some of the manifold blessings the Lord has bestowed upon the church!

Needless to say, the church’s commitment in missions and the mission churches established here in the Philippines and other parts of the world, are all borne out of much prayer by the church.

And how can I forget the lives of every one of you that the Lord has saved and added to the church? No doubt, the Lord is pleased to bless the church in many ways, such that "the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved … And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul … And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied … greatly".

On behalf of the brethren here in Gethsemane BPC-Cebu, I greet you all: "Blessed 31st Anniversary!" All glory and honor be to the LORD!

Yours in Christ,
Reggor B. Galarpe
Gethsemane B-P Church
Cebu City, Philippines

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The Priority of Prayer in the Church

The first New Testament church of Jerusalem was formed when three thousand souls, who gladly received Peter’s preaching of the Gospel, affirmed their faith through baptism and their stand with the apostles, and thereby were added unto the body of believers (Acts 2:41). According to Luke’s record in Acts 2:42, that infant church was wholeheartedly committed to prayer. Prayer was one of the four major priorities of the church – "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."

The members of the church had counted gathering together for prayer as non-negotiable. They "continued steadfastly… in prayers." Their learning of apostolic doctrines, fellowship and communion were catalysts for coming before God as a church in prayer. Likewise, I pray that all our church’s regular learning of God’s Word, fellowship and communion (and also special times like the recent BW retreat) will lead to greater experiences of prayer in our midst.

The Greek word used for "prayers" (proseuchais) is a general word for prayer, which is most frequently used in the New Testament. It denotes all kinds of prayers – thanksgiving, affirmation of faith in God, confession of sins, petitions, intercessions, etc. It depicts all forms of prayers offered by the believers who had gathered together to commune reverentially with God. At times, its focus narrows to just one kind of prayer, such as asking for a specific benefit.

In the book of Acts, the early churches’ continual devotion to prayers is evident. They often came together in groups to pray (Acts 1, 4 and 12). There are also records of individual prayers as believers went through differing experiences alone, as in the case of Ananias and Paul (9:10-11), and Peter (10:14). We also know that their prayer items varied according to their situations. They praised / thanked God for sending the Spirit, for His powerful help, provisions, guidance, and for drawing people to faith. There were also confessions of sins, intercessions for God’s servants and their ministries, for new converts and their spiritual growth, for the persecuted brethren to boldly declare God in the face of persecutors, as well as petitions for temporal needs and spiritual strengthening, guidance, etc.

We, members of Gethsemane BPC, should also have a steadfast commitment to prayer like the Jerusalem church. None among us should take our prayer gatherings lightly. We must eagerly and persistently engage in the critical duty of prayer. Like the early church that relentlessly pursued divine help for its spiritual and physical needs, we must give ourselves to prayer. We should not only pray as individual believers, but also as a church corporately (cf. Acts 1:14, 24; 4:24-31). We must gather to pray with much expectancy because of the promises of our Lord. He has promised to be the Source of provision for all our needs – "And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it" (John 14:13-14).

Sadly, prayer is much neglected in the church today. Though we rejoice that a good number of Gethsemaneans attend our Tuesday prayer meeting, it is truly unfortunate that some make little or no effort to join the prayer meeting. Prayer meetings are not for a faithful few only!

I would like to call on all Gethsemaneans to come together to pray. We have much to fulfil in obedience to God’s Word, and much to accomplish in His kingdom according to His glorious purposes. Like the early church, we must draw courage, strength and wisdom from Him through the study of His Word and prayer. They are the means of grace by which the church becomes what God wants it to be. Let us not be a spiritually weak people and church. The question we need to ask ourselves is: Are we, unlike the early church, forsaking the priority of prayer? Have you forgotten the Bible’s commands to pray at all times and to be devoted to prayer? Consider the following Scriptural exhortations:

  • Luke 18:1 – "… men ought always to pray, and not to faint".
  • Romans 12:12 – "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer".
  • Colossians 4:2 – "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving".

Dear brethren, we cannot be a church that neglects prayer. The Word of God commands that we must be praying believers and members of the church. The ministry needs – need for more men in the leadership and staff, urgent needs of finance (such as the needs of TGCM, Bible Witness, new Gospel missions, renovation costs of 33 Ubi Crescent, etc.), among others – also burden us to come together in prayer.

Prayer is by no means a trivial matter. It forms the sinew and muscle of our church’s hands of service. Without prayer, we will accomplish nothing in the Lord’s kingdom. Prayer is our unique expressions of faith, devotion and love for the Lord and His work. Prayer meeting is the means of grace by which the church becomes what God wants it to be.

See you on Tuesday Night prayer meetings! Come with your family. Let us exhort one another to be together before the Lord in prayer. There is much to accomplish. May we find divine strength and help through prayer.

At Holiday Inn, Cochin

Outside the home of Bishop & Mrs Koshy, Pastor Koshy's parents

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Church: A People in Prayer

The Theme

The theme for the study of God’s Word is "Church: A People in Prayer". This is a study based on prayers mentioned in the Book of Acts.

The church has blessed legacies of prayer in the Holy Scriptures. The Book of Acts mentions prayer to God in heaven about 50 times; that is more than in any New Testament book, except Luke’s Gospel. Most of the prayers in Acts are public prayers, though there are a few private prayers such as Cornelius’ prayer. The prayers in this book were offered by various people: Christ’s disciples in general (1:13-14), new believers (2:42), apostles, (6:4; 8:15), a deacon (7:59-60), women (16:13), a centurion (10:4), a persecutor of believers (9:5), leaders of a church (13:3), the concerned brethren of a church (12:5), etc. Acts also records prayers of people in different situations: as the disciples waited for the power of the Spirit (Ch. 1), in appointing an apostle (Ch. 1), for the releasing of Christ’s witnesses (Ch. 4), when believers were still in prison (Ch. 12), at death (Ch. 7), on a journey (Ch. 9), while thrusting missionaries forth (Ch. 13), in strengthening churches (Ch. 14), when fasting and praying (Chs. 13, 14), while facing persecution (Ch. 16), in saying goodbye (Ch. 20), and in thanking God for food (Ch. 27), etc. Truly, prayer is strategic in Acts from close to the start (1:14) to near the end (28:15).

A believer can learn much from prayers recorded in the Book of Acts. Luke, who wrote Acts, chronicled how the Gospel of Christ was faithfully and effectively witnessed from Jerusalem to Rome ["unto the uttermost part of the earth" (1:8)] by the power of the Holy Spirit. Luke’s record highlighted the key role of the prayers of His people in the advancement of the preaching of the Gospel, overcoming adversities, and establishing churches.
Scripture provides models for prayer that gives structure to our prayers, as well as the topics to pray about. Thus, Scripture gives us motivation and subjects to pray about. It also instructs us on how to respond in prayer to our challenges in the work of His kingdom.

May the Lord help us to go forward in our prayers to Him, and thus fulfil our part in the establishing of His kingdom on earth. For the Gospel to spread, we must pray. For the deliverance of oppressed Christians, and for the conversion of the enemies of the Gospel and the church, we must pray. May the church of our time pray for God’s help, just as it had in the days of the Apostles.

The Participants

We praise God that there will be about 68 participants (55 from Singapore, 1 from the Philippines, 9 from Vizag, India, and a few others from Kerala). We pray for a time of wonderful Christian fellowship among the participants.

The Programme

This is the sixteenth retreat organized by the Bible Witness Media Ministry of our church. God has blessed the BW retreats to be an avenue for learning precious Scriptural themes. It has been a time of spiritual strengthening for the participants of the retreats.

In this retreat, we will have 6 study sessions on the theme. There will be singing of Christian hymns and times of prayers. There will also be time to have fellowship with fellow participants.

God willing, on the 19th of March, there will be opportunity for sightseeing: a half-day ride on a houseboat through the backwaters of Kerala, and a trip to my hometown to pay a visit to my parents, Bishop and Mrs M. K. Koshy.

Please pray for God’s blessings and protection upon all the participants. Pray also that this retreat will continue to play a part in establishing our desire for effective mission outreaches in India.ne BPC will join us for the GYM Fellowship, that they may also receive blessings untold.


Greetings from Bogo, the Philippines

Dear Pastor Koshy,

Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!

The Lord has been kind and good towards us. He has preserved us in our service for Him. Our Saviour’s grace and mercy are much abounding, as He continues to sustain the Gospel work in Bogo and San Antonio.

I thank the Lord for the brethren of our churches here. They have been sustained by His grace, and they have been coming regularly to church. Some who were missing from the church for a period have been brought back to the church by the Lord and have been attending the worship services, while the rest who have been regular continue to persevere in their faith and service for the Lord.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to you and all the church brethren in Singapore for remembering us in your prayers, especially during the prayer meetings of the church. We too have been upholding you and the church in our prayers.

Rev. Lee Kim Shong (Calvary Jaya, KL) has invited me to preach this Sunday (17 March) in their Lord’s Day Service and in their Youth Fellowship. God willing, I will depart for KL on Saturday (16 March) and return on Tuesday (19 March). Thank God for Eld. Richard Tiu who will fill in my place in the pulpit ministry in the Combined Lord’s Day Service this Sunday.

We are glad that we can receive Eld. Ng and his family into our midst over the weekend and the week following. Thank God for their visit and fellowship with us on the days they will be in Bogo and San Antonio. I have invited Eld. Ng to preach and encourage us with God’s Word. God willing, Eld. Ng will minister to us at our respective prayer meetings in San Antonio and Bogo.

My family and I send our greetings to Sis. Carolyn, Bro. Cornelius, Bro. Andronicus and Sis. Dorcas. Please take good care of your health, Pastor, even as we pray for the Lord’s sustenance of your health.

Sincerely in Christ,
Eld. Eliezer Ortega

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Gethsemane Young Mothers

Godly families are integral to the peace and progress of a church and society. Broken families bring much sorrow and trouble not only to the family members, but also to the communities they belong to. More importantly, the shaping of the future, be it of a family, or a church, or a society, is very much committed to families. The roles that parents are expected to play in the nurture of our children is a very crucial one. Our children are ‘the face’ of our future. Hence, Christian fathers and mothers have a high calling of God to fulfil.

God is the Owner, Master and Builder of our homes. As Psalm 127:1a reminds us, "Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it". Every parent must labour together with God in the nurture of his or her home. Labouring with God means that we must be trusting, obedient and faithful in carrying out our roles and duties according to all His counsels. The building of our homes is not without toil, hence the word "labour". But it will all be worth it, as our efforts nourish our children and bring them up to be fine, godly children – as corroborated by Psalm 127:5, which actually describes the result of successful parenting – "Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate."

Knowing the immensely important task of our young parents, our church has established Gethsemane Men’s Fellowship (GMF) and Gethsemane Young Mothers (GYM) for the spiritually strengthening of men and women in our church through biblical teaching, prayer and fellowship. We encourage especially young adults, whether married or about to be married, to regularly attend the meetings of those fellowship groups so that they may be well equipped to fulfil their high calling at home.

Our prayer for them and their families is encapsulated in the benediction of Psalm 128 – "Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. The LORD shall bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, and peace upon Israel."

We thank God for the joy of seeing many young mothers in our midst regularly participating in the GYM. Please read some of their testimonies printed below:

Sharon dela Cruz

I thank God for the ministry of the Gethsemane Young Mothers. It has been a great help to me in my growing in the knowledge of God’s Word, and guiding me in my role as a mother.

I have learnt that I should not be discouraged by weakness or burdens, but to trust in the Lord for strength and wisdom, for He will endue us with sufficient grace in times of testing and trials.

I am reminded that amidst struggles, I must be a joyful mother, living by example. My life, words and actions must be an example for my child, for a virtuous life according to God’s Word will impress upon my child. I should teach the relevance of God’s Word in my child’s life. But in order to be a good teacher, I must firstly be a good student of God’s Word myself.

I would like to encourage all mothers with young children and even mothers-to-be to join us to learn more about biblical motherhood and to prepare for the challenges ahead.

Merisa Teong

I thank God truly for the Gethsemane Young Mothers’ Fellowship. I have been greatly blessed by the messages preached because the topics have great relevance to my daily challenges and expectations as a Christian mother. The messages gave me a greater understanding of how I should conduct my life and set a godly example to my children and in my home. I am also thankful for the many precious warnings received from God’s Word, which I would not have known if I had not attended these meetings. I would like to earnestly encourage young mothers to make time to join these meetings and hear God’s Word. Truly, from it we can learn many wise counsels that we cannot afford to miss.

Rhodora Resuma

2 Corinthians 9:8 - "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work."

Looking back, I sometimes wonder how I managed to take care of my kids in a way most pleasing to God. Truly, it is only by the grace of God that I am able to perform my God-given role as a wife and a mother to my three young children. I thank God for the numerous corrections, rebukes, encouragements and instructions I have received though the faithful preaching of God’s Word by Pastor Koshy and other preachers in our Young Mothers’ Fellowship. During the stressful and difficult moments of my motherhood journey, I am always being reminded, having learnt from Pastor, to cling on to the Word of God.

Here are some of the blessings I have received through the Gethsemane Young Mothers’ Fellowship:

  1. Learning how to be a joyful mother despite the many burdens at home - like taking care of the children while performing all the chores when your husband is working.
  2. Learning how to love, take care of, discipline and nurture the children in the Lord.
  3. Learning how to submit to and support your husband.

Indeed, it is a blessing to have a ministry in Gethsemane BPC that can cater to the needs of the young mothers, and I thank God for that. I always look forward to every last Friday of the month to hear the preaching of God’s Word and to fellowship with fellow young mothers. It is my utmost prayer that the Lord will continue to use the Gethsemane Young Mothers’ Fellowship to be a blessing to all the young mothers. All glory be to God!

Low Hui Lin

In the early stage of my motherhood, at times I felt rather lost as to how I should be a godly mother. Parenting books did not provide me with any counsel from God’s Word. Therefore, I was extremely thankful when the Gethsemane Young Mothers Fellowship was started about 3 years ago.

The GYM Fellowship has been a great blessing to me. The preaching of God’s Word has time and again instructed, encouraged and rebuked me in my role as a mother. I have been greatly reminded that as a Christian mother, my focus should be on leading my children to know Christ, to bring them up to love and fear God, and not be distracted by the expectations that the world may put on me. Through the prayer session we have at each meeting, we have the opportunity to share with one another and uphold each other in prayer. It has been an encouragement to me to hear sisters testifying of the grace and faithfulness of God in their lives. I am also thankful for the times when I could share my burdens with like-minded sisters.

It is my joy to see young mothers coming for our meetings despite the difficulties they may face in doing so, for example, the tiredness of their physical bodies or fear of not being able to handle their babies well during the meeting. I pray that all the young mothers in Gethsemane BPC will join us for the GYM Fellowship, that they may also receive blessings untold.

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175 Spiritual Benefits for Which I am Thankful to God — II

Today, we continue with the list of 175 spiritual blessings for which I am thankful to God for. The first 67 items of this list was published in last Sunday’s bulletin. I am thankful to God for:

  1. I am a partaker of God’s promises in Christ by the Gospel – Eph. 3:6.
  2. I am a new creature in Christ – 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:10; 4:24; Col. 3:10.
  3. I have been renewed by the Holy Spirit – Titus 3:5.
  4. I am redeemed and being sanctified to the praise of His glory – Eph. 1:6, 12.
  5. I am light in the Lord – Eph. 5:8.
  6. I am a child of light – Eph. 5:8; 1 Thess. 5:5.
  7. I am not in darkness – 1 Thess. 5:4.
  8. I have been delivered from the power of darkness – Col. 1:13.
  9. I am a priest who can offer up spiritual sacrifices – Heb. 13:15, 16; 1 Pet. 2:5, 9; Rev. 1:6; 5:10; 20:6.
  10. I will reign with Jesus Christ – Rev. 1:6; 5:10; 20:6.
  11. I am privileged to have fellowship with the Father and with the Son – 1 John 1:3.
  12. The Spirit of God dwells in me – Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 3:16; Eph. 2:21, 22.
  13. I can now live in the Spirit and no longer in the flesh – Rom. 8:9; Gal. 5:25.
  14. I am sealed with the Holy Spirit, which is the earnest of believers’ inheritance – 2 Cor. 1:22; Gal. 4:6; Eph. 1:13, 14; 1 Thess. 4:8; 1 John 3:24; 4:13.
  15. My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit – 1 Cor. 6:19.
  16. I have an anointing (unction) from the Holy One – 1 John 2:20, 27.
  17. The Holy Spirit is my divine Comforter and teacher – John 14:26; 15:26.
  18. I am given assurance by the Spirit – Rom. 8:16; 2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1:13, 14; 4:30.
  19. I am led by the Spirit of God – Rom. 8:14.
  20. God's Spirit has given me spiritual gifts – 1 Cor. 12:1, 6-7.
  21. My soul has an anchor, both sure and steadfast – Heb. 6:19.
  22. I am one of the called of Jesus Christ – Rom. 1:6; 8:28-30; Jude 1; Rev. 17:14.
  23. I have been called unto the fellowship of God's Son – 1 Cor. 1:9.
  24. I have been called unto eternal glory – 1 Pet. 5:10.
  25. I have been called with a holy calling – 2 Tim. 1:9.
  26. I am a partaker of the high and heavenly calling – Phil. 3:14; Heb. 3:1.
  27. I have been called out of darkness into His marvellous light – 1 Pet. 2:9.
  28. I am chastened and disciplined by my Heavenly Father – Heb. 12:6, 7.
  29. I am part of that group which Christ is not ashamed to call His "brethren" and "friends" – Heb. 2:11; John 15:14, 15.
  30. I am a child of Abraham – Gal. 3:7; 3:29.
  31. I can enjoy the blessing of Abraham – Gal. 3:9.
  32. I am a child of promise – Gal. 4:28, 31.
  33. I am a sheep in His flock – Luke 12:32; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 2:25.
  34. I am a member of His body – 1 Cor. 10:17; Eph. 3:6; 4:25; 5:30.
  35. I am a living stone in His building – Eph. 2:20-22; Heb. 3:6; 1 Pet. 2:5.
  36. I am a branch in His vine – John 15:1-7.
  37. I am a child of His kingdom – Matt. 13:38; Mark 10:14, 15; Luke 17:21.
  38. I am born again into His family – John 1:12, 13; James 1:18; 1 Pet. 1:3, 23; 1 John 5:1.
  39. I am a child of His mercy – 1 Pet. 2:10; Rev. 21:7.
  40. The knowledge of God is made known by me – 2 Cor. 2:14.
  41. The savour (aroma) of Christ is made known by me – 2 Cor. 2:15, 16.
  42. I am an epistle of Christ – 2 Cor. 3:3.
  43. I am being changed into Christ's glorious image – 2 Cor. 3:18.
  44. I am being perfected – Phil. 1:6.
  45. I have put on Christ – Gal. 3:27.
  46. I am not of the world – John 17:14, 16.
  47. The world is crucified unto me – Gal. 6:14.
  48. I am crucified unto the world – Gal. 6:14.
  49. I am separated unto the Gospel of God – Rom. 1:1.
  50. I am clothed in Christ's righteousness – 2 Cor. 5:21.
  51. I am made holy and blameless, and hence a saint – Eph. 5:27; Col. 1:22; Jude 24; Col. 3:12; Heb. 3:1; 1 Pet. 2:9; 1 Cor. 1:2; Phil. 1:1; Col 1:2; Rom. 1:7.
  52. I am a stranger and a pilgrim who does not feel at home in this world. I am a citizen of heaven – Heb. 11:13; 1 Pet. 2:11; Phil. 3:20.
  53. My faithful God will keep me from evil – 2 Thess. 3:3; 2 Tim. 4:18.
  54. Christ has made me free, and I am free indeed – Rom. 6:7, 18, 22; John 8:32, 36; Gal. 5:1, 13.
  55. I am God's servant/slave – Rom. 6:22.
  56. I am Christ's servant/slave – 1 Cor. 7:22.
  57. I am a servant/slave of righteousness – Rom. 6:18.
  58. I have the mind of Christ – 1 Cor. 2:16.
  59. I have a sound mind – 2 Tim. 1:7.
  60. I have all the spiritual armour and weapons I need – 2 Cor. 10:4; Eph. 6:10-18.
  61. I am more than a conqueror – Rom. 8:37.
  62. I have victory through Christ – 1 Cor. 15:57.
  63. I have overcome the world – 1 John 5:4, 5.
  64. I always triumph in Christ – 2 Cor. 2:14.
  65. I am indwelt by Christ who is greater than Satan and his minions – 1 John 4:4.
  66. Satan cannot touch me – 1 John 5:18.
  67. I have God's all-sufficient grace – 2 Cor. 12:9.
  68. I can come to the throne of grace to find help in time of need – Heb. 4:16.
  69. I have God's power working in and through me – Eph. 1:19; 3:20.
  70. I have access to the Father always – Eph. 2:18; Heb. 4:16.
  71. I have a great High Priest in heaven – Heb. 2:17, 18; 3:1; 4:14-16.
  72. I have an unfailing intercessor and advocate – Heb. 7:25; 9:24; Rom. 8:34; 1 John 2:1.
  73. I have peace with God – Rom. 5:1.
  74. Christ is my peace – Eph. 2:14, Phil. 4:7.
  75. I have rest for my soul – Matt. 11:28-30; Heb. 4:9.
  76. I am enabled during trials and temptations – 1 Cor. 10:13.
  77. I am given comfort by God – 2 Cor. 1:3-7.
  78. I am freely given truth and knowledge by the Spirit – 1 Cor. 2:12.
  79. I am not distressed or in despair – 2 Cor. 4:8.
  80. I am not forsaken – 2 Cor. 4:9.
  81. God is my Sufficiency – 2 Cor. 3:5.
  82. God is my Strength – 2 Cor. 12:9, 10; Phil. 4:13.
  83. God is my Helper – Heb. 13:6.
  84. My God is for me – Rom. 8:31.
  85. The Lord is the Great Shepherd of my soul – Heb. 13:20, 21.
  86. I belong to the Sovereign God who works all things together for my good – Rom. 8:28.
  87. All things are for my sake – 2 Cor. 4:15.
  88. I am a labourer together with Christ – 1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor. 6:1.
  89. I am His workmanship – Eph. 2:10.
  90. God works in me – Phil. 2:13; Heb. 13:21.
  91. God's Word works in me – 1 Thess. 2:13.
  92. I am sealed by God – 2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1:13.
  93. I am kept by the power of God – 1 Pet. 1:5.
  94. I am preserved in Jesus Christ – Jude 1, 24.
  95. I am ministered to by the holy angels of God – Heb. 1:14.
  96. I have a living hope – 1 Pet. 1:3.
  97. I have a glorious future – Rom. 8:18; 2 Thess. 2:14.
  98. I have a building of God, eternal in the heavens – 2 Cor. 5:1.
  99. I am given encouragement and good hope – 2 Thess. 2:16.
  100. I will be given a new and glorified body like Christ's – Phil. 3:20, 21; 1 John 3:2.
  101. I will be preserved unto God’s heavenly kingdom – 2 Tim. 4:18.
  102. I am receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved – Heb. 12:28.
  103. I have a place reserved in heaven for me – John 14:2, 3; 1 Pet. 1:3-4.
  104. I will not be hurt of the second death – Rev. 2:11; 20:6.
  105. I will have a new name – Rev. 2:17; 3:12.
  106. I will have crowns – 1 Cor. 9:25; 2 Tim. 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Peter 5:4; Rev. 2:10.
  107. I will sit with Christ in His throne – Rev. 3:21.
  108. I will be with my God forever – Rev. 21:3, 4.
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175 Spiritual Benefits for Which I am Thankful to God — I

It is every Christian’s solemn duty to recall all the benefits that he has received from the Lord and to thank Him. The Word of God expressly states: "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Psalm 103:2). Also, in Psalm 105, we are exhorted: "O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people… Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth" (vv. 1, 5).

About 20 years ago, being moved in my heart to remember and give thanks to the Lord for all the spiritual benefits He has bestowed upon me, I attempted to list them. By His grace, I recalled 175 spiritual benefits which I am eager to share with you as they are also the blessings that the Lord has provided for every believer. Some of the listed benefits may appear to be repetitive at first glance, but careful consideration will reveal the distinct blessing each of them holds out to us. I would advise that you read Scripture references provided as they record the divine pronouncement of those blessings. If you are reminded of more blessings, write them down on a piece of paper for your future reflection and thanksgiving. Truly, God’s blessings upon us are countless.

I give thanks to God because:

  1. He foreknew (loved) me from eternity past – Rom. 8:29; 1 Pet. 1:2.
  2. I am chosen in Christ – Eph. 1:4; Col. 3:12; 1 Thess. 1:4; 1 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 17:14.
  3. God predestined me to be conformed to Christ's image – Rom. 8:29; Eph. 1:5, 11.
  4. I have been saved by His grace through faith – Eph. 2:1-10.
  5. I have been forgiven of all trespasses – Col. 2:13; 1 John 2:12; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14.
  6. My sins have been completely purged – Heb. 1:3; 1 John 1:7, 9; Rev. 1:5.
  7. I am redeemed because Christ paid my eternal debt through His blood – 1 Pet. 1:18, 19; Eph. 1:7; Col. 1:14; 1 Cor. 6:20; 7:23.
  8. I am redeemed from the curse of the law – Gal. 3:13.
  9. I have been justified freely by His grace – Rom. 3:24; 4:5; 8:30; Titus 3:7; 1 Cor. 6:11; Gal. 2:16; Titus 3:7.
  10. I am not under the law but under grace – Rom. 6:14.
  11. My sins and resultant judgment have been taken away – John 1:29; Rom. 5:16-19; 1 John 3:5.
  12. My sins will never be remembered by God – Heb. 8:12; 10:17.
  13. I have been delivered from this present evil world – Gal. 1:4.
  14. I have been quickened by God from my spiritual deadness – Eph. 2:1, 5; Col. 2:13.
  15. I have passed from death unto life – John 5:24; 1 John 3:14.
  16. I have been delivered from the wrath to come – 1 Thess. 1:10.
  17. I will not come into condemnation or judgment – John 5:24; Rom. 8:1.
  18. I am delivered from so great a death (hell) – 2 Cor. 1:10.
  19. I have eternal life as a present possession – John 5:24; 6:47; 1 John 5:11-13.
  20. I have been appointed to obtain salvation – 1 Thess. 5:9; Heb. 1:14.
  21. I have been made fit for heaven – Col. 1:12.
  22. My name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life – Phil. 4:3; Luke 10:20.
  23. I am alive unto God – Rom. 6:11, 13; Gal. 2:19, 20.
  24. My life is hid in God – Col. 3:3.
  25. I have knowledge of the one, true God – John 17:3; 1 John 2:3; 5:20.
  26. My glorification is guaranteed – Rom 8:30.
  27. I am eternally secure in God's love – Rom. 8:38, 39.
  28. I am reconciled to God – 2 Cor. 5:18, 19; Col. 1:20-22.
  29. I am made nigh by the blood of Christ – Eph. 2:13.
  30. I am accepted and highly favoured in the Beloved – Eph. 1:6.
  31. I am beloved of God – Col. 3:12; 2 Thess. 2:13.
  32. I have been adopted – Gal. 4:5; Rom. 8:15, 23.
  33. I am a child of God – John 1:12; Rom. 8:16; Gal. 3:26; 1 John 3:1, 2; Gal. 4:5-7.
  34. I am a peculiar person; God's special, purchased possession – Titus 2:14; 1 Pet. 2:9.
  35. I belong to Jesus Christ – Gal. 3:29; 5:24.
  36. I have Jesus Christ as my present possession – 1 John 5:11-12.
  37. I am seated in heavenly places in Christ – Eph. 2:6.
  38. I am an heir of God and joint-heir with Christ – Rom. 8:17; Titus 3:7.
  39. I am dead to sin – Rom. 6:2.
  40. My "old man" was crucified with Christ – Rom. 6:6; Gal. 2:20.
  41. I have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts – Gal. 5:24.
  42. Christ is my life – Phil. 1:21; Col. 3:4.
  43. I can walk in newness of life – Rom. 6:4.
  44. I can serve in newness of spirit – Rom. 7:6.
  45. I can live unto righteousness – 1 Pet. 2:24.
  46. I am delivered from the ceremonies and curse of the law – Gal. 3:10-13.
  47. I have God's laws written in my heart – Heb. 10:16.
  48. I am "married" to Jesus Christ – Rom. 7:4.
  49. I am a partaker of Christ – Heb. 3:14.
  50. I am identified with Christ in His suffering – 2 Tim. 2:12; Phil. 1:29; 1 Pet. 2:20-21; 4:12, 13; 1 Thess. 3:3; Rom. 8:18; Col. 1:24.
  51. Christ is in me – John 14:20; Col 1:27; 1 John 4:4.
  52. Christ dwells in me – John 6:56; Gal. 2:20; 1 John 3:24; 4:12-16.
  53. I am in Christ – John 14:20; 2 Cor. 5:17.
  54. I dwell in Christ – John 6:56; 1 John 3:24; 4:13, 15, 16.
  55. I was baptized into Jesus Christ by the Spirit – Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 12:12, 13; Gal. 3:27.
  56. I am given the exceeding great and precious promises of God – 2 Pet. 1:4.
  57. I have obtained a richly glorious inheritance – Eph. 1:11, 14, 18; Heb. 9:15; 1 Pet. 1:4.
  58. All things are mine – 1 Cor. 3:21-23; 2 Cor. 6:10.
  59. I am complete in Christ – Col. 2:10.
  60. I will inherit all things – Rev. 21:7.
  61. I am enriched by Christ in everything for His glory – 1 Cor. 1:5; 2 Cor. 9:11.
  62. I am rich in Christ and His blessings – 2 Cor. 8:9; Rev. 2:9.
  63. My every need is supplied – Phil. 4:19.
  64. I have all sufficiency in all things – 2 Cor. 9:8.
  65. I have all things that pertain to life and godliness – 2 Pet. 1:3.
  66. I am a fellow heir with all believers – Eph. 3:6.
  67. I am blessed with every spiritual blessing – Eph. 1:3.

(To be continued next Lord's Day.)

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Don't Be Quarrelsome!

God’s Word exhorts us in Philippians 2:14, "Do all things without murmurings and disputings".

In the communion and service of the church, believers are dissuaded from engaging in two evils, namely murmuring and disputing. The apostle Paul is concerned about some who engage in spiritual activities with murmuring and disputing. In other words, they practise religion without sincerity and joy. When God-given duties are done with murmuring and a disgruntled spirit, such service will be unacceptable. So, all Christians must guard themselves against such evil conduct. Both of those sins must be abhorred and avoided, if our services are to be effective and helpful.

True religion is never merely external observance of duties. Hence Paul admonished, "Do all things without murmurings and disputings". All our activities must be rendered cheerfully and willingly. Everything that God has given us to do must be carried out with enthusiasm and readiness. Whether one does God’s work alone or with others, one must perform it with a genuine spirit of compliance to His will, coupled with diligence.

Some murmur against God and His servants, like the Israelites in the wilderness when experiencing a time of scarcity. In Numbers 11:4-6, we read about them: "And the mixt multitude that was among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat? We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick: But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes" (cf. Exodus 15:24; 16:7-9). Others murmur because they are discontented with and envious of the godly men and women whom God uses (cf. Numbers 14:1-4; 16:41; Mark 14:5). There are yet others who murmur because of their unbelief and their bigoted desire to spread their sedition (cf. Luke 15:2; Jude 1:16).

The spirit of murmuring is perilous. God’s Word cautions us, "Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer" (1 Corinthians 10:10). Murmuring is often the result of envy, discontentment, bitterness, pride and unbelief. It results in numerous evil deeds, such as gossip, backbiting, slander, usurping of authority, defiance, sedition, dissension and schism. Murmuring is not just a dispute with man, but also with God! So, serve the Lord without any murmur or dispute.


Mission Report from Pr Donald dela Cruz (Pangasinan, the Philippines)

Dear Pastor Koshy,

I praise the Lord for opening another Bible study group. We ministered God’s Word in Dalumat, San Jacinto last Thursday. We had prepared sandwiches and juice, so we could share a simple meal after the Bible study. Thank God for bringing the family of our jeepney captain and his neighbours. May the Lord sustain the work. God willing, we will meet every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month.

Praise God for bringing to us Sis Cecille (who has returned home from Singapore for her vacation). She stayed with us in the mission station, thereby encouraging one another. We had prayer meeting and prayed for the leaders/ preachers/ missionaries in all our Gethsemane churches. She also joined us in the Bible studies in Tebag and Dalumat.

Thank God for healing two elderly sisters (Sis. Rosie and Sis. Teresita) and strengthening them to attend the church last Lord’s Day, where a total of 47 (32 adults / teens and 15 children) came for worship.

Now is the harvest season for the rice farms. It brings both good and bad news to us. The good news is that many worshippers experience God’s goodness and provision through this harvest. The bad news is that some of them would not worship because they are busy with post-harvest activities. May the Lord convict the hearts of the brethren to keep the Lord’s Day holy and to prioritise the things of God more than their earthly goods.

Please continue to pray for us as we serve the Lord in this region.

In Christ,
Donald dela Cruz

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Why Earthquakes? — IV

Having considered the first two major divine purposes revealed in the Scriptural record of earthquakes, today we will pay attention to the third and final divine purpose.

Earthquakes that Betokened God’s Wrath and Judgment against People’s Wickedness

  • David’s song to the Lord in 2 Samuel 22 recognises that the earth shook at His wrath – "Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations of heaven moved and shook, because he was wroth" (v. 8). Cf. Psalm 18:7 – "Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was wroth."

  • During Israel’s wilderness wandering, when Korah and his followers rebelled against Moses, God destroyed them with an earthquake: "And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that was under them: And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that appertained unto Korah, and all their goods. They, and all that appertained to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation" (Numbers 16:31-33; cf. 26:10; Deuteronomy 11:6-7; Psalm 106:16-17).

  • The prophet Amos pointed to an earthquake that occurred in his day (760 B.C.), when King Uzziah of Judah reigning. It is also mentioned by the prophet Zechariah.

    • "The words of Amos, who was among the herdmen of Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel, two years before the earthquake" (Amos 1:1; cf. Zechariah 14:5).

    • The Jewish historian Josephus connects the quake with the events of 2 Chronicles 26:16-20 (Antiquities of the Jews 9. 10. 4), which refer to the LORD’s striking of the prideful King Uzziah (who transgressed by burning incense in the temple, a duty that belonged only to the priests) with leprosy. Many think the earthquake (mentioned by Amos and Zechariah) could have occurred following Uzziah’s transgression. Archeological excavations at Hazor and Samaria have uncovered evidence of a violent earthquake in Israel about 760 B.C.

  • Outpouring of Divine Wrath/Judgment through Eschatological Earthquakes

    • While Jesus was narrating to His disciples the end-time signs, He spoke of earthquakes: "For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places" (Matthew 24:7; cf. Mark 13:8; Luke 21:11). These predicted earthquakes are those which will occur during the Tribulation period as the outpouring of God’s wrath on earth. Such earthquakes are predicted in the Old Testament prophetical books, as well as in Revelation:

      • "And they shall go into the holes of the rocks, and into the caves of the earth, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth" (Isaiah 2:19). This is a description of God’s vengeance on the wicked in the Tribulation days before Christ returns. The earth will shake and people will try to escape by fleeing into caves (cf. vv. 10, 21), carrying their idols of silver and gold (v. 7). However, the people will toss them aside to rodents and bats (v. 20). Isaiah’s words here present a strong irony: things highly valued will be thrown aside to detestable creatures that people hate. In v. 21, Isaiah again spoke of people hiding in caves away from God’s terror when He will shake the earth (cf. v. 19).

      • "And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible… Therefore I will shake the heavens, and the earth shall remove out of her place, in the wrath of the LORD of hosts, and in the day of his fierce anger" (Isaiah 13:11-13). The day of the Lord, expressing His wrath (cf. Isa. 13:3, 13) against sin, will destroy sinners (v. 9) and punish the world for its evil and its proud attitude towards God (v. 11). Some see the dislodging of heavenly bodies [stars, sun, moon (v. 10)] and the trembling of the heavens and earth (v. 13) as a figurative description of the total turnaround or destruction of the political structure of the Near East. Yet, those descriptions resemble other Scriptural references to end-time judgments on the earth and celestial luminaries (Isaiah 24:18; 34:4; Ezekiel 32:7; Joel 2:10, 30-31; 3:15-16; Haggai 2:6-7, 21-22; Zechariah 14:6-7; Matthew 24:29).

    • The Book of Revelation mentions earthquakes as a frequent occurrence during the seven years of Tribulation as an outpouring of God’s wrath against the wickedness and blasphemy propagated by the Satanic rule of Antichrist:

      • As part of the seal judgments, there will be a massive earthquake when the sixth seal will be opened. "And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood" (Revelation 6:12).

      • As part of the catastrophes that will follow the opening of the seventh seal, there was an earthquake. "And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake" (Revelation 8:5).

      • After the resurrection and ascension of the two assassinated witnesses, there will be a great earthquake, which will destroy a tenth of Jerusalem and kill 7,000 men. "And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, and gave glory to the God of heaven" (Revelation 11:13).

      • In association with the blowing of the seventh trumpet, the temple in heaven was opened as a token of God’s promise of His unbroken fellowship with believers. As the ark of covenant was dislcosed, "there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail" (Revelation 11:19). Truly, God's heavenly throne is the source of vengeance on unbelievers as well as covenant blessing on His people.

      • When the seventh vial judgment is poured out on the earth during final stages of the Tribulation period, there will be a global earthquake which will severely affect the great city of "Babylon" and many cities of the world. "And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great. And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of his wrath" (Revelation 16:18-19).

    Conclusion

    There are those who maintain that God has no part in the cause of earthquakes. From all that we have examined in this four-part series, Scripture declares that God, the supreme Governor of the World, is the Author of such great events as earthquakes for the purposes which we have learned. Beyond a doubt, as we have learned today, earthquakes are also tokens of His just displeasure. When God is wroth against the wickedness of the world, He shakes the Earth and causes its foundations to tremble.

    God can produce earthquakes through natural causes, such as underground shifting of tectonic plates or seismic waves. Though God would make use of second causes, He would also work without them. Being Omnipotent, God can cause earthquakes either by natural causes or by His supernatural power. We must therefore confess, like Job, that it is ultimately God who "removeth the mountains, and they know not: which overturneth them in his anger. Which shaketh the earth out of her place, and the pillars thereof tremble" (Job 9:5-6).

    God’s active role in the earthquakes is indisputable, as testified by scores of passages, including Isaiah 29:6 - "Thou shalt be visited of the LORD of hosts with thunder, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the flame of devouring fire." Let us also be reminded of Jesus’ prophetic words that in the last days, there will be "earthquakes in divers places" (Matthew 24:7c)!

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Gethsemane Bible-Presbyterian Church adheres to the system of faith commonly known as the “Reformed Faith” as expressed in the Westminster Confession of Faith together with the Larger and Shorter Catechisms.
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