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Every biblical doctrine is a blessing to those who believe and apply it fully in their lives and ministries. Our Lord Jesus said, “Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it” (Luke 11:28). God’s truth profits everyone who believes and obeys. Isaiah the prophet said, “Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit... O that thou hadst hearkened to my commandments! then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea” (Isaiah 48:17-18). God’s truth (regardless of differing opinions), if adhered to passionately, will provide great blessings to the soul. They who believe and obey the truth of God’s Word can be expectant of glorious eternal blessings – “Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory” (Psalm 73:24).

Every doctrine of the Scriptures is to be received and practised. So, the doctrine of separation, being a clear teaching of God’s Word, must be upheld. Nonetheless, many reject it as an unpleasant, burdensome, useless doctrine. Some refer to it as a “minor doctrine” or “non-essential doctrine”. However, this doctrine is the very channel of divine blessings. Furthermore, it also acts as a shield against errors. To practise the doctrine of separation is to secure the pure and glorious divine blessings for our souls and for our churches.

The Bible records very vividly the blessings that God promises to those who separate themselves from sin, worldliness, false doctrines, false teachers and disobedient Christians.

Separation keeps our souls and congregations from the filthiness of sin.

When we practise biblical separation against the sinful pleasures of the world, we will be able to purify and protect ourselves from all the sins of the world. In Ezra 6:21, we have a great example of this when “the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had separated themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of Israel, did eat” and partook of the Passover. The same truth is found in Revelation 18:4, where a call to separate is given – “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins.”

Separation helps us to be like Christ.

In Hebrews 7:26, we are told that Jesus Christ, being “such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners”. All Christians are to be like Christ; and to be like Christ, they should separate themselves from sin and sinners, just as Jesus did. Of course, this does not mean we should avoid befriending sinners to share the Gospel. Rather, the practice of biblical separation is calling us not to partake in their sinful activities. To be like Christ in this world, separation is necessary.

Separation from ungodly people and their activities helps us to delight in God’s Word.

This is the message that we read in Psalm 1:1-3, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” Ungodly friends can often be a distraction and hindrance to a Christian’s obedient life. So, separation from close affiliation with ungodly people will rid us of distractions which steer us away from God’s Word.

Separation helps us to be worthy servants of God.

To be a faithful and good minister of God’s Word, we must refuse to tolerate erroneous doctrines and philosophies. The apostle Paul’s words to Timothy highlights this truth – “If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness” (1 Timothy 4:6-7).

Separation helps us to be delivered from God’s wrath against unrepentant sinners.

Revelation 18:4 affirms that separation will deliver us from sin and also its aftermath – “And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.”

Separation assures us that God will receive us.

“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you” (2 Corinthians 6:17). Though the world and compromising Christians may reject us, the Lord will receive us. Romans 15:7 teaches us that whomsoever Christ receives, He receives to the glory of God. What a blessing it is to know that those who are separated from sin and false doctrines are vessels of God’s glory!

Separation guarantees the presence and fellowship of God.

To those who will not be unequally yoked with unbelief and sin, the Lord promises that “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (2 Corinthians 6:16b).

Separation guarantees the abiding love and care of God.

To the separated Christians, God promises in His Word that “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17b-18). Truly, those who will separate themselves for the glory of God are promised His unceasing fatherly love and care.

All honour and glory be unto God for sustaining the existence and work of the Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry all these years. God’s compassionate love and care have been lavished upon the Seniors’ Ministry throughout the past 12 years.

Indeed, when the Seniors gathered together to commemorate the 12th Thanksgiving Service held at Aloha Changi Chalet on 17 May 2017, joy overflowed from the hearts of many who have been looking forward to witness the goodness of the Lord through that meeting.

On that joyful morning, we arrived at the chalet at 9.30am amidst much laughter and excitement. Not surprisingly, the splendid view afforded by the chalet, which was located along the coastline, added to the pleasant mood of anticipation.

Having settled down, our morning devotion began at 9.40am with the praising and worshipping of God. We then had the privilege of listening to Rev Wee Eng Moh, who exhorted us on “The Gravity of Life on Earth” from Psalm 90, which teaches us to number our days. This was followed by the sharing of testimonies by three seniors, namely Sis Magdalene Lim, Sis Tay Soo Thian and Mdm Ang Tua Moi. (You can read their testimonies which are also published in today’s bulletin.) Mdm Ang also presented a song after her testimony. After which, we proceeded for some light refreshments, coupled with a time of Gospel-sharing with our invited non-believing friends and loved ones.

After our refreshments and Gospel-sharing session, the seniors settled back in preparation for the second devotion. Elder Mah led us in the lusty singing of spiritual songs before the preaching of God’s Word by our beloved Pastor Koshy from Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, whereby we were exhorted that we must fear God and keep His commandments.

After a sumptuous lunch, the seniors had a “friendly” competition in games, where they were divided into four groups and had 2 long hours of challenging activity. Truly, thank God for His sufficient grace that granted the elderly folks the strength and the privilege to enjoy such experiences without any harm and injuries! As Elder Mah and Preacher Daniel Lim gave out the prizes, there was loud applause from all the seniors, as everyone had enjoyed the activities.

We praise God that in this ministry, many have been nurtured and encouraged by the Word of God. For that reason, they are grateful and thankful and have been contributing by serving Him with zeal and enthusiasm in various aspects of service. In particular, we also see God’s provision being displayed when many of the elderly gave cheerfully with their contribution of money and food to this event.

Indeed, God’s grace and mercy have been showered upon the Seniors’ Ministry through this Thanksgiving Service. Mention must also be made of the brethren from the Gethsemane Care Ministry, who have been a great help to assist the uncles and aunties in the chalet. Thank God for such brethren who labour in the Lord to serve others.

And may this anniversary service impress upon our seniors to remember their Creator to worship Him and be steadfastly devoted to Him while they still have breath. As the psalmist exhorts, “All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah … O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard: which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved” (Psalm 66:4, 8-9).

Mdm Magdalene Lim

Thank God for enabling me to attend the Gethsemane Seniors’ Fellowship 12th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service and I want to testify of God’s loving kindness and tender mercies as follows:

1. Thank God for a successful operation in removing my breast cancer.
2. Thank God for the prayers, encouragement and help of brethren in the church.
3. Thank God for giving me joy and peace.

When I discovered a lump in my right breast in March, God is the first person I confided in. I prayed, “Lord, You know what I am going through. I won’t be afraid, I would be brave with joy.”

When the report showed that the lump was malignant, my first thought was: “Let my family members quickly receive the Lord as their personal Lord and Saviour.” My second request to God was: “May the money I receive from my insurance be channelled to the church building fund.”

Truly, when a person is sick or encounters a crisis in life, he or she becomes closer to God. I know I am not the only person who is suffering. I believe every person at some point of his or her life will face some sort of tragedy. Whether it be family issue, sickness, financial need, or whatever affliction, if we listen to His words (knowing God is with us) and are willing to do His will, there will be joy and peace.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, this world is not our home. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, then there is joy in everything. All glory be to God!

Mrs Poon (Tay Soo Thian)

My heart is filled with thanksgiving to God, having been with Gethsemane Church for the past 12 years. In 2004, my daughter was baptised and this was the first time I came to know of this church. During the first year, whenever I heard the gospel message being preached (John 3:16-18), my heart was warmed and moved. I realised my life purpose is to know the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Saviour. Upon receiving Christ, my heart was filled with joy.

I myself was baptised in 2005. However, in my daily life, I often encountered many struggles and temptations. I sometimes found myself going back to my old ways of living and falling to my weaknesses. I often prayed to God for help, and He delivered me. Each day I would pray to the Lord and He gave me strength to overcome my troubles and weaknesses.

In 2010 when I went for my usual medical check-up, I was told that there were cancer cells in my body. However, I felt no fear because I have already believed in the Lord and He has saved me. While undergoing several treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, I would pray for grace to go through and the Lord helped me each time I turned to Him. During the time of treatment, God’s Word was my best medicine, which enabled me to even comfort my family members because of their worry for me.

Jesus is my life’s best gift. I thank God for choosing me, a lost sheep, and for giving me hope of eternal life. With thanksgiving to God, I resolved, whether in good or bad times, that I will live and trust God, and not murmur. Truly, in God there is peace and renewing life. All thanks and glory be to God.

Mdm Ang Tua Moi

It is by the Lord's grace that I was able to attend the Seniors' Fellowship 12th Anniversary after being “home-bound” for more than 4 months.

It all began with my 80th birthday thanksgiving celebration this year on the 15 of January. This was the Lord's answer to my prayer to have a gospel outreach to all my unbelieving friends and relatives through this celebration.

However, I never expected that 3 days after this occasion, I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, which had spread to my liver and lung! Despite such sudden news, the Lord filled my heart with peace and even joy. I am contented that the Lord has blessed me with many years of good health, allowing me to live to such an old age. I am ready to go home to be with the Lord to enjoy the bliss of heaven forever. Hence, I thought I would just wait on the Lord for my homegoing without further treatment.

However, the oncologist encouraged me to receive chemotherapy after checking that my cancer cells were very responsive to chemotherapy and my body was very fit to receive such treatment, which would help to remove the tumours in my liver and lung. I prayed to the Lord to grant me His grace and strength to undergo the treatment if it is His will, and to heal me if He wants me to serve Him and testify for Him. However, I also prayed for the Lord's will to be done and to grant me an easy homegoing if it pleases Him to take me home.

The 4 months of chemotherapy were very difficult for me, having to cope with many side effects and great discomfort of my body. When I went through the 9th chemotherapy session, it was so unbearable that I was close to giving up. I thank the Lord for sustaining me with His grace through the prayers of pastors, elders and many brethren, as well as encouragement from His precious Word, hymns and spiritual songs. I experience the love of Christ through all these, despite much bodily suffering.

I was scheduled to undergo 18 sessions of chemotherapy. However, after completing 12 sessions, a PET-scan was done to determine the result of the treatment thus far. To my delight, the scan result showed that all the tumours and lumps have amazingly disappeared! I am very thankful that He has granted me healing.

Indeed, life is fragile, transient and full of uncertainty but with Christ as my Saviour, I am assured of the certainty of my salvation and the blessed hope of eternal life. I thank God not only for healing me, but most important of all, for saving me so that I am spared from the damnation and suffering of eternal hell. John 3:16 says: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Psalm 23, my favourite psalm, has always comforted me and kept me through the darkest moments in my life. Truly, it is blessed to have Jesus Christ as my Shepherd and I am not a lost sheep anymore. Now, if anyone has not received Christ as your Saviour, I urge you to do so without further delay, so that you will receive the salvation grace of Jesus Christ like me and be blessed with the hope of eternal life.

Scripture clearly teaches us that the remedy for the onslaught of carnality is preaching that confronts sin with burning words and bold rebuke. Consider the preaching of the prophet Isaiah. In the very first chapter itself, Isaiah delivered a startling rebuke of sin. Isaiah denounced the Israelites’ sacrifices as hypocritical! He boldly declared that God despised their oblations, the incense, their holy days and feasts. Then in no uncertain terms, he told them that God would not hear their prayers because their hands were full of blood. Again in that chapter, he denounced them for oppression of the poor, for their rebellion against God, and for their spiritual harlotry. He was unflinching when he remarked that not only did their princes run around with thieves, with everyone looking for bribes, but also that the leaders did not give honest protection to widows and orphans. And that is only one example out of many with regard to the preaching of Isaiah. He preached gallantly against sins!

Consider Nathan, the prophet who rebuked David. He is a fine example of a God-honouring preacher who preaches curtly against sin. Even King David’s royal pomp was no hindrance to his preaching against sin. So Nathan boldly preached a sermon, using a parable to show the wickedness of David’s sin. Then when the anger of David was aroused against the hypothetical rich man who had taken his neighbour’s little ewe lamb, Nathan with crushing and powerful effect pointed his finger in the face of King David and said, “Thou art the man” (2 Samuel 12:7). Nathan showed David his horrible sin of murdering Uriah in order to take his wife, Bathsheba. Nathan did not fear the royalty of David. Therefore, he stood up for God and openly denounced David’s sin.

Consider John the Baptist. He sharply rebuked sin. He did not try to be tactful and mild in his rebuke. He firmly said to the Jews, “O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance” (Matthew 3:7, 8). He made no exception for the Jewish leaders either. He told them they would be hewn down like fruitless trees to be cast into the fire of hell! He was just as bold when he confronted Herod the king, and told him plainly that he had no right to take his brother’s wife (Matthew 14:3, 4).

Consider the preaching of Stephen. Acts 7 tells the story of his rebuke of the sins of the Jews. He loudly declared to them, “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it” (7:51–53).

Though many more of God’s servants can be mentioned, let us for our consideration look at just one more preacher, the apostle Paul. On his first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas came to Paphos. When Elymas the sorcerer withstood them and tried to keep Sergius Paulus, the deputy ruler of the country, from being saved, Paul faced him, and being filled with the Holy Ghost, said, “O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?” (Acts 13:10).

Preachers who refuse to preach against sin – for fear of being negative – certainly do not follow the pattern of these great men of God. However, those who do preach against sin run the unwanted risk of hurting the feelings of their carnal hearers and making some of them angry, as well as causing frustrations in the crowd. But they are faithful to God and to the Bible.

As much as preachers are called to preach about God’s love, they are also called to preach against sin. The Lord Jesus loved men, and loved sinners enough to die for them, but how He hated sin! Remember how He made a whip to drive the traders from the temple, overturned the tables of the moneychangers, and scattered the money on the stone floor! Preaching ought to be like that sometimes. With holy boldness, preachers ought to hate sin and expose it.

Jesus preached against sin! He preached against covetousness; He preached against unbelief; He preached against adultery or even looking on a woman to lust after her. He preached against holding grudges and said that if men do not forgive, neither would the Father in Heaven forgive them. He said to the Pharisees and scribes, “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do” (John 8:44). Men hated Jesus because He preached against sin. May God forgive us preachers, who do not preach like Jesus, because we fear the anger of men.

Today, we need preachers who refuse to be influenced by the sophistry of the popular preachers who refrain from preaching against sin. Truly, preachers ought not to be cowards. They must be courageous to rebuke from the pulpit, as well as privately, if need be. The preacher who never has a word to say against immodest apparel, drunkenness, adultery, lewdness, covetousness or blasphemy is a dumb dog who cannot bark! He is a Balaam preaching for profit. He has fallen into the snare of the fear of man. We need unequivocal preaching against sin – against particular sins. May God give us many youthful, vibrant and fearless preachers everywhere who will speak for God against the carnality that invades churches of our time!

Our 5th Missionary Conference is drawing very near. In just about three weeks, about 255 participants will gather together in Kuching (E. Malaysia) for the event. May all glory be unto our gracious God, who has called us and guided us thus far.

We had many concerns about the funds needed to support all our preachers and invited guests to gather together. However, His bountiful provision through the generous, and even sacrificial, giving of many has helped the fund to reach S$46,565/-. This amount is very close to our targeted sum of S$50,000/- and will help us to meet much of our needs.

It is yet another marvellous proof of the truthfulness and goodness of Christ’s words in Matthew 6:8 that "your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him." Oh, how precious indeed is this assertion of Christ regarding the sweet omniscience of God's loving care of His people!

The expression "your Father" depicts the privileged relationship that we now have through Christ’s saving work on the cross, and the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Our Saviour tells all His redeemed to look up to God and address Him as their Father in heaven. God is not the Father of all. His Fatherhood is based upon our acceptance of His Son. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" (John 1:12).

Christ asserted that the Father “knoweth” all our needs. He points us to His Father’s foreknowledge and omniscience, which are the oft-mentioned attributes of God throughout Scripture. No personal details of your life – past, present, or future – is beyond His knowledge. Nothing escapes the eye of Him whose mercy covers our lives from start to finish.

Now, "what things ye have need of" is a phrase that refers to the Father's knowledge of what we need, and not our own estimation of our needs. Whether the needs are material or spiritual, He has a thorough knowledge of them all. And because of His omnipotence, He can meet any need according to His riches in glory. How comforting and assuring it is to believe that before our lips can recite our need, our loving Father is on His way to meet it!

Jesus said that our Father knows our needs "before ye ask him". Before we enter God’s presence with our plea for help, He knows the burden upon our heart. Our needs are real, and His knowledge about them is perfect. When the two meet, relief is ours. Let us, therefore, rest in the joy that our Father in heaven is the One from whom nothing is hidden, and through whom all good things flow.

What an antidote to all our anxieties did our Saviour give us! So, as we serve Him, let us leave all our cares with our loving Father in heaven. Let us not worry about tomorrow, but continue to serve our God faithfully, believing more and more (even in the midst of trials) that He will take care of us.

Like as a father who cares for all his children, one by one, according to their individual needs, God will take care of His every child individually. He is aware of each one’s needs, and He knows them as no one else knows them. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him” (Psalm 103:13). Truly, He will grant us appropriate care according to our needs. Let us all be assured always of the appropriateness of His paternal care.

Gethsemane Bible Presbyterian Church of Ethiopia

Dear Session of Gethsemane Bible-Presbyterian Church, Singapore,

Heartfelt greetings in the blessed name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!

“For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day” (2 Timothy 1:12).

It is with a heart full of gratitude that I write to you praising God for what He has done through your sacrificial service for the furtherance of God’s work in Gethsemane B-P Church of Ethiopia. The Lord has sustained our church and provided for it for the past 11 years through many and different trials. Now, we are preparing to hold a combined service of the church’s 11th anniversary thanksgiving service on 20th May 2017 at Alemgena.

Moreover, we will have the commencement programme of the 2nd graduating class of Gethsemane Bible Institute. Nine of our trainees in the full-time programme will be graduating with Diploma of Theology. We will also have two adult baptisms and four transfers of membership on this occasion. Therefore, we praise God for your constant prayers and support of God’s work in Ethiopia.

The Gethsemane Children Ministry is also going on well. The children are taught spiritual truths besides normal academic curriculum. We are reaching out to the parents of the children also. Please pray that God may use the dedicated service of His people to bring these precious souls to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

The work in the Addis congregation is also going on well, primarily through the labour of Preacher Engida. The members are more committed now to worship and serve the Lord. We thank God for His enabling grace upon the work in GBI, Ethiopia, where we conduct full-time, evening class and distance programmes. May our gracious God richly bless you all. Please pray that the different ministries will be effective in edifying and equipping God’s people for the work in the Lord’s service.

Once again, I would like to express my gratitude to Rev Koshy, all the leaders and members of Gethsemane for sacrificially supporting and constantly praying for God’s work in Ethiopia.

Yours in Christ,
Rev Ephrem Chiracho
(on behalf of Gethsemane BPCE and GBI, Ethiopia)

The Lord was pleased to use His servant – the late Pr Dominino dela Cruz, Jr (husband of Sis Sharon and father of Nehemiah) – to establish a mission church in Bogo, Cebu, the Philippines in 2008. In the following year, another mission church in San Antonio (which is a nearby village where he grew up) was also inaugurated. Despite the many trials and oppositions encountered, our missionary and the two congregations stood steadfast and pressed on. He served joyfully together with his family for 3 years, before the Lord called him home on the Lord’s day, 7 July 2013 to his eternal rest after a hard-fought battle against cancer.

Elder Eliezer Ortega, who was then taking care of The Gethsemane Care Ministry in Cebu City, an outreach to former drug addicts and offenders of the law, yielded to the Lord’s call to lead the much-saddened flock. He was commissioned on 28 July 2013. Together with his wife, Sis Arlaine, they moved from Cebu City to serve in Bogo, leaving their three children behind in Cebu City. They have been serving faithfully since, amidst the increasingly difficult and demanding work.

Mission Bogo 2017, which aims to encourage our missionary and the brethren in Bogo and San Antonio, was the fourth in a series of mission trips initiated by our Gethsemane Encourager’s Ministry (GEM). Over the past 2 years, similar mission trips were made to Cebu City, Pangasinan and Kuching. By God’s grace and leading, the Lord provided a strong team of 28 brethren from our midst (that included 5 young children) to serve and fellowship with brethren of our mission churches in Bogo and San Antonio from 27-30 April 2017.

All praise be unto the Lord for this large team, which accorded many blessed opportunities to preach and teach God’s Word to unbelievers, and to fellowship with the saints. With much grace and help from the Lord, the team was able to, in the short space of three and a-half days, visit 9 homes, have a full-day DVBS, including an “oral hygiene” instruction class in both Bogo and San Antonio, as well as conduct 3 evangelism sessions in Bogo and the areas around San Antonio and Libjo, where many tracts were distributed and the Gospel shared. All of these were held concurrently. The team also had the joy of being able to co-labour and participate in the combined Prayer Meeting held on Friday evening in Bogo, as well as the Worship Service on the Lord’s day, where our Pastor brought the Word.

Mission Bogo 2017 is different from earlier mission trips in several ways, besides the size of the team. This mission trip, though initially planned for March 2017, was rescheduled to take place just before the Philippines churches’ Combined Camp (planned to be held from 1-4 May 2017), as suggested by Pastor Koshy and Rev Reggor Galarpe, pastor of the mission church in Cebu City. This provided another opportunity for many brethren to serve and be blessed by the teaching of God’s Word during the camp, where Pastor Koshy was the camp speaker. A total of 17 brethren from the mission team stayed on for the camp. Pastor and Sis Carolyn, as well as Pr Dennis Kabingue and his family extended their mission visits in the Philippines further in ministering to the brethren in Bohol and Davao/Cebu City respectively, by arriving a few days prior to the arrival of the other mission team members on 27 April 2017.

For many in the mission team, the opportunities to serve alongside our brethren in the kitchens and meeting halls of the two churches in Bogo and San Antonio, as well as in travelling to and fro from our hotels to the church premises and to homes in remote rural areas, were enriching and blessed experiences. The ready smiles of brethren and non-believers that we encountered during evangelism were heartwarming. The warm welcome we received in the early hours of 27 April from Rev Reggor, his family, Eld Eliezer, his wife, Bro Allan and his family at Mactan Airport, Cebu set the tone of brotherly love that we continued to receive during our short stay. Through Bro Allan’s contacts in the airport, the 31 large pieces of communal luggage – comprising Pastor’s devotionals, Bible Witness magazines, tracts, etc. weighing more than 300kg, together with the team’s personal belongings – were accorded special consideration through customs. We were able to get out of the airport without any of our luggage subject to close examination. May the Lord be praised for His providence.

The Lord is to be praised too for the protection and safety of the team throughout all our travels from/to the airport and hotel, walking on unfamiliar roads and riding in small motorcycle cabs to the church in Bogo, with several brethren having to ride these cabs to and fro between Bogo and San Antonio (a distance of 10 km)! Though it was an interesting experience to 7 members of the team, it was nevertheless a somewhat risky and uncomfortable pillion-ride at the back seat on motorcycles across small unpaved, bumpy paths – sometimes even at the very edge of a steep slope – to visit a brother’s home. The Lord was good to also grant good health to all in the team, without anyone suffering severe illness.

I am certain that the mission trip has opened the eyes of the team to the needs of our brethren in Bogo and San Antonio. More than their physical needs, there is a dire need for spiritual encouragement and strengthening. May the Lord use brethren who have been given this glimpse of the lives of our brethren there to encourage them in the Lord, especially our missionary Eld Eliezer and his wife, to stay steadfast and to persevere for the Lord Jesus’ glory.

Though a detailed report would be submitted to the church by the mission team upon their return, I thought it would be good to write to you a few things that God has enabled us to do thus far. As I write this very brief report, the mission team is already into its second day of ministry here in Bogo. Yesterday (i.e. on Thursday), the team members were divided into different groups to engage in street evangelism and home visitations. Today, while some are conducting a one-day Gospel programme for the children, others are engaging in street evangelism and home visitations.

Before the arrival of the mission team, Preacher Dennis and family have visited Davao City and ministered the Word to his contacts. Over the last weekend, he preached to about 50 people who had gathered on the excellencies of Christ from Hebrews 1:1-4. We thank God that Pr Dennis was able to conduct a three-day preaching visit to Davao. Let us pray that the Lord will be pleased to bless this effort with lasting results to all eternity.

By God’s grace, my wife and I were enabled to visit Bohol island. Our main ministry was to our mission church in Tagbilaran City. Preacher Edsel Locot has been ministering in this place for about 11 years. We are very grateful that the Lord has kept His servant (Pr Edsel) strong and determined in the work of the Gospel, though the church has often been shaken by the departure of many who had earlier joined the church. The world exerts tremendous pressure through temptations and trials upon those who come to the church. Certain vices – gambling, drugs, fornication and adultery - are very rampant among the people of this island, and they are often the cause/s of the falling away of many.

I have gone to the city’s prison to visit a man who has been arrested for drugs and is repentant. He has been regularly visited and ministered to by Pr Edsel. This man had been a member of the church, but was lured into drugs again. Even though the preacher had repeatedly warned him, he denied his sins and secretly pursued them. It was a very high-risk “thrill” that he was pursuing, especially as the Philippines’ president, Rodrigo Duterte, has declared war against the drug-dealers and abusers! This man was dancing with death. He could have been easily shot dead by the anti-drug officers. He barely escaped being shot, and was arrested and placed in jail. The condition of the prison is extremely miserable. Pr Edsel was able to obtain a special permit for me to visit the prison with him. We exhorted the man to bear fruit of repentance while he is in the prison, by living out a life of good Christian testimony. I was glad to know that he is committed to live a renewed life as a Christian.

The small congregation of our church in Bohol has about 20 worshippers (including children). Most of them are economically poor. However, they rejoice in the Lord and His Word. I preached to them last Lord’s Day, as well as on Monday and Tuesday nights, based on 1 Peter 4. One young lady of the church also brought her colleague, who was a Catholic, to hear God’s Word. She came for two nights and testified of her interest to know more of Christ and the Bible. She expressed her desire to come back and attend the church activities. Let us pray that the Lord will soon open her heart to receive the Lord Jesus as her Saviour.

On Wednesday, Carolyn and I left Bohol (by ferry) for Cebu, where we were received by Rev Reggor Galarpe and family. We attended the Cebu congregation’s Bible Study and prayer meeting that night. I preached during this meeting from Deuteronomy 33:29 on the topic, “Happy art the people of God”. The meeting was attended by 40 over church members. We praise God for the opportunities to fellowship with many of the leaders and members of the Cebu congregation. Their steadfastness and zeal in the Lord are truly commendable – truly, let us praise the Lord for their continued walk with the Lord!

Our Debt of Love

“Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law” (Romans 13:8).

As Paul begins to exhort the brethren concerning the debt of love that Christians owe one another, he said, “Owe no man any thing”. So can we borrow money? The Bible allows lending and borrowing in times of real need (Deuteronomy 15:7-8; Psalm 37:26; Exodus 22:25). But it discourages us from being in debt, for a man’s debt would make him subservient to the lender (cf. Deuteronomy 15:6; 28:12, 44; Proverbs 22:7). The Bible also warns against taking responsibility for the debts of others (cf. Proverbs 6:1-5; 22:26-27). It is a sin to borrow and not repay (cf. Psalm 37:21). God does not want us to be under obligation to any because of unsettled debts.

Nevertheless, we must deem loving one another as our permanent debt and duty to others. This is not the first time Paul talked about love in his epistle to the Romans. In Romans 12:9-10, he described love as thus – “Let love be without dissimulation... Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love”. So, we must recognise our debt of love.

We are spiritually obliged to love everyone as our verse says, “love one another”. Love must be extended, without discrimination, to all and sundry in the church and everywhere. Love is a debt which can never be settled. Even though we have been daily showing kindness to others, yet our debt of love can never be fully paid as long as there is an opportunity to do good.

How much do we owe others? As much as we love ourselves (cf. Romans 13:9b; Matthew 19:19; 7:12; Ephesians 5:28-29), and as much as God has loved us (cf. John 13:34-35; 15:12-13). Remember how God loved us when we were His enemies (cf. Romans 5:8)? That is how we ought to love others.

Paul also told us the reason for the debt of love – “for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law”. Some think that the law and love are contrary to one another. Actually, they are in harmony with each other. Only by loving others can one be fully obedient to God’s moral laws. Galatians 5:14 says, “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” James identifies loving others as the royal law – “If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well” (James 2:8). Love helps us to fulfil God’s law. True love helps us to uphold the righteous laws of God.

Republishing “Things that Wreck Short-Term Missions”
(Bible Witness, Volume 6, Issue 1)

Our self-conceited attitude, unreasonable expectations and hypocrisy can disrupt or even ruin the short-term missions organised by our churches or fellowship groups. To maximise your contribution to the missionary, mission church and the mission team, avoid doing the things mentioned below:

1. Negligence of personal daily devotion.
   Some have neglected their time of prayer and meditation of God’s Word because they have to pursue a busy schedule. It is totally inadequate just to rely on group devotions and the preaching of the Word during the mission activities...
2. Unwillingness to do any menial work.
   To make a mission trip successful, everyone in the team has to be always ready to take up any task or challenge. It is totally absurd to refuse to do any menial work, saying that during the missionary trip your only duty is to win souls. It is totally false to think that doing menial works like dataentry, loading trucks, cooking, etc. will distract you from your primary task of winning souls. Not everyone is called to be preachers. For example, younger Christians in the team, who are not equipped to preach and teach, can contribute by helping in the physical aspects of the ministries.
3. Picking on the missionaries and their mistakes.
   Do not jump to conclusions quickly when you notice something that appears to be wrong. Be patient and careful not to make unjust and erroneous judgment.
4. Disagreeing, criticising or murmuring against your team leaders.
   Normally, leaders of mission trips are Christians who are experienced and matured men. They make decisions based on their best knowledge and judgment. It will be far better to prayerfully cooperate with the leaders in whatever way you can than being a dissident in the mission team. If you complain and murmur, it will affect the unity and effectiveness of the team.
5. Dealing harshly with team members who make a mistake.
   Unkind remarks and discourteous behaviour can lead to much grief and problems during mission trips. Be gracious and affectionate one to another.
6. Being too suspicious or being too trusting of everyone you meet during the trip.
   It is wrong to think that everyone in poor countries is out to get something from you. Also, it is dangerous to think that everyone who appears to be friendly is safe to trust. The best is to follow the instructions given by the team leaders and local leaders.
7. Refusing the local food, which might not have been cooked well to your taste!
   Be kind and generous towards one another.
8. Keeping your distance from team members who could not raise their full support.
9. Getting involved romantically with someone, or getting into a quarrel with your friend.
   Though there is nothing wrong in getting to know someone closer, you must not lose the focus of the nature and purpose of the mission trip. Also, avoid getting into petty quarrels with your friend.
10. Scolding your home church upon your return from the mission field for their lack of commitment, for their weak prayers, or for their inadequate giving to missions.
    One or two mission trips do not prove that you have become the perfect Christian. Instead, encourage the home church by your example in supporting the missions, since you have witnessed the needs and struggles of missions.

It was required that Christ should rise from the dead. Just as He had to die, He had to rise and live. This was necessary for several reasons:

1. He rose again to prove and declare that He was the Son of God (Rom. 1:4).

During His Humiliation, and particularly in His death, Christ’s divinity was obscured under a veil of the many infirmities of His humanity, but in His resurrection He proved His eternal power and Godhead. Indeed it is true that others were raised, and indeed shortly all shall rise; therefore merely to be raised from the dead is not proof of the divinity of the one raised. Yet, for Someone to raise Himself by His own power, that is sufficient proof of divinity. He gave evidence of divinity by raising others in His name, but He was required to raise Himself by His own power to prove Himself God. There was a further proof of His divinity in the resurrection, in that He died according to the Law and justice of God, sentenced as our Surety to suffer the whole weight of the wrath of God. For Him to be released from this sentence, after He had been born for that very purpose, and to live again having fulfilled all the demands of justice upon Him, proves Him to be God. The weight of wrath that He bore would have broken the whole of creation, and they would never have been released.

2. In this way He attested to His perfect victory over death and our spiritual enemies.

It was not enough that Christ should die for us. In dying He must be a conqueror, otherwise His death would not profit us. Indeed, He suffered in order that He might overcome – “That through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil” (Heb. 2:14). This was shown and proven by His resurrection. This is the reason why Paul, after he had demonstrated by many arguments that Christ was risen, and then shown what was the glorious cause of it, concluded the passage with a note of triumph – “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:57). It is true that Christ conquered all on His cross: there the battle was fought and there the victory was gained. But that victory was made into a triumph in His resurrection. Now His enemies fled, quitting the field – “Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered; let those also who hate him flee before him” (Psa. 68:1). He made a conquest of death itself, and it lay dead at His feet. Christ would never be known as a conqueror, except for this. If death had held Him as her captive, where would His victory be?

3. He rose for our justification.

“Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification” (Rom. 4:25). As He died to pay our debt, so He rose again to acquit or absolve us from it. Christ’s resurrection was both His and our discharge: His, when He stood as our surety bond for us, and ours, as those for whom He was Surety. As Christ by dying was made virtually, so by rising He becomes actually the object of our justifying faith.

He became a sufficient object of faith not merely by undertaking to appear in our place, but by actually making an end of the transgressions on our account and paying our whole debt. If He had not made satisfaction for us, we could not in justice have been pardoned. If He had not fully reconciled us to God and completely answered the Law’s demands, we could not have been saved. Therefore if He had continued on in death, it would have shown the continuing need for payment; which would have revealed its imperfection, and consequently its invalidity. Christ could not rise until justice acquitted Him. His bond was submitted for our cause, and it must be accepted by the Judge, and that only by a full payment of the bond. When He arose, this bond was returned to Him, and cancelled. Our debt is paid, our bond is returned. Therefore His resurrection stands in opposition to all that could be laid to our charge (Rom. 8:34). Therefore this is one of the arguments that the apostle Paul uses to prove that Christ must be risen, “And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins!” (1 Cor. 15:17).

4. It was to put Christ into a proper condition for the completing of the work remaining in the execution of His offices.

We observed in a previous sermon that Christ executes His offices in both states of Humiliation and Exaltation. As our Priest, He was to satisfy justice for us, and afterwards to intercede for us (Heb. 7:25). As our Prophet, here He taught with His mouth, but there He sent forth His Spirit, and therefore He had to go to the Father (John 16:17). As our King, here He commanded His disciples and gave them laws, but He must also govern them by His power and wield the sceptre over the world. This was accomplished by His resurrection (Psa. 2:6) and following (cf. Acts 13:33). Indeed, there was the glory of a mediator promised to Him as a reward for His obedience, and it was necessary for Him to rise in order to take possession of it –”Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?” (Luke 24:26).

5. It was necessary for Him to rise, so He would be the first fruits of our resurrection, both spiritually and bodily (1 Cor. 15:20-23).

By “first fruits” we are not to understand first in order of time, but in order of causation. Those who rose at Christ’s death, as described in the Gospel (Matt. 27:52, 53), rose by the power and influence of His resurrection. Furthermore, it is a sure pledge of the resurrection of His members. When the first fruits were offered to God under the Law, He accepted them and gave His people an assurance of the harvest. The apostle Paul makes the same point in 1 Cor. 15, using the order of the covenants. Just as Adam in the first covenant, standing for us, procured death for us, so Christ in the new covenant, being our Surety, has purchased a resurrection for us. His resurrection is the earnest of ours (1 Cor. 15:20).

“All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head.”— Psalm 22:7

Psalm 22 is a Messianic Psalm that speaks of the humiliation, sufferings and crucifixion which Christ our Lord would endure on our behalf. He was mocked relentlessly by the Jews and the Romans. The chief priests, the scribes, the Pharisees, Pilate the governor and King Herod all took turns to ridicule, taunt and contemptuously treat our Lord. Their soldiers and servants also jeered at him, and brutally insulted him. They ridiculed His divinity, royalty and dignity.

Who could bear such heartless, cruel savagery? What sorrow must have gripped his soul! Have you wondered what might have been on His lips? The psalmist gives us a peek into Christ’s anguish, as he predictively records His words – “All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head”.

The sovereign God was maliciously wronged by His creatures. Though despised and rejected, He neither resented nor retaliated. Surely, it was more than just sheer endurance that made Him accept all that utterly bitter contempt and vicious barbarity. There in His pure heart was Love supreme, Love divine – yea, Love beyond degree! So, he bled and died for our salvation.

How do we now respond to Him? Do we despise Him and dishonour him with our ungrateful / unappreciative attitude and actions? Do we pour contempt on Him? O that we would praise Him who died bearing our sins! May He ever be worshipped in our hearts and in our congregation! No more scorn, no more rejection of Christ. He is all to us. Let us rejoice and sing His praises! Let us adore and worship Him! Let us lift up His name high. May He, who was lifted on the cross, be now lifted up in our hearts!

The book of Proverbs has very relevant and helpful counsels for parents concerning inculcating good disciplines in their children. In fact, many passages in Proverbs are written in the form of fatherly or motherly admonition for children, constituting a vast array of wise counsels for diverse situations that parents would face in bringing up their children. So, I advise all Christian parents to take heed of the counsels of Proverbs for the proper upbringing of their children. In this article, I would like to point you to what Proverbs has to say about inculcating godly discipline in our children.

Parental Responsibility

The actual responsibility of inculcating good virtues in our children lies with the parents. Though many parents know this truth, sadly they have been pushing their responsibility to others so that they pursue their ambitions for a luxurious living. The book of Proverbs has this grave warning to parents who forsake their Godgiven responsibility to provide appropriate instruction and discipline when it matters the most – “but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame” (Proverbs 29:15). So it advises every parent, “Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.” Proverbs 13:24 says, “he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.” Parents must promptly give instruction and correction to their children. Missing out on relevant instruction and correction when it should be administered is a sure recipe for much sorrow

Methods of Discipline

The word “discipline” in Hebrew (musar) implies both instruction and chastisement. In other words, discipline has to be administered through teaching, rebuke and correction, even the rod of correction. If a child disobeys the parents after being instructed of proper attitude and conduct, steps must be taken to reinforce proper discipline in him through corrective measures, such as rebuke and the use of the rod (cf. Proverbs 4:2, 12; 15:32; 13:24; 22:15). In Proverbs 29:15, we are told that “The rod and reproof give wisdom”. So “withhold not correction from the child” (Proverbs 23:13).

Areas of Discipline

The wisdom that God provides in Proverbs calls out to every parent to “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6). The parental duty of nurturing their children also means that they know the right path that their children should go, and be committed to not only pointing them to the right way, but also training them to travel in it.

Proverbs has much to say about what the right path (that the children should go) entails. The following counsels are some pertinent areas of training and discipline that parents should give to the children.

1. Teach children to fear the Lord
   “My son, fear thou the LORD…” (Proverbs 24:21). “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction” (Proverbs 1:7).
2. Teach children to honour the Lord in worship
   In a setting of fatherly instruction, Proverbs admonishes, “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase: so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10). We must admonish our children to give glory to God for all His blessings just as He prescribes in the Bible.
3. Teach children to obey parents
   “My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother” (Proverbs 1:8). It must always be insisted that parents’ instructions are to be followed. Hence, it is very important that parents make sure their instructions are biblical.
4. Teach children to respect authorities
   “My son, fear thou the LORD and the king: and meddle not with them that are given to change” (Proverbs 24:21). Our children should be instructed on how to show respect for rulers of the land, government officials, teachers, etc.
5. Teach children to love neighbours
   “Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. Say not unto thy neighbour, Go, and come again, and to morrow I will give; when thou hast it by thee. Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee” (Proverbs 3:27-29). Instil love and respect for neighbours, especially for those who are needy.
6. Teach children how to select friends
   “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not” (Proverbs 1:10).

   “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed” (Proverbs 13:20). Friendship that our children develop would either help them in the right way or seduce them into moral and social evils. So, it is important that we guide them with much diligence regarding who they should choose as their friends.

7. Teach children to guard their minds
   “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. . . . Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:20-23). Teach them not to say or do anything without proper evaluation as to whether it pleases God. Exhort them to regard divine counsels above their own ideas, imaginations and likes
8. Teach children to control lust of the flesh
   “And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger? For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings. His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins. He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray” (Proverbs 5:20-23; cf. 5:1-11; 6:20-28). Teenagers and youths must be warned against the allurement of sexual sins, and immoral persons. Say “No” to watching movies which are sensual in content or reading salacious novels with sexually explicit content. Such entertainment will fan the flame of lust in our children.
9. Teach children to hate gluttony, drunkenness and debauchery
   “Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way. Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh: for the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags” (Proverbs 23:19-21; cf. 31:1-6).
10. Teach your children to watch their words
    “Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee” (Proverbs 4:24). Parents must demand pure language from their children. Honourable and gracious speech is a grand peculiarity of godly children.
11. Teach your children to work diligently
    “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest” (Proverbs 6:6-8; cf. 10:5). We must not allow laziness and procrastination in our children. Insist on diligence and instil an industrious spirit in them.
12. Teach your children to choose a good spouse
    “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil” (Proverbs 31:10-11). These words are from a mother to her son. Parents’ mutual love and commitment, together with their instruction, must aid children to choose godly lifepartners with whom they can raise a godly generation.