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Genesis 22:14—“And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said to this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.”

Genesis 22 records one of the greatest tests of Abraham’s faith. God commanded him to offer Isaac, the son of promise, as a burnt offering. Abraham acted obediently to offer Isaac as God demanded. At the very moment Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac, the Angel of the LORD stopped him, and God provided a ram caught in a thicket to be offered in Isaac’s place. In grateful remembrance of this divine intervention, Abraham named the place “Jehovahjireh,” meaning, “The LORD will see or provide.”

This name declares far more than God’s provision of a ram. It reveals the LORD as the faithful God who always provides whatever is necessary to accomplish His holy purposes. Before ascending the mountain, Abraham assured Isaac, “My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering” (Gen. 22:8). Though God immediately provided a ram as Isaac’s substitute, the event pointed beyond itself to God’s perfect provision in Jesus Christ, the true Lamb of God who would take away the sins of His people. Hebrews 11:19 further explains that Abraham believed God was able to raise Isaac from the dead, “from whence also he received him in a figure.” Thus, Isaac’s figurative restoration, together with the substitutionary sacrifice of the ram, foreshadowed Christ’s death and resurrection. Where Abraham’s faith was tested, God’s provision was revealed; God would, in the fullness of time, accomplish His greatest provision through the sacrificial death and victorious resurrection of His beloved Son for the redemption of His people.

Believers today must confidently trust in God who provides. His provision does not always remove every trial, but it never fails to supply what His wisdom knows we need. He provides forgiveness through Christ, strength for daily obedience, and grace to endure every test. Jehovahjireh!

1 Thessalonians 2:20—“For ye are our glory and joy.”

Paul concludes this section of his letter with a brief yet deeply affectionate statement: “For ye are our glory and joy.” These words reveal the heart of a true shepherd. The Thessalonian believers were not merely names on a list or members of a congregation; they were the living evidence of God’s grace at work through the ministry entrusted to Paul and his fellow labourers.

The word “glory” expresses honour and delight. Paul did not find his honour in reputation, influence, or earthly achievements, but in seeing believers established in the faith. Likewise, his “joy” sprang not from personal success but from witnessing the spiritual growth of those whom he had served with the gospel. Such joy reflects the heart of Christ, who rejoices over His redeemed people and lovingly cares for His flock.

This verse reminds us that Christian ministry is profoundly relational. God uses His servants not merely to communicate biblical truths but also to nurture His people with love, prayer, encouragement, and faithful example. When believers grow in holiness, remain steadfast in trials, and abound in love, faithful ministers rejoice, giving all glory to God.

Every Christian should likewise seek the spiritual good of others. Parents should rejoice to see their children walk in the truth. Teachers should delight in the spiritual maturity of their students. Church members should encourage one another to grow in grace. Such joy is not rooted in human accomplishment but in the gracious work of God. As we invest our lives in the spiritual welfare of others, we share in the joy of seeing Christ glorified in His people.

1 Thessalonians 2:19—“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?”

Throughout this chapter, Paul has defended the sincerity of his ministry and expressed his deep affection for the Thessalonian believers. He now lifts their eyes from the present to the future, pointing them to the glorious return of the Lord Jesus Christ. In that day, Paul declares that his “hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing” will be the believers whom God has brought to faith and nurtured through his ministry.

Paul is not boasting in his own achievements. Rather, he rejoices in the grace of God that has borne spiritual fruit through the faithful preaching of the gospel. The Thessalonian believers are evidence that his labour was not in vain. Their steadfast faith and perseverance will be a source of holy joy when all believers stand before Christ.

This verse reminds us that eternal values must govern Christian service. Earthly success, recognition, and possessions will all pass away, but souls won to Christ and believers strengthened in the faith will remain forever. Every act of faithful gospel ministry has eternal significance because it contributes to the growth of Christ’s kingdom and the glory of His name.

The phrase “at his coming” also reminds us that all ministry will ultimately be evaluated in the presence of the returning Lord. Our desire should therefore be to labour faithfully, not for human praise, but for Christ’s commendation.

May we invest our lives in that which endures forever, praying that many will stand with us in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, bringing joy to His servants and glory to His name on that great and glorious day.

1 Thessalonians 2:13—“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.”

Paul gives thanks to God because the Thessalonian believers responded rightly to the gospel he preached. Though they heard the message through human lips, they recognised its true source. They “received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.” This was not a compliment to Paul’s preaching but a testimony to God’s grace in opening their hearts to receive His divine revelation.

The gospel is proclaimed by human messengers, yet its authority rests not in the messenger but in God, who inspired His Word. Therefore, the hearer’s responsibility is not to evaluate Scripture according to personal preference or human opinion, but to receive it with reverence, faith, and submission. True faith acknowledges the Bible as God’s infallible and authoritative Word, worthy of wholehearted obedience.

Paul further declares that God’s Word “effectually worketh also in you that believe.” The Scriptures are not lifeless words on a page but the living and powerful Word of God. Through the Holy Spirit, they convict of sin, strengthen faith, sanctify the believer, comfort the troubled heart, and transform lives into the likeness of Christ. The Word accomplishes God’s gracious purposes in those who receive it with believing hearts.

Let us therefore approach the Scriptures with humility and expectancy, praying that God would enable us not only to hear His Word but also to believe, obey, and treasure it. As we submit ourselves to its authority, God’s Word will continue to work effectively within us, producing spiritual growth, steadfast faith, and lives that glorify our Lord.

1 Thessalonians 2:7—“But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.”

In defending the integrity of his ministry, Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that his conduct among them was marked not by harshness or self-seeking, but by Christlike gentleness. Having just declared that he sought to please God rather than men (v. 4), Paul now demonstrates that faithful proclamation of the truth should always be marked by gentleness and love. Indeed, true gospel ministry reflects both conviction and compassion.

Paul compares himself and his fellow labourers to “a nurse”, that is, a nursing mother who lovingly nourishes and cares for her own children. Such a mother does not merely provide food; she patiently protects, comforts, and sacrifices herself for her child’s well-being. In the same way, Paul ministered with genuine affection, willingly bearing burdens and seeking the spiritual growth of the believers rather than personal advantage.

This verse reveals the pastoral heart that should characterise all Christian service. Ministers, elders, teachers, and every believer who seeks to help others spiritually must avoid a domineering or impatient spirit. The truth of God must be spoken faithfully, yet always with humility, kindness, and sincere love. As Paul later exhorted Timothy, “the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men” (2 Timothy 2:24).

Our Lord Jesus Christ perfectly embodied this spirit. Though He spoke with divine authority, He also welcomed the weak, restored the fallen, and dealt tenderly with the weary. As His servants, let us faithfully uphold the truth while cherishing God’s people with the gentleness and self-giving love that adorn the gospel.

1 Thessalonians 2:4—“But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.”

Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that the ministry of the gospel is not a human appointment but a divine trust. The phrase "allowed of God" means that God had tested and approved Paul and his fellow labourers before entrusting them with the sacred responsibility of proclaiming the gospel. Their authority and message came from God, not from human institutions or popular opinion.

To be "put in trust with the gospel" is to become a faithful steward of God’s saving truth. A steward does not alter the message entrusted to him but declares it faithfully. Therefore, Paul states, "even so we speak." He neither softened the truth to gain acceptance nor altered it to avoid persecution. His preaching was governed by fidelity to God rather than the approval of men.

This principle remains essential for every minister, teacher, and believer who bears witness to Christ. In an age when many are tempted to reshape biblical truth to satisfy cultural expectations, the servant of God must remember that the gospel belongs to God. It is not ours to modify but ours to proclaim faithfully.

Paul adds that God "trieth our hearts." The Lord examines not only what we say but also why we say it. He searches our motives, exposing every desire for human applause or personal gain. Faithful service therefore requires both sound doctrine and sincere devotion.

May we cherish the privilege of being entrusted with the gospel, speaking it with courage, humility, and love, always seeking to please the God who knows our hearts rather than the world that judges by outward appearances.

1 Thessalonians 2:2—“But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.”

Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that the gospel first came to them through suffering, not comfort. Before arriving in Thessalonica, he and Silas had been publicly beaten, imprisoned, and humiliated at Philippi (Acts 16:22–24). Such cruel treatment might have silenced many, yet it only strengthened their resolve to continue proclaiming Christ.

Paul says, “we were bold in our God”. Their courage did not arise from natural bravery or self-confidence but from their confidence in God. The Lord who had called them to preach also strengthened them to endure persecution. Christian boldness is not fearlessness but steadfast faith that obeys God despite fear, hardship, or hostility.

Paul also describes preaching the gospel “with much contention”. The word points to intense conflict, opposition, and spiritual struggle. Gospel ministry has never been free from resistance. Wherever Christ is faithfully proclaimed, the kingdom of darkness opposes the advance of the truth. Yet such opposition must never discourage Christ’s servants from fulfilling their calling.

This verse reminds every believer that faithfulness to Christ often involves sacrifice. We may encounter ridicule, rejection, or persecution for standing upon God’s Word. Nevertheless, the gospel remains “the gospel of God”, carrying His authority and power to save. Therefore, let us not shrink back in the face of opposition, but, like Paul, find our boldness in the Lord and faithfully proclaim His saving truth, trusting Him to sustain us and to accomplish His gracious purposes through His Word.

John 16:27—“For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.

The Lord Jesus gave His disciples this remarkable assurance before He left the quietness of the upper room communion. Having encouraged them to pray confidently to the Father in His name, Christ now reveals the tender reason for that confidence. The Father does not receive believers reluctantly or merely through persuasion by the Son. Rather, “the Father himself loveth you”. This is a profound declaration of the Father’s personal affection for all who belong to Christ.

The Lord explains that the disciples’ love for Him and their faith in His divine mission distinguished them as God's redeemed people. Their love and faith were not the cause of the Father’s love in the ultimate sense, for God first loved His people before they ever loved Him (1 John 4:10, 19). Instead, their coming to the Father in love was evidence of their saving relationship with God through Christ. Those who truly believe that Jesus is the eternal Son sent by the Father will inevitably love Him (John 14:21, 23).

This verse also highlights the perfect harmony between the Father and the Son in the work of our redemption. The Father sent the Son in love (John 3:16), and those who receive the Son are welcomed into the Father’s own love and fellowship. There is no division of heart or purpose within the Godhead.

O what comfort this gives every believer! We approach God not as fearful strangers but as beloved children. The Father’s love assures us of His welcome, care, and faithful provision. Therefore, let us continue to love Christ, trust Him wholeheartedly, and draw near to the Father with joyful confidence, knowing that His everlasting love rests upon all who are united to His Son. As the Apostle John said in his first epistle, chapter 3, verse 1, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.”

Report by Pr Cornelius Koshy

About a year ago, Rev. Reggor shared with me his desire for a team of youths from Singapore to encourage the youths in the Philippine churches so that through the fellowship around God’s Word and the godly example of youths from Singapore, the second generation of Christians in the Philippines would be strengthened and stirred to be steadfast in the faith (Colossians 2:6–7).

Indeed, there is great benefit in having God-fearing young men and women, whose words and conduct bear testimony to a living faith and joyful service for Christ, to be role models for youths who often learn by example and look up to older brothers and sisters in church (Titus 2:6–8).

When I shared with the Gethsemane Youth Fellowship concerning the outreach to the Filipino youths, thirteen responded, and I thank God for them! God willing, more will share in this ministry of encouragement through future youth mission trips. We are also thankful to the Board of Elders for their prayers, and the support of a $1,000 love gift from the Mission Support Fund. Praise the LORD!

From the outset, I reminded the team that we were to be mission-minded. Though we are young (1 Timothy 4:12), God who “is able to do exceeding abundantly” will use us in special ways, “above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). We were to endeavour to be a blessing to the brethren. Dns Diana and I divided the various responsibilities so that every member of the team had an area to serve (Ephesians 4:7, 16). Preparation then began in earnest. To the praise of God, every participant served faithfully and with excellence.

The highlight of the trip was the combined youth retreat, attended by 86 participants, including about 40 youths from Cebu, Bohol, Bogo, San Antonio and Singapore. Five messages were preached on the theme, Forgiven to Forgive, together with two workshops on The Biblical Response to LGBTQ Issues and Managing Disappointment and Rejection. Besides the retreat, we joined the brethren for the Midweek Prayer Meeting, the Lord’s Day worship service, and also served in the Junior Worship and children’s outreach held at Sis. Ophelia’s home.

A week after the trip, Rev. Reggor sent us this encouraging message:

“Maayong Buntag (Good morning) Pr Cornelius, trust that everyone in the mission team has rested well after the 5-day ministry here in Cebu. The brethren here, especially the youths, are still talking about their experience during the retreat, particularly the lessons learned from God’s Word and fellowship. We had our prayer meeting last night and every one’s sharing their thanksgiving for the combined retreat and the mission team’s coming. Praise God!”

The following are brief reports of our daily activities, written by members of the mission team:

Wednesday, 24 June 2026 (by Titus Lim)

Upon our safe arrival at Mactan airport, Rev. Reggor and many brethren warmly welcomed us. That evening, the Cebu youths hosted us for an authentic Filipino dinner.

At the Midweek Prayer Meeting, the mission team presented a hymn, and Sis. Grace Ho testified of God’s faithfulness in preserving her and Bro. Titus Ho through a motorbike accident in December 2025, and of God’s sustaining grace upon Pr Kee How during his four-month ordeal following a brain haemorrhage and ongoing hydrocephalus.

Pr Cornelius then preached from 2 John 1:7–11 on the dangers of going back to the old ways, going  beyond the limits set by God’s holy standards, and going with worldly people. The prayer meeting ended with prayers in small groups.

Thursday, 25 June 2026 (by Ruben Skariah)

We thank God for the safe journey to Carcar Eco Resort for the start of the combined youth retreat. After enjoying lunch together, Pr Cornelius began the opening message on the theme, Forgiven to Forgive. In the afternoon, Bro. Marcus, Ruben and Nathan organised games that helped everyone get to know one another better. The joy and laughter shared during these activities created a warm and encouraging atmosphere for the rest of the retreat.

Before the evening message, we had a special singing segment entitled “Meditations in Song”, where the chairman read out some lines to prepare the congregation to understand the lyrics in their biblical context, and then the congregation responded in song. At some stanzas, members of the mission team sang solos and duets, while at other times the whole congregation joined in to lift our voices to the Lord.

Friday, 26 June 2026 (by Nathan Resuma)

After breakfast, the Lord blessed us through Pastor Reggor’s morning devotion on the uncompromising stand of Daniel from Daniel 1:8. After Pr Cornelius’ third theme message, we had an interactive youth activity for buddies to learn more about one another. This was followed by the first workshop on The Biblical Response to LGBTQ Issues.

After lunch, we boarded the buses for an outing. At Estino Milk Station, some enjoyed ice cream made from fresh milk while others tried horse riding. At Mantayupan Falls, a group of daring youths went on a wooden raft under the waterfall! Most of us were content to dip our feet in the cool waters. We returned safely to Carcar Eco Resort for dinner and the night programme. The day ended with a time of prayer in pairs for various items and for one another before being dismissed to rest in our rooms.

Saturday, 27 June 2026 (by Jeremy Cheah)

The day began with a devotion by Bro. Johnny Rey from 1 John 2:15, reminding us not to love the world. He preached in English mixed with Cebuano, so that some of the youths who struggled with English could follow along! After the concluding message of the theme, and the second workshop on Managing Disappointment and Rejection, we shared a final lunch together with lechon! We thank God for all the fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Many were grateful for the new Christian friendships forged as well as old friendships rekindled.

At night, we gathered together with our Cebu youths for a dinner at Jollibee (a must-try in the Philippines)! Thereafter, some of us tried balut – a delicacy indeed! Thank God for keeping us safe, blessing us with journey mercies, and a wonderful time with our friends from Cebu.

Sunday, 28 June 2026

On the Lord’s Day, God’s Word from 2 Kings 5:20–27 warned us that if we run greedily into riches, we run certainly into ruin! We were exhorted once again on the dangers of covetousness and the blessings of contentment. Many in the team attended to the children at Junior Worship, teaching them lessons from the life of Ruth. After a sumptuous lunch fellowship, the team taught about 40 children the lessons from the global flood and Noah’s Ark at the children’s outreach, with the help of Bro. Clate, Julius and Johnny as interpreters.

Conclusion

Looking back, we give all glory to God for His goodness throughout this mission trip. While we went with the desire to encourage the brethren in the Philippines, we returned convinced that we ourselves had received far more than we had given. The warm Christian fellowship, the joyful spirit of service, the evident work of God among the brethren, and the opportunity to labour together in the Gospel were a rich encouragement to our own hearts. As we sought to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” (Hebrews 10:24), the Lord used the fellowship of His people to strengthen us all alike. We also witnessed the truth of Paul’s words: “For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God” (1 Thessalonians 3:9).

May the Lord establish our youths in the faith, raise up more labourers for His harvest, and grant that future youth mission trips may likewise be used to strengthen His people and glorify His great name.

Sermon Text: Psalm 139:13–14
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 12th July 2026