Sermon Text: Galatians 6:4–5
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 2nd January 2022
Sermon Text: Galatians 6:4–5
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 2nd January 2022
As has been announced, today five brothers (Gan Chin Hwi, Benny Skariah, Norefel Resuma, Lim Ah Sang, John Zhang) and a sister (Diana Chan), who were nominated and appointed by the Board of Elders, will be presented (via Zoom) to the congregation for their affirmation. Dn Lok Kwok Wah, who has been serving for the past 14 years as a deacon, will continue his service in this office. So, there will be a total of seven to labour in the diaconate office of Gethsemane B-P Church.
In Acts 6, which is generally considered as referring to the first group of seven men who were appointed to diaconal duties, we see them being specifically tasked with caring for the physical needs of the widows, especially concerning their need for food (Acts 6:1-2). They were Spirit-filled men with good reputations, chosen to “serve tables” (6:2). Their service was, at the same time, to help the apostles and to relieve them of “this business” (Acts 6:3).
The above biblical record serves as a model for the men appointed as deacons. Their task involves caring for the needy (or the ministry of mercy) and managing the finance (or administrative stewardship). They are also helpful to the pastors and elders in supervising the congregation by attending to their assigned matters. Generally, deacons are called to serve the physical needs of the church, both corporately and individually. They must demonstrate gifts of service, mercy, helps, administration as they care for the needy, handle funds on behalf of the congregation, take care of the church’s property and equipment, help coordinate church meetings, etc.
In the biblical records, women appointed in the diaconate cared for the needy. 1 Timothy 5:9-10 state that women who were “taken into the number” (very likely as deaconesses) were those who were “well reported of for good works;… have brought up children, … have lodged strangers, … have washed the saints’ feet, …. have relieved the afflicted, … have diligently followed every good work”. John Calvin commented, “For there was no public office which women could discharge save that of devoting themselves to the service of the poor” (Institutes, 4.3.9). Calvin did not see those women as overseeing (or leading) the mercy ministry of the church, but serving “to perform a public ministry of the church toward the poor, and to labour with all zeal, assiduity, and diligences, in offices of charity” (Institutes, 4.13.19). Calvin did believe that women could serve the poor and the needy, and did not hesitate from calling them “deaconesses”. Indeed, these deaconesses, being “aged women”, ministered to the younger women in the church (cf. Titus 2:3-5). Deaconesses are not called to oversee or rule the church, but to humbly serve among the brethren.
When the early church became better organised with the help of the appointed men to diaconate ministry, there were astonishing results. The church in Jerusalem not only prevented a split within the congregation, but also (as Acts 6:7 reports) witnessed the blessed fact that “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.”
With the appointment and affirmation of more deacons in our church, let us pray that the church ministries will be better organised, the brethren and their needs duly cared for, and thus contributing to we becoming a powerful witness as a unified and well-taught church to the lost world.
May our deacons exalt Jesus Christ through their humble, ready and faithful service in the church. May their exercise of God-given gifts resolve any shortcoming that would hinder the proclamation of the Word, and build up the congregation in truth and love for reverential worship and for fruitful work of the ministry.
(Gideon Lee’s testimony was shared with the youths on 18 December 2021, which was to be his last fellowship meeting with the GYF in 2021, before moving to the GYAF in 2022.)
As I approach a reflective time of the year and retrospectively think on the Lord’s guidance upon me in the past six years in Gethsemane B-P Church and in the Youth Fellowship, I would like to appropriately give thanks to God for all His goodness shown to me. In particular, the Lord has helped me to transition from school to work in the past year, and has shown me that He indeed provides for all my needs. I am reminded of what the Lord said to the Israelites, when He commanded His people to “remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no” (Deut 8:2).
Moses further recounted to the Israelites concerning how the LORD had “humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years. Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, so the LORD thy God chasteneth thee. Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him. … When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; and when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage” (Deut 8:3-6, 10-14).
I understand this passage to be God’s personal interaction with the Israelites. He asked them to appropriately give thanks; not to forget Him or become proud. He reminds them to remember the tough times they went through, which were times of chastening from their heavenly Father, the LORD God of Israel. Likewise, when I look back upon the past year, and the many years in the Youth Fellowship, I am compelled to have the right response to His providential leading in my life, through both the “good” and “bad” times.
Praise be to my heavenly Father who chastens and cheers me! The LORD has taught me many spiritual lessons in my time with the GYF. May I never forget His benefits in my life, but respond appropriately by diligently keeping His commandments, judgments and statutes, lest my heart be lifted up with pride. All glory be to God for His leading in my life. May I continue to follow Him and grow in the knowledge of His Word, as I entrust my future to Him.
Beloved in Christ,
The Gospel-writers, Matthew and Luke, began their stories of Jesus with His conception and birth in Nazareth and Bethlehem, whereas Mark began his narrative of Christ’s earthly ministry with the story of His baptism by John the Baptiser. The fourth Gospel-writer, John, began to tell the story of Christ with the narration of Him being in eternity before the creation of the world. Then, he went on to give a special perspective of Christ’s birth into this world as the True Light that burst forth into the dark world – “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:9). Soon he also adds, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
The Lord Jesus Christ came to make all who receive Him to be partakers of His glory, grace and truth. How glorious is this privilege that He has come to give us! What a blessing we are bestowed with through the coming of Jesus Christ as our Saviour! May every one of us grow daily unto Him, and be filled with all spiritual blessings to shine forth amid the darkening hours of this world.
Today, let us give thanks to God for the gift of our Saviour. We have much to rejoice today as we witness the receiving of brethren into the church membership (through baptism, reaffirmation of faith and transfer of membership), and the ordination of Eld Low Boon Siang. Let us be grateful for all His glorious work in our midst, and give ourselves to His service and honour.
Wishing all of you, “A Blessed Christmas & A Happy New Year!”
In His service,
Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Gabriel Curren
I was baptised as a child in New Life Presbyterian Church. My family moved around different churches often. For many years in my youth, God to me seemed to be some far-off concept out of a textbook that didn’t have a personal place in my life. In my youthful years, I plunged into a life of worldly pleasure and sin. I found myself in many adverse circumstances, mostly due to my own sins.
It was in mid-2016 when God pulled my act together and showed me how everything worked out for good, even when I had no part in contributing to it. Because of His mercies towards me, I was not consumed even though I wandered from His righteous ways. I am very thankful to God. I pray that He will help me bring glory to Christ, my Saviour and Lord, in whatever way possible and never let me drown in sin again.
My wife Roanne and I have been edified through the fellowship of the brethren and the ministry of God’s Word in Gethsemane B-P Church. I thank God for the opportunity to become members of the church to worship and serve Him with the rest of the brethren there.
Ho Ru’En Roanne
I grew up in a Christian household — my family attended a Brethren church and I regularly attended Sunday School. While I’ve always known God existed, I never truly understood what it really meant. I attended church because my parents attended church, and I believed in God because my parents said He was real.
As I got older, I started to question my faith, and after a tumultuous period in my life, I realised how prideful I had been and how far I had fallen away from God. It was then that I truly accepted Christ as my Saviour, and I got baptised in my family’s church. My husband later introduced me to the B-P practices, and we decided that the B-P church would be best for our spiritual growth.
I know that my walk with God is far from over — I hope to continue growing closer to God, and be part of the Gethsemane community, serving in the church in a manner that can bring glory to God.
Kelvin Kiew
Since my schooling days, I have always like Science and am amazed by the beauty and wonder of all living creatures and non-living things on the earth and in the universe. For the first 40 years of my life, I did not have the notion nor belief that there is a God who created and governs the whole universe.
But in 1995, I was encouraged by my wife to attend a series of sermons by a Taiwanese old pastor, organised by Glory Presbyterian Church (GPC). I was convinced by the abundant verses in the Bible on Creation by God, and the Gospel of salvation for sinful human beings who are created in the image of God, which makes us unique among all living creatures.
I came to believe that there is a great Creator and Designer of the whole universe, through the love and Gospel-sharing by an evangelism team from GPC. I accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour and was baptised in 1995. I am deeply grateful to my wife for leading me to GPC, and also to the church pastor who later led my mum to accept Christ in 1997 (before she passed away that year due to acute leukaemia). We worshipped in GPC for 5 years, then in Bartley Christian Church for more than 10 years, and subsequently in Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church for about 2 years.
It was in 2013 when our son met a Catholic girl during his overseas studies, that my wife and I started to examine the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church (RCC). We found that the RCC faith is different from the Christian faith of Protestant churches. Even among the Protestant churches of numerous denominations, there are different extent of deviations and distortions in their gospel teachings, compared to the Scriptures. Among the churches we had worshipped or visited, we find Gethsemane (where we have worshipped in since Aug 2019) to be one of the more faithful churches in Singapore.
We praise the Lord for leading us to become members of Gethsemane B-P Church!
Kelly Kiew-Ng
When I was in my teens, I often wondered what would happen after the earth passed away. My thinking was that life on earth and the earth itself could not continue to exist forever and ever. Not knowing God then, I was perplexed concerning eternity.
By God’s grace, He led a sister from Campus Navigator to share the Gospel with me and I accepted Christ as my Lord and Saviour in 1979. But for many years I did not attend any church. It was only in 1995 when my husband became a Christian, that we both started to attend a bilingual worship service in Glory Presbyterian Church, where we were baptised. After 5 years, we decided to look for a church nearer our residence in Serangoon, so that it would be more convenient for our children to attend worship service, and fellowship on their own when they grew up.
We spent a couple of years looking for a suitable church, and on my husband’s ex-colleague’s recommendation, we finally settled in Bartley Christian Church (BCC), an independent church, where we would worship and serve in the Chinese service for more than 10 years till 2016. From 2012 onwards, I began to be affected spiritually when the cell groups were asked to study and discuss Rick Warren’s 40 days of community book, as well as to partner with a non-Christian group to minister and help out in an old-folks home. I did not take part in the discussion or in the community work at the old-folks home. BCC also invited a worship team from the International House of Prayer (IHOP) in Kansas City to conduct a worship conference. Concerns were raised about the false teachings of Rick Warren and IHOP, but the church leaders did not deem they were valid.
Being a worship leader in the Chinese service (not knowing then that women are not to exercise leadership over men), I read up to learn about worship matters and realised the gravity of not worshipping God according to His way (cf. Lev 10:1-3). I began to see the man-centredness in BCC’s contemporary worship, preaching and evangelistic outreach programmes.
When I knew I could no longer remain in BCC and also desired our younger son who worshipped in the English service to listen to solid biblical preaching from the pulpit, I shared my concerns with my husband and younger son. Together we decided to leave BCC in June 2016. Thereafter, we worshipped for about 2 years in Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church, whose pastor was an American.
When our elder son met a Catholic girl during his overseas studies, my husband and I began in 2013 to look into the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church (RCC), in comparison with the Holy Scripture. It dawned upon us that the RCC is promoting false teachings and a false gospel. Seeing that the grandiose “salvation plan” of the RCC could not save anyone, the simple yet glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ became to me even more precious! Over time, we also learned of the Protestant Reformation, John Calvin’s “TULIP”, the 5 “solas”, the “Evangelicals & Catholics Together” venture, the ecumenical movement, and the end-time one-world religion.
I wanted to find a church where I could worship together with my family, and grow in the knowledge of God and His Word. We made one-time visits to Zion B-P Church and Tabernacle B-P Church, before our first visit to Gethsemane B-P Church in Aug 2019 (after listening to many sermons by Pastor Koshy and watching YouTube videos on the history of the Bible-Presbyterian movement and also the history of Gethsemane B-P Church).
I thank God for leading us to Gethsemane, for Pastor Koshy’s faithfulness and boldness in preaching God’s Word to reprove, rebuke and exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine (2 Tim 4:2), unto godly living and good works, as well as the elders’ faithfulness to Scripture and in protecting the flock of Jesus Christ from false teachers and false teachings.
In these perilous times, may the present and future church leaders remain faithful, and may the church members not be found among those mentioned in 2 Tim 4:3-4, but be like those in Acts 17:11. May God’s protection and blessings be upon all in Gethsemane.
Joshua Kiew
I was born in a Christian family and followed my parents to Glory Presbyterian Church for Sunday School, then a few years later to Bartley Christian Church (BCC) to attend worship services and cell groups (CG) meetings.
In 2008, our family travelled with my parents’ CG mates from BCC to Malaysia for a short vacation. It was during this trip that I accepted Jesus Christ as my Saviour after a brother shared the Gospel with me.
Despite the many years in BCC, I found myself not spiritually fed from the preaching and CG meetings. So I agreed to leave BCC with my parents in 2016, and we went to Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church where I was baptised, and we worshipped there for about 2 years before we came to Gethsemane.
As a Christian in my younger days, I never really understood the purpose of having to wake up early every Sunday morning to go to church. As such, I began to dislike going to church and dreaded every Sunday of the week. But glory be to God – as I grew and matured over the years with the help of my parents, siblings and church friends, I was gradually freed from that wrong thought. Being able to worship God in a church is a privilege and a blessing that every Christian should be thankful for. During my schooling, army and working days, my eyes were opened to the world that we live in – secular and carnal. It is undeniable that some things of this world are attractive enough to pull us away from Christ, and many Christians have fallen to temptations. But I have learnt in Proverbs 16:6 that “By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.” Truly, a man who lives his life in the fear of the Lord and in accordance with His Word will deny worldly lusts.
Praise God for bringing my parents and I to Gethsemane, where we may grow spiritually from the church ministry and the faithful preaching of His Word.
Siew Ruth
I reaffirmed my faith on Christmas 2016, having been baptised as an infant in Calvary Pandan B-P Church. Growing up, I was blessed to have sound, biblical teachings at fellowship groups and worship services. I also thank God for giving me grace to serve, and for granting me fellowship of Christian friends (both young and old) for my rebuke, comfort and edification.
I had foolish ideas growing up. There was a period of time during my tertiary studies that in my pride I did not see why we had to thank God, seeing that I could easily get things done myself. A gentle reminder from God’s Word, through my good friend Dana, sharply drove home the point that each day is given by the sovereign God. “And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” (Dan 4:35). This verse also served to remind me that it was fruitless standing in my then rebellious / proud ways towards God; it is better to submit to His wise and good ways.
I first visited Gethsemane in February 2021, which has been for me a blessed experience, being surrounded by brethren who understood their convictions well and encouraged me likewise. I enjoyed hearing the Word preached in a clear, loving and directly applicable manner through the sermons and also through the Bible Witness magazines.
May our church remain faithful to God and His Word in these last days, for the mutual edification and blessing of the saints.
Jeffrey Leow
I grew up in a non-Christian home. The first Christian in my family was my elder brother, who was someone I look up to as a role model. He had tutored me for my Primary School Leaving Examination; I remembered on the Monday morning of my first paper, he took time before we left home to pray with me. It was my first real communication with God, and I was glad.
Subsequently he brought me to church. I recall that during Secondary 1, I made a decision to confess before God my sinful nature, and to invite Him to come into my heart and be my personal Saviour. Over the years, I grew slowly but steadily in the knowledge of God, the Bible, and what it means to be Christian. Though church-less briefly (due to my brother’s departure to overseas and parental objection), I’ve learnt to trust God and put my faith in Him in all things I do. A memorable highlight in my Christian life was from 2004 to 2006, when my then-girlfriend Vanessa brought me to Calvary Pandan B-P Church, where I was introduced to the traditional and meaningful liturgy of worship and Bible-based preaching.
God also blessed me richly during those early adult years, through the preaching and life of the late Rev (Dr) Tow Siang Hwa. When I was studying in Melbourne, I regularly attended Ebenezer B-P Church, where the late Rev (Dr) Patrick Tan was pastor. I was convicted to take the outward step to profess my inward faith, and made a personal decision to consecrate my life to the LORD, and was baptised by Pastor Tan in 2007. I pray that I can continue to “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Vanessa Leow
Although I was brought up in a non-Christian family, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to attend Calvary BPC Kindergarten and CMC when I was young. It was through these that I was able to learn more about the Christian faith through many Bible stories.
I was in Primary 6 when I accepted God as my personal Lord and Saviour. Since then, I attended church and junior worship every Sunday with my aunties. I also thank God for my Aunties Beng Yan and Beng Hwee, who constantly encouraged me to go to church on Sunday and sometimes would offer to give me a lift. I thank God that He brought me to Gethsemane B-P Church through my aunties as well. We participated in the yearly church camps for 2 years (Penang in 2018, Batam in 2019), and then started attending every Sunday service from 2019 onwards. We received many blessings from God through the fellowship and faithful preaching of His Word in this church.
I pray I can continue to be a good testimony at home as a wife and a mother, and be a light for God. I also pray that one day my mum and dad will accept the Lord as their personal Saviour. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
Children of Jeffrey and Vanessa (Leow Yichen Sophia and Leow Yide David)
Our children Sophia and David were baptised as infants at Calvary Pandan B-P Church. As parents, we believe it’s our sacred duty to bring them up in the fear and nurture of the Lord. We have much to learn on how to be better parents and have many fine examples to learn from at this church. Having attended Gethsemane B-P church for the past 2 years, this is a place where we feel welcomed and where we can grow further with our fellow believers in Christ.
We pray that we can, by the mercies of God, present our “bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God” (Romans 12:1), and that we will “…seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).
Mehetabel Lim
I am thankful that since I was young, my parents brought me and my sister to attend church activities including worship service, prayer meeting and various fellowship groups on Sundays, Tuesdays and Saturdays respectively. Over the years, through the faithful preaching of God’s Word, I was slowly convicted of my unrighteousness and sinfulness. God’s Word tells us that no one is righteous and we are all sinners. We are headed for hell if not for the saving work of Jesus Christ on the cross. I fear going to hell because of my sins. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God”. And in Romans 6:23, it says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” I thank God for saving me through the Lord Jesus Christ.
In the past, I would wilfully disobey God and refuse to do His will. But knowing that I cannot live a hypocritical and pretentious life by going to church and disobeying Him at the same time, I am trying by the grace of God to change for the better. It is by God’s grace that I have improved in my attitude and conduct towards God, and also to those around me.
I pray that I will be an obedient Christian who submits to God’s will. I also pray that I would bear a good testimony to others around me, especially unbelievers, so that they too may come to the saving grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. All glory be to God!
Amanda Tee
I am from Penang, Malaysia. I was raised in a Christian home and attended church services at my hometown Methodist church with my family since young. My father was a Seventh-Day Adventist. Growing up, there were certain doctrinal teachings I was taught which I did not receive much clarification upon. Despite that, my brother and I have never attended a Seventh-Day Adventist church before.
The turning point of my life came when I first entered university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I was 20 years old back then, and it was a daunting experience for me to be away from home. I struggled with homesickness and studies, and desperately yearned for a community. My friend invited me to her church one day. I was instantly embraced into the church community as they were very welcoming, many of whom were campus students. It was the first time that I experienced a sense of belonging to a close-knit community in Christ. I felt accepted, and this filled the void of loneliness in me. However, I was soon in for a culture shock. This church had practices which were vastly different, such as speaking in “tongues”, singing of contemporary Christian worship songs, blinding disco lights, dancing and loud shouting of praises during worship services. I questioned their charismatic practices, but was coerced into thinking that these were acceptable God-honouring practices of worship. I was even told by my cell leader to pray to God for the “gift” to worship in “tongues”, although I clearly knew I could not do so. Over time, despite increasing doubts, I was compelled to accept their beliefs, and adopt their passion and zeal in proclaiming the gospel work.
When I was at the age of 21, the Lord revealed Himself to me through His divine Truth and I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into my life. Praise the Lord for His faithfulness, for He has redeemed me from my sin and brokenness. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). The following year, I left my country to study abroad in New Zealand for 2½ years. Thank God for His unfailing goodness as He provided me with a job in Singapore when I graduated. In 2018, I started working in Singapore at the age of 25. Since my university days, I had visited various churches, but sadly, have come across numerous watered-down sermons. Deep within me, I had many unanswered doctrinal questions, which became a hindrance for me to progress deeper in my faith. I was spiritually malnourished and yearned for a deeper understanding of God’s Truth, as Scripture states in Hebrews 5:13-14, “For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
In early 2020, I was invited by my friend to Gethsemane B-P Church. I was gripped by Pastor Koshy’s inerrant expounding of God’s Word, for as Romans 10:17 states, “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Week after week during the lockdown, I tuned in to Pastor Koshy’s sermons, and slowly grew in understanding of the Word through his faithful preaching. Furthermore, I was greatly encouraged by his exhortations to bear witness for Christ through his testimonies. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105). I thank God for His abounding grace and mercy for opening my eyes to the goodness of His Truth. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). I now understand that being a true follower of Christ requires personal sanctification, denouncing the old man in us and consecration towards godly living, as stated in Ephesians 4:23-24, “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” Indeed, “ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
Praise God for the sound doctrinal teaching of God’s Word in Gethsemane B-P Church, that I may be blessed greatly by the wonderful Truth. “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether” (Psalm 19:7-9). All glory to God.
Yap Chen Han
I was 9 years old when my parents placed me in a Buddhist association in the hope of me learning the ways of “Dharma” and a life free from desires and needs. Growing up, I was told that we can attain enlightenment through good merits, which would grant us a ticket to heaven.
When I was at the age of 18, my elder brother (then 24), came home one day and declared himself a Christian. Being very fervent, he just couldn’t stop preaching to me about Jesus and who Jesus is. Great tension began at home when he called God as his heavenly father, which angered my dad a great deal. But something about my elder brother’s outlook in life had changed. He often emphasised how sinful we are by nature, and how much we are in need of knowing our Creator (God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit). His temper had also improved noticeably, which was much to my mother’s delight.
I decided to find out more about Jesus, and in late 2012 / early 2013, I attended Lighthouse Church. However, I found myself not gaining much spiritual knowledge. I was constantly learning, yet arriving at nothing. Before that, I visited Gethsemane BP Church once (at the invitation of my friend, Bro Marcus Peh) to watch a Christmas choir presentation in 2012. It wasn’t until early 2020 that I decided to come over to worship at Gethsemane.
On my first visit in March 2020, Pastor Koshy was expounding the Book of Jude on the apostates of our time. It was a fiery message that pierced my heart, as it revealed how misguided my previous church leaders were. Apart from the afterthought that I might have witnessed a modern-day Paul preaching, the message struck me very deeply. It revealed many of the erroneous teachings that I had been exposed to previously. I began to question the validity of those spiritual gifts that many charismatics had claimed to possess. It also dawned upon me that there is no aspect of the universe that is not under God’s reign – “The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all” (Psalm 103:19). He even knows our thoughts, and our intention behind every action. He is above all.
With a heavy heart, I realise I had to cut off ties with some friends from my previous (Charismatic) church before my transfer to Gethsemane BP Church. Not because I thought they are bad people, but because they believe so deeply in their own misguided versions of the Gospel that I knew it was not possible for us to communicate any further. Though I lost some friends along the way, I’d rather be in God’s will, and I am happy to be in Gethsemane. Fighting my battles and struggles daily, I pray that God will be my source of help each day.
The present circumstances in which we live and serve are perilous to holy living that is acceptable to God. There are many powerful temptations and demonic doctrines that lurk around us. Only through much prayer can we keep ourselves holy for our Master’s use. Unless we are diligent in prayer, we will be overtaken by the adversary’s ploys to destroy us. Jesus said in Luke 21:36 – “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.”
I am reminded at this time of Paul’s apostolic exhortation to the church in Colossae, “Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). We too must take heed of this injunction to pray with earnest perseverance. Please meditate on the following exposition of this apostolic counsel, that you may give yourselves unto prayer as God’s Word requires.
The Greek word (proskarteréō) translated as “continue” has the idea of “to continue to do something with intense effort, even with the possibility of difficulties along the way, until one has brought it to the wished-for end”. Firstly, our prayers must be earnest before God. Prayer should never be perfunctory. A casual or superficial attitude in prayer is akin to being irreverent before God. An indifferent heart in prayer is tantamount to mocking God’s holy and solemn presence. Wandering hearts and sleepy prayers are not befitting the majestic presence of our gracious God. Secondly, there must be devoutness and commitment to prayer. Jesus had said that “men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). Not that we are to be always on our knees, but that the spirit of prayer should never be laid aside. We must have a prayerful spirit all the time. We must also delight in frequent prayers, whether they be short or protracted prayers. God must be frequently sought, for He alone is our help.
Scripture records many examples of men and women who frequently prayed. In this chapter, the apostle mentions his co-labourer, Epaphras, as “always labouring fervently for you in prayers” (Colossians 4:12). Such constancy in prayer has been the secret of God’s servants who are God-honouring. We must take care not to be drawn away from prayer by laziness, pleasure, business, etc.
We are also called unto watchfulness in prayer – “watch in the same”. The word rendered “watch” has the idea of “refrain from sleep”, “stay awake”, “be alert”, “be vigilant”. When physical tiredness and sleepiness prevented Peter, James and John from being awakened unto prayer, Jesus rebuked them: “What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:40-41). Even physical fatigue is not a satisfactory excuse for failing in prayer. Christians must be awake unto the pressing matters of life and ministry, so as to bring them to God in prayer.
Whenever we pray, we must not fail to be thankful towards God. We are more prone to ask or complain than to give thanks. When we pray, we must be grateful for the blessings already granted, and for the promises He has given unto us. Beware: ungrateful men are not fit to pray!
Most of us are not called to be preachers of the Word or to be leaders of the church. But all of us are called to be mighty in intercession. Like Epaphras, who threw his arms around his home church and toiled in prayer for the brethren, we too must pray. With burden, faith and thanksgiving we must pray. Let there be godly expectation of divine blessings as we pray for ourselves and our church. All of us can pray for one another – and that we must do.
I grew up in an unbelieving family. It was in 2019 when I started questioning the purpose of life (but could not find an answer to it), that I turned to Christianity to find answers to that burning question.
I was brought to a B-P church (not Gethsemane) by a close friend; however, I did not get any answers quickly. It took me another year of a difficult “journey” of learning to find out more about the Christian faith. I started attending worship services and Youth Fellowship meetings, listening to the sermons, yet taking everything with a pinch of salt. I was not ready to understand God’s Word. I found myself constantly detached emotionally from the fellowship, only being interested to learn about Scripture superficially. It was only after some time that I started to understand the Word. It convicted me to take a firm stance against my sins and the temptations that I faced.
Yet, I still had struggles accepting the truths in the Gospel, for my old self continuously tugged me towards the things of the world. It was also then that I felt an earnest urgency to pray for the strength to overcome my temptations. It was shortly after that I accepted Christ as my Saviour. I also started to consider the stance of my church then, regarding the perfect preservation of God’s Word. It was another hurdle to understand the terminologies and implications of this important doctrine. The Spirit convicted my heart. Although it meant leaving behind the fellow brethren in my former church, I was certain that I had to find a pro-VPP church to worship in. I came across Gethsemane BPC, and started participating in the Youth Fellowship. Praise God, I was pleasantly surprised by the extent of love for God’s Word here, and the warmth of the brethren here. May God’s grace enable me to grow in Christ.
Beloved in Christ,
Much thanksgiving and praise are due unto our gracious and wonderful God for enabling us to have an orderly and smooth ACM, as well as election to the Board of Elders and various administrative positions. I am particularly thankful to the Lord for Eld. Mah, who chaired the meeting efficiently, the office bearers (Eld. Ng and Dn Boon Siang) who presented the reports, the church staff who laboured conscientiously to prepare for the meeting, and the brethren appointed as scrutineers (Bro. Lijoy George, Bro. Juffrey Balicao and Bro. Tan Eng Huat).
We praise God that all the candidates for the Board of Elders (Eld. Mah Chin Kwang, Eld. Alan Choy, Eld. Francis Lee, Eld. Ng Poh Kok, Dn Low Boon Siang) have been elected with resounding support of the congregation. May each of them be endued with the divine wisdom and strength to faithfully and fervently take oversight of the church.
Dn Low Boon Siang, who is newly elected to be an elder, shall be ordained and installed later this month, if the Lord permits, as per the church constitution. The church constitution states that the Pastor(s) shall have the oversight of the ordination of Elders (15.6). So, as soon as I return to Singapore, God willing, by 18th December, we shall plan for his ordination and the installation of the elected elders for the new term of the BOE. We shall also soon hold the affirmation of the deacons nominated and appointed by the elders, according to the constitutional requirement (18.4).
Below are the church plans for 2022, which were read out during the recent ACM by Eld. Mah Chin Kwang on my behalf. I would like to briefly elaborate on them, so that you may be well-informed of our church’s important goals for next year, if the Lord permits.
In the face of widespread spiritual and moral decadence, we ought to be very vigilant lest we be apostatised by all forms of unbiblical teachings and practices that prevail today. Individual believers and the church must revitalise their commitment to guard and grow in doctrinal and practical purity.
Spiritual peril awaits church members who are not interested in their spiritual growth (i.e. not increasing in the knowledge of the Word, holiness and service) and would not fight a good fight against the world’s influences. May God revive our hearts to plead with them to love the LORD more and more, and to forsake worldliness. Brethren, “knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying” (Romans 13:11-13).
We must look for new avenues to reach others with the Gospel, especially when some of the old-style evangelistic methods are hindered by the Covid outbreak. We must prayerfully consider every biblically sound, effective means available to win and strengthen more souls for His kingdom. Like Paul, our motto should be “by all means save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Without a doubt, personal evangelism is still a highly efficient method to win souls for Christ. Hence, let us continue our efforts to spread the Gospel. The church should also continue disseminating the truth through modern media, such as our BW Web Radio and BW Web TV, social media platforms etc.
Jesus taught us “that men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). This is especially important as the days become increasingly evil. He said, “Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man” (Luke 21:36). These are days of great seduction of minds and affections. We must pray for ourselves and our children, that they may know Christ and love Him wholeheartedly. We must humbly pray to avoid self-confident, foolish thinking that material prosperity is the true blessing. The worldly pursuit that deprives us of prayerful devotion to God is pernicious. As we read in Psalm 126:5-6, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”
The church’s prayer life must be strengthened in the days to come. Adults, youths and children alike must cultivate the habit of private and corporate prayer. Our fellowship groups must take steps to encourage prayer amongst our members. More members of the church must participate in the Tuesday night prayer meeting. We all must love drawing nigh to God in prayer.
We thank God for the present mission fields in various countries. Apart from the outreach ministries and churches, we also support the GBI in three countries. The mission works in some places face severe hostility. Last week, one of our foreign preachers was arrested and confined for ministering God’s Word to the youths in his area of ministry. We must pray for our missionaries and their churches and extend our fellowship to strengthen their hearts and the work they do. New frontiers must also be won for the LORD. Let us pray for more labourers and His help to support them.
Acquiring a property for Gethsemane BPC, Cebu, to accommodate and manage all her ministries, has been a significant concern of our church. We thank God for all who have actively participated in it through your cheerful giving and prayers. Let us pray and give cheerfully for the completion of the Cebu Building Project.
We shall prayerfully seek a larger venue to worship together as one congregation, instead of multiple gatherings on Sunday morning. These days, mainly due to the ‘safe-distancing measures’, we are compelled to hold several services. It has been very strenuous for the pastoral team and the staff. Hence, we have been looking for a larger auditorium with facilities to accommodate our Sunday ministries. May the Lord help us.
We praise our most benevolent God who has led us by the hands of His servants in the leadership of Gethsemane for the past three decades.
In today’s e-ACM, God willing, we will have an election to the Board of Elders as per the amended church constitution, and it will be held via the online platform, Zoom, according to the guidelines given to us by the government for conducting ACM during this Covid season.
Please take note that I have asked Elder Mah Chin Kwang to chair the e-ACM and election to BOE to ensure that the meeting is held in a smooth and efficient manner. I fear disruptions to my Wi-Fi connection when I join the meeting from my present location in India. I thought it to be prudent that Elder Mah chairs the meeting from our studio in Gethsemane Media Centre. May the Lord bless all the efforts put in place to hold a smooth e-ACM.
Information on the candidates’ prior service is published below. This information is not exhaustive. Almost all of you know their dedicated service to the Lord in our midst, both as members and leaders for many years. We thank God for their faithfulness in their appointed areas of service in the past and for their readiness to continue in the service to which the Lord has called them. Let us continually pray for them and their families to remain faithful, humble and diligent in their lives and ministries.
Rev. Dr Prabhudas Koshy
Since 1990, Pastor Koshy has been preaching God’s Word in Gethsemane and was ordained as the Pastor of Gethsemane Bible-Presbyterian Church in 1994. Since 1999, he has been leading the Church Session as its Chairman.
His main areas of ministry have been the preaching and teaching of God’s Word during Sunday worship services, Tuesday prayer meetings, various fellowship meetings, seminars, retreats and camps of Gethsemane B-P Church.
He regularly provides pastoral counselling to the members and worshippers, and also leads the Pastoral Visitation Ministry. He also gives pastoral supervision and leadership to the Bible Witness Media Ministry (as the Editor of the Bible Witness magazine), The Gethsemane Care Ministry, and all the fellowship groups of the church. He serves presently as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gethsemane Bible Witness Limited (GBWL).
He is also actively involved in training men for the ministry through FEBC, Gethsemane Bible Institutes in the Philippines, Ethiopia and India. He also conducts lectures on Systematic Theology for GBI-online and a special course, Pastoral Biblical Studies, for those in the preaching and pastoral ministry. The pastor also corresponds with our missionaries and has been visiting our church’s mission stations, prior to the travel restrictions.
He is married to Carolyn, and they have 3 children, Cornelius, Andronicus and Dorcas, and they serve the Lord as a family in Gethsemane BPC. Cornelius, who is married to Abigail, serves in our midst as a preacher of the Word.
Elder Mah Chin Kwang
Since Gethsemane BPC’s inception in 1988, Elder Mah has been serving in the leadership of Gethsemane as an elder. He served as the chairman of the Interim Committee till 1994, and of the Session (1995-1999).
He has laboured in various leadership roles of Gethsemane: Clerk-of-Session, Leader of Gethsemane Encouragers’ Ministry, Finance Committee Member, Building Committee Member, etc.
He regularly teaches God’s Word in Catechism Class, Seniors’ Ministry, The Gethsemane Care Ministry. He also serves as worship chairman on Sundays and renders his advice and help in many areas of church administration, such as Finance Committee. He takes leadership in organising the Newcomers’ gatherings from time to time. Elder Mah has led several mission trips to places like Kuching, Pangasinan, Cebu, etc.
Elder Mah has served in the committee (together with Pastor and Elder Francis) that was convened for studying and proposing the amendments to the church constitution. He also serves in GBWL’s Board of Directors as its secretary.
He is married to Lean Choo, and they have two children, Melissa and Matthew. Melissa serves the Lord in BWMM, and Matthew serves in the committee of GCM and other areas of the church ministries. Matthew is married to Fidelia, and they have two children, Ethan and Kate.
Elder Ng Poh Kok
In 2008, Elder Ng and his family joined Gethsemane B-P Church. Prior to that, he served as a deacon in Sharon BPC (1978-2002) and as an elder (2002-2008). He also served in Sharon BPC as a Sunday School teacher and as its Superintendent.
Elder Ng was elected as an elder of our church in 2013. During the recent term of the Session, he has served as the Treasurer. He also serves on the committees of Gethsemane Adults’ Fellowship and Gethsemane Men’s Fellowship. He co-labours with Pastor in the leadership of the Pastoral Visitation Ministry.
He also serves as worship chairman on Sundays and renders his advice and help in many areas of church administration, such as the Finance Committee. He is a member of GBWL’s Board of Director.
His wife, Sis Dorothy, and their two daughters, Sarah and Sharon, are also members of Gethsemane BPC. Sarah is married to Samuel Yong, and they both actively serve the Lord in our church. Sharon, who was married to our late missionary Dominino dela Cruz Jr, now serves the Lord in our midst, together with her son Nehemiah.
Elder Alan Choy Weng Heng
Since 1995, Elder Choy has been a member of Gethsemane BPC. From 1997 to 2003, he served as a deacon. In 2003, he was elected and ordained as an elder of Gethsemane BPC.
In the Session, he has laboured in various leadership roles: Clerk-of-Session, Treasurer, etc., as well as being a member of the Finance Committee and Building Committee in recent years. He presently leads the GYF Committee with Pastor.
He attended FEBC as a part-time student and graduated with Certificate of Religious Knowledge in May 2013.
He regularly teaches in Catechism Class and ministers at the Lions Home for the Elders, etc. In the Chinese Service, he serves as a worship chairman and preaches God’s Word, when the need arises. He serves presently as the Treasurer of GBWL’s Board of Directors.
He is married to Luan Kheng; and they have three children, Eunice, Jenice and Amoz. Eunice is married to Jeffrey Setiawan, and they worship and serve in Gethsemane. As a family, the Choys serve the Lord actively in various areas of ministry in Gethsemane BPC.
Elder Francis Lee Kek Gee
Elder Francis and family joined Gethsemane as members in 2008. Before that, he was a member of Life B-P Church (since 1988), and True Life B-P Church (2003-2007). Upon joining Gethsemane, he rendered his services in various ministries of the church.
He became a deacon in Gethsemane in 2011 and diligently served in the Session to date. He has faithfully served in the Session as the Clerk-of-Session and also as the Treasurer. He is a member of the Finance Committee of the church.
He has rendered his service as the Camp Master in annual church camps, Committee Member of Gethsemane Adults’ Fellowship and Gethsemane Men’s Fellowship. Presently, he also serves in Gethsemane Defenders’ Ministry. He also served along with Elder Mah in several past mission trips to our mission fields.
He sought theological learning through FEBC and graduated with Certificate of Religious Knowledge in 2008, and Certificate of Biblical Studies in 2010.
He served as a Project Owner of the Building Renovation Committee of Gethsemane Media Centre, and now he is as a member of GBWL’s Board of Directors. In addition, Elder Francis has served in the committee (together with Pastor and Elder Mah) that was convened for studying and proposing the amendments to the church constitution.
His wife Stephanie and their four children, Sarah, Michelle, Samuel and Moses, worship and serve the Lord in Gethsemane BPC and participate in her various fellowship groups. Sarah is married to Jordy Kay who serves in GCM Committee.
Dn Low Boon Siang
Dn Boon Siang was saved and baptised in Gethsemane in the year 2001. Over the years, as he steadily grew spiritually, he served the Lord in Youth Fellowship (2002-2008); Ushers’ Ministry (2005-2009); Young Adults’ Fellowship Committee (2008-2012); Audio-visual Ministry (2009-2015); Men’s Fellowship Committee (2013-2019). He has also served in committees of Church Camp (2009 and 2012).
As a teacher of God’s Word to children, Bro. Boon Siang serves in Junior Worship (2006 to present) and in GCM (2008 to 2013). He has also served the Lord in the Fundamental Christian Ministry of NTU and NIE (2006-2008), and the B-P Combined Youth Conference Committee (2007-2008).
Upon his election as a deacon in 2015, he was appointed to be a member of the Finance Committee, and was given the leadership of Young Adults’ Fellowship. In 2017, he was appointed to lead the Ushers’ Ministry. He laboured much in organising the 5th Missionary Conference held in Kuching, Sarawak. In the Church Session (2017-2019), he served as the Treasurer. In the last Church Session (2019-2021), he served with great dedication as the Clerk-of-Session.
He is also pursuing the Certificate of Biblical Studies (CertBS) in Far Eastern Bible College through part-time studies. His wife Hui Lin and their two young sons, Christopher and Caleb, worship in Gethsemane BPC and participate in many fellowship groups and ministries.
Written by Dn Low Boon Siang
The pastor and elders of our church have been advising me concerning the need for more elders, and encouraging me to pray and consider eldership this year. My thought had been that serving as a deacon in the church, alongside the elders, for as long as possible, was the best I could do at this time. I felt I was not mentally and spiritually prepared to fulfil this high calling in the church leadership. There were a few other matters also that I thought would impede my immediate availability and suitability. I was concerned regarding my family’s plans of moving into a new house closer to the church, settling into a new work environment, and my desire to complete the Certificate of Biblical Studies (CertBS) in FEBC.
“A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps” (Proverbs 16:9). Even though I thought I would only consider the appointment of an elder in the next election in 2024, after having settled down amid the many changes in my life, the Lord has directed me otherwise. Through the counsel of Pastor Koshy and the elders from God’s Word, and reviewing my personal life circumstances in the past year, the Lord has led me to the conviction of His call for me to the office of an elder.
In my conversation with Pastor, I mentioned that I do see that there is indeed much work for our elders to shoulder, and that I would help them as a deacon for now, as I did not really experience a “desire” to be an elder (as stated in 1 Timothy 3:1). Then, Pastor explained that the “desire” (mentioned in 1 Timothy 3:1) for “the office of a bishop” is not a self-driven desire for the position, but a burden and desire to do the work which elders must do. I acknowledged that I have a burden to help our elders with the increasing work of the Lord (which was made known to me by them) that they have been bearing. Pastor also explained that to do those works, one needs to be appointed to the office of an elder. Thus, the Lord has helped me to see that the call to be an elder is not just a call to that particular position of leadership in the church, but is actually a call to do the work of service. After reflection on the matter with prayer, the Lord has increased my desire to serve Him as an elder of the church and do His work by giving my best in whatever area He would put me. Hence, I realise that I can no longer give the excuse of “not having a desire to be in the position of an elder” in order to avoid obeying God’s call.
As I reflected further, I recalled how God has convicted me to step down from the leadership position in my workplace about one and a half years ago so that I can devote more time and energy to serve Him. The Lord has also placed a desire and given peace in my heart to sell my flat in Jurong, and move nearer to the church and GMC so that I can be more effective in the service of the Lord. Could all these be a clear indication from God to serve Him in a greater capacity?
Pastor also exhorted me from the Word that when we do God’s work, we may not be fully free from personal struggles in life. God called Moses to lead His people out of Egypt while Moses was in a strange land, Midian, struggling in life away from His own people in Egypt. He had the burden of his family in Midian, faced the uncertainty about his safety if he returned to Egypt after having to flee from there in the first place, faced the possibility of being rejected by the Hebrew community, etc. Yet the LORD commanded Moses to take up the leadership of His people. I realised that my wish to be in a more settled and comfortable place in life before taking up the role of an elder was neither sound nor biblical. Such expedient thinking would not help me to fulfil God’s will concerning my service to Him. Obeying God’s call should be anytime and anywhere, and not dependent on how I feel.
Pastor and the elders also shared with me the great burden in the BOE to support the current heavy workload of administrative responsibilities in the church and GBWL, as well as to look into the spiritual needs of the many ministries in the church. Should I hold on to my own ideas and continue to ignore the real needs in the church leadership? Am I a bearer of the cross in following Christ if I put my own needs above the ministry’s needs? “And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:27), Jesus has said. I was further moved by the words of our Lord in Luke 9:62, “No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Considering all the above, I have no excuse in postponing the decision to serve Him as an elder of Gethsemane B-P Church. It became clear to me that God has called me to be an elder to serve Him wholeheartedly and faithfully. Now, I can only humbly submit myself to God’s call for me, and do His will in my life. I cast all my burdens and cares unto Him, and submit to His will – “not my will, but thine, be done” (Luke 22:42b).
Sermon Text: Galatians 5:26–6:5
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 14th November 2021
The BOE has nominated 6 brethren to be appointed as deacons, having prayed and deliberated for more than a year. They will join Dn Lok Kwok Wah, who has been serving as a deacon since 2007. They have been interviewed by the BOE before confirming their nomination. Let us remember them in our prayers as they prepare themselves to serve the Lord in our midst upon their appointment.
Benny Skariah
While I was growing up as a young boy, my parents’ love for the Lord Jesus Christ deeply affected me. They were humble and genuine in their practice of their faith. Though they were very busy in bringing up their 7 children, they found time to pray unto the Lord every morning and evening. From a very young age, I have trusted the Lord for the forgiveness of my sins and desired to live a life pleasing to God. From my childhood, my heart was taught to live a life in faith and obedience to God’s Word, the Bible. This kept me from living a rebellious life of sin. In this regard, I want to particularly thank God for the faith of my parents, their prayers for me, and a blessed Christian upbringing.
After my studies in India in 2002, the Lord graciously gave me an opportunity to come to Singapore to work, and He led me to Gethsemane B-P Church. It was a turning point, both in my life, and later in my family’s. I was delighted to meet Pastor Koshy here, who also came from the same denomination of my home church in Kerala, India.
For the last 18 over years, I have been part of Gethsemane B-P Church, for which there are so many things I am thankful to the Lord for. Through the faithful preaching and teaching of God’s Word during worship services and other meetings, our lives have been spiritually restored. Personal holiness became a chief passion of our lives. Our family life was greatly blessed as we have been taught to live under God’s rule as a covenant Christian family. The story of my life is that of God’s providential guidance and mercy. Many times, I had wondered: How could my family and I, coming from a small village in Kerala, India, end up in Gethsemane B-P Church, Singapore? There is only one answer – God’s good providence has led us all the way. God, in His great mercy and faithfulness, has led me throughout these 45 years of my journey on earth.
In Gethsemane B-P Church, I was given opportunities to serve in the Malayalam Fellowship, the Adults’ and Men’s Fellowships’ committees, the Usher Ministry, the Church Camp planning committee, etc. When Pastor Koshy asked me to serve as a deacon in GBPC, even though I feel myself not worthy, the Lord nevertheless strengthened me with His Word, “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life” (Romans 6:22). I count it as a great privilege to serve my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in your midst. It is my prayer that I will be faithful and diligent in serving Him.
God is good, and His mercy endures forever. Indeed, I testify without any shame or doubt that the Lord has remembered me in my lowly state, rescued me from the hands of my enemies – even from the greatest enemies, Satan and death – and blessed me with everlasting life through the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He has also provided for all my needs, both physical and spiritual. Because of God’s grace, I experience every day in my life the real joy of eternal life. Therefore, I gladly utter what the psalmist says, “O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 136:26).
All glory be to God through Christ, my Saviour!
Norefel Resuma
“Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory” (Psalm 73:24).
Redeemed by the precious blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by God’s providential arrangement, I have been brought to a faithful and thriving church, where the Word of God is preached faithfully. Surely, there is no better response other than praising the Lord and serving Him wholeheartedly, according to the biblical counsels. And this has been my burden since I joined Gethsemane B-P Church in 2009. In God’s perfect timing and providence, the Lord granted me the privilege to serve Him full-time. Thank God for the opportunity to serve Him unreservedly, with the undergirding conviction: “…be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
When Pastor Koshy spoke to me about being appointed as a deacon, my immediate answer was: “It is too high a calling because I know my inadequacies, and perhaps not necessary as I thought I can continue serving the Lord even without becoming a deacon.” But Pastor advised me that the office of a deacon would enable me to act as a delegate of the BOE in carrying out the duties assigned to me (cf. Acts 6:1-7). So, I was urged to pray about the matter, that I may discern God’s will. And in one of the Tuesday night prayer meetings, when Pastor preached (on Numbers 27) about God instructing Moses to take Joshua as his successor, he mentioned that if God’s appointed servants in the church, after much prayer and consideration, come to you, it’s not for your negotiation but for you to yield. I just felt the Lord speaking to me. That night, the Lord convicted me to obey Him through His appointed servants (namely Pastor and the elders), who had prayed and sought the Lord in the matter of church leadership. Yes, I may still be fearful, but I surrender all and humbly trust the Lord that His grace will see me through. I just prayed, “Lord, here I am, use me for Thy glory.”
I truly believe that God’s providence moulded and prepared me for a greater work ahead, and my earnest plea is for the Lord to equip and use me effectively for His glory. Brethren, I sincerely request for your prayers, that my family and I be sanctified and exemplary as we serve the Lord. “If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21).
To God be the glory.
Gan Chin Hwi
I was fearful, when the Lord first called me to serve the Almighty, for I regarded myself as being not adequately equipped with the Word of God, nor ready to humble myself to do the service of the Lord and serve others. Notwithstanding, the Lord has been very patient and merciful with me, for He called me again to serve Him through Pastor Koshy.
The Lord caused me to quit my previous job, which had become my “comfort zone”, having been working there for the past 20+ years. The Lord had indeed blessed me much while I was there, but this had also caused me to be complacent. My new job pursuit, however, is not entirely plain sailing. On many occasions, I have to pray more fervently, with increased humility and patience, trusting and waiting for the Lord’s provisions each day. Though I am weary, I never will despair, for I know my Lord is leading me through this journey to teach me to trust Him more, and to cast my burden unto Him. When I remembered the Lord’s goodness and provisions in the past, I was very much comforted and encouraged that the Lord is still with me today. Thus, I must continue to trust and obey Him.
As I looked back, whilst I “shied away” from Him, the Lord did not forsake me. Instead, the Lord has been graciously preparing me and directing my paths for His use, in spite of myself. Through my changing of job, I learned to trust and lean unto the Lord with all my heart, exercise greater humility and patience, and work with increased submission and reliance on my Lord. These, I realise, are what I needed to be firmly grounded for my service unto the risen Saviour. During this time, the Lord had also freed up more of my time from my work. I am now blessed with more time pursuing the Word of God, and thus walking closer with the Lord. I am able to spend more time with my family and, as an added “bonus”, even improve my health through exercising. The Lord has indeed prepared me for this calling to deaconship.
My Lord, through His longsuffering and mercies, has yet again called me to serve Him – how can I continue to resist? I greatly rejoice, and humbly submit myself, as the clay in the potter’s hand, and let the Lord mould me to fit me for the Master’s use.
I am yet to know exactly what is ahead of me serving as a deacon. Notwithstanding, I am no longer fearful, for I know that “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him” (Psalm 28:7). Amen!
Diana Chan
Since July 2020, Pastor Koshy had been preaching on the life of Moses in the Tuesday night prayer meetings. In one of the messages, Pastor shared, “So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD” (Deuteronomy 34:5). I was challenged by the question of whether I would like to die as a “servant of the Lord” or to die as a servant of a mere human institution. Deep in my heart, I want to serve as a servant of the Lord till the end of my life.
A few days later, Pastor sent me a message to meet with him and Sis Carolyn for a chat. Pastor spoke with me that he, together with our elders (Eld Mah, Eld Choy, Eld Ng and Eld Francis), would like to appoint me to be a deaconess. One of the areas of service is to encourage and pray with our sisters in the church. Pastor added that one of the criteria for the appointment is that I am above threescore (i.e. sixty) years old (cf. 1 Timothy 5:9). He asked if I would consider accepting the appointment, to which I requested to be given some time to seek the Lord in prayer on the matter.
In my personal time with the Lord, I prayed to God for His grace and wisdom in helping me to understand the calling. Most of all, whether I am deserving of the appointment because of my weaknesses. I communed with the Lord on the following:
I have tasted and seen the goodness of God in my life. I am convicted of God’s calling, by the grace of God, to yield myself to serve “our Father which art in heaven”. Please pray for me, that I will be “a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21b).
All glory and honour be to our Almighty God.