“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” (1 Thessalonians 2:2).
The apostle Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that the Gospel first reached them through faithful servants who refused to be silenced by suffering. Before arriving in Thessalonica, Paul and Silas had been publicly beaten, unjustly imprisoned, and shamefully humiliated at Philippi (Acts 16:22–24). Humanly speaking, such cruel treatment would have been reason enough to abandon their mission. Instead, having been strengthened by the Lord, they pressed on to proclaim Christ with even greater resolve.
Paul writes, “we were bold in our God”. Their courage did not arise from natural bravery or self-confidence, but from an unwavering trust in the Lord. They knew that the God who had called them was also able to sustain them. Christian boldness is not the absence of fear but the presence of a steadfast faith that obeys Christ despite fear, hardship, or hostility.
Paul also says that they preached “the gospel of God with much contention”. Gospel ministry has always been accompanied by spiritual conflict. Satan fiercely opposes the advancement of God’s truth. Those who faithfully witness for Christ should not expect universal acceptance. Ridicule, misunderstanding, rejection, and even persecution have often been the lot of God’s people throughout history. Yet none of these can hinder the saving power of the Gospel or frustrate the sovereign purposes of God.
As our church continues to fulfil the Great Commission, every member must remember that witnessing for Christ is not the responsibility of a few but the privilege and calling of all believers. Whether in our homes, workplaces, schools, neighbourhoods, or mission fields, we are Christ’s ambassadors. The world today desperately needs the unchanging Gospel, but many remain silent because of fear of rejection. Let us not allow such fears to rob us of opportunities to point sinners to the Saviour.
Beloved, let us pray earnestly for the same holy boldness that strengthened Paul and Silas. May we never be ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. Let us lovingly, wisely, and faithfully bear witness to Him whenever He opens the door. Though opposition may come, our confidence rests not in ourselves but in our sovereign Lord, whose Word shall never return void. May He grant us courage to stand for His truth, and compassion to proclaim His saving grace until Christ comes again.
(The following report is sent by Pastor Sujith Samuel.)
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
We had the opening of our new semester this past Monday (27 July). This semester, the Lord has blessed us with six new students, five of whom are local pastors. They will be attending classes at our city campus. One is a residential student from Odisha and, God willing, he will arrive in Vizag this weekend.
Thank you for taking the time to teach Biblical Covenants and The Names of God on Mondays and Wednesdays through GBI, Singapore. Most of our students have enrolled in these subjects. In addition, several students have registered for FEBC’s online courses. This semester, I will be teaching Calvin’s Institutes and the Westminster Confession of Faith, while Pr Jonathan will be teaching Ancient Heresies and The Life of Christ. Please pray that the Lord will grant us wisdom, strength, and grace to prepare diligently and to teach His Word faithfully.
The renovation work at our city office is almost complete. We thank the Lord for providing additional space for Sunday worship services and GBI classes at our city campus. Our office rooms and bookroom have now been relocated to the middle floor of the building, making the facilities better suited for our ministry.
We are still waiting for permission from the city authorities for our permanent campus in the new airport area. Please pray that the Lord will help us to obtain the permits as soon as possible.
Thank you very much for your faithful prayers and the generous support of GBPC, Singapore, for the Lord’s work here. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in the Gospel.
