Sermon Text: Philippians 1:23
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 6th April 2025
Sermon Text: Philippians 1:23
Speaker: Pastor Prabhudas Koshy
Date: 6th April 2025
The Topic of Study for 26th BW Retreat
“Heaven” is the topic for the forthcoming 26th Bible Witness Retreat (19-21 March 2025). It is a subject of great importance to all genuine Christians, as it is the eternal home of all who trust Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord.
Our earthly life will not last long; the end is very near for some of us. This brief earthly life is a time of preparation for the glorious heavenly home that Jesus is preparing for us. Jesus promised, “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:2-3).
Saints, like the apostle Paul, should be ever ready to depart from this life for the heavenly home. Paul said, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand” (2 Timothy 4:6). How about you? Are you ready to leave this world for the heavenly home?
When planning a journey, we often attempt to learn as much as we can about our destination from reliable sources. Similarly, regarding heaven—our ultimate destination—God has graciously revealed vital truths in His Word which we are called to explore and cherish, in preparation for the time of our departure from this life for the heavenly home.
Join us for the upcoming Bible Witness Retreat, where we will delve into the Scriptures to discover what God has revealed about heaven. Together, we’ll deepen our understanding of our eternal home, and prepare our hearts for what lies ahead. Don’t miss this enriching study on heaven! Sign up at once. Come and be blessed as we study God’s Word together.
“Choosing the Right Company”
By Jordy Kay
“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night” (Psalm 1:1-2).
Who should my friends be? National Service was a time when this question kept coming up. There were times when I was surrounded by many people, yet I felt that I was alone. Alone by choice because I could not join in with others as they were not doing what was pleasing in the sight of God; and sometimes alone because I was excluded by others as I did not fit into their thinking and mindset. As time passed by, I realised that being alone was not as bad as it sounds; in fact, often I felt that it was rather enjoyable. It was enjoyable because it gave me a quiet time to think and ponder about spiritual things, and even read Christian books. This “alone-ness” (which is not quite the same as loneliness) was actually a result of a deliberate decision to be separate from the worldly company that I was in the midst of.
Psalm 1 was a psalm that I held close to my heart during the 2 years I was in NS. In each stage of my NS journey – from basic military training (BMT) to cadet school, and to being in an operational unit – I had to evaluate again and again who I should be close to. There were people who were constantly using foul language and abusing the name of God, there were also people constantly cracking unwholesome jokes, as well as people always looking out for the latest and most exciting places to indulge in sensual pleasures over the weekends. So how was I to decide who to be close with? Psalm 1 instructs that we should separate ourselves from the ungodly, the sinners, and the scornful. It may seem unpopular to reject invitations to parties at nightclubs, or even refuse to engage in certain less than honest practices, but that is the way of the Christian. I also learnt along the way that the earlier you start making deliberate decisions to practise biblical separation, the more God will give you the holy confidence and conviction to continue to do it.
Soon, the alone-ness became not so strange. And I also soon realised that God is gracious, and would place certain like-minded brethren in your life to encourage you in this “fight of faith”. Like the saying goes, “Birds of the same feather flock together.” That’s also perhaps why the ungodly in the world tend to be in large groups. But fear not - God knows when and how to send encouragement to you. In each stage of my NS journey when I was a young Christian, God sent different groups of Christian brothers to encourage me. In the first 3 months of BMT, there was a school friend who started to collect mobile phone numbers from Christians and sent out weekly text messages to encourage us through the BMT journey. Back in the day when we were only allowed “brick-phones” (mobile phones with no cameras, which also happened to be older with less functionality), such text messages were like an oasis in a desert!
During cadet school and after being sent to an operational unit, I found a group of Christian brothers who banded together to stand in solidarity not to partake in ungodly practices in the unit. I share the following as a wonderful testimony: It was common in the army to have initiation ceremonies, where one was required to drink alcohol to prove their mettle to be part of a certain group - in this case, it was to join the “mess” which is a place that you can relax after hours, and have some snacks and drinks. In my unit, we had to drink 3 cans of beer as a show of our alleged toughness. If you did not drink alcohol, the ‘exchange rate’ was 9 cans of coke. There were 5 or 6 of us who were resolute not to drink alcohol, and instead opted to drink the 9 cans of coke at a go. Needless to say, we all puked up the coke as it was just too gassy. But the unease of foaming from our noses and mouths did not deter us from our commitment not to drink alcohol.
I can only thank God for such company given to me. While I was prepared to endure the test myself, God had graciously sent other Christian brethren to go through this ordeal together - drawing strength from one another, and silently cheering each other on as we witness each other suffer the price for not yielding to the ungodly tradition of alcoholism. As I end my testimony, I would urge all to beware of bad company and to purpose in your hearts to practise biblical separation right from the start. I conclude with this verse from 1 Sam 2:30, where God says “… for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.”
“Managing Expectations”
By Titus Ho
Managing Expectations for Pre-Enlistment
Prior to my enlistment into the SAF, I heard many terrifying stories from friends and seniors concerning the unit I was being posted to. I was privileged to have strong spiritual support from both my parents and church, which strengthened my desire to stay close to the Lord. I remember thinking that even if those stories of injuries and physical suffering were to happen to me, I believed everything would unfold according to His sovereign will.
Thank God for Pastor’s constant reminders of Biblical values and principles to uphold as a Christian, which were relevant against the unavoidable bad company and worldly influences. Additionally, some older youths had advised me on setting the right expectations as a Christian soldier, and encouraged me to use my remaining free pre-NS days to spend more time with the Lord.
Managing Expectations During Enlistment
During the BMT phase, the experience was bearable if one was attentive and obedient to instructions. However, the stress intensified when I was selected for a pre-command course lasting 65 days. Each day was a test of my physical stamina and mental endurance during the instructors’ gruelling sessions, which inevitably caused a feeling of uncertainty to loom over me. This phase was filled with jungle missions, sleep deprivation, and constant exposure to vulgarities from trainers and course mates.
During that trying period, Psalm 23 encouraged me to stay strong as a Christian, knowing the Lord is near. While bouts of anger and frustration clouded my course mates, I frequently recalled the comforting ‘Scripture-in-Song’s sung during my youth in church. These equipped me to set clear expectations amidst such tumultuous period.
By God’s grace, I subsequently entered command school, which brought a new challenge: resisting social influences. Coming from an elite vocation, both instructors and buddies showed greater respect towards me though I was still a cadet, but they often invited me to drinking parties or weekend gatherings. Knowing that such activities would tarnish my Christian testimony and service in the church, I decisively declined. When questioned, I explained that I had to go to church, which elicited some light-hearted teasing but nothing seriously disrespectful. This eventually turned into an opportunity to share the Gospel with them and even invite them to church meetings. Indeed, Romans 8:28 resonated with my trusting in the LORD, for He makes all things work together for good!
Upon completing command school, I was assigned a special role in my operational unit, giving me the freedom to make critical decisions alongside regulars. Everything seemed smooth until my commanding officer (CO) requested a decision that indirectly involved “cheating the system”. This shocked and discouraged me, as I had looked up to him as a role model. During this conflicted period of choosing between obeying my superiors or upholding my Christian values, the Lord reminded me of His sovereignty through Deuteronomy 31:6. In the end, the Lord granted me wisdom to suggest an alternative. Apart from a mild scolding for not following instructions, my CO eventually adopted the suggested alternative, leading to another successful mission.
Managing Expectations in Service to the Lord
By God’s grace, whenever I had the opportunity to book out for the weekend, I made it a point to attend GYF meetings and Sunday services. It was exhausting, but these moments in church reassured me through the hearing of God’s Word. The Christian fellowship among youths and adults strengthened me to persevere.
During this period, my parents frequently reminded me of brethren praying for me. I am deeply thankful for their thoughtfulness and love. The Lord also allowed me to serve in church, such as taking up the pianist role in church and serving in the GYC. Though juggling limited book-out time and added responsibilities was challenging, I thank God for the strength He bestowed upon me. This was an important learning opportunity which showed that service to the Lord is never easy, but it is a test of faith to remain consistent in Him. Truly, as 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “…My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Conclusion
Preparing for enlistment into the army is a multifaceted process that requires not just physical and mental preparation, but most importantly, spiritual preparation. Unfortunately, this was often neglected by many of my Christian army friends, and I have seen this take a toll on them during times of distress. It is most important to have your trust built in the Lord, and to maintain spiritual discipline rooted in Biblical teachings learned over the years.
“Managing Money and Time”
By Cornelius Koshy
My National Service was spent in the Singapore Police Force (SPF). I never thought I would serve my NS in the SPF. In fact, when I opened my enlistment letter, and saw that I was enlisted into the SPF, I teared up because I felt I was unworthy of the SAF, and was ‘relegated’ to the SPF. My mind was conditioned, by stories of others, to think that NS = SAF. I always thought I would end up in Pulau Tekong for BMT. I never thought I would end up in Home Team Academy in Choa Chu Kang for Basic Police Training. Later, I realised it was my non-local heritage which did not grant me the “security clearance” needed to serve in the SAF.
Despite the initial resentment and uncertainty, I thank God for helping me to face the unknown with much courage and trust in God. My immediate squad of police trainees was a mix of very educated boys, as well as some from gangs, who were hardcore clubbers and smokers. In such an environment, there were many instances where I had to be honest, against the cover-ups and hidden things which my squad mates did. I had to walk away from filthy conversations, and take a stand for the God of the Bible in the midst of a predominantly Muslim cohort. God prospered my training, and I was promoted quickly and granted many privileges. The privileges came with increased pay, and the power to manage my own time and other officers under me. Soon, I found myself in a position of some authority, together with Commanding Officers of the Bedok Police Division – the division of the SPF which oversees crime in eastern Singapore.
Managing Money
For the first time, I had quite a lot of money in my bank account. Furthermore, this was my own money. It was not allowance from my parents. For the first time, it felt like I could buy whatever I wanted and eat wherever I wanted. This was a spiritual test which I was not prepared for. I bought things out of greed, to satisfy the lust of my eyes and flesh. While I saved most of it, looking back, I wish I was more prudent. Paul warns, “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1 Tim 6:9-10).
I think this is why many youths fall into temptations and traps (which Scripture calls “a snare”), and find themselves guilty of foolish and hurtful lusts. Many NS men have “drowned” in their sea of wealth, which led to their own destruction and perdition. While NS men are not as rich as millionaires, one can certainly save a lot of money during the two years. It is a huge temptation to engage in things without accountability. You can travel from location to location quickly, instead of waiting for the bus or your parents to fetch you. You can go to places without others knowing and in quick time. You can take part in activities which cost a lot, go overseas without “burning a hole” in your bank account, but these are all temptations to lust and sin.
With the monthly stipend received, I learnt to give tithes and offerings. I learnt to give cheerfully to funds and those in need. I learnt to save and not to splurge. I hear from youths today that many learn to invest while in NS, but their motivation for investing is the love for more and more money! Christian youths must be more willing to give than to invest. It was in NS that I learnt to be content with what I have, and that just because I have the ability to spend, it does not mean that I should spend.
Managing Time
There will be lots of spare time, especially at night, when obligations and duties are completed. Most will indulge in Netflix (again, a luxury which comes with the newly found ability to pay for monthly subscriptions) and fill their minds with very worldly, ungodly movies. Few will spend time wisely. As a Christian youth, I would advise that you spend your nights in camp to do your devotion (if you could not do it in the morning) and listen to online classes, whether of GBI or FEBC. During my NS stint, I served a mix of shift work (similar to Bro. Benjamin Cho), and office-hour vocations. I thank God for working in my heart to spend my time during free nights to take FEBC classes for credit, and to read good Christian literature. We must redeem the time, for the days are evil (Eph 5:16)! Many say that they need to rest in the weekend, having just booked out of camp. But the best place to rest is in God’s house with God’s people. After all, what will you be doing as “rest” at home? You cannot be sleeping the whole time! In church, you are resting (and seated!) in God’s presence and nourished with God’s Word!
In conclusion, I urge all youths enlisting and in NS, to be exemplary and biblical in your spending of time and money. The world says, “time is money, and money is time.” God says, “Your money and time are mine.” God owns them all, and we must be good stewards of the money and time which God gives us. All things are of God, so let us show our gratitude to God by using all that God has given us wisely.
Amidst immense suffering, Job revealed a profound faith that transcends earthly tribulations when he said, “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: and though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me” (Job 19:25-27).
Job’s prolonged physical and emotional suffering was compounded by the harsh remarks of his friends. Their unkind and crude remarks did not help to alleviate Job’s distress. Earlier in this chapter, in verses 14 to 21, Job vividly described his dismal circumstances: “My kinsfolk have failed, and my familiar friends have forgotten me. They that dwell in mine house, and my maids, count me for a stranger: I am an alien in their sight. I called my servant, and he gave me no answer; I intreated him with my mouth. My breath is strange to my wife, though I intreated for the children’s sake of mine own body. Yea, young children despised me; I arose, and they spake against me. All my inward friends abhorred me: and they whom I loved are turned against me. My bone cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth. Have pity upon me, have pity upon me, O ye my friends; for the hand of God hath touched me.”
Amidst such overwhelming misery, which he recognised as permitted by God, Job’s spirit remained remarkably steadfast. Despite his profound anguish, Job’s confidence in God did not waver. He proclaimed with unwavering assurance, “For I know that my redeemer liveth”. Though he had no expectation of any human support, having been abandoned by even his closest kin and friends, Job was unwavering in his belief in a divine Redeemer who lives eternally. Earlier, he said, “Also now, behold, my witness is in heaven, and my record is on high” (Job 16:19). In the depths of his suffering, Job made a remarkable plea. Job placed his trust in God as his Redeemer, the One who would ultimately redeem him from his sins and vindicate him against the false accusations of his peers.
He expressed his deepest hope that God, in His perfect righteousness, would ultimately stand as a witness to Job’s innocence. This is a fascinating twist because God had seemingly allowed hardship to befall Job, making it appear as if He contradicted Job’s claims. Yet, Job held onto the belief that God’s true nature, His inherent holiness and justice, would one day reveal the truth about Job’s situation. It’s a testament to Job’s unwavering faith that he trusted God to vindicate him, even when God’s actions seemed to suggest otherwise. This unwavering faith of Job serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us all to cling to our confidence and hope in the LORD, even in the darkest of times. His resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to the strength of faith in the LORD.
His anticipation extended beyond his present suffering to a future day of deliverance and vindication, a day he referred to with great confidence as “the latter day”. This is the ultimate day towards which all other days converge, the day in which all temporal days culminate. On that day, Job believed his Redeemer would stand to deliver him from death, ransoming him from the grave’s power.
Job’s hope was not limited to mere resurrection, but extended to a glorious resurrection. He expressed this hope vividly: “in my flesh shall I see God”. This reference to “flesh” signifies the new, glorified, incorruptible, spiritual body that the apostle Paul later described in 1 Corinthians 15. Job envisioned not just a return to life, but a transformed existence, where he would behold God with his own eyes in a body impervious to decay and corruption. This anticipation of a future resurrection, free from the limitations of our earthly bodies, can bring us comfort and hope in the midst of our trials, knowing that a glorious future awaits us in the presence of our Redeemer.
This profound hope resonates with all believers who endure trials of faith on this earth, and face the reality of death and the grave’s corruption. The blessed hope of resurrection and life before our Redeemer God is a promise that extends to all who trust in Him. As the apostle Paul writes in 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17, “Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.”
In the same spirit as Job, believers today can find solace and strength in their Redeemer’s assurance of eternal life and the promise of a future resurrection. This ultimate hope is not merely a distant dream, but a profound reality grounded in the living, redeeming power of God. As we navigate our earthly trials, this hope sustains us, reminding us that our present sufferings are but a prelude to the eternal glory that awaits us in the presence of our Redeemer. Let us, therefore, hold fast to this hope, allowing it to comfort our hearts and establish us in every good word and work, as we await that glorious day when we shall see God face to face.
God’s Word tells us that we are called “to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4). We are saved to obtain an “inheritance”. The word “inheritance”, in its Greek origin (kleronomia), refers to “a sanctioned possession”, much like when a father’s possession is assigned to the son. When we become God’s children, we receive an inheritance from the Father. “And if children,” says Paul, “then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17a).
The New Testament clearly speaks of things that we will inherit as believers. Some of the things we will inherit as a result of our salvation are mentioned in the following verses:
Peter uses three adjectives to describe the inheritance of a believer, namely “incorruptible”, “undefiled”, and “that fadeth not away”. No earthly inheritance is worthy of those three adjectives. These adjectives can match only a spiritual or heavenly inheritance. These adjectives are at times used to refer to rewards awaiting the believers. For example, the adjective “incorruptible” (aphtharton) is used for crowns of reward in 1 Corinthians 9:25. Likewise, “that fadeth not away” (amarantinon) is also used of the crowns designated for the ‘under-shepherds’ (1 Peter 5:4). This must be the reason why the writer of Hebrews calls the believers’ inheritance, the “eternal inheritance” (9:15).
In general, “incorruptible” (aphtharton) refers to freedom from death and decay, “undefiled” (amianton) to freedom from uncleanness or moral impurity, and “that fadeth not away” (amaranton) to freedom from the natural ravages of time (like in the fading of flowers). The believers’ inheritance is safe from all damage, defilement and decay, because it is “reserved in heaven for you”. The verb “reserved” (teteremenen) points to God’s act of preserving the inheritance for the believers in heaven. The word has the idea of keeping something unharmed. God preserves His people’s inheritance for their everlasting enjoyment.
“Believers inherit a greater inheritance than all that are on earth.” The inheritance that we have in Christ is not kept on earth. If it is an earthly inheritance, then its purity and glory would easily perish. The purity of our inheritance reserved in heaven will not be sullied. Its brightness will not be dimmed.
Therefore, let us rejoice, even in poverty, because of all our imperishable inheritances reserved for us in heaven.
Report from Seah Tze Hin
We thank God for a blessed 24th Bible Witness Retreat held at Vizag and Shillong (2-9 March 2024), to hear God’s Word and to visit several churches in India. The theme of the retreat is “Unblameable in Holiness”. We landed in Vizag in the night, and passed through immigration and customs without much scrutiny. A few local brothers gladly received us and saw us safely to the hotel for a quick dinner and a night of rest.
The next day was the Lord’s Day, and we were introduced to the church staff and GBI students by Rev. Sujith. We joined the local congregation in worship and were reminded of the “meaning, mode and subjects” of baptism. The message was translated into Telugu by Pastor Bhagavath. Pastor Koshy baptised a few youths and infants born to believing parents. We thank God for a Telugu song presentation by local youths, as well as a rendering of the hymn – “More Holiness Give Me” – by an octet from the Singapore mission team. We then had a blessed time of fellowship with the local brethren over lunch. After dinner that evening, we had our first theme message. It set the stage for the rest of the messages and highlighted the gravity of “holiness”. Holiness is God’s nature, but we are defiled and corrupt. Yet we are called to be holy as God is holy.
The next day, we continued studying about God’s holiness. God Himself is the standard of holiness and the Judge. We spent some time meditating on the description of God’s Word in Psalm 19, seeing that it is holy and only by it are we taught to be holy. We also glimpsed at the holiness of worship in heaven, and pondered over salvation’s relation to God’s holiness (cf. Eph 2:8-10). We then took the opportunity to visit BPC Vizag and the bookroom below it. Rev. Sujith told us about a brief history of the work started in 2018, and the growth over the years. How blessed is every Gospel seed sown abroad that many more may come to know of Christ! The rest of the afternoon was spent in admiring God’s creation – on Kailasagiri Hill and at Tenneti Beach. We witnessed the crashing waves and saw a stranded ship, and were reminded of God’s mighty power over men and His creation. Later that day, Pastor further expounded on salvation. We were reminded that “salvation is an inheritance of God”, and “a true Christian hungers for only one thing - the eternal and divine righteousness.” Justification and sanctification are inseparable. Justification is a positional sanctification, an imputation of God’s righteousness, with Christ as the Priest, and thus a merit of Christ’s work. Sanctification itself is a progressive process, an impartation of God’s holiness, with Christ as the King, and signifies the efficacy of Christ’s work.
We continued our retreat study the following morning, where the messages took a chastising turn. We learnt of the necessity of sanctification (cf. Heb 11:6, 24). Just as God is “glorious in holiness” and “fearful in praises”, the Church as Christ’s Bride must be also. Christ hates every church that is not walking in holiness. Christ’s letter to the Laodicean Christians (Rev 3:16-17) and Christ’s criticism of the Pharisees (Matt 23:25-28) are very relevant to us and reflective of us. Miserable, blinded, naked, full of hypocrisy and iniquity. The only way ahead is to be cleansed; personal sanctification is as important as justification. Sanctification is our chief business, and holiness is our main pursuit. “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness” (Psalm 143:10).
Later that afternoon, we visited the campus at Kotapadu, in the countryside. It was a large campus, with a classroom, a library, dormitories and a kitchen. Thank God for the sufficient size to host students from all over the country, and a conducive environment to learn God’s Word in the building. Thank God for the teachers and supporting staff, ensuring a smooth operation of the campus. We pray that GBI will continue to have such an environment to educate students according to God’s will, even as the lease agreement expires next year.
On Wednesday (6 March), we left Vizag early for Shillong. First, we took a flight to New Delhi, the capital of India, and then another flight to Guwahati. Pastor Jied and a few local brethren welcomed us at the airport. A 3-hour-long bus ride brought us to Shillong. We were all exhausted and thanked God for a sufficient rest that night.
Local brethren in Shillong joined in for the retreat theme messages on the next day (Thursday), where Pastor Koshy revisited the topics he had covered in Vizag. We continued learning the importance of purity and cleanliness in a believer’s life. The reality of sin bothers a true Christian (cf. Isa 6:5). Although we have learnt about doctrines of salvation, personal holiness is much more important. The new life that God has given is for constant purification. “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned” (1 Timothy 1:5; cf. Romans 13:9). The next message elaborated on Ephesians 4:17-22. We looked at the curses of sin, which creep in when we are not careful. We were reminded to learn of Christ and follow Him, and not the world; to put off the old man, and be renewed daily in the spirit of our minds.
We visited Laitlum Canyon after lunch, and once again were captivated by the beauty of God’s creation. We felt small in that vast landscape and amid the tall mountains. The retreat messages concluded with Pastor touching on the Word’s cleansing and the Word’s promises. We are not to grow in mere knowledge but to be purified by His Word, thereby also to know His will for us. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him” (James 1:5). We also looked at cleansing through chastisement (Heb 12:8-11). God will never afflict unnecessarily, but only so that He would sanctify us of sins and His will would be fulfilled. God also afflicts to prevent one from sin, as Paul highlighted his own experience in his second letter to the Corinthians. Saints fight sins every day to follow the Saviour.
On Friday (8 March), we travelled along mountainous roads for 2 hours to reach Cherrapunji. Pastor Jied warmly received us with great joy, showing us the way to the new church building, which houses Christ-Centered Reformed Church and Soli Deo Gloria Reformed Bible Academy. For the official opening of the building, Pastor was asked to pray and cut the ribbon together with Elder Mah. After being served some local snacks (made by the brethren) and Masala ginger tea, we were then ushered into the main hall, and the service began. Several important figures gave their speeches. They included Sir Titos Chyne (the local Member of the District Council), Sir W. Diengdoh (the principal of Sohra Academy Higher Secondary School), Mr B. Diengdoh (from the Village Council), and Elder Mah (on behalf of Gethsemane BPC). Members of the Singapore mission team choir presented song items, praising God for His work in spreading the Gospel all over the world.
Pastor then preached the thanksgiving message, taken from 1 Corinthians 3:7-9. He emphasised 3 points:
Pastor ended the message with an encouragement to everyone, especially the ministers of God’s Word. God is with us always, even in the most needy of circumstances. Our duty is to give this one life we have to Christ and the Gospel, knowing that there is not much time left. Pastor Jied then gave his testimony about the LORD’s grace and mercy to him. Tears rolled down his cheeks, as he recalled painful and joyous moments. Tears were shared by many who were present as well. We heard of God’s providence in every step of his life, through local brethren and his family and the leaders of Gethsemane BPC. Indeed, the LORD is very good to those who trust in Him.
We then visited several locations around Cherrapunji. Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church is the first church in the region, started by Rev. and Mrs Thomas Jones. (It was Rev. Jones who recorded the Khasi language in Roman script. John Roberts subsequently continued the work and completed the translation of the Bible into the Khasi language. Since then, the church grew and 75% of the state, Meghalaya, are said to be Christian. However, many churches, including Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, have become liberal over the years and introduced unsound doctrines.) Our next stop was the Mawsmai Limestone Cave, where we were captivated by the rock formations. We ended with a farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Knowing we’d almost come to the end of our trip gave us mixed feelings. While we thank God for the church building, yet we were sad that we had to leave, especially after just getting to know the local brethren. Come early next morning, we were driven to the airport. We parted ways with the local brethren, and flew back to Singapore safely.
“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 136:1). All glory to God for the 24th Bible Witness Retreat. We thank God for all the efforts by His servants who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this retreat a fruitful, smooth and memorable one.
God works all things after the counsel of His sovereign will. He governs all events in the universe, including the evil devices of the wicked (cf. Proverbs 16:4) – except that He has no part in instigating or initiating sin. But He allows Satan and sinners to work against His people and Him. He takes their defiance as a challenge, only to thrash His enemies at the end. In fact, He can even bring up “the wrath of man” to praise Him, yet “the remainder of wrath shalt (he) restrain” (Psalm 76:10).
But in that great battle that the devil is waging against God, God’s children are often caught up in it, whether we like it or not. There is no sitting on the fence. Being on the Lord’s side, we have to face the challenge that is raised against God, embracing it with joy. We must be happy “fighters”, not in the sense of being belligerent and aggressive (looking for a fight), but in the sense of fighting “the good fight of faith” (1 Timothy 6:12) and enduring “hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3).
In this respect, the Holy Spirit’s comment of Job’s reaction to his sufferings is instructive: “Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy” (James 5:11). Job was described by James as one who happily endured.
The word (makarizo) for “happy” is the same Greek root word which gives rise to the adjective that is translated as “blessed” in the Beatitudes, like “Blessed are the poor in spirit”, “Blessed are they that mourn”, and so on (Matthew 5:3-11). Truly, we (biblically instructed) believers think of those who endure their sufferings as blessed people. We believe Job was a blessed man because he endured his suffering, for the resultant trying of his faith worketh patience (cf. James 1:3). James is bringing to the readers’ attention, the blessedness of Job’s patience, which is an honourable thing. In God’s sovereign scheme of things, patience and endurance are blessed traits which God wants His children to possess.
Having established his heart in the Lord, though Job did question God’s will, he kept faith with the Lord and endured to the end. In the whole process, God was glorified and Job purified. Hence James highlighted “the end of the Lord”. Now, the Greek word (telos) for “end” here has the idea of end-result or objective. It is not referring to some sort of termination, for being the eternal Lord, God has no beginning or end. Rather, “the end of the Lord” is referring to the ultimate completion and fulfilment of God’s intent and purpose. So dear Christians, whatever trial you may be presently undergoing is never purposeless. And it is comforting to infer that it is not endless either! You may be having a difficult family life, or great financial problems, or debilitating health troubles, or a host of distressing issues, but please remember, that is what God has purposed. God will work out His purposes in His time and for His glory. In the meantime, “we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience” (Romans 5:3), which is certainly one of God’s purposes for our Christian lives.
Indeed, the Lord has purpose in our lives. Our sovereign God is not a capricious God who does things according to His whim and fancy. He has a plan. He works out everything according to His plan; nothing happens by chance. He has decreed all things, including our lives and our works. In fact, “we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
It should not surprise us that as God’s children living in a hostile world, part of the “package” of our “good works in Christ Jesus” inevitably includes sufferings for Christ’s sake. Unbeknown to Job, his sufferings would constitute a very important spiritual work that God committed to him. God was very pleased with His servant’s spiritual maturity and complete surrender to Him as his Master (cf. Job 1:8), but Satan cynically insinuated that it was because of all the beneficial things God had given in his life. To prove His arch-enemy wrong, God then allowed Satan’s attacks on Job, but within certain limits (Job 1:12; 2:6). In this “good spiritual work” (of enduring under suffering) committed to Job by God, Job maintained his integrity and uttered sublime statements of faith; these are his “good works”. In fact, his several rounds of speech and counter-speech, in response to his friends’ absurd provocations, were beautifully poetic in Hebrew. They constitute a masterly piece of literary work in themselves! He used all his literary power, ability and skill to express his thoughts, and refute misguided theological clichés.
Above all, Job’s patience amidst suffering was used by God to defeat Satan’s mockery, whereby God’s name and honour were exalted. But note that Job’s patience didn’t mean he was quiet all the time. Some people think patience means silent stoicism, without realising that God is a loving Father upon whom we can pour out our woes (cf. 1 Peter 5:7). Actually, Job was talking from chapter 3 all the way to chapter 31 (interrupted from time to time only by his three friends’ baseless accusations and rebuke)! Indeed, his speech recorded in these chapters of the Book of Job had left behind a rich legacy, benefitting Bible-readers and, particularly, suffering Christians, throughout the Old and New Testament ages. Job was truly God’s “workmanship”, earmarked for a deep “work” of sufferings.
Dear Christians, if you believe that God is sovereign, then you have to believe that God has appointed whatever troubles that come into your life. Accept your trouble as God-ordained. The rightful response to such an acceptance of God’s sovereignty is worship, like how Job worshipped: “the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD” (Job 1:21b). Don’t resist! Don’t say, “I quit!” Accept your peculiar circumstance as what God had already determined even before the foundation of the world, “that we should walk in them”. And acceptance entails the worshipful confession that “The Lord is with me even in this.”
Truly, as far as God’s challenge to Satan regarding Job’s integrity is concerned, Job passed the test with flying colours! Job sought / worshipped God for who He is, not for the things he could get out of God. Job was shown to be a worshipper of God, not of things. His faith was tested – he came forth as gold (cf. Job 23:10)!
Hence, the apostle James commented that when believers perceive the “end (i.e. purpose) of the Lord” pertaining to the righteous’ sufferings, they cannot but see how “pitiful” and “of tender mercy” the Lord is. Indeed, the Lord “that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Psalm 121:4), and is perfectly “able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy” (Jude 24). To God be the glory. Amen.
Brethren, Christians are exhorted not to be earthly-minded, but be heavenly-minded.
Paul said in Colossians 3:1, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
The opening words of the verse – “If ye then be risen with Christ” – assume that the readers are those who have experienced new life in Christ (i.e. those who are born again). The word “if” is used logically, as a means of argument, not a means of doubt.
Representatively, all the elect of God died with Christ unto sin and resurrected with Him unto newness of life. Dying and rising with Christ is a spiritual reality that they also personally experience. In an earlier chapter, Paul told the believers that “you, being dead in your sins… hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses” (Colossians 2:13). So those who are “risen with Christ” are no more dead in their sins, but they “are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead” (Colossians 2:12b). Our faith in Christ, the joy of forgiveness, sanctification and all other spiritual realities which we enjoy are abundant evidence of the power of His resurrection that is at work in our lives (cf. Ephesians 1:19-20).
In our text, Paul speaks of the new spiritual pursuit of those who are risen with Christ, as they “seek” (zēteite) or strive earnestly for those things above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. The phrase, “those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God”, points us to all things with reference to Christ’s present exalted state.
Since He is interceding for us as our Advocate at His Father’s side, we must seek His forgiveness and sanctification (cf. 1 John 2:1).
Since Christ reigns in heaven as the Head of the church, we must submit to His headship (Ephesians 1:20-22; 5:23-24); we must give Him pre-eminence in all the affairs of our life (Colossians 1:18); we must seek to be nourished up in the fullness that He grants us as our Head (cf. Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 2:10, 19); we must seek to grow unto the Head, even our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:15); and we must seek to be knitted together as His body (Colossians 2:19).
Since He is preparing a place for us in heaven, let us be ready for His coming, and for the heaven and the rewards which He is preparing for us (John 14:1-3; Colossians 3:24; Hebrews 10:35).
Paul continued his exhortation to be heavenly-minded by instructing Christians to “set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2). Those who are risen with Christ have not only a new spiritual pursuit (Colossians 3:1), but also a new passion, which Paul describes here.
The verb “set your affection” (phroneo) means “direct your mind to something”. A Christian’s thoughts should be directed to Christ and the things associated with where He now dwells. That is our ultimate destination; hence it must be our preoccupation while we live on this earth. We are to be heavenly-minded (“on things above”) because, as Paul says in Philippians 3:20, “For our conversation (or citizenship) is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ”.
What are your great interests? The great object of our contemplation should be the celestial city that Jesus is preparing for us. Readiness for that final home must be our greatest passion on earth.
While we are exhorted to be heavenly-minded, we are also cautioned not to be earthly-minded – “not on things on the earth”. Our affections should not be placed on wealth and health, houses and lands, honour and pleasure, etc. Neither should our passions be the worldly fashions and corrupting entertainment of this world. Worldly lust must be denied. The deeds of the flesh, which are sinful, must be mortified. No provision should be made for the encroachment of worldly allurements.
While Christ and heaven draw us upwards, the world and its charms draw us downwards. Let us not yield to the pull of earthly things, but earnestly pursue heavenly things. Let us not love things that are earthly and perishing, but rather those that are heavenly and everlasting. The apostle John admonishes us in 1 John 2:15-16, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”
Christians must always be conscious and deliberate to prefer and pursue heavenly and eternal matters above earthly and carnal matters. Unless our affections are set on heavenly matters, we will never appropriately seek after them. Let Christ and heavenly things be our greatest concern, passion and pursuit. Let us be desirous of everything that fixes us to heaven and its eternal glory.
There will be a temple during the millennial reign of Christ. We read in Zechariah 6:12–13, “Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD: even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both.”
The temple mentioned in the above prophetical revelation is not yet built. It is clearly stated that the temple of this prophecy is to be built by none other than “The BRANCH”, who is Jesus Christ Himself. In several prophetical passages, Christ is referred to as “the Branch” who will sit on the throne of David to rule the world. “And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots” (Isa. 11:1). “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth” (Jer. 23:5; cf. Luke 1:32–33).
We know that the Branch, the Lord Jesus Christ, built none of the two temples of the past. Nor would he be implicated in the erecting of the tribulation temple. Therefore, we can expect a fourth temple to be built when Christ returns.
Ezekiel’s Prophecy of the Millennial Temple
The fourth temple that will be built – during the millennial rule of Christ – is also known as “Ezekiel’s Temple”, for the temple and its system of worship are described in great detail by Ezekiel the prophet (Ezek 40–46). Some interpreters reject the literal meaning of Ezekiel 40–48, and view the description as figurative of the New Testament Church. They go to great lengths to explain away the measurements and specifications of the temple building. Such a symbolic view seems forced. A natural reading of the text points to a literal physical temple. The golden rule of interpretation is: “When the plain sense makes good sense, seek no other sense.”
Some suggest that the plans were for a temple to replace the first temple which the Babylonians had destroyed. But the structure of the second temple did not match the one described in Ezekiel 40–46. The natural conclusion is that Ezekiel’s record of the temple is prophetic. Since this prophecy of the temple is set in the context of Israel’s national and spiritual restoration at the beginning of the millennium, we conclude that it is a millennial temple. Moreover, other prophetical books also reveal facts about the millennial temple and the offering of sacrifices.
Besides Ezekiel 40–46, other prophecies in the Bible talk about a millennial temple. Consider the following:
“Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people. The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him” (Isa 56:6–8).
“In those days, and at that time, will I cause the Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David; and he shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land. In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely: and this is the name wherewith she shall be called, The LORD our righteousness. For thus saith the LORD; David shall never want a man to sit upon the throne of the house of Israel; neither shall the priests the Levites want a man before me to offer burnt offerings, and to kindle meat offerings, and to do sacrifice continually” (Jer 33:15–18).
“For in mine holy mountain, in the mountain of the height of Israel, saith the Lord GOD, there shall all the house of Israel, all of them in the land, serve me: there will I accept them, and there will I require your offerings, and the firstfruits of your oblations, with all your holy things. I will accept you with your sweet savour, when I bring you out from the people, and gather you out of the countries wherein ye have been scattered; and I will be sanctified in you before the heathen” (Ezek 20:40-41).
“And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles” (Zech 14:16).
What Will the Future Millennial Temple Be Like?
The final eight chapters of the Book prophesy the future millennial temple that will be built. Israel does not have a temple now. But when Christ returns to reign from Jerusalem, there shall be a glorious temple. Here are some of its major aspects:
It will be a temple like no other. No building has ever been built like the one described in Ezekiel 40:1–46:24. This fact proves that it still has to be in the future.
The temple will be filled with the LORD’s glory. Ezekiel describes a picture of the “glory of the LORD” entering into His temple, which he had previously seen as departing from the temple of his day (Ezek 43:1–5; cf. 11:23).
The temple will be the place of the LORD’s throne. Ezekiel also wrote about the voice of God that declared that this temple will be “the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet, where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever ...” (Ezek 43:7).
There will be feasts and sacrifices. In Ezekiel 40, burnt offerings, sin offerings, and trespass offerings are mentioned (40:39). The bullock, the he-goat, and the ram are to be offered (43:19–25). The blood is to be sprinkled on the altar (43:18). The meat offering is also incorporated (42:13). Morning sacrifices will be offered daily (46:13). The priests who are Levites are to officiate (43:19). Moreover, several feasts will also be instituted. The Passover feast will be observed again (45:21–25), and annually the feast of tabernacles will be commemorated (45:25). The year of Jubilee will be observed too (43:4–5).
The millennial sacrificial order appears very similar to the Aaronic sacrificial order. However, there are many significant differences between them. In the new millennial order, some of the significant features of the old sacrificial system will be changed or deleted. Not only has the temple’s measurements changed, but also the holy places have hardly anything like the furniture that had stood in the Tabernacle of Moses or the Temple of Solomon. We also observe that not all Levites will serve as priests, but only the sons of Zadok. (Zadok was a priest loyal to David and Solomon in times of rebellion against their rule. Zadok thus stands representative of the priesthood in association with the king of God’s choice and with the millennial kingdom as established by Him in David’s seed.) The Zadokian priesthood in the millennium thus differs significantly from the Aaronic priesthood.
It is also significant to note that many things that were part of the earlier temples are not mentioned as being part of the future. For example, there is no ark of the covenant, no pot of manna, no rod of Aaron, no tables of the Law, no cherubim, no mercy-seat, no golden candlestick, no shewbread, no veil, no unapproachable Holy of Holies where the high priest alone might enter, no high priest, no evening sacrifice, etc.
Although those things are absent, there are new things added to the millennial temple and its order. They are the glory of the Lord entering and abiding forever, the living waters that flow from beneath the altar, wonderful trees of healing, new distribution of land according to the 12 tribes, etc.
How can a sacrificial system exist when Christ has already died to atone for sins? There are those who object to a sacrificial system in the millennium. Their argument is that the idea of a sacrificial system in the millennium would mean that Christ’s atoning death was insufficient. It would be a reinstatement of a system that was abolished by Christ’s death. In answer to this, it must be made clear that animal sacrifices are not necessary for salvation. In the Old Testament, none was saved by trusting in animal sacrifices. The sacrifices served only as types and symbols. They point to Christ and His death. Similarly, in the millennium, none would be trusting in animal sacrifices for atonement. Scripture clearly teaches that it is only when the Jews repent and look to Jesus as the only Redeemer that they are delivered from all their sins and tribulations. The millennial sacrifices do not save. They function as reminders. They remind people of what Christ had already done on the cross.
Those who object to a millennial temple believe that the Old Testament sacrifices, which have been abrogated in the church age, would never be reinstated. But, as we noted earlier, it is incorrect to say that the millennial sacrificial system is exactly the same as that of the Old Testament. There are similarities and differences. The marked differences show us that the millennial sacrifices will be unique and distinct in their features (see Ezek 40:1–46:24; Isa 56:7; 66:20–23; Jer 33:18; Zech 14:16–21; Mal 3:3–4). However, the purpose is the same—not to offer a means of salvation, but to serve as a memorial of Christ’s death. Therefore, the millennial sacrifices will not minimise but maximise the importance and necessity of the cross-work of Christ.
There is another objection to a literal millennial temple in Jerusalem. The question is raised: Is it not impossible to build a temple of Ezekiel’s description at the ancient site? The temple area described by Ezekiel is larger than that of the ancient temple. However, Scripture records that the topography of Jerusalem will change when Christ returns. For instance, Mount Olives will split open, making a valley that runs through the land from east to west (Zech 14:4). Ezekiel’s description of the renewed city of the millennium portrays vast changes to it, including a river running out of it to the east and west (Ezek. 47:1–12). This surely would provide the space necessary for the millennial temple.
God’s Word shall be utterly fulfilled. The Lord told Ezekiel to pay attention to and declare all that was shown to him. “Son of man, behold with thine eyes, and hear with thine ears, and set thine heart upon all that I shall shew thee; for to the intent that I might shew them unto thee art thou brought hither: declare all that thou seest to the house of Israel” (Ezek. 40:4).
The prophecy was to encourage the Jewish people with the promise of Jerusalem’s restoration and glory under the Messiah’s reign. It also educates us about our Lord’s omniscience, omnipotence and faithfulness that will cause all His words to be fulfilled.
Gethsemane Bible Institute (GBI) classes on Ezekiel just ended last week. We thank God for all who attended it. The climax of the study of the Book was its prophetical description of a future temple, which we refer to as the Millennial Temple. Here is an overview of the Temples of Israel.
Temples of the Past
There were two temples in the past. Solomon built the first temple in Jerusalem, which was eventually destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in 586 BC. Some 70 years later, Jewish exiles who returned to Jerusalem, under the leadership of Zerubbabel, built the second temple and the walls of the city. This second temple was greatly enlarged and expanded by Herod the Great who recruited about 10,000 labourers to work on the second temple. It was in this latter temple that Jesus was dedicated. There He taught the Jews many a time, and cast out the money-changers on two occasions.
Jesus also predicted its destruction: “And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? Verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down” (Matt 24:1–2). As prophesied, the second temple was destroyed in AD 70 by the Roman general Titus.
The Temple Mount of the Present
Since AD 70, the Jews have no temple. This situation was predicted by Hosea the prophet in 746 BC: “For the children of Israel shall abide many days without a king, and without a prince, and without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an ephod, and without teraphim: Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and David their king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days” (Hosea 3:4-5).
In AD 634, the temple mount was taken over by the Muslims. In 1099, the Crusaders captured it and turned the mosques into churches. Saladin returned it to Arab rule in 1187. The Jews liberated the temple mount from Jordanian control in the Six-Day War of 1967, but later returned it to the custody of the Muslim Waqf (Jordan). Today, the “Dome of the Rock” is situated near the centre of the temple mount, with the Al Aqsa Mosque built at its southern end.
Temples of the Future
There will be two temples in Jerusalem. The first will exist in the seven-year tribulation period, and the second in the millennial period.
The Tribulation Temple
During the tribulation period, there will be a place of sacrifice for the Jews, which the Antichrist will eventually desecrate. In Daniel 9:27, we read that the Antichrist (“the prince”) “shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate”. The word “week” literally means “seven”. In the context of this verse, it refers to a seven-year period which will begin when Antichrist makes a covenant with the Jews. But in the middle of that period (i.e. after three and a half years), he will break his covenant with the Jews by ending their sacrifices and desecrating their place of worship. Though the word “temple” does not appear in Daniel 9:27, other Scripture portions that deal with the last days indicate the presence of a “temple” in Jerusalem. Jesus, in His message on the end times, foretold that the “abomination of desolation”, already mentioned in Daniel 9:27, shall desecrate “the holy place” (Matt 24:15).
What could Jesus have meant by the phrase “the holy place”? In the only other New Testament passage where the phrase is used, it plainly refers to the temple itself (Acts 21:28). David also referred to the temple as the Lord’s holy place (Ps 24:3). Moreover, in 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4, Paul said that the Antichrist will desecrate the temple: “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.” Therefore, we conclude that there will be a temple in Jerusalem during the tribulation period – just as Daniel, Jesus and Paul had predicted.
(Next week, more on the future millennial temple.)
Dear Pastor,
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
By God’s grace, we have some brethren regularly coming for our worship services. It has been our prayer and desire to teach them basic Bible doctrines, and add them to the communicant membership of the church. We managed to conduct two batches of “Basic Bible Knowledge” catechism class thus far. Those who finished these lessons have been given membership in our church on last Lord’s Day. All in, nine members who are part of the English services in City and Kotapadu have been given membership. We look forward to conducting catechism classes for Telugu worshippers in their local language, and issuing membership for them too. In the early church, members who became part of the church continued gathering even daily in houses for worship. They remained in fellowship with the church “with gladness and singleness of heart”. The Lord also added more members to the church (Acts 2:46-47). Please pray that all of us who become part of the church here, will also grow in the Lord and in the fellowship of the church.
We are coming to the end of another semester in the Gethsemane Bible Institute (GBI). Three students (Palivela Bujjibabu, Anand Taneti and Doddi Chinnarao), who have just finished their courses, will be graduating this year. We are planning for the Graduation and Thanksgiving Service on 3rd May 2023. Thank you for confirming your availability to visit us and preach during this service. We look forward to the reopening of the college in July 2023. We do have some new enquiries (for admission to GBI) from other states like Odisha and Meghalaya. Hope that these students will be able to seek enrolment soon, and join us for the upcoming semester.
Incidentally, the owner of the premises, which we currently use for GBI in Kotapadu, is preparing to sell the school and land. I heard from him that he is in the final stages of documentation work to take advance and sell it. It seems that he will officially finish the sale within four or five months. Please do pray for the provision of a new place for the college. I will be looking for suitable places available for rental during this term break.
We are grateful for the prayers and support of the church for the ministry here. May the Lord continue to bless the ministries of the church in Singapore and in other parts of the world.
In Christ,
Sujith Samuel