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According to the Scriptures, the church is vital in training men for ministry. Below are some key aspects of the church’s role in preparing men for ministry.

Spiritual moulding of men for ministry is one of the essential functions of the local church. This process encompasses discipleship and character formation. Through the faithful preaching of the Word, fervent prayer gatherings, and the fellowship of the saints, the church serves as a divine instrument for shaping and nourishing believers’ lives, especially those whom God calls to the ministry (Ephesians 4:11–13; cf. 1 Timothy 4:6-13; 1 Tim 5:22). Men for the ministry ought to be spiritually shaped within the church, with the help of Biblical teaching and example of godly leaders. Regular evaluations and spiritual “check-ins” ensure accountability and a strong foundation for a faithful ministry.

Recognising and developing spiritual gifts suitable for ministry are done within the context of the church. The Holy Spirit works through the church so that the spiritual gifts of His chosen men for ministry are identified, cultivated, and deployed for the glory of God, and the building up of the body of Christ (Acts 13:2; cf. 1 Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6). Pastors and elders should assess spiritual gifts, character, and a genuine desire to serve.

Biblical instruction and theological training have been through the sound teaching of godly men within the church, helping prospective ministers understand Scripture deeply and apply it effectively in their lives (2 Timothy 1:13; 2:2; 3:14–17). Sunday schools, Bible studies, and dedicated ministry training programmes of the church can serve as platforms to equip men for the ministry.

Practical ministry experience should be intentionally provided by experienced pastors and preachers of the church through one-on-one discipleship and pastoral care. It enables aspiring ministers to model themselves after godly examples, equipping themselves to effectively apply sound doctrine to the lives of God’s people, thereby fostering spiritual growth. The mentoring process allows young leaders to learn through example, receiving correction and encouragement. Furthermore, churches should provide opportunities for hands-on ministry, such as preaching, teaching, evangelism, pastoral care, and administration. Real-life involvement helps refine skills and build godly courage under the guidance of seasoned leaders (Luke 10:1–11; 2 Timothy 1:7-14).

Ordaining and sending out of men who are called to the ministry are done by the godly pastors of the church. They lay hands on those called, prepared and equipped to be ordained to the ministry, commissioning them with prayer and affirmation, as seen in the early church (Acts 6:6; 13:3). Prayer and encouragement strengthen men for the challenges of the ministry (1 Thessalonians 5:11). The church’s support must continue even after sending, through ongoing relationships and resources. By faithfully carrying out these roles, the church ensures that men entering the ministry are well-prepared to lead, serve, and shepherd God’s people according to His will. 

Testimonies of Pastoral Biblical Studies (PBS)

Pastor Michael Zhu

I am deeply grateful to the Lord for the precious opportunity to study and be equipped further in my pastoral ministry. The recent course on Eschatology has profoundly enriched my understanding of Biblical truths on this subject, and brought significant blessings to my personal spiritual growth, family life, and church ministry.

Through the study of Eschatology, I gained a deeper appreciation of God’s sovereignty over history and His ultimate plan of redemption. This unwavering hope in God’s promises has strengthened my patience and confidence in shepherding the flock, especially during challenging times. It has equipped me to guide the congregation to fix their eyes on God’s eternal kingdom and live faithfully in the light of Christ’s return. The course also helped me teach the congregation how to embody an eschatological faith—serving diligently in the present while eagerly anticipating the glory of Christ’s second coming.

In my family life, the hope of eternity has encouraged me to cherish relationships more deeply. It has inspired me to nurture my children with a focus on eternal values, and to pray and serve together with my spouse in unity. Within the church, this course has motivated me to prioritise the spiritual growth of my brethren, helping them face today’s challenges with their hearts anchored in the unshakable hope of God’s kingdom.

I sincerely thank Rev. Koshy for his dedication and the immense wisdom he imparted to us through this course. May the Lord continue to bless this programme, using it to strengthen more servants of God and bless His church for His glory. Soli Deo Gloria!

Pastor Donald Dela Cruz

If one reads the newspaper, he will be aware of the events of the world; but if one reads the Bible, he will understand why those events are happening. The world’s current events make sense after learning about end-time events. Biblical prophecy asserts that plagues and wars will intensify as the second coming of the Lord Jesus draws nearer. Thus, COVID-19 and the wars around the world happening today are confirmations of God’s infallible Word. Even God’s beloved Israel is in the midst of war and conflict, as declared in His Word.

In the church setting, I praise the Lord for giving me a clearer understanding of the end times. This more precise understanding will translate into profound teachings / doctrines which the congregation will receive from teachers, who have been PBS students. After all, God’s teaching must reach His people with all purity. I am praying that I can clearly impart and explain the lessons that I have learned to the brethren.

Personally, I see God’s sovereignty and faithfulness amid these events. It is true that the world will not get better; nevertheless, it brings comfort to me because all events have been ordained by God even before they happen. This simply means that my Heavenly Father is in full control. Praise the Lord that He is in control to preserve and protect His people for Himself. 

Praise the Lord for sustaining GBI Online, and giving Pastor Koshy the strength to take up the tedious task of teaching theology to all of us every Monday morning. 

Pastor Jied

I would like to express my appreciation for Pastor Koshy’s service in the Lord’s vineyard, especially regarding the Pastoral Biblical Studies that we had with him. It has been a very encouraging and blessed time to learn from God’s Word. I appreciated the divine promise of things to come and how we, as a church, should be prepared and long to meet the Lord. The lessons we learned help us to serve the Lord more fervently, knowing that our labour will not be in vain in Him. Praying for the ministry and all the brethren – to Christ be the glory. Amen.

Pr Seraph McGregor

In His providence, the Lord brought me to Gethsemane Bible Institute in Vizag in 2021. I consider it a great blessing to be part of a ministry such as this, which strives to be faithful to the Word of God in every way. One of the areas in which this can be seen is in the fact that pastors, preachers and missionaries alike, who already are Bible college graduates, continue learning God’s Word with an objective to sharpen and deepen their understanding of Scripture in order to preach it effectively and with clarity for the benefit of the church. Therefore, I am very grateful to God for the Pastoral Biblical Studies (PBS) classes.

Over the past three and a half years, I have studied three topics in the PBS classes: Doctrine of Revelation and Scriptures, Covenant Theology, and Eschatology. The first course was helpful because it brought to my remembrance the very important doctrines of the inspiration, infallibility, inerrancy and preservation of Holy Scripture. It is inspired or God-breathed, and therefore, it is trustworthy and life-giving.

Studying Covenant Theology was another interesting part of PBS. It helped me not only better understand the covenants by studying each one in detail, but also to study and understand them from a premillennial standpoint, which I had not studied before.

The current topic which we are studying in the PBS class is Eschatology. The study of this topic has particularly helped me as I have gained a better and clearer understanding of Premillennial Eschatology, and I have come to respect this position. It also helped me better understand passages in the Book of Revelation and elsewhere in the prophets with a more literal approach to interpreting the text. This will also help me share what I have learnt with others more clearly. Furthermore, I initially leaned more towards the amillennial view of Eschatology, but that is now changing, and PBS classes have contributed to it. I sincerely seek to explore and learn more about this subject before arriving at a particular conclusion that is aligned to being taught and informed by the Word of God. May the Lord help me and guide me.

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17).

This verse teaches us how we ought to regard the elders, who are the officers of the church. Elders are ordained by God to oversee or supervise the church. Acts 20:28 reminds the elders to “Take heed... to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers...” As “overseers” of the church, the elders must rule the church according to God’s Word. That is why in 1 Timothy 5:17, we find the expression, “the elders that rule well”.

The New Testament uses the Greek word presbuteroi for “elders”. The Presbyterian churches derive their name from this Greek word for elders. The name “Presbyterian” denotes that the church is ruled by elders appointed by God. It appears that the Bible expects every church to be ruled by more than one elder, as the word always appears in the plural in the New Testament concerning church leadership.

Generally, all elders are responsible for the church’s administrative matters. However, there are some elders whom God appoints to rule and teach God’s Word. These elders, as 1 Timothy 5:17 says, “labour in the word and doctrine”. They study the Word of God, and faithfully teach us its truths. Such spiritually gifted men, whom God has enabled to be elders who rule and teach, are called “pastors” (Ephesians 4:11). 

God wants us to count our pastors and elders, who carry out their duties faithfully and fervently, as “worthy of double honour”. They deserve all the church members’ respect, submission and esteem. So, be sure you are courteous towards your elders and obey their faithful, biblical counsels.

Respecting our elders and pastors goes beyond mere courtesy. It involves recognising their God-given authority, and acknowledging their diligence in leading the church. Elders who “labour in the word and doctrine” dedicate significant time and effort to studying and teaching Scripture, providing spiritual guidance, and ensuring that the church remains grounded in biblical truth. Their role is crucial for the spiritual health and growth of the congregation.

Supporting our pastors and elders is not just a suggestion; it’s a biblical mandate. It includes praying for them, offering encouragement, and providing practical assistance when needed. The Greek word used for “honour” can also denote financial support (cf. Matt. 27:6, 9; Acts 4:34; 1 Cor. 6:20). Its meaning aligns with the modern term “honorarium”, which denotes monetary compensation given as a token of respect. When we biblically honour and support the church pastors and elders, we not only encourage them to fulfil their calling and duty, but also contribute to the solemnity, joy, unity, health and progress of the church. 

The Word of God repeatedly calls on Christians to hold their leaders in high regard, recognising their significant role in the congregation’s spiritual growth and stability. We are to take this to heart, and act on it. Hebrews 13:7 exhorts us, “Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.” This verse underscores the inseparable link between leadership and discipleship in Christ’s body. By recognising their role in teaching the Word of God and observing their faithful living, believers are encouraged to emulate their faith and support them in their ministry.

Hebrews 13:17 further reiterates, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” When church members are submissive and cooperative, leaders can serve the Lord in the congregation with joy rather than burden.

Defiance of Leadership

One of the most problematic situations in today’s congregations is the modern culture of individualism. Many people resist the idea of submitting to authority, viewing it as a personal infringement. Such modern mentality makes it difficult for people to discern biblical leadership and authority.

Christians need to distinguish between legitimate spiritual authority and abusive power. When church leaders insist on obedience to clear biblical teachings, this should not be seen as an abuse of power. Proper biblical authority is based on biblical principles and teachings, and it should be welcomed and obeyed. Church members must recognise the authority of church leadership as a stewardship, not a despotic rule (cf. Heb. 13:17). Church leaders will be held responsible for how they guide and nurture the flock of God, and for the spiritual condition of their flock. They will face divine judgment if they do not teach the truths of God with authority as church leaders. 

Just as it is incumbent upon leaders to teach the Scriptural principles with authority, it is binding on the church members to obey them. How can church leaders effectively govern and care for the congregation without their cooperation? Leaders can provide effective guidance only when their counsel is respected and obeyed.

Submission is not about blind obedience to the leaders. It is about acknowledging and submitting to the leadership’s biblical instructions and counsel. The proper biblical relationship between leaders and church members results from mutual respect and submission to the truths of Scripture.

In conclusion, every church member has a duty to honour our elders and pastors, especially those who excel in teaching and leading according to God’s Word. Let us commit to showing them “double honour” through our respect, support, and obedience to their godly guidance. In doing so, we not only fulfil a biblical mandate, but also strengthen the unity and effectiveness of our church ministries.

20 Years of God’s Faithfulness

To the praise and glory of His grace, we gather together to rejoice in the Lord for the twenty wonderful years of His faithfulness upon the church. As the chorus of the hymn that we love to sing reminds us, “Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided…” Indeed, our twenty years of existence and ministry is a testament of God’s unfailing care!

It was on July 4, 2004, when we first gathered together for worship in a rented hotel function room. We were so much younger then, both in faith and life, striving to grow and mature in our walk, service and witness for the Lord Jesus Christ. Thereafter, it pleased the Lord to bring more people to the church, causing them to hear and believe in the Gospel. Like newborn babes, many of us have grown, by the grace and mercies of God, to serve in various areas of the church ministry. Praise God for enabling us to serve together, “for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12).

Not only has the Lord added unto the church such as should be saved and thereafter serve, He has also expanded the ministries of the church with the establishment of The Gethsemane Care Ministry (TGCM) in 2009 and the Gethsemane Bible Institute (GBI) in 2011. Praise God!

Then in 2020, at the height of the pandemic when we were not able to come together for worship, by God’s providence, we considered a viable option of gathering together via the internet – by way of “live streaming” our church meetings through the social media platform. And while I used to think about the “live streaming” as good only during the pandemic, little did I know that the Lord has opened a door of opportunity for us to proclaim the Gospel far and wide, reaching out to more people, including our relatives and friends, long after we have resumed the usual physical, in-person worship service. Furthermore, like-minded brethren in other parts of the country and the world were also able to continue to join us online. 

Today, we remember the Lord’s goodness right from the very beginning: we reflect on how the Lord has sustained and strengthened the church all these years; we rejoice in all that the Lord has done and is doing, in and through the church. Also, let us not forget to thank the Lord for Gethsemane BPC, Singapore, for their love and care, “even as a nurse cherisheth her children” (1 Thess. 2:7b), as well as for their prayers and support all these years. Likewise, our gratitude to the like-minded churches that have co-laboured with us and served as our missions partners. 

Coming together, may we echo the words of the psalmist: “I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Every day will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy. The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; and thy saints shall bless thee” (Psalm 145:1-10).

Moving forward, let us make that resolve to abide in Him, and remain faithful and true in our walk and service to our God!

Blessed 20th Anniversary!

Pastor Reggor Galarpe