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Reflecting on Ephesians 4:28

In Ephesians 4, the apostle Paul describes what a transformed Christian life looks like, one in which old sinful patterns are put off and new godly habits are put on. Among the many areas he addresses, Paul speaks pointedly on the matter of personal integrity: “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth” (Eph. 4:28). In this short verse, God confronts our past, and commands our present and future. He calls us away from wrongdoing, into diligent labour, and towards generous living. This verse shows us the essence of a Christian’s life of integrity.

Leave Behind All Forms of Dishonesty

Paul begins with a clear command: “Let him that stole steal no more”. The Greek construction behind the word “stole” indicates a repeated or ongoing action, and thus refers to one who used to steal. Whether stealing was a settled habit or an occasional act, the instruction is emphatic: once a person is in Christ, he must abandon theft entirely!

Jesus teaches that “thefts” arise from the sinful heart (Matt. 15:18–19). Stealing is not merely a social offence; it is a spiritual malady. It is one of the sins that, if unrepented, marks a person as outside the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9–10). Scripture consistently teaches God’s people against theft. The eighth commandment, “Thou shalt not steal”, appears repeatedly in the Law (Ex. 20:15; Lev. 19:11; Deut. 5:19), and is affirmed by both Jesus (Mark 10:19) and Paul (Rom. 13:9). To steal is to rebel against God’s command and to injure fellow men.

Stealing, however, takes many shapes. It is not limited to breaking into homes or taking items from shops. In our modern society, theft hides behind more respectable forms, such as cheating on taxes, misusing time at work, inflating expenses, manipulating business deals, refusing to pay debts, withholding fair wages, plagiarising, violating copyright, or acquiring wealth at another’s expense. Even neglecting to give tithes and offerings, what belongs to God, is a form of robbing Him (cf. Mal. 3:8).

The Christian must not only avoid these sins, but must also refuse to admire or imitate people who enrich themselves by dishonest means. Many fall into subtle patterns of stealing without recognising how deeply they violate God’s holiness. Yet when the Spirit convicts us through His Word, repentance must follow, accompanied, where possible, by restitution. Integrity requires not only ceasing from sin, but also repairing the harm it causes.

Embrace Honest, Diligent Labour

Paul does not merely say, “Stop stealing.” He adds a positive command: “but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good.” Gospel transformation replaces sinful habits with righteous ones. The thief becomes a worker. The idle becomes industrious. The selfish becomes responsible.

The word Paul uses for “labour” (kopiáō) means to toil to the point of weariness. It reflects sustained effort, not casual involvement. God calls His people to honest, strenuous work – not as a punishment, but as part of His good design.

Paul himself embodied this principle. When financial support was lacking, he worked with his hands as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3), supporting not only himself but also those around him (Acts 20:34). He reminded the Corinthians, “[We] labour, working with our own hands” (1 Cor. 4:12), and told the Thessalonians that he and his companions worked “night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you” (1 Thess. 2:9). Paul was no stranger to hardship, but held up diligent labour as honourable and necessary.

A Christian’s integrity is most clearly seen in the way he goes about his daily work. Laziness, irresponsibility, and carelessness contradict the Gospel we profess. Whether in secular employment, at home, or in the ministry, believers are called to labour faithfully, using their minds, hands, and energy to accomplish what is good and beneficial. We work not only to earn a living, but also to glorify God through the quality, honesty, and faithfulness of our efforts.

We should not despise hard work or seek shortcuts to wealth, as many do these days. Scripture elevates labour to a godly calling. Work becomes an arena where integrity is tested and displayed.

Labour with a Purpose: To Give to Others

Paul ends the verse with a surprising motivation for honest work: “that he may have to give to him that needeth.” Integrity is not merely about avoiding wrongdoing or even working hard; it is about cultivating a heart of generosity. The Christian works not only for personal provision, but also to bless others.

This stands in stark contrast to the thief who takes from others to enrich himself. The Gospel turns takers into givers. The hands once used for stealing become hands that provide, support, and bless.

Paul’s life again illustrates this beautifully. He collected offerings for needy believers (Rom. 15:26), directed churches to set aside gifts for the saints in Jerusalem (1 Cor. 16:1–4), and personally brought relief to the poor (Acts 24:17). He exhorted the Galatians, “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith” (Gal. 6:10).

Generosity is one of the clearest fruits of integrity. A Christian who lives honestly and works diligently in obedience to God’s Word would also develop a capacity to help others, whether through finances, service, or hospitality. Our integrity finds practical expression in compassion and sacrificial giving.

Conclusion

A Christian’s integrity is the overflow of a renewed heart and a sanctified mind. It is manifested in the daily choice to reflect godliness in both private and public behaviour. A Christian’s integrity matters because the Gospel we proclaim is reflected – or contradicted – by the way we live. When believers conduct themselves with honesty and diligence, they display the faithfulness and love of Christ who saved them from their sins. 

Sermon Text: James 3:1–10
Speaker: Preacher Cornelius Koshy
Date: 16th November 2025

Sermon Text: Luke 17:1–10
Speaker: Pr Kelvin Lim
Date: 12th October 2025

Sermon Text: Luke 6:19–31
Speaker: Pr Kelvin Lim
Date: 12th October 2025

The Bible Witness Bible Land Study Tour was truly unforgettable, marked by God’s providence and grace from beginning to end. One day before departure, we were shocked to learn of our flight cancellation! Helpless, we turned to God in prayer, and He enabled us to reschedule our departure flight the following day. With the help of our tour agent, Immanuel Tours, our site visits were rearranged. This early trial reminded us to trust Him continually for a smooth and safe journey.

Among the 45 participants were elderly individuals, toddlers, and some with health struggles. Yet the Lord’s grace proved sufficient, strengthening and guiding us throughout our journeys in Greece and Turkey, the very lands where the Gospel first spread from Jerusalem to the nations. Walking in the footsteps of the apostles, we were freshly reminded that God’s Word is living, powerful, and still shaping lives today.

In Thessaloniki, we stood where Paul had reasoned with the Jews out of the Scriptures. In Philippi, by the riverside where Lydia’s heart was opened, we gave thanks that God has also opened our hearts to believe. In Troas, Pergamum, Smyrna, Ephesus, and Assos, we reflected on the stedfast apostles and the early churches that stood firm amid trials, and we prayed for grace to remain faithful ourselves too. On Patmos, where John received the Revelation of Jesus Christ, we marvelled at God’s eternal plan and rejoiced in the hope of Christ’s return. In Athens and Corinth, where Paul bore bold witness, we were challenged to greater courage in proclaiming the Gospel.

This journey was far more than a tour, it was a spiritual pilgrimage. Our faith has been strengthened, our love for Christ has deepened, and our hearts have been stirred with renewed devotion. We return with joy and gratitude, giving all glory to God, who was with us every step of the way. 

Our youths on campus face numerous challenges, including intellectual doubts, peer pressure, and temptations that aim to silence their Christian testimony. Yet the Word of God provides all that is needed for spiritual strength and steadfastness. The psalmist declares, “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word” (Psalm 119:9). A life of testimony begins with a life rooted in Scripture. Daily meditation in and obedience to the Word equip the heart to resist sin and to shine as a light before others.

Prayer is another vital pillar. Daniel, though a youth in Babylon, “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God” (Daniel 6:10b). His prayer life gave him courage to stand boldly even when threatened. In the same way, campus youths must cultivate disciplined prayer. They must pursue personal and corporate prayer life, seeking the Spirit’s wisdom and power to bear witness to Christ.

Fellowship among like-minded Christian youths is essential for living a strong life of testimony on campus. Godly companionship not only strengthens the believer, but also guards against the dangers of isolation. Scripture reminds us, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). This principle was exemplified in the life of the early church, for they “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). Indeed, isolation weakens faith, but godly friendships provide accountability, mutual exhortation, and a collective witness for Christ before the world. 

Through fellowships and Bible study, Gethsemane Campus Ministry becomes a training ground for our youths to be bold witnesses for Christ amidst the challenges of campus life. Testimony on campus is not optional; it is the very calling of every Christian youth. When youths walk in purity, pray in faith, and fellowship in love, they become living epistles known and read of all men (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:2). We encourage our youths in tertiary educational institutions to participate in Gethsemane Campus Ministry.

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Gethsemane Campus Ministry: An Avenue for Christian Exhortation and Fellowship

The Campus Ministry focuses on students in their tertiary education, through the weekly online Campus Bible Study (CBS) meetings, held every Thursday, via the Google Meet platform. By God’s grace, these are usually well-attended by Gethsemane youths and students, mainly from National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). 

We thank God for Pastor Koshy, who has been ministering to us during the past year on the theme: “Characteristics of God”, reminding us of His sovereign presence and guidance throughout the students’ life endeavours. Over the weeks, we have been enriched through the learning of God’s unchanging nature, perfect love, grace, and holiness—truths that anchor our faith and strengthen our walk with Him. From June 2025, Pastor has embarked on a new Q&A series, focusing on topics and common issues pertaining to making godly choices in Christian living. 

One memorable occasion of this academic year was the fellowship dinner on 14th August, where CBS members gathered physically to reflect on the Lord’s goodness and sustenance upon us all. We trust that such occasions not only strengthen our bonds of friendship, but also the unity we share in Christ. Pastor Koshy gave a short exhortation on “Always Putting God First”, which was a timely reminder for us, in view of our upcoming academic year’s responsibilities. We also shared much joy and laughter over dinner and games, before we took time to remember one another in prayer. 

Indeed, the Campus Ministry has been pivotal in encouraging youths from other churches as well. The regular Bible study sessions have been essential to keep us grounded in our precious faith, amidst the demands of our ever-increasing commitments. As we progress into a new academic year, our prayer is that the LORD will continue to sustain this ministry and the friendships forged, that more youths will join us to become shining testimonies for His glory!

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

The church of Jesus Christ is not merely a gathering of individuals, but the family of God, redeemed by the blood of Christ and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. In this holy fellowship, believers are called to walk together in love, to edify one another in the faith, and to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Among the vital expressions of our unity in truth and love of Christ, the compassion and support we extend to afflicted brethren must be manifested. Scripture commands it, Christ exemplifies it, and the Spirit enables it.

The Command of Scripture

The apostle Paul exhorts the Colossian believers, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering” (Colossians 3:12). Compassion is mentioned here as a necessary garment, not as optional, for the Christian life. Likewise, Romans 12:15 instructs us: “Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.” This means identifying ourselves with our brethren in their sorrows and trials, entering their pain, and reflecting the tender mercies of our Saviour.

James reminds us that words of good will without deeds are empty: “If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?” (James 2:15–16). True faith produces works of mercy. Thus, the command of Scripture is clear: to show compassion in both word and deed to those afflicted among us.

The Example of Christ

Our Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect pattern of compassion. Again and again, the Gospels describe Him as being “moved with compassion” (Matthew 9:36; cf. 14:14; 20:34). He touched lepers, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and wept with those who mourned. His ministry to the afflicted was not formal or mechanical; it was tender, personal, and full of grace.

Above all, His compassion moved Him to bear the greatest affliction of His people: the guilt of sin. By His suffering and death upon the cross, He secured eternal deliverance for all who trust in Him. If He, the sinless Son of God, stooped so low for our salvation, how can we refuse to stoop in love to aid our suffering brethren?

The Ministry of the Church

The church, as the body of Christ, is called to reflect Christ’s compassion in a corporate and practical way. Acts 2:44 records how the early church shared their possessions, so that “all that believed were together, and had all things common.” The apostolic church understood that spiritual unity must be matched with tangible support of the needy.

For us today, in our homes and church, this means cultivating a culture of genuine care. When a brother is sick, the church prays, visits, and provides. When a sister is overwhelmed by trials, the church comforts, counsels, and encourages her in the Word. When families face financial burdens, the church rallies to supply what is lacking. Such ministry is not social work, but manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit and the outworking of Christ’s love.

However, no one in the church should become poor and needy because of his unbiblical conduct. Brethren must walk honestly, providing for their own (1 Thess. 4:12; 1 Tim. 5:8). The church must remember: “if any would not work, neither should he eat” (2 Thess. 3:10). Poverty that springs from sloth or waste, and suffering reaped through careless conduct, bring reproach upon Christ. Believers are called to diligence, wisdom, and godly stewardship, that their lives may honour the Lord and edify His church. True faith labours diligently, faithfully managing God’s blessings and living with godly contentment, lest one burdens the body of Christ.

The Witness to the World

When the church demonstrates compassion to its afflicted members, and co-labourers, and fellow believers around the world, it adorns the Gospel before a watching world. Jesus declared, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). A congregation that stands shoulder to shoulder in trials with their afflicted brethren testify that the love of Christ is real, comforting and restoring.

Afflictions will not cease until Christ returns. But until then, the Lord calls His people to be channels of His mercy to one another. We must resist selfishness and indifference, remembering that “whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26a).

Let us, therefore, take to heart the words of Hebrews 13:3: “Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.” To remember is not merely to think, but to act, to pray, to comfort, and to support.

As we faithfully show compassion and support for our afflicted brethren, we reflect the heart of Christ, fulfil the law of love, strengthen the church’s unity, and bear witness to the power of the Gospel. Truly, to Him alone be the glory as we yield ourselves to be a compassionate congregation.

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Updates from Pastor Reggor Galarpe (GBPC, Cebu)

Greetings in the blessed Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

On behalf of my family, I would like to thank you for all your prayers and support during this very difficult time in our lives.

By the grace of God, I underwent my second cycle of chemotherapy last Tuesday, and I’m coping well with the treatment. Even right after the first session on August 5, I can see a significant improvement, as the size of the mass / swelling on my back has reduced substantially. I can now sleep flat on my back, whereas before I had been sleeping on my left side for the past three months because of the swelling. Also, the pain is now bearable; no need to take painkillers. Praise God!

I would like to thank all of you for your continued outreach to us. Receiving messages through WhatsApp and Messenger has been a great source of comfort and encouragement. For several days prior to my treatment last Tuesday, Carol and I had been receiving such messages. On the day itself, I got a call from Pastor Koshy early in the morning while I was at the treatment centre. Even during the treatment session, messages kept coming (either direct to me or through Carol), and they have brought us much comfort and cheer!

Two cycles down, six more to go! May the Lord be merciful to sustain me as I go through the rest of the treatment. Halfway through the eight-cycle treatment, God willing, I will undergo another PET Scan to assess the progress of my chemotherapy. 

I thank the Lord that I can continue with my teaching and preaching ministries here, particularly on the Lord’s Day (Sunday school and Worship Service), and the prayer meeting, as well as the GBI lectures – except for the week immediately following my treatment, when we will have either Eld. Eli or Pr Edsel to fill in the pulpit ministry.

God willing, my next treatment will be on the 16th of September. I am looking forward to more improvement in my condition and eventual healing, by the grace and mercies of God. So that I can continue to serve Him, together with my family and the brethren here. As we all know, there’s much work to be done in the ministry!

“I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ”, and of your “love unto all the saints” (1 Cor. 1:4; Eph. 1:15b).

 All praise and glory be unto the Lord!

Yours in Christ,
Reggor

Give Thanks

Above all, we give glory and thanks to the Lord God Almighty for Singapore’s journey over the past 60 years. Scripture reminds us, “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain” (Psalm 127:1). Every advancement, from stability to prosperity, is ultimately the fruit of God’s gracious providence.

On this momentous occasion of Singapore’s 60th National Day celebration, heartfelt commendation is due to the leaders, citizens, and residents who have laboured tirelessly for the nation’s progress. Visionary leadership has laid the foundation, wise policies have charted the course, and the diligence of countless hands have built the Singapore we know today. From the earliest struggles to today’s global stature, every sacrifice, innovation, and act of service has shaped a city-nation admired worldwide. 

Let us remember that it is the LORD our God who has blessed us in all the works of our hands! We acknowledge, as Moses declared, that “the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness… the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing” (Deuteronomy 2:7). Through seasons of trial and testing, His gracious hand has sustained the nation.

May Singapore’s leaders, citizens, and residents ever remember: “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). Let thanksgiving be matched by a humble resolve to walk in justice, mercy, and truth. 

As Christian citizens of Singapore, we echo the psalmist: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance” (Psalm 33:12). May God continue to grant peace within her borders and prosperity in her gates, for His glory alone.

Real Challenges

Over the past six decades, Singapore has been transformed from a vulnerable island nation into a global city admired for its resilience and visionary leadership. Once lacking natural resources, it built prosperity through strategic trade, innovation, and disciplined governance. Its skyline reflects modern ambition, while its multicultural harmony embodies unity in diversity. Education, healthcare, and infrastructure stand among the world’s best.

However, challenges remain, not just in economic shifts, ageing population, and social pressures, but worryingly in the troubling prevalence of youths’ mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

Materialistic tendencies of society negatively affect family cohesion. A culture where success is often measured by academic credentials, career advancement and visible wealth, the idol of prosperity subtly redefines the worth and security of human relationships in purely financial terms. 

As a church, we acknowledge with deep concern the pervasive moral decline and growing spiritual apathy that characterise much of our society, and which, tragically, have also crept into the life of the church itself. The erosion of biblical convictions, the casual treatment of worship, and the neglect of prayer and God’s Word reveal hearts drifting away from the Lord in the pursuit of earthly goals. 

Stand Firm, Church, Amidst Compromises!

In an age where truth is often compromised and eternal realities are neglected, Scripture exhorts us to “stand fast in the faith”, and “quit you like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13). We are called to proclaim “Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:2), living as faithful witnesses in word and deed. With humble repentance and renewed devotion to our Lord, let us “press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). May we dedicate ourselves to boldly declaring the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27) and ordering our lives by the wisdom and truth of His Word (Psalm 119:105). Let us pray earnestly for our church, that we may be “stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58), and that the light of Christ may shine through us in a darkened world, to the glory of God alone.

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Praise God for the Charity Fund!

We thank God for enabling us to extend help to our brethren affected by the recent typhoon in Pangasinan and La Union. By His grace, we were able to distribute rice and food packs to those who were less affected, while some received monetary assistance to help rebuild their homes, many of which had their roofs blown away by the strong winds. For nearly three weeks, several were also unable to work due to the severe weather. We are grateful for the Charity Fund, which allows us to respond quickly to such needs. With the Session’s approval, we disbursed ₱20,000 to support our brethren during this difficult time.—Pastor Donald dela Cruz

Every day, we wake up and choose what we will wear. We choose those outward garments for their comfort, fashion, function, etc. Arrayed in our chosen attire, we step out to meet the world. Yet there is a garment far more significant than that which covers the body, one that truly matters before both God and men, for it adorns the soul, governs the conduct, and sanctifies the whole life.

God’s Word counsels us to “be clothed with humility.” Being adorned with humility is of far greater value than any outward ornament or attire, as Peter said in 1 Peter 3:3-4, “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.” The apostle also said in 1 Peter 5:5 - “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.” 

Humility Before God

Humility is the posture of the soul that acknowledges God’s greatness and our unworthiness. Isaiah 57:15 declares, “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit...” God is “the high and lofty One”, far above all creation, eternal and unbounded by time, whose name is “Holy”, set apart in purity and perfection, unapproachable by sinful man. And yet, in astonishing grace, this same God condescends to dwell with the lowly in heart! 

The Word of God commands us to be humble in order to walk with God. A soul cannot stand proudly, but must bow itself before God in repentance. The humble heart makes room for God’s nearness. He who inhabits eternity chooses to commune with those who tremble at His Word. Let us, therefore, humble ourselves before Him, for in our lowliness, we find the abiding presence of the Most High.

To be humble before God is also to recognise our absolute dependence on Him. As the apostle Paul wrote, “and what hast thou that thou didst not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7). Every breath, every gift, and the only hope of salvation come from His gracious hand. The humble heart confesses, like David, “I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me” (Psalm 40:17). 

To be humble before God further means that as we recognise our need for Him and repent of self-reliance, we walk in submission and obedient service to Him. Micah 6:8 captures this essential posture: “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”

Living humbly before God brings rich and enduring blessings that cannot be earned by human effort or outward religion. James teaches that the humble soul is the special recipient of God’s grace and favour. James 4:6 declares, “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” In declaring that “God resisteth the proud”, the text warns us that pride places us in direct opposition to the Lord. But to the humble, to those who bow low in reverence and dependence—He gives more grace. Grace is God’s undeserved favour, His strength given in our weakness, His mercy in our need. The proud cannot receive it, for they do not sense their need. But the humble are open vessels, and God fills them again and again. This truth is reiterated in James 4:10 – “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” God does not despise the lowly; He honours them. He does not overlook the contrite; He draws near to them. In contrast, those who are lifted up in pride will be brought low. “Every one that is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD” (Proverbs 16:5).

True Christian living begins and continues in a spirit of lowliness before the Lord.

Humility Before Others

Humility before others flows naturally from humility before God. When we see ourselves rightly before the Lord—as undeserving sinners saved by grace—we are far less inclined to elevate ourselves above our brethren. Instead, we become eager to serve, and quick to honour others. Walking humbly with God shapes how we deal with others—justly, mercifully, and humbly.

Scripture teaches us that true greatness in the kingdom of God is marked not by position or praise, status or recognition, rank or applause, but in the quiet, selfless posture of a servant’s heart. Jesus said, “But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12). In the Lord’s eyes, the one who prefers others has already attained greatness. The Lord is also committed to honouring and lifting those who humbly stoop to help and honour others.

Humility in the community of God’s people means esteeming others above ourselves and serving others without seeking praise, advantage or reward. The proud seeks honour from others; the humble gives it. Romans 12:10 instructs us: “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another”. A humble person is eager to respect others. He is concerned about the good, the growth, and the honour of those around him.

Christians’ humility is also crucial to maintaining fellowship and unity in the church. Without humility, there can be no lasting peace in relationships, whether in the church, the home, or the wider community. Philippians 2:3 exhorts us, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” This “lowliness of mind” is a Christ-like view of self and others that promotes grace and unity. A humble heart does not seek to prove itself superior; instead, it seeks peace. It readily forgives because it remembers how much it has been forgiven by God. It does not keep a record of wrongs, but looks for ways to restore fellowship. As Paul continues in Philippians 2:5-8, he points us to Christ, who humbled Himself even unto death for our reconciliation. To prefer others for God’s glory is not weakness—it is greatness, even Christ-likeness, as God’s Word defines it.

The humble also remain teachable and meek in spirit. They will acknowledge that they do not know everything and must be guided by God and those who are godly. A humble heart listens, receives correction, and grows in wisdom. While the proud resist counsel, the humble listen and become wise. Proverbs 13:10 asserts, “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.” Again, Proverbs 15:31–33 says, “The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise. He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding. The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” A humble, teachable heart receives correction, and thus God’s help, to grow in wisdom.

Moreover, humility fosters spiritual growth, while pride hinders it. Humility opens the way to wisdom and maturity. Humble hearts that recognise their need for spiritual growth and maturity, welcome correction and instruction, and are grateful for the help they receive (cf. Proverbs 11:2). But the proud resist correction, refuse to learn, leading to spiritual stagnation and downfall. 1 Corinthians 8:2 warns, “And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.” True spiritual knowledge and growth occur only when we do not assume that we have attained full knowledge and spiritual growth. So, James 1:21 exhorts us, “...receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” A humble spirit is necessary to receive God’s Word and grow through it.

Conclusion: Be Clothed with Humility

The Christian must “be clothed with humility” (1 Peter 5:5). It should cover every aspect of life – our appearance, our conduct, our prayers, our service, our relationships. Humility is not weakness; it is strength yielded to God. As we humble ourselves before God and before one another, we reflect the character of Christ and prepare ourselves to receive more of His grace.

Dear Rev. Koshy, Board of Elders, deacons, preachers, and members of Gethsemane B-P Church, Singapore,

 Heartfelt greetings in the blessed name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! 

As we praise the LORD for His faithfulness and goodness towards Gethsemane BPC for 19 years of ministry in the Church and for 13 years of service in GBI, here is a brief report on what the living and true God has been doing in our midst. Through God’s mighty Hand working in us and through your constant prayer and support for the cause of Jesus Christ, God’s work in Gethsemane B-P Churches (Alem Gena / Addis Ababa) and GBI, Ethiopia, are progressing well. 

By God’s infinite mercy, the two churches are serving the LORD in their various weekly programmes. Currently, there are 15 brethren (including teens) in the Addis congregation and there are 50 brethren (including children and teens) in the Alem Gena congregation worshipping God, besides a few regular worshippers. Moreover, out of our GBI students, 17 trainees are joining us in the weekly services and evangelism outreach into our community. Currently, two new converts (a young man and a woman) are attending catechism class in preparation for baptism. All the brethren are joyfully serving the LORD according to their several gifts and abilities. Praise God for the unity of heart among the Gospel ministers and the members, in standing firmly for the Reformed Faith. 

In our Gethsemane Children’s Ministry, we have 100 children learning in the pre-school programmes in 5 sections. These children come from major religious groups. We have 8 teachers and 2 helpers, with Pr Bedada leading the work. This ministry has been an effective way to reach out to our community with the Gospel. Every Saturday, the children have a short worship service, whereby they sing praises to God, hear the preaching of the Gospel, and memorise Bible verses. Moreover, during the quarterly parents’ meeting, the Gospel is preached to the family members. Some of the parents who came to faith in Christ through this ministry are worshipping God with us, while others joined other evangelical churches. 

By God’s grace, GBI Ethiopia, has graduated 11 trainees during the Church’s 19th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service held on 1st June 2025. This new term, we have 18 trainees in the full-time programme and 4 in the part-time programme receiving sound theological, biblical and ministerial trainings. Through this ministry, Gethsemane BPC is able to spread the Bible-Presbyterian teachings of the Reformed Faith to the Evangelical Churches in Ethiopia. 

Once again, praise the LORD for your continued prayer and support towards God’s work in Ethiopia. May the Almighty God bless Gethsemane BPC for the works of love she has been doing for His name’s sake. Our continual hope and prayer to the LORD is that He may bless all His works here in Ethiopia and bring more sinners into faith in Christ, and prepare more labourers for the work of the Gospel. 

Please convey our regards to all Gethsemaneans and friends in Singapore and beyond.

Yours in Christ,
Rev. Ephrem Chiracho
(On behalf of Gethsemane B-P Churches and GBI, Ethiopia)
[3rd June 2025]

Graduating students of GBI Ethiopia with Pastor Ephrem, Pr Engida and Pr Imane