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Report by Pr Jeremiah Sim

The Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry praise and thank the Lord for His grace and mercy upon its members. As we recollect and commemorate 18 years of God’s goodness, care and faithfulness upon this ministry, we can’t help but to rejoice and be glad, like the psalmist who declared in Psalm 111:1-4, “Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.”

It has been almost 4 years of restriction in meeting and travelling, due to the Covid virus forbidding us to travel abroad. Nonetheless, we rejoice and thank the Lord that this year, the restriction has been lifted, which enable us to travel to Malaysia. We are therefore able to hold our second Seniors’ Retreat at Holiday Inn Hotel, JB, Malaysia, in conjunction with the 18th Anniversary Thanksgiving of Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry. (We thank God for 43 participants in all.) Needless to say, the seniors were overwhelmed with joy in their hearts, as they have been earnestly looking forward to this 3 day-2 night retreat. We praise God for the much effort made for the smooth execution of the entire retreat. May God bless all the laborious efforts and logistical arrangements behind the scenes, as well as the labour of love put in by those brethren involved in much planning. We thank the Lord for aiding them in this whole retreat.

On the actual day of departure, we gathered joyfully with excitement at the Eunos open-air carpark near the MRT station at 9.15am, and prayed to the Lord for journey-mercies before we boarded the coach. The coach then proceeded to the second pick-up point at the Kranji MRT station area to fetch the rest of the brethren, before heading to Holiday Inn Hotel, JB, Malaysia. Praise God for His divine aid to bring us safely to the hotel, as well as for our safe return to Singapore after this retreat. Truly, this calls to our remembrance the apostle Paul’s words in Philippians 4:6 – “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” 

Having received our hotel room card-keys, we had some free time till 6pm, when we had a sumptuous dinner. Thereafter, we had our first service at 8pm. It was wonderful to witness not only the elderly, but also the teens who had joined us, raising our voices in one accord to glorify God with our singing. After that, we received our first message from Pastor Koshy, who preached from the Matthew 5:13-16, on the topic: “Salt and Light”. We were taught that as Christians, we are to influence others by our testimonies, and also to live our lives for the edification of the saints. After the service, we proceeded to have our refreshments amid fellowship, whereby we encouraged and exhorted one another in the Lord.

On Day 2 of our retreat, our worship began at 8.45am with singspiration. Throughout the day. Pastor continued to teach us from Matthew 5:13-16. As “salt and light”, we must be prepared always to declare the Gospel and God’s marvellous works to the people of this generation. We truly thank the Lord for the three messages of Day 2, which not only assured and strengthened us, but further reminded us that we have this incomparable privilege (as God’s children) to declare His truths.

On the final day before we make our way back to Singapore, we continued with our worship from 8am onwards, followed by Pastor’s 5th message from Matthew 5:13-16. He taught us that as light of the world, we must be ever ready to shine for the Lord and not shy away from His Gospel truth. We must seek the Lord to help us expose the errors of others and declare His truthful message.

After the 5th message, we had “testimony time”, where several brethren (namely Dns Diana Chan, Sis. Miriam Wong, Bro. Ong Chin, Sis. Kim Lei and Pr Jeremiah Sim) gratefully testified of the Lord’s grace and goodness upon their lives and their loved ones. Their encouraging testimonies have indeed stirred the hearts of many of those present to give glory and honour to God too. After our lunch, we checked out from the hotel at 2pm, and arrived back safe and sound in Singapore around 4pm. 

Throughout these 3 days, the seniors put into practice what they have learned by encouraging one another in the Lord. Many of them have been helpful to care for and help those who were feeble and not so mobile. Certainly, we thank the Lord for His protection throughout in our travelling. All praise be unto God!

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Testimonies

Ng Jui Keng

I am blessed to be one of the 40 plus ‘old folks’ who attended the Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry Retreat (26-28 April 2023), held at the JB Holiday Inn. We were privileged to have a few ‘younger’ members joining us who were very helpful towards those needing assistance. Thank God for these brethren – who indeed proved to be living examples of “salt and light”.

It was a joy and blessing for me to meet and interact with a number of our more aged members over meals, refreshments, chit-chat sessions and short walks (during the afternoon free time). There is nothing like spending a few days together to have several relaxing and heart-to-heart conversations with various brethren at different times.

On a spiritual level, I was particularly struck by Pastor Koshy’s statement that “being ‘salt and light’ to both the Christian and non-Christian communities, is not optional but a command from Jesus”. In Matt 5:3-10, Jesus taught us how we are to live our lives according to the Beatitudes’ instructions. In Matt 5:11-12, Jesus warns us that the world will mock and persecute us as their worldview is contrary to what the Beatitudes teach. In the midst of this, we are commanded in Matt 5:13-16 to be “salt” in our interaction with the world, and to be “light” in pointing to Jesus Christ as well as sharing the Good News. As Jesus has said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).

As “salt”, we must exhibit purity in speech and life. Through holy living, we can demonstrate the preservation impact of salt, as the world can receive peace and grace from God through our obedience to His Word. (A direct impact is the reduction of bitterness and moral decay in the community.) “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Rom 12:2).

Ong Chin (translated from Chinese to English)

“O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 107:1).

I want to praise God for bringing us to attend this 18th Anniversary Thanksgiving Retreat of the Senior’s Ministry. Praise God for allowing our pastor, Pastor Koshy, to preach God’s Word to us, on the topic: “The Salt of the World and the Light of the World”. This is the duty of all Christians and how all of us must strive to be. I, together with my wife, have learnt much from this retreat. Praise God also for the fellowship we had together with the brothers and sisters in Christ. Praise God! 

Hannah Wong 

1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 

I would like to thank God for granting me the opportunity to accompany my grandparents to attend the Seniors’ Ministry 18th Anniversary Thanksgiving Retreat. Praise God for the safety He has granted to each and every one of the participants, especially to the elderly folks. Praise God also for the fellowship that we had with one another during the free time. I am thankful to God for Pr Jeremiah, Elder Mah and the rest of the organisers who helped make the retreat a smooth one, especially when there were some problems on the first day. 

Thank God also for the fruitful time of listening to God’s Word, whereby I have learnt much from the preaching by Pastor Koshy on the theme: “Salt and Light”, based on Matthew 5:13-16. As salt and light of the world, Christians must be effective, useful vessels of God, bringing ‘taste’ and ‘light’ to the world around us, so that our testimony may be a blessing to many. We are saved to serve, and not saved to be served. I pray that I will be a shining light to those around me, both in the present and in the future. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Mary Pang

“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men” (Matthew 5:13).

Because of the lack of refrigeration in the early days, salt was used to preserve food (especially meat), which would quickly spoil in a hot environment. Believers in Christ are like “preservatives” to the world, preserving it from the evil inherent in the society of ungodly men, whose unredeemed nature go hand in hand with corruption by sin. (cf. Psalm 14:3; Romans 8:8).

The analogy of light to the world teaches us that the good works of Christ’s followers are to “shine” for all to see. Matthew 5:14-16 highlight this truth: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” The presence of Christians must be like a light in the darkness, bringing light to sinful men and doing good deeds which ought to be evident for all to see. Only by remaining focused on Christ and being obedient to Him, can we expect to remain as “salt and light” in the world.

Kim Lei

I have been truly blessed by fellowshipping with members of our Seniors’ Ministry for the past one decade. The Lord had done great things to our seniors in our midst. They are sober, humble, peaceable, loving and compassionate to one another. May the name of the Lord be magnified. “The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head” (Prov 20:29). 

Being directed by the Lord to be involved with the Seniors’ Ministry has helped me to grow spiritually. I learnt how to interact with the elderly, how to comfort them when they are struggling with their health issues, loneliness and distress, how to assure them of the Lord’s comfort and presence in their every situation. Thank God also for the faithful preaching of our leaders (Pr. Jeremiah, Eld Mah and Pr. Daniel), as well as their care and patience towards every one of us in this ministry. 

Praise the Lord for enabling Pastor Koshy to teach us during the retreat on the topic: ‘Salt and Light’, based on Matthew 5:13-16. Thank the Lord for reminding me that the Lord sent light while I was in the valley of darkness. I also learnt that:

We should not be a “hidden” Christian, but be wise to be “light” to help others. “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward” (Isa 58:8).

We should be useful “salt”, to bring flavour to His people. We should live as a peacemaker with a pure heart, by following the example of our Lord Jesus.

May the Lord bless our seniors for many more years, that they may worship Him and serve Him as ‘salt and light’ for His glory.

Yin May Nee

I am very thankful to God that my mother, her caregiver and I could attend the retreat. Truly, thank God that none fell ill or had any accident (like falls) during the retreat, especially since we’re having the retreat amid another Covid infection wave, coupled with occasional heavy rainfall during the afternoon break (when many elderly brethren left the hotel for short walkabouts in the nearby shopping mall). 

The topic of “Salt & Light”, preached by Pastor Koshy, was a timely reminder to all that it’s appointed unto us by Christ to be the “salt of the earth and light of the world”, despite our frailty as we age. To be “salt”, we are to influence quietly through prayers, being self-sacrificial in love, being pure-hearted and useful – much like salt which dissolves in the food, thus making it tasty. Furthermore, there are times when God wants us to shine our “light” through Jesus – by standing up against the darkness of sins in this world, sharing the Gospel and making ourselves a blessing to others. That means we cannot be a dim light, but be shining brightly for Christ when God wants us to do so. We are reminded that we are saved to serve both God and men, as well as to care for others more than ourselves. 

Praise the Lord that the messages were preached in English, and translated to Mandarin by Pr Daniel Lim, so that even our Chinese-speaking seniors could benefit from them. All praise and glory to God!

Esther Quek

Thank the Lord for a blessed 4-day long Bible Witness Retreat in Shillong, India. We were able to fellowship with many participants hailing from the different villages in the state of Meghalaya, as well as with Rev. Sujith and his fellow co-labourers from Vizag. It was eye-opening to see how the Lord has blessed and preserved the work of the early Presbyterian missionaries, who ministered to the people there. There has been, unfortunately, some dilution of the faith over the years.

As such, the retreat’s theme, “The Purity of the Church”, was an apt one. It also serves as a reminder that we, as a church, are called to be separated from the world, to be used for God’s own purpose. There are three lessons which I have learnt from the messages preached:

1. Being pure in the eyes of God is not an option. It is a calling. “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness” (1 Thessalonians 4:7). The church, which is made up of her members, must be aware of and respond to the call of God for His people to be pure in our daily living.
2. Biblical separation is necessary. We have to move away from unbelievers and apostates. 2 Corinthians 6:14 admonishes us to be “not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?”. Similarly, Jude 4 cautions that “there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”
3. The purity of the church is dependent on the teaching of the doctrine of the Gospel, the administration of the ordinances and the performance of public worship. As a church, we must always be vigilant and on guard for attacks of “seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils” too (1 Timothy 4:1).

May the Lord keep us faithful till He returns, so that we may be presented to Him “a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:27).

Elder Alan Choy

Thank God for granting my wife and I the opportunity to join the team of brethren on the 22nd Bible Witness Retreat to Shillong. Once again, I was refreshed by the Word of Truth. It was an eye-opener to the mission work in N.E. India. We met many Presbyterian brethren and also some from Charismatic church background. They all expressed great joy and thanksgiving to God, hearing our Pastor preaching on ‘The Purity of the Church’. One of them said he was so thankful to hear the accuracy of the Word of God being preached.

Many from all these local churches were not instructed in the Reformed doctrine. I sensed that they were hungering for the Word of Truth. It was my joy to meet a very zealous Pastor Jied. He was very hospitable, having invited the campers to his home for tea and snacks. He started a small Bible college and a chapel near his home in Cherrapunji, and recently was granted a piece of land behind his home, on which he intended to build a small church. It was a wonderful privilege to have a small part in this work of God, with the preachers and myself having the opportunity to see and pray for the work. Most of the campers gave generously towards this building project and a sum of about S$15,000 plus was quickly raised. According to Pastor Jied, two local sisters who attended the Retreat expressed interest to join the church, and according to Pastor Koshy, 2 young boys wanted to stay behind to learn God’s Word there.

Praise the Lord! Truly, I saw the hand of God working. It was a small humble beginning; it was the mighty God who works in the hearts of men. I pray that more will follow suit, and as time goes by, the church will grow from strength to strength. “O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles” (Psalm 43:3).

Shillong is a very fertile ground for the Gospel work. May the Lord raise up more like-minded able, young men who would learn God’s Word and steadfastly love the work of the Gospel to establish more mission churches there.

Esther Tang (Choy Foong)

Learning at the feet of Rev Koshy concerning the importance of the purity of the church, I thank God for a blessed time of feasting on His Word amidst the warm fellowship of like-minded brethren in Shillong, India. Thank God also for travel mercies, and for holding the rain during our visit to Pastor Jied’s church in Cherrapunji. May God bless and keep Pastor Jied and his family, as well as Bro Seraph, Sis Ribka and the Reformed Books’ team at Vizag as they serve Him faithfully in their respective ministries.

In Rev Thomas Jones and his mission work in India in the 19th century, I see a parallel in our B-P founding pastor, the late Rev Timothy Tow and his mission work in Malaysia. In his book, “Forty Years on the Road to Church Growth”, Rev Tow had called Malaysia “our Judea”, even as he envisaged himself as being sent forth from Life Church, his “Jerusalem”. Rev Tow heeded the Great Commission and took the Gospel to Malaysia almost seven decades ago. His mission trips starting in 1951 took him literally “unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

Today, ought not we to follow in his footsteps and continue the good work he had begun? God has given us the Gospel light, so that we may bring it not only to our loved ones and friends still living in darkness in Malaysia and Singapore, but also beyond. Will we pray and rise up to the occasion? “The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38).

Dns Diana Chan

I praise and thank God for a very blessed 22nd Bible Witness Retreat (held from 14th – 17th March, 2023) in Shillong, India. Thank God for Dn Lok and Dn Norefel for their patience and labour in organising the Retreat.

The Lord is good. I thank God for His grace, wisdom and strength in enabling Pastor Koshy to preach the Word of God from the theme of the Retreat, “The Purity of the Church”. I have learned much from the various messages, and the Q&A session. Some of the key learnings include:

1. When there is purity, there will be great joy in the church.
2. When there is no purity, there will be division and deep pain in the church.
3. Christ’s love for the church has one single motive, that is, in His love, He will keep us sanctified: through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, and “with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church” (Ephesians 5:26-27).

What a joy it was that brethren travelled, far and near, to assemble for the retreat, to learn God’s Word together. With voices united to sing praises unto God, to pray and to rejoice in communion with one another. The conference room was filled with people from a diversity of background, age, ethnicity, country, tribe, language, race, colour, etc. Praise God for the assurance of His Word that regardless of our status or background, all of us who are believers in the Lord share the same spiritual inheritance, the same grace, the same power, the same wisdom from God. Indeed, “But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God” (1 Corinthians 1:24).

I also thank God for the opportunity to visit particular site in Cherrapunji; and from where we stood (on higher ground), we could look down and see the piece of land given by the local authority to Pastor Jied for him to build a church. Praise the Lord for His providence of the gift of the land! Significantly, Pastor Koshy requested Pr Kee How, Pr Jeremiah and Eld Choy to pray for the building of the church, for Pastor Jied, his wife and their two children, as well as for the brethren, for their service and labour in the Lord’s vineyard. Pastor Koshy then encouraged brethren from the retreat to give towards the building of the church, and we thank God for the generous giving of the brethren.

Let us pray that, in God’s time, He will build a beautiful church in Cherrapunji … “Dressed in His righteousness glorious and bright, Stand in the presence of Christ our King”, as in the theme song, “Church: His Gracious Redeeming Work”. May the Lord’s name be glorified and magnified!

Aileen Tan

I give thanks and praise to God for enabling me to attend the 22nd Bible Witness Retreat in Shillong, India.

I thank the Lord for His enabling grace on Pastor Koshy to preach and teach 6 messages on the theme, “The Purity of the Church”, and taking the Q&A session. I rejoice in the Lord for over 90 brethren who attended the BW Retreat. Besides the 58 brethren from Singapore, we were encouraged to see over 40 brethren from Vizag, Shillong, Cherrapunji and Pune – and all because of their earnestness to come together to receive the blessings in learning God’s Word.

From this BW Retreat in Shillong, India, I am blessed to be with our Gethsemane church to pray for:

1. all participants to heed the call for purity, individually and also as a church;
2. spiritual revival of brethren from N.E. India;
3. an open door for Gethsemane to start a work in N.E. India;
4. the brethren from Shillong and nearby places to come out from unbiblical churches; and
5. the building for a church and college in Cherrapunji.

I praise God for a very blessed and warm fellowship with Rev Sujith and Sis Dorcas, participants from India and our Singapore participants. Also, many thanks to Dn Lok and Dn Norefel for their assistance to me in administrative matters (including help with my E-visa to India).

Tan Yeh Wen

Firstly, I like to thank God for His provisions, as well as His grace, in bringing my family to Shillong, India, to join the 22nd Bible Witness Retreat. Thank God for the generous help rendered to us by the brethren to and fro, and for the strength given to my wife in order to bring our daughter around throughout the trip. Though it was not easy, yet the Lord sustained us, that we may see the Lord’s goodness in the city of Shillong. May the Lord be pleased to use Gethsemane B-P Church, that a good work be done in Shillong.

To me, the physical highlight of the entire trip was the journey to Cherrapunji in order to see the first Presbyterian church in Meghalaya, as well as to pay a visit to Pastor Jied’s church / Bible academy and home. It is a sombre experience to think of - and actually see - the Lord’s good hand through faithful men of old instituting the Lord’s work in faraway lands, to bring sinners to repentance and into His kingdom. The thought of what Pastor Koshy mentioned in a sermon later on - that the Presbyterian church in Meghalaya could have done so much more for the Gospel work, given their rich history of two centuries - rings in my soul! Oh, that God would be gracious to us, that we would not forget the place wherein God has placed us, and do our very best for the Gospel work!

Surely, no Bible Witness Retreat can go without the spiritual feasting provided to us by Pastor Koshy. I thank God therefore for the lessons concerning the purity of the church. To begin with, Pastor spoke about what the church is - without which there would be no understanding of why there needs to be purity in the church. Understanding that the church is a unique organisation on this earth, separated by God for His glory alone, for whom Christ died, to be the pillar and ground of the truth – and how the visible church is currently embattled and will be till the Lord returns – puts into perspective the necessity as well as the urgency to be concerned with and to act for the purity of the church.

Thank God for the teachings regarding the individual believer’s responsibility to separate from the world, from sin, from heresy, and even from believers who compromise and support those who spread heresy. I pray that every member in the church, young and old, no matter how big or small be his role in the church, would be gripped by the need for personal purity, for the members individually and collectively affect the purity, and therefore effectiveness, of the church.

Thank God also for the teachings regarding the need for faithful leaders to be concerned about the purity of the church, and to be vigilant to guard against sin and falsehood brought in by false believers and teachers. I pray that God would grant us faithful leaders to tend to the spiritual state of the church.

In closing, moved by stirring thoughts in the wake of the 22nd Bible Witness Retreat, I’ve penned the following two poems (to be set in tune):

The Definition of the Church, the Call for Separation

O Lord, Thy Church, which Thou hast called out from the sin-filled world,
To be Thy only Ground and Pillar of Thy matchless truth,
Its slumb’ring members cause to wake from every deadly sin,
To man the posts, and stand their ground, and valiant fight for truth!

Cause every member of Thy church, Thy sheep whom Thou hast called,
To have a heart aflame from Thee – though young or old they be.
No member is too big or small; yea, all have this command
To purify themselves so that Thy church be pure from sin!

(Refrain)
O Lord, lead Thy church in this dark’ning day,
Our Saviour, our Shepherd, the Church’s glorious Head,
Though the battle be long, the way may dreary be,
Our fainting souls now strengthen; cause our sight to be fixed on Thee!
O Lord, keep Thy church pure for Thee, From sin and falsehood, set us free!
Not for our sakes, but for Thy glory alone, O Lord, keep Thy church!

Prayer for Godly Leaders
O Lord, now raise up leaders, valiant, truth-filled, faithful men,
Who stand for Thee undaunted in this hate-filled dark’ning world,
To boldly preach without a fault Thy timeless, flawless Word,
To call Thy sheep to come to Him; to cleanse Thy church from sin!

Give them a kind, perceptive heart that gently guides the flock;
Much patience and much tenderness to tend to their wounds;
And give to them a watchful eye, a mind of clarity,
To firmly guard - within, without against all dreadful sins!

(Refrain as above)

Jeremy Chan

By the grace of God, I was born into a Christian family and brought up in a Bible-believing church. For as long as I can remember, Christianity has always been a significant part of my life growing up.

However, I was not spared from some of the potential pitfalls faced by second-generation Christians. Growing up in church, I had said the sinner’s prayer many times with my Sunday school teachers, but still wasn’t exemplifying and living out the Christian life outside of Sundays.

It was only in my early twenties that there was a significant evidential change in my life. There was an interest in the reading and studying of God’s Word that wasn’t there before. Attending Sunday service, Bible studies, and fellowship meetings became more than just a routine, accompanied with a desire to be instructed by the Word of God. It was an eventual realisation of the release from the grip of sin, and finally experiencing peace with God after all these years. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

The Lord first led me to Gethsemane BPC in 2012, having heard Pastor Koshy preach during my time in Teenz and YF. However, it was only during the COVID period that I began attending more regularly together with my wife, Sandra. Throughout our time here, we’ve been greatly blessed by the messages which place emphasis on how we should be seeing our life here on earth through the lens of God’s Word. The warm reception shown by the members at Gethsemane BPC to both my wife and myself also helped us assimilate into the family of God here.

We look forward to growing more in the Lord and serving Him here in Gethsemane BPC.

Sandra Wong

I first heard about God during my preschool years. Despite coming from an unbelieving family, my parents had placed me in a Christian kindergarten, by the grace of God. It was during my time in school that I first heard about His goodness – and how He loves the little children, as we sang to the lyrics in ‘Jesus Loves Me’ and gave thanks before every meal. Even though I knew that God existed, I did not associate the singing of hymns nor the giving of thanks to His perfect goodness or to the Gospel. 

God continued to draw me closer to Him as I progressed on to a Christian primary school. It was then that I first experienced His goodness. My classmate had shared, with a hopeful demeanour, that her grandmother had passed on. Puzzled, I asked her why she was smiling, to which she responded, “Because God is with her in heaven, where we will meet again.” That was the first time I witnessed the goodness of Christ in His turning ‘death’ - a supposed fear of all men - into faith, hope and joy. Ever since that day, I would always seek Him, though lacking in spiritual knowledge, during times of darkness. Looking back, I realised it was God’s special favour upon me, in allowing that exchange between two young girls to take place and ultimately calling me to commence on my walk with Him. 

However, even though I started to identify myself as a believer, my life had not been freed from sin. Despite saying the sinner’s prayer in church during a Christmas service (which I was invited to as a teenager), my desires continued to be worldly. I thank God for eventually leading me to a Bible-believing church in my late twenties - and for prompting me to eventually seek baptism. I was exposed to His Word regularly, and by God’s grace, I found my life deeply nourished by the added knowledge of His Word. I experienced significant changes in my life, which has since revolved around a motivation to be a holy witness for Christ to point my unsaved loved ones to Him. 

God eventually led my husband and me to attend Gethsemane BPC more regularly during COVID - a period when access to in-person worship was scarce, yet even more precious. We thank God for Gethsemane BPC’s dedication to allow as many of God’s people as possible to worship within His house. We have been greatly blessed by the messages preached by Pastor Koshy, which have enabled us (through understanding Christ’s love for us) to continue to love and serve each other through our marriage. We have also been truly blessed by the warm fellowship extended to us by fellow brothers and sisters in Christ in Gethsemane. We thank God for calling us to Gethsemane BPC, and hope to continue growing in the Lord here.

Elder Mah Chin Kwang

“Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.” Thus saith the LORD in Psalm 72:18-19. May we all humbly acknowledge that it is the LORD God Almighty alone that doeth wondrous things in our lives. And so may we all always bless His glorious name for ever! I am certain that this is the happy, recurring affirmation, the joyous perspective and reaction of the entire mission team, as we reflect on what the Lord has done in our midst during the short-term mission to Pangasinan. 

There were several significant uncertainties encountered in the planning of the mission trip. In certain situations, we were able to plan for contingencies, but for several others, we would not know till the very moment of execution. The need to actualise the very theme of this mission, “Give Me Understanding”, amidst these uncertainties, was in the hearts and minds of many who were actively praying and waiting on the Lord for answers to our prayers. 

The Lord did not disappoint. Indeed, what He did for us will surely be the repeated refrain of brethren who will be sharing their testimonies in the coming days. Do read the testimonies from team members’ perspectives when they are available. For now, my reflections of the Lord’s goodness expressed in the paragraph below would suffice as a lead-in of the entire blessed story to be told by other team members, together with the photos accompanying their reflections.  

The Lord’s providence, undertakings and leading are certainly evident when we consider the spontaneous show of support by our BOE, other leaders and brethren who readily rendered love-gifts (financially and in kind), words of encouragement and prayers. That’s not all. God’s mercy was further manifested as follows: this mission trip’s timing of a choice window of opportunity during a special, atypical one-week school break; the safety and well-being of every team member, together with local brethren (some of whom having to travel several hours from their homes to the Mission Church); safe and incident-free clearance by the Immigration and Customs authorities; an 11th-hour approval by the authorities of the local elementary school of its covered basketball court and assembly hall as the venue that amazingly accommodated 349 adults and children who came for the special event on Saturday, 11 February. “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 107:1). And so we say in response – “Praise the Lord! Purihin ang Panginoon!” – as our Filipino brethren would echo.

Mission Pangasinan 2023 gave us all the blessed opportunity to be mutually encouraged and strengthened in God’s Word, and in serving joyfully as His people. Furthermore, the mission trip gave us the joy of renewing our ties with brethren we have known before and of being acquainted with other brethren we have just met in the mission church. In particular, we thank God for the joy of standing and seeing for ourselves the very place that we all hope (in the Lord and by His providence) will stand the Mission Church’s building, for the extension of God’s work. 

May the Word of God in Zep 3:17 – “The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing” – be our joyful assurance and hope, as we all continue to walk and serve Him; as well as be that of Rev. Donald, his family and brethren in the Pangasinan Mission Church.

Dns Diana Chan

When I learned that Mission Pangasinan 2023 would be held from 8th to 12th February 2023, I prayed that God would enable me to join the trip. Praise God for His grace in clearing the way for me to join the Mission Team. I thank God for the help rendered by Elder Mah, Sis. Luan Kheng and Bro. Matthew Mah in sharing the children’s Bible lesson outlines and other material (such as bookmarks), as well as pointers on how to plan the Children’s Vacation Bible School in Pangasinan.

Throughout the 4-day mission trip, God is ever faithful. Morning by morning, new mercies we saw. On the first day (Thursday, 9 February), we did 4 home visitations. When we visited the homes of Bro. Kyt, Sis. Charlene Mae and their daughter Hannah, and later, Bro. Jumar and Sis. Olive, I praise God for them – for their serving, hand-in-hand, with Rev. Donald in the Lord’s vineyard. I thank God that we could visit Sis. Charlene Mae Abrena’s family. I was so impressed by and thankful for how the family could use a half-complete house for the home worship of the Lord and for the communion of saints. I felt so blessed that the Mission Team, together with the brethren of each family, could listen to the preaching of God’s Word (by Elder Mah, Pr Samson and Pr Jeremiah) and also sing hymns and spiritual songs to praise God.

 Home visitations on Fri (10 Feb), were a different experience from those of the previous day, whereby we had to travel long distances from one home to another. That day, we did more walking (which was over rather rugged terrain). Thank God for His protection as some of us are quite senior in age. Along the way, we could enjoy the beauty of God’s creation, the lush greenery of corn fields, golden yellow rice fields, dried river beds, fruit trees, colourful flowers, goats and cattle. It was a joy to visit Sis. Cecile’s family. Praise the Lord for her siblings, nephews and nieces – for their service to the Lord. I was encouraged by the brethren for their warm Christian hospitality. We were delighted when served with fresh home-grown organic groundnuts, which is something so rare in Singapore.

I praise God for the street evangelism conducted with the local brethren, youths and adults alike. We paired up with the local brethren. I thank God for partnering with Sis. Marianette, who is the sister of Bro. Jomart Tindaan. By God’s appointment, we shared the Gospel with a villager. Sis. Marianette interpreted the sharing of the Gospel from English to Tagalog, the local dialect. I was pleasantly surprised to see the young man’s wife, son, mother-in-law and two other family members attending the Saturday’s children programme throughout the whole day. Praise the Lord! May God be merciful to save the family unto salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ. 

How wonderful it was that, at the end of that day’s activities of home visitation and street evangelism, we could go into the quietness of the Lord’s sanctuary in the Mission Church for the Friday Prayer Meeting. Thank God for a blessed hour of prayer, listening to God’s Word, delivered by Pr Jeremiah. We brought before the Lord our praises and thanksgiving, as well as our petitions and prayers, especially for the Adults’ Teaching Programme and the Children’s Vacation Bible School (to be held the next day on Saturday).

Come Saturday (11 February), we were excited. Everyone in the Mission Team had a role in serving the Lord, either in the Adults’ Teaching Programme or in the Children’s Vacation Bible School. When we stepped into the Inlambo Elementary School, we tried to familiarise ourselves with the place. As we were discussing the layout and logistics, testing the equipment, we could see children, adults (some of whom with toddlers in their arms), all streaming into the school. They. We were caught by surprise by the great numbers! Yet we were joyful! Thank God for giving us “understanding”. Our local brethren quickly changed their way of registration. Rev. Donald quickly relooked at the ordering of meals for lunch and tea breaks. The Mission Team quickly reviewed the schedule of the programme and made changes to the singspiration, art and craft session, with little or no compromise on time allocated for the Bible lessons.

Thank God that the brethren from the Mission Church and the Mission Team were united in serving the Lord joyfully. I thank God for the youths, who were so ready and prepared to serve the Lord. They stepped in quickly to “fill the gap” on their own accord, such as in interpreting Bible lessons to small groups of younger children, singing with them, helping them in art and craft, and serving lunch. As I looked at the multitude of children and adults, the harvest truly is great. I pray that, by the Lord’s grace, many of the children and adults will be saved through faith, according to God’s will and time. 

On the morning of the Lord’s Day, we could see little children, youths, adults and senior brethren all getting ready to worship the Lord. It was heartening to hear that some brethren, who have to travel long distances to the Mission Church, would come to the church on Saturday and camp overnight in the open field of the church, so that they could be on time to worship the Lord on the Sabbath day! How grateful our hearts are to the Lord! Thank God that all of us could “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name” (Psalm 100:4).

I thank God for Rev. Donald, Sis. Sejin and their son Jesher, together with the local brethren, for their labour and toil in the Lord’s vineyard. I praise God for Pastor Koshy, our elders and the church for the support of the Lord’s work in our Pangasinan Mission Church.

Praise the Lord for Elder Mah for his leadership in Mission Pangasinan 2023. Thank God for Dn Gan for his support of the Lord’s work in the trip. Praise God for all the brethren, for the care and concern for one another as we served the Lord together. Most of all, I thank our most High God for His grace, mercy and protection of the Team. I am awed by the miraculous power of God and how He could use each of us in the mission trip for His purpose. To God be the glory, great things He had done!

Dn Gan Chin Hwi

I thank the Lord for the encouragement of my daughter, Chien Huey, to participate in Mission Pangasinan way back in April 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this mission trip was postponed to February this year – a lapse of almost 3 years.  By the grace of God, we were once again able to travel to serve the Lord in the mission field of Pangasinan. Indeed, the Lord decides the timing.

This is my very first mission trip. I did not have much idea of what to expect.  Elder Mah had asked me to support the mission as the assistant mission lead; I simply yielded myself, knowing that the Lord had placed me there for a specific purpose and that I would be able to learn from Elder Mah and other team members.

I praise the Lord for enabling the Mission Team to work together as one body in Christ, everyone functioning as a member of the same body, receiving the grace that is given unto us by God to work on the different needs of the mission (cf. Rom 12:5-6). In the process, I have experienced the love, joy and commitment of each of the team members, serving harmoniously together, with much humility, and with one heart.

I have also seen God’s intervention in facilitating the Mission Team to cross the checkpoint at Clark International Airport smoothly. We were granted a swift clearance by the customs officer when we presented the supporting letter from Rev Donald to him. I knew we cannot take this for granted, it was truly the intervention of God!

The visitation to 8 homes by the Mission Team was most encouraging and enriching. Our hearts were knitted together with the brethren in Pangasinan as we fellowshipped and rejoiced in the same Lord, sharing the same faith in Christ Jesus. Whilst the purpose of the Mission Team is to encourage our brethren in Pangasinan, I was even more encouraged by the testimony shown and the hospitality showered by our brethren in Pangasinan. They live a simple life, as compared to us; yet they showed no lack of praising and thanking God for what they have (cf. 1 Tim 6:6). At times, I felt that the Lord had given them a more rewarding and enriching life than us living in affluent Singapore. Our daily quests for the material world have, on many occasions, blinded our hearts to turn away from the simple truth of leaning on our Lord and enjoying Him forever!

Saturday (11 February), was one day that I will not forget. The sovereign Lord had brought many to hear the Word of God – way in excess of our initial estimates. When I looked at the faces of those children, I saw many eager souls wanting and determined to learn, and to know more. This is especially the case for those Grade 5 & 6 students, as I observe their focused participation during the art & craft session. I cannot help but pray within my heart that the Lord of the harvest will be merciful unto many of them, and that some will soon come to the knowledge of the saving grace of our Lord. Though none of these children turned up at the worship service the following day, I am comforted that the Lord had used us on that day to sow the seeds. The rest, I know my Lord will lead the way. 

I praise and thank the Lord for this unique experience of serving Him in the mission field of Pangasinan. The Lord has been very gracious and merciful in leading us all the way; it was not as tough as I expected it to be. My heart is enlarged, and encouraged to serve Him in future mission trips. Indeed, the Lord has preconditioned and planted the deep desire in me to serve Him in future mission trips. There may be different challenges and even greater obstacles to come, but whatever it may be, there is joy going through the process of submission to the Lord, trusting in His protection and provisions, and seeing the mighty hand of God leading us to serve Him in the mission fields. As Psalm 32:8 reminds us, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” All glory be to His name!

Elder Mah Chin Kwang

All of us praise and thank the Lord for His grace and mercy in bringing our lives a little closer to what they have been in early 2020 before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The sudden surge of the virus upon the shores of our little island resulted in 2.2 million confirmed cases and 1,700 deaths, thus far. In our church, many brethren and friends, together with their respective families, were infected, but none succumbed to the disease. All glory and praise to His precious Name!

We praise the Lord that after 3 full years, the Lord is pleased to ease His hand of judgment and chastisement upon our sinful world, re-opening windows of opportunity to serve Him. Like God’s people of old (as we read in Scripture), we too would be guilty of gross negligence and disregard of Him if we do not seize every opportunity to share the blessed Gospel once again, near and far. And thus, by God’s singular grace and pleasure, with the unanimous support of the Board of Elders of our church, Mission Pangasinan 2023 shall be held from 8th to 12th February, God-willing.

Owing to the opportune short school break this week, Rev. Donald dela Cruz, our missionary in the mission church in Pangasinan and his co-workers have worked extremely hard to organise and facilitate the upcoming event. Not all in the 25-member team of 2020 are able to join us this time, owing to the date of this mission and other personal constraints. Nevertheless, all praise to the Lord that despite the present smaller team of 16 brethren, the scope of this short-term mission was not curtailed.

The evangelistic fervour and brotherly care of the apostle Paul and his co-labourer Timothy set for us an enduring example, as we read in Colossians 1:9, “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding”.

Truly, not all can be with us on this mission, but all can be engaged in prayer for the Lord’s outpouring of His blessings in the learning of God’s Word, and through the fellowshipping with the saints in praise and prayer. May the Lord bring salvation to many, and grant strengthening to all saints, during the following planned spiritual activities:

• Visitations of 8 homes on Thursday (9 February) and Friday (10 February), with devotions to be shared by Pr Jeremiah (at 2 homes), Pr Samson (at 2 homes), Elder Mah (at 4 homes)
• Street evangelism on Friday (10 February)
• Prayer Meeting on Friday (10 February), with a message by Pr Jeremiah
• Adults’ Teaching Meeting on Saturday (11 February), with 4 messages by Pr Samson
• Children’s Vacation Bible School on Saturday (11 February), with 3 lessons to be taught by Pr Jeremiah, Dns Diana, Sis. Aileen, Sis. Gina, Sis. Kim Lei
• Worship Service on the Lord’s Day, with Rev. Donald delivering the sermon 
• Junior Worship on the Lord’s Day, incorporating a lesson by Sis. Aileen, Sis. Kim Lei.

May the Lord Jesus Christ be highly exalted in these spiritual endeavours.

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Things That Wreck Short-Term Missions

Prabhudas Koshy

Our self-conceited attitude, unreasonable expectations and hypocrisy can disrupt, or even ruin the short-term missions organised by our church or fellowship groups. To maximize your contribution to the missionary, mission church and the mission team, please avoid doing the things mentioned below:

1. Negligence of personal daily devotion. Some have neglected their time of prayer and meditation of God’s Word because they have to pursue a busy schedule. It is inadequate just to rely on group devotions and the preaching of the Word during the mission activities.
2. Unwillingness to do any menial work. To make a mission trip successful, everyone in the team must always be ready to take up any task or challenge. It is absurd to refuse to do any menial work, saying that your only duty during the missionary trip is to win souls. It is false to think that doing menial work (like data entry, loading trucks, cooking, etc.) will distract you from your primary task of winning souls. Not everyone is called to be a preacher. For example, younger Christians in the team who are not equipped to preach and teach can contribute by helping in the physical aspects of the ministries.
3. Pick on the missionaries and their mistakes. Do not jump to conclusions quickly when you notice something that appears wrong. Be patient and careful not to make an unjust and erroneous judgment.
4. Disagree, criticise and murmur against your team leaders. Normally, leaders of mission trips are Christians who are experienced and mature. They make decisions based on their best knowledge and judgment. It will be far better to prayerfully cooperate with the leaders in whatever way you can, than be a “dissident” in the mission team. If you complain and murmur, it will affect the team’s unity and effectiveness. 
5. Harshly deal with team members who make a mistake. Unkind remarks and discourteous behaviour can lead to much grief and problems during mission trip. Be gracious and affectionate to one another.
6. Being too suspicious or too trusting of everyone you meet during the trip. It is wrong to think everyone in poor countries is out to get something from you. Also, it is dangerous to think that everyone who appears to be friendly is safe to trust. The best is to follow the instructions given by the team and local leaders.
7. Refuse the local food, as it might not have been cooked well to your taste.
8. Keep your distance from team members who cannot raise their full support. Be kind and generous towards one another.
9. Get involved romantically with someone or get into a quarrel with your friend. Though there is nothing wrong with getting to know someone closer, you must not lose focus of the nature and purpose of the mission trip. Also, avoid getting into petty quarrels with your friend.
10. Scold your home church upon your return from the mission field for their lack of commitment, their weak prayers, or their inadequate giving to missions. One or two mission trips do not prove that you have become the “perfect” evangelistic Christian. Instead, encourage the home church by your example in supporting the missions, since you have witnessed the needs and struggles of the church’s overseas missions.

Lim Xin Hui

I thank God that this retreat was possible, according to God’s gracious providence. Thank God for all the planning and hard work that went into it since mid-2022. Because of the service of many brothers and sisters, the retreat went smoothly. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn God’s Word together as a fellowship, and to get to know the youths better.

I am thankful for the theme of this retreat, “Laying a Firm Foundation”. I learnt valuable spiritual lessons. One of them was that I cannot stay stagnant in my Christian walk, but instead exercise my faith, build up my knowledge of God’s Word and apply it daily. Love is a commitment to be like Christ because God is love. I must have faith to say, “Yes, I want to walk with Christ.” May God use the lessons I’ve learnt to change me and help me to grow in Christ!

Ron Nathan V. Resuma

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7). First of all, I thank God for enabling me to attend GYF Retreat 2022 on the theme, “Laying a Firm Foundation”. 

From the theme messages, I learnt that as a Christian, I must build my life on Christ and His Word. I must ensure that my faith is well-grounded and firm, like the wise man who built his house upon the rock, as in Christ’s analogy from Matthew 7:24-25. And that as a Christian, I must live in obedience to God’s Word so that I can be fruitful in the work which God has called me to do. I also learned that it is not enough to claim or profess that I am a Christian. I must follow Christ and obey His Word by abiding in Him. And that willingness is not just the lack of resistance, but wholeheartedly following God’s will. I must take God’s will as mine, willingly and cheerfully. Though there are afflictions and struggles in life, these experiences can teach me to endure and become a conqueror through Christ. In the concluding message, I learnt that I should make it my desire to abound in the work of the LORD and do it with thanksgiving, living a godly and faithful life for Christ. 

I also thank God for His grace in enabling Pastor and Pr Cornelius, who laboured to preach on the theme messages, as well as to answer our queries in the Q&A sessions during the workshops. Praise God also for the GYF Committee and Auxiliary Committee’s labour of love in organising this retreat. I thank God that after two and a half years of Covid restrictions, we could finally have our retreat physically. All glory be to God!

Samuel Teo

I thank God for granting me the opportunity to join the GYF Retreat 2022 with the Gethsemane youths. It is truly a blessed time of fellowship and learning of God’s Word with the brethren in Christ – a much-needed refreshing for my spiritual well-being. Most of all, I have been encouraged to follow the high calling of God to do His will, instead of chasing after worldly desires of our hearts that are not pleasing to God and do not bring glory unto His name. Although it takes much perseverance and endurance to follow the will of God in difficult circumstances, it is assuring and comforting to know that, by His grace, He will guide us through the challenges of our lives. May God grant me godly wisdom to do His holy will and glorify Him!

Joshua Nah

Thank God for the opportunity to join the youth retreat. Before the camp, I only knew of 2 Gethsemane youths. However, it did not take long for my brother and me to make friends and feel “right at home”. Praise God for the warm fellowship of the youths in Gethsemane! It was equally encouraging to witness the various committee members working together so well to guide us throughout our stay. The youths’ serious attitude towards studying God’s Word and serving in various roles was also a delight to witness. 

I am especially thankful to Pastor Koshy and Pr Cornelius for their uncompromising zeal in guarding the purity of God’s flock through the preaching of His Word. Through their heartfelt and direct messages, I found little room to mentally excuse myself from the commands of God’s Word. Perhaps, what resonates most with me is an overall impression left from witnessing the truths shared in the sermons lived out in the conduct of godly brethren at the camp. 

I especially give thanks for the clear, no-nonsense definition of biblical love and counsel on courtship given by Pastor in the workshop on BGR. It is a far cry from the general attitudes towards this topic which I had unwittingly imbibed from the world; it is a sound word which I hope to take heed of going forward. Pastor Koshy’s continual reminders that we are called to be victors and more than conquerors in our Christian lives were a sharp rebuke to the occasional helplessness I had felt in my own walk with and service for God. I pray for endurance to not run from my challenges when I return to Melbourne, but bear them faithfully wherever the Lord places me. 

One final reminder tied all that I had heard together: do not be discouraged by your failures. Instead, repent and purpose in your heart to do God’s will now that you know it clearly. I will surely fail on my own to uphold all I’ve heard at the retreat, but I thank God for His reassurance of His unchanging love for sinners such as myself (cf. Luke 5:32).

Jesimiel Lim

I thank God for the opportunity to join the youth retreat, where we could immerse ourselves in learning God’s Word on the theme, “Laying a Firm Foundation”. I thank God for this aptly chosen topic which has moved me to desire to seek God’s will more. Praise God for the many takeaways from the messages preached faithfully by our Pastor and Pr Cornelius. One key thing I have learnt is that we must exercise our faith by acting out God’s Word in obedience, and that biblical willingness is putting God’s will above ours. I pray that God will help me to be obedient and willing to do His will in my day-to-day life, laying aside my own selfish feelings and desires. The long-term blessings God gives when we willingly do His will, far outweigh the short-term struggles we may experience! 

Next, I learnt that we are “running towards Christ-set goals”. It gives me much assurance and comfort to know that God, the Author and Finisher of our faith, has set perfect and victorious plans for us. So, our duty is to trust Him and endure our peculiar trials, and to “walk, even as he walked”. I also thank God for the time to “unwind” through the fellowship and fun we could enjoy, in a special natural setting! I pray that we will continue to build on our spiritual foundation in Christ, not lose our fervour for Him. “Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:7).

Parousia Chan

Praise God for the blessed time spent at the recent youth retreat 2022 held in Sinar Eco Resort in Malaysia! I learnt many lessons from the theme messages on “Laying a Firm Foundation”, preached by Pastor and Pr Cornelius, and the two workshops held on the last day of the retreat. One lesson is that our faith should lead to increased knowledge of the Bible, and finally, obedience to do the commands in His Word. I have also learnt that we are to rise up with hope and expectation of victory, always enduring and persevering in our Christian life.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to fellowship with fellow like-minded youths, and for the good weather that allowed us to enjoy His creation amongst the many animals and plants at the resort. Finally, thank God for granting the GYF and Auxiliary Committees the ability to plan well, such that the programme was still able to run smoothly despite some changes in the schedule along the way. All glory be to God!

Hadassah Wong

I thank God for the opportunity to attend the youth retreat 2022. Thank God for the messages preached by Pastor and Pr Cornelius. I have learnt much and have benefited much from this youth camp. In particular, I have learnt that every step of endurance in trials is a victory in itself, and to give up is equivalent to admitting defeat. But if we put our trust in God, God “causeth us to triumph in Christ” (2 Cor 2:14). I pray that I will endure and triumph in my trials. 

I am thankful for the fellowship that we had during those 3 days. Thank God for good weather so that we could record the music videos. Finally, I pray that I will stand firm in the Lord and not be influenced by the world in the days ahead.

Gabriel Teo

Thank God my brothers and I could join this youth retreat to study God’s Word with the youths in Gethsemane. I have learnt a lot about the importance of laying a firm foundation in our spiritual lives, from the messages preached by Pastor Koshy and Pr Cornelius during the retreat.

Steffi Tan

Thank God for the blessed time of learning and fellowship at the youth camp! Thank God for sustaining & enabling Pastor Koshy, Pr Cornelius, the YF Committee, the Auxiliary Committee, as well as the young adult helpers to plan for and organise this camp.

As I stand on the threshold of 2023 and consider my plans for the new year, the camp messages are a much-needed reminder to align myself with God’s will & obey it. Walking the “strait and narrow” path presupposes that our lives are built on a firm foundation. Having Christ, the solid Rock, as our foundation goes beyond understanding basic doctrines. Our faith must lead to a knowledge of and obedience to God’s will. We must be loving & cheerful in our service, desiring for others to benefit. Indeed, this is a high calling, but God has promised us victory over our struggles and trials. Thus, we must endure. I realise that as a student at University, I am first a student of Christ. None of my physical achievements will contribute to my spiritual growth; I must not forget this, especially when I face the temptation to chase after worldly accolades and neglect spiritual duties. 

I pray that these lessons learnt in camp will be remembered and applied by me and all the youths. May we have a dogged persistence in fixing our eyes on Christ and resisting the distractions of the world.

Hannah Wong

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7). I thank the Lord for enabling and providing for my siblings and me to attend the GYF retreat at Sinar Eco Resort. I have learnt much from the 5 theme messages preached by Pastor and Pr Cornelius on the theme, “Laying a Firm Foundation”. One of the lessons learned during the retreat was that we ought to walk as overcomers and victors, not to be weary in well doing or give in to weariness. Even as Christ who had “endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2), we also must endure to the very end - to be more than conquerors.

Praise God also for the GYF Committee and the Auxiliary Committee for their planning in making this retreat possible, and for their unity in Christ, despite certain changes in some of the events. I am very thankful for the blessed time of learning God’s Word, the fellowship with friends and brethren from other churches, as well as the safety for all participants. Thank God also for the opportunity to get close to nature (God’s wonderful creation), and away from the city! 

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God” (Ephesians 3:17-19).

Andrew Lee

Thank God for the messages which made me reflect on the need to build a strong foundation before trying to understand doctrines and build up my faith, which would be easily shaken otherwise. We had good fellowship and enjoyable activities at the farm resort, such as playing with the chickens. Pr Cornelius reminded us that they, together with the other animals, are God’s creation over which man is given dominion.

Nehemiah dela Cruz

I would like to thank God for the bountiful blessings that He has showered upon me, especially in letting me attend GYF Retreat 2022. I thank God for the safe travel and good health He has granted us in and out of Singapore / Malaysia. Thank God for some key spiritual lessons I have gathered from this retreat.

Firstly, I learnt that we need to have a firm foundation in our Saviour and His Word, and that we have to constantly build upon His Word to bear forth much fruit. Secondly, we have to walk closely with our Saviour and have charity. Thirdly, we must have the willingness to accept challenges, evangelise, give and live as a Christian. I also learnt we have to strive to achieve the goals that Jesus has set for us, so as to be victorious over the world and Satan. Lastly, I learnt that we should be firmly rooted in our faith, so that we will not crumble under the pressures of this world.

Truly, I am very thankful for this retreat, and may the Lord continue to sustain and preserve us in our walk with Him.

Grace Ho

A 3-day spiritual retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, packed with rich biblical lessons on “Laying a Firm Foundation”, is truly something I praise the Almighty Lord for! Thank God for Pastor Koshy and Pr Cornelius, who were the speakers for the theme messages and workshops! The theme messages were instructive, and taught me on various ways to build a firm and strong foundation amid the shaky, treacherous worldly surroundings about us. I learnt much about Christian values, such as obedience, humility, willingness, and endurance, just to name a few. 

One specific theme message that spoke stirringly to me was on the topic, “Willingness, Cheerfulness”. Through the various texts expounded on, I realise the need to demonstrate willingness in different ways, such as through evangelism and cheerful giving. Willingness in the Christian life should go beyond just a lack of resistance, and instead moving forward to experiencing great joy when the LORD’s purposes are fulfilled, which should also resonate with ours, as God’s desire must be our desire too. Thank God also for the two respective workshops on “BGR” and “Ambitions and Contentment”, something new and fresh to me in the retreat. I thank God for Pastor and Pr Cornelius who answered our numerous questions, thus enabling me to glean new truths. 

Thank God for the GYF Committee, Auxiliary Committee, young adults and all others who helped in the smooth running of the retreat. Praise the Lord for good and timely weather, even the cool and refreshing rain! “The LORD is good to all: and his tender mercies are over all his works” (Psalm 145:9). May we youths always remember all such God-given spiritual refreshment, and apply what we have learnt to our lives. All glory be to God!

Lorraine Yong

I would like to thank God for letting me join the youth retreat this year. Thank God for Pastor and Pr Cornelius’s preaching on the theme, ‘Laying a Firm Foundation’, and for giving them the wisdom and strength to expound God’s Word to the youths. Through the messages, I have learnt to trust in the Lord without wavering, no matter what obstacles may come our way. Pray that all the youths will apply the lessons they have learnt from this retreat in their lives, and be a good testimony to others. Also, thank God for the time of fellowship with other youths and for helping me make new friends there. Praise the Lord!

Jored Ballega

Thank God for enabling my family and me to join the GYF Retreat! Indeed, it is a gift I received before the year ends. It serves as a spiritual refreshment and revival for me to be more responsible in my Christian life. As a young youth, I realise that I ought to be grounded and rooted in all the doctrines and truths of God’s Word, and that I should lay a deep and firm foundation through Christ. 

My prayer is that the 10 virtues (faith, knowledge, obedience, humility, love, service, willingness, cheerfulness, endurance, and hope) which I have learnt during the youth retreat shall take root and grow in my heart, so that I would be a wise youth as I walk closely with the Lord. I learnt that I should also be mindful of the worldly things that can hinder us in building on this foundation. I pray that every youth would be committed to these virtues in their hearts so that we may be grounded and rooted in Christ, and that we may not waver from the truth. The blessed 3-day programme was fully packed with spiritual feasting of biblical and practical lessons from the Bible, physical feasting of the tasty food, making new friends, and having a wonderful time of fellowship. Thank God for the blissful experience of interaction with nature and meditating on God’s Word. 

I thank God for blessing the GYF Committee and the Auxiliary Committee with strength and spiritual knowledge in planning and executing all the camp programme. Likewise, thank God for the provision of a peaceful resort, with kind staff who happily served us good food and assisted us in using all available amenities. Moreover, thank God for granting good health, wisdom and knowledge to Pastor Koshy and Pr Cornelius, as they both faithfully expound God’s Word to us. All glory and praise be to God.

Mehetabel Lim

I thank God for the opportunity to attend the youth retreat 2022. I thank God for Pastor and Pr Cornelius, who took time to prepare the sermons to be preached. I thank God for granting me many lessons that I could learn from the messages. 

Firstly, I have learnt that we cannot just listen to God’s Word being preached, and do nothing about our lives. Secondly, I learnt that we must build up our knowledge on God’s will for us and act on God’s will for us. Lastly, I learnt that we must not reject God, no matter how God tests us or how difficult our life may be. I pray that I will be able to know God’s will for me, to do it with submission, readiness and willingness! I also pray that I will be an obedient Christian. All glory be to God!

Gan Chien Huey

“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10).

All praise and thanks be to God for the blessed time of studying God’s Word in the GYF Retreat 2022. The messages were a timely reminder that we must lay a firm foundation on God’s Word. Not only must we lay a firm foundation, but we also must endure and build on this foundation, so that Christ may be glorified. 

Thank God for the great comfort and counsel through the preaching of God’s Word. These are indeed perilous times, considering the corrupt environment our youths are living in. I praise God for the many youths who have grown in the Lord, and were seen serving Him in many ways during this retreat. It was also a great joy to see the then young youths growing into older youths and taking on the responsibility of caring for the younger ones in our midst. 

The Lord has been truly good to provide all who have laboured in the preparation and running of this youth retreat. May the Lord’s name be greatly and continually praised. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Raymond Lee

I was born in an idol-worshipping family. Since young, I had believed in idols to protect and prosper me.  When I was in Secondary 3, a classmate shared the Gospel of Jesus Christ with me during Christmas period.  But I got a bad impression about Christians because of his overbearing manner in convincing me to accept Christ and his over-aggressive condemning of all other faiths. 

When I went for NS pre-enlistment medical check-up in 1979, I found out I had kidney problems. The doctor warned me that it could lead to kidney failure and death even at a young age. I was fearful and began actively worshipping idols to seek health and peace. However, I did not find peace and the fear of death still plagued me for many years, even after my marriage with Carrie. 

Thank God for His mercy for not forsaking me. My sister-in-law Peggy and her husband Stephen had been bringing our two older kids to attend Sunday School in Calvary Tengah in the late 1990s. This had led me to learn more about Christ when we occasionally visited the church. Gradually, I found peace in Christ through reading of His Word and I began attending worship/fellowship meetings regularly. During one of their family worship meetings, I uttered the sinner’s prayer in acknowledging Jesus Christ as my Saviour who died on the cross and shed His blood to wash away all my sins. I found peace and cast all my burdens unto Him as He has answered my prayers to heal my second daughter Sheryl from urinal tract infection. “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11: 28-30). Our family was baptised in 2001 during Calvary Tengah’s church anniversary worship service. Though we left Calvary Tengah subsequently and joined Calvary Pandan to worship God in 2015, we still continued prayerfully seeking for a church to settle in.

By God’s providence, I had first joined GBPC activities when I started to attend the Wednesday lunch time Bible Study at Hong Lim Complex in 2017. My wife Carrie and I participated in GBPC’s Bible Study Tour to Turkey/Israel in 2018, and we also attended GBPC worship services from time to time. Starting this year, we have been attending GBPC worship services regularly. We were blessed both from the faithful preaching of God’s Word by Pastor Koshy and the preachers, as well as the warm fellowship extended to us by the brethren. We are also encouraged by the Gethsemaneans’ giving and support to the many mission churches overseas.  I look forward to joining GBPC with my wife; my prayer is that we can grow and serve the Lord together with fellow brethren in the church. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord” (Romans 12:10-11). All honour and glory unto our living God! 

Carrie Lim

I came from an idol-worshipping family. My dad was a medium and the altar table was filled with idols. Those idols made me fearful. 

When I was in secondary school, I was invited by my classmates to join them in their Christian youth fellowship. But I was not comfortable when they started to speak in tongues, so I stopped attending. My eldest sister is the first Christian in my family. On my 18th birthday, she presented me a Bible. I tried reading it, but found it dry and uninteresting. So, I chucked it aside and never touched it anymore. 

It was not until I got married and have children that I started to visit church again. Every Sunday, my elder sister would bring my two older kids to Calvary Tengah for Sunday School, and my husband and I would visit the church occasionally. I have heard the Gospel numerous times. During a church family worship in 2000, I was touched by the Holy Spirit and uttered the sinner’s prayer. My family got baptised in 2001 in Calvary Tengah. When Tengah started a Chinese service, my husband and I served there as we were more comfortable and fluent in Mandarin. I also served as a part-time church administrator, editing articles and translating them into Chinese. 

By God’s divine will and purpose, in 2015, my husband and I, together with our 2 daughters, were led to Calvary Pandan, where my youngest daughter became a member subsequently. Meanwhile, my son, Sean, came to Gethsemane BP church and became a member here. My husband and I have also started visiting Gethsemane occasionally and taking part in its activities (like church camp, fellowship meetings and Bible Land trip). I realised this is the church that God has led me to serve – I pray that God will mould me to be a vessel fit for the Master’s use. All glory to God!

Rance Laurencio

From young, I have been actively following my parents to church, and would think carefully over the messages for my understanding. Despite all the preaching I’ve received and trying to follow my parents’ instructions, I have always been rebellious in my heart. It only became worse with my constant use of the internet. Over the years, I found myself clinging unto the devices and listening to worldly teachings. Gradually, I grew attuned to the worldly ways, and neglected my spiritual growth, even finding myself rejecting the Lord! However, I praise the Lord for His continuing and loving rebuking of me through His Word. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). I began questioning my ways in the eyes of the Lord. Realising how sinful I am, I asked the Lord to forgive me and to help me not to sin again, and I accepted Jesus Christ as my only Lord and Saviour, knowing how He suffered on the cross and died a painful death to cleanse me from all my sins. 

With the help of Preacher Cornelius (during youth visitations), with spiritual guidance by Elder Choy and Elder Francis (in catechism class), and of course our Pastor Koshy (in his sermons), I pray that I may continue to grow spiritually towards maturity in Christ. I also pray that I will continue to read God’s Word, as 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness”. Praise be unto God.

Elaine Laurencio

Last year, after attending my first youth fellowship, I realised that, according to Romans 3:10 and Romans 3:23, we are all sinners. So, I repented and accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. Once I received Christ, I finally understood what it means to be a Christian. A Christian is someone whose behaviour and heart reflect Jesus Christ. I began to learn to obey my parents, to dress modestly (according to the biblical standard), to have patience, and so much more. I thank God for giving me the wisdom to read and understand His Word, so that I could apply it in my daily life.

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Report from Gethsemane BPC, Pangasinan

Pastor Donald dela Cruz of Gethsemane B-P Church, Pangasinan, the Philippines, reports on the joyful news of 13 new believers being prepared for baptism.

Dear Pastor Koshy,

I praise the Lord for helping the catechumens to finish their catechism class last Lord’s day. Next week, an interview will be held to examine whether they have repented of their sins and trusted Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord. I also gave them the assignment to memorise the five points of Calvinism (“TULIP”) and to give a brief explanation of each point. Out of the 15 catechumens (2 catechumens could not complete their catechism classes), 13 will be baptised during the Christmas service. Besides, there will also be an infant baptism and an addition of 4 brethren to the church through membership transfers.

 I praise the Lord for bringing people to worship the Lord every Lord’s day. Currently, we are learning about the parables of Jesus Christ. Though the messages encourage the brethren who follow the Lord faithfully, they are a rebuke to the rebellious ones. Sadly, several brethren had stopped coming to church, offended by the messages, for they’d rather choose the path of unrighteousness instead of laying aside their sinful habits. Certain others rather work on Sundays, instead of worshipping the Lord. May the Lord touch their hearts to return to His fold.

Praise the Lord for bringing back Sis Cecile on vacation. She attended the worship service and prayer meeting here, and had fellowship together with the brethren. The husband of Sis Margie is also here on vacation from Taiwan. Thank God for granting them the opportunity to visit their homes and share God’s Word.

Occasional visits to mission stations are essential for various reasons. The revisitation of newly-established churches by the apostles and their co-labourers was frequent, with several such instances recorded in the Book of Acts and the epistles. For example, in Acts 15:36, we read, “And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do” (cf. Phil. 2:24).

The Necessity for Revisits of Mission Stations

What motivated the apostles and their co-labourers to revisit brethren in every city where they had previously ministered God’s Word? Three major motivations for the apostolic revisiting of mission stations are briefly observed below:

Firstly, the apostles’ loving concern for the new churches compelled them to revisit the mission fields – “Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do” (Acts 15:36). We note that the apostle Paul told the Philippian church that he was stirred by the love of Christ to visit them - “For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ” (Phil.1:8). Likewise, he told the Thessalonians, “But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire” (1 Thess. 2:17). Furthermore, in 2 Cor. 11:28, Paul wrote to the Corinthians about his deep concern for them – “Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches.

Biblical evangelistic work requires us to have a sense of responsibility for the Gospel missions we have begun. To be effective and faithful in our Gospel missions, we must be mindful of maintaining and expressing love and care for the churches in our mission fields.

Secondly, such apostolic revisits were also motivated by a desire to nurture the new churches by teaching sound doctrines of God’s Word. Like concerned parents for their children’s nurture, the apostles desired to provide sound teaching for young and immature believers in the mission churches through their revisits. Equipping the saints for the ministry was impossible without returning to the mission fields. Paul wrote to the church in Rome, “For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established” (Rom 1:11). He wanted to minister to the church in Rome with the spiritual gifts that he was divinely empowered with, such as preaching, teaching, correcting, exhorting, comforting, praying, guiding and so on. Paul wanted to impart his spiritual blessings to the Romans in order to establish and edify them. He wanted those spiritual brothers and sisters “to grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ” (Eph. 4:15).

Thirdly, the apostles were also committed to advising and warning the leaders and workers of the churches they revisited that they may diligently and faithfully oversee the churches. While passing through Miletus, Paul “sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church. And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews: and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house … For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified” (Acts 20:17-32).

Paul’s love and concern for the church in Ephesus compelled him to meet with and encourage its leaders. Those elders and their leadership duties were very dear to Paul’s heart. He gave them appropriate warnings and encouragement to guard the flock against evil men who infiltrated the church.

More reasons can be gleaned from the Scriptures concerning the necessity for revisiting the mission churches. Such other reasons include confirming the souls of the disciples (Acts 14:21-22), ordaining elders (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5), putting things in order in the churches (Acts 14:23; 1 Cor. 11:34), correcting and chastising (1 Cor. 4:21; 3 Jn 10), bringing the collection to help those who need material or financial aid (1 Cor. 16:3-4), being a Gospel blessing among the believers (Rom. 15:29), etc.

Gethsemane BPC’s preachers and elders visit our mission fields (on occasion, they lead small-group mission trips and conduct short retreats, conferences, and children’s programmes) to encourage and strengthen our brethren. God willing, Eld Mah Chin Kwang will lead a Pangasinan-bound team to minister to the brethren in our mission church in February 2023. Let us pray that we will be a zealous church, establishing and nourishing Gospel missions globally.

Nathanael Chung (Kuching)

I am thankful that I was able to attend the BW Retreat this year, especially with my exams being the very next week after the retreat. However, I learned to put my full trust in God that He will help me perform well, despite giving up a few days’ worth of revision so as to learn His Word. I was already aware that repentance is of significance to the life of a true Christian. However, the emphatic teaching that Christianity without repentance is like “a house without a base” drove home to me the importance of it even more. I am truly grateful to God that He has blessed Pastor Koshy to be able to preach so clearly to us. I pray that God will continue to help me keep the lessons I have learned in my mind at all times, so that I may be a better servant to Him.

Carolyn Koshy

I thank God for His provision, that my family can be in Kuching to attend the first BW Retreat held outside Singapore after several years of Covid restrictions. Many precious lessons have I learnt from the theme, “The Doctrine of Repentance”, of which I will only dish out some very important portions expounded by Pastor that have blessed my physical and spiritual well-being.

2 Chronicles 7:14 defines what repentance is – “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” Repentance is acknowledgment and confession of our sins, as we also understand from Psalm 32:5 – “I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin.” We must then forsake our sins like the psalmist who said in Psalm 18:23, “… I kept myself from mine iniquity.”

Genuine repentance will bring forth “fruits worthy of repentance”, or else as Jesus warned, “the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire” (Luke 3:8-9). Genuine repentance will also propel us to do the will of the Father (cf. Matthew 21:28-31).

Proverbs 28:13 warns those who do not repent: “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Reluctance to repent brings divine chastisement, as Psalm 32:3-4 tell us: “When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long. For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer.” Psalm 38:3 illustrates the agony of unrepentant sins – “There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin.”

God’s children have to recognise sins and their defilement, and the need to constantly repent as Paul has written, “For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin … O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14, 24-25).

God promises great blessings to His repentant children - “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:19)!

A Pleasant Surprise for Gethsemane BPC, Cebu, the Philippines

Last Thursday (22nd Sept), the following email from Pastor Reggor Galarpe arrived, informing us of an unexpected provision of a vehicle for the church in Cebu. “Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen” (Ephesians 3:20-21).

Dear Pastor Koshy,

Greetings to you in our Lord’s most blessed Name! With much thanks to our Lord, I would like to share our joy for the Lord’s provision upon the church.

Around lunchtime today, a sales agent from Hyundai knocked on our door to inform us of a delivery of a brand new van, addressed to Gethsemane BPC-Cebu in the care of my name. Initially, I was shocked and suspicious, knowing of the many scams around. But the agent showed me all the documents, even the official receipt that proved it’s fully paid for (PHP 1,315,000.00). It so happened that Eld. Eliezer was around as he had class at GBI that day. I asked him to come down, and together, we received the unit and listened to the agent as he oriented us with the vehicle’s features.

We tried to ask the agent who paid for the purchase, but he said he didn’t know as his manager only told him to deliver the unit. We will try to check with their office, so that we can acknowledge and convey our thanks to this “mysterious” generous person!

But one thing I’m sure of, is that it is the Lord’s provision! Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!

Respectfully yours,
Rev. Reggor

Isabel Ng

“And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not” (Jonah 3:10). 

I thank God for teaching me “The Doctrine of Repentance”, from His Word through Pastor Koshy during the recent Bible Witness Retreat. True repentance is turning from sin towards God in faith, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. 

One excellent example from the Bible was the godly response of the people of Nineveh when Jonah eventually preached to them about their wickedness against God, and God’s threat to punish them should they not repent. Many Christians pray about their sins, but few take immediate actions to stop their sins. I learnt that repentance is not a sad or remorse feeling towards sins. King Herod in Mark 6:22-26 was “exceeding sorry”, yet “he would not reject her (Herodias’ daughter)” concerning her wicked request to execute John the Baptist. The rich young ruler was also “very sorrowful” (Luke 18:24) that he had to give up his enormous wealth in order to get eternal life, which proved too much for him to obey. This is the “sorrow of the world (that) worketh death” (2 Corinthians 7:10b), the exact opposite of “godly sorrow (that) worketh repentance to salvation” (2 Corinthians 7:10a). 

If we say we want to repent, we must cease from sinning and turn to God. It involves a change of mind, attitude and actual actions to break off (or mortify) sins. Mere conviction in one’s heart or confession of sins is not repentance. Our promise or prayer to God to stop sinning without fulfilling them is a very deceitful thing. True faith bringeth about obedience, so repentance without fruits of repentance is dead repentance. God’s Word has made me aware that confessions of sins (which I do so frequently) are only precursors to true repentance. If we, as true believers, say that “obedience is the very best way to show that you believe”, then we must also affirm that “departing from sin is the very best way to show that you repent”. As Pastor reminded us several times during the retreat, “repentance is permanent business of your hearts” and “a Christian’s life is a life of repentance”. May God help me to repent always, sincerely and rightly, till I reach heaven’s shore.

Chong Wing Keong

By God’s providence and loving kindness, the 21st Bible Witness Retreat at Kuching on “The Doctrine of Repentance” was accompanied with much spiritual refreshing and awakening. 

Full knowledge of repentance is essential to true Christianity. Jesus Christ Himself has said that if we do not repent, we will perish. Biblical repentance is an easily misunderstood and misapplied concept that warrants close examination. It is vital therefore to study and know what the Scriptures have to say about repentance.

During the retreat, the participants were truly blessed by the Lord through Pastor Koshy’s teaching, whereby seven messages on repentance were presented in a very systematic and comprehensive way. The 3-day retreat also provided a blessed time of fellowship among the brethren, both from Singapore and Kuching.

All praise be to God for the faithful labour of both the teacher and crew members of the retreat.

Chong Lian Neo

As a homemaker, I endeavour daily to sweep the floor of my house clean of its dust and filth to make it habitable. So, likewise, a believer daily needs to remove the sinful thoughts, unwholesome feelings from his heart. Sins of omission and commission are to be got rid of as well. This can only be done through sincere confessions to our good Lord, Jesus Christ, for He alone can help us to leave sin and live obediently. This is called repentance. Daily, the individual believer needs to guard his heart zealously, not to repeat his sins. This is a major takeaway from the retreat.

Alongside the retreat, I especially enjoyed the warm Christian fellowship that the three days had afforded, as Covid-19 had limited our interactions prior to it.

It was indeed refreshing to be able to stroll leisurely down the River Sarawak to behold its placid waters and nature’s glory that surrounds it. Further ahead was the famous Chinatown, where I enjoyed purchasing local products and watching hawkers ply their trades, especially cooking up delicious local cuisines.

This “getaway” in Kuching to study God’s Word under the tutelage of our beloved pastor is a revitalising experience, which I hope will continue biannually, God willing.

Marcus Chee

Praise and thank God for a blessed time of Bible Witness Retreat! Thank God for His marvellous mercy in allowing us (my wife and I) to attend the retreat and for the precious lessons learnt on “The Doctrine of Repentance”. Through this Bible Witness Retreat, we learnt that repentance involves the acknowledgment, confession, and forsaking of our sins. We also realise what repentance is not, and that it should not be merely lip service or simply feeling sorry for the sins we have committed. Repentance must be derived from a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17), and should cause a real godly change in our lives - towards more holiness and sanctity. We finally would like to thank God for the opportunity to fellowship with like-minded brethren in Christ, especially with the brethren from Kuching. Praise be to God!

Doreen Ng

I am very thankful for the spiritual feeding I have received from the 21st Bible Witness Retreat. The messages have helped me to further appreciate Gospel repentance. Gospel repentance is “repentance unto life”, because the new mind is not merely to depart from evil, but to obtain the life that is found in Christ. Repentance is not merely sorrow for sin. There are many who weep over sin but, without repentance, immediately return to the same sin. Repentance is a change of mind that leads to a changed attitude towards sin, with subsequently a change of conduct, and thereby not going back again to the same sin. Judas Iscariot and Esau showed sorrow for their sins, but they did not repent. Remorse and tears often accompany repentance, but they are not repentance in themselves. Repentance is accompanied by change of conduct, just like the boy mentioned in Jesus’ parable in Matt 21:28-32, who at first refused to work in the vineyard. But he later repented, changed his mind, and then went to work in the vineyard. 

Jesus’ first sermon after His baptism and testing in the wilderness was on repentance. All need to repent because all are guilty in God’s sight. Repentance comes before believing (Mark 1:15), before forgiveness (Luke 24:47), and before conversion (Acts 3:19). Repentance is a revolution touching our intellect, emotions, and affecting our will. Repentance is a twofold act: (1) turning from sin, and (2) turning unto God. Turning from sin without turning to God is reformation without regeneration. To receive all spiritual blessings (Eph 1:3), the redeemed sinner should never cease to be penitent.

Dns Diana Chan

I thank God for a very blessed and refreshing 21st Bible Witness Retreat, on “The Doctrine of Repentance”, held from Sept 6-8, 2022, in Kuching.

Thank God for the fellowship and the warm Christian hospitality from Bro. Jeremy Teo, Sis. Niki and their children, as well as Bro. Simon Chung, Sis. Fiona and their children. What a joy to see the youths in Kuching serving together (in the music, logistics and AV ministries) with the brethren from Singapore. Praise the Lord for the blessed opportunity! I also thank God for Dn Lok for coordinating the Retreat, and for Sis Rachel Leong for teaching the children.

I praise God for the spiritual nourishment from God’s Word on “The Doctrine of Repentance”. Thank God for Pastor who expounded this doctrine in great depth and breadth. I have benefited from the many valuable lessons on: ‘What Repentance is Not’, ‘What Repentance is’, ‘Necessity of Repentance in a Christian’s Life’, and ‘Blessings from Repentance’. I learned that I must “acknowledge my sin” unto God (cf. Psalm 32:5); that I must confess my sin and “declare mine iniquity” (cf. Psalm 38:18); and that I must forsake sin and “[keep] myself from mine iniquity” (cf. Psalm 18:23). 

Regarding the application of this key doctrine of “repentance”, I realise that even with all my remorse and admission of sin, ultimately, there must be a change in my life. My thoughts, actions, behaviour must change. My life must glorify Christ! In brief, when we repent, there must be a “turn away” from sin, and a “turn towards” Christ. “Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way” (Psalm 119:37).

May the Lord help us to cease from sin, and live a life that is holy and acceptable unto God. 

Lim Hong Kim

I thank God for Pastor Koshy’s faithful exhortations, and Dn Lok’s labour of love, together with the rest of the brethren’s service, for making this Retreat a wonderful spiritual experience. Beng Kheng and myself enjoyed the blessed fellowship. We always look forward to BW Retreats. Once again thank you.

Wilson Low

I thank the Lord for Dn Lok’s faithfulness in the recent Bible Witness Retreat. I have been blessed much by the messages, and rebuked by God’s precepts. May the grace of God abound as I live my life, which He has given me, to glorify His holy name. May the Lord of heaven bless both Pastor Koshy and Dn Lok richly, as they continue to serve the risen eternal Saviour and Lord, for His soon coming is so very near.

Simon Chung (Kuching)

I feel very thankful that the decision was made to hold the 21st BW Retreat here in Kuching, so that the brethren from Calvary Kuching BPC may attend it and have an excellent opportunity for fellowship with the brethren from GBPC, Singapore.

As a long-time Christian, I am not a stranger to the doctrine of repentance. However, my knowledge of it is rather sketchy and haphazard. My biggest takeaway from this Retreat was that I was able to learn Scripture’s comprehensive teaching about repentance. I was able to see it from a higher (that is, biblical) perspective. Thank God that each of the sermons was in-depth and thorough so that I could realign my messy thoughts in the light of Scripture, and revisit most of the relevant Scripture verses of both the Old and New Testaments on the topic of repentance.

It is never easy for Christians to live a holy and righteous life in this sinful world. “My sin”, as David said in Psalm 51:3, “is ever before me.” How I thank God that He forgives all who turn to Him in repentance through Jesus Christ. He shall deliver me from the body of this death through Jesus Christ our Lord. He shall renew me day by day. In Him, I am a new creature. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Amen.

Dominic Chung (Kuching)

Praise the Lord that I was able to join the 21st BW Retreat held here in Kuching. I thank God that I had a good fellowship with the brethren from GBPC, Singapore. I am thankful to be able to hear the messages about the topic of repentance, as I wasn’t clear about many aspects of it before. May God help me to understand the lessons and apply them to my daily life, as well as enable me to memorise the relevant Scripture verses and keep them in my heart so that I might not sin against God.

Jeremy Teo (Kuching)

Praise and thanks be to God for the 21st Bible Witness Retreat held recently (Sept 6-8) at the Pullman Hotel in Kuching. It is a biannual event of Bible Witness Media Ministry, of which my family and I have the privilege to attend in person for the very first time. I would like to thank Rev. Koshy and the BOE of Gethsemane B-P Church for their decision to hold the Retreat here in Kuching. It was really a blessed time of learning from the Word of God and of good Christian fellowship. 

Initially, I did not think that I could attend all the sermon sessions because of my job commitments, but thank God that He made a way for me, and things turned out well. The theme of the 7 sermons was on “The Doctrine of Repentance”. It is a topic that is very much neglected by the churches today, but also one that is needful for all to hear and obey, especially us who are believers in Christ. Thank God for Pastor Koshy’s love, wisdom and faithfulness in teaching us from the Word of God. Thank God also for Sis Rachel Leong for teaching the young children. 

Thank God for Dn Lok for his labour of love, humility and faithfulness in organising the Retreat and managing many tasks. Thank God for all the brethren who have joined this Retreat to draw nigh to God and His people. Participants from Singapore are an encouragement to us. It is never easy to travel overseas, especially in a large group. Truly, thank God for the elderly folks and those who came with their little ones to join this Retreat in spite of the many difficulties and inconveniences they faced – I’m most touched by their exemplary dedication to God. 

Our Lord is good, His mercy endureth forever to His people. When we seek Him and His truth, He will provide a way. When we draw nigh to Him sincerely, with true repentance, He will surely draw nigh to us. All praise and glory to His blessed name, now and forevermore.