Whenever we think about how Tree of Life Christian Church has come to take part in gospel work in a country in South Asia, we still find it almost unbelievable. We are not a large, wealthy church, nor do we have any members that is from this part of the world. How, then, did we become connected with the gospel ministry in that region? Thanks be to the Lord! Through His marvelous guidance, and by the recommendation of Pastor Andrew, we came to know several pastors who have devoted their lives to gospel work in here, labouring faithfully over many years. We were deeply moved by their selfless dedication and their earnest commitment to proclaiming the gospel. Hearing how many people in those regions are still in need of the gospel and gospel workers, we prayed and eagerly desired to be involved in this ministry. At present, our church’s participation is mainly through financial support for these pastors and their mission fields. But we began to ask: how can we better contribute to this gospel endeavor?
The purpose of the church committee’s trip to this region in September was not only to personally understand the local gospel work and church conditions—to ensure that our financial support is indeed helping the ministry effectively—but also to explore how we might offer more practical help beyond finances. This journey proved to be one where “seeing is believing.” First, we had the precious opportunity to meet and fellowship with the pastors we have been supporting. As we listened to their testimonies, we learned that some had come to faith at the risk of being disowned by their families, losing all their possessions, or even facing death. Yet they did not abandon their faith because of persecution. Instead, their resolve to spread the gospel in their homeland only grew stronger, leading them to commit themselves to full-time ministry. Their passion for the Lord is not a passing emotion but a zeal proven and refined over more than a decade. Supporting such gospel workers is truly a gift of grace from God.
During the trip, we also visited a local church, worshiped together with the believers, and visited some members and seekers in need. The church we visited was in a small town. Our arrival brought great excitement, especially among the children, who even prepared special programs to welcome us. Just as we had never imagined becoming involved in gospel work in this part of the world, they too never expected that Christians thousands of kilometers away in Singapore would care about their small church in such a remote area. Although we could not speak the local language and could communicate only with a few English-speaking members, we were deeply touched by the church’s warm hospitality and genuine love. During our fellowship with their church leaders, we came to see that this was a vibrant and lively church. Over more than ten years, it had gradually grown and established a good testimony in the community. The church actively participates in community outreach, especially in children education, and lead people to Christ though visitation and occasionally evangelistic meetings. This does not mean that gospel work there is easy—many obstacles remain—but we thank God that the pastor and leaders work together with unity, vision, and strategy. They boldly “ask great things of God and attempt great things for God.” One of their prayers has been to purchase land and build their own church building, so that their ministry can be more stable and effective. The church has been praying about this for many years. Praise the Lord—He has heard their prayers! The very land now designated for the new church is the same piece they prayed for years ago. Seeing prayer being answered step by step, we give all glory to God! With Him, nothing is impossible, and He fulfills everything in His perfect time. The members of that church are not merely relying on outside help to raise funds for construction; each one gives according to their ability. We saw believers who live in modest conditions giving willingly and joyfully—a true testimony of great faith. We thank the Lord for the blessing of partnering with this church and its brothers and sisters in gospel work.
This trip allowed our church committee to witness firsthand the needs of this mission field. We are grateful for God’s wonderful leading in bringing Tree of Life Christian Church into this ministry. Beyond financial support, the pastors and churches there need deeper nourishment in God’s Word. Although the internet makes Bible study resources more accessible, sound and systematic Bible teaching and theological training remain scarce. We thank God that Pastor Andrew’s training sessions for the local pastors have been a great help to them. One pastor also shared their need for training in church music —to organise choirs and improve worship—and for help in conducting student holiday camps where Christian faith can be shared. These are very practical areas where members from Tree of Life can get involved. We thank all who have been praying for us. The Lord’s protection was evident throughout our journey. Please continue to pray for the gospel work in this region, that together, with one heart and one mind, we may advance the gospel! (Philippians 1:5)