Volume 47   Number 9                                                                       May 2005

The Lord recently blessed the work in the Philippines in a tremendous way by providing elders at the church in Macabebe. The Lord be praised for this work, for it is significant in many ways. One of the great things regarding this work is that it is a result of the labors of evangelists Roger Wanasen and Arsenio Wanasen. I believe this is worth noting and we are thankful to God for the efforts of these brethren.

At the request of the Filipino brethren, teaching on the need and work of elders has been highlighted these past 11 years. Many of the churches in the Philippines are rich with mature brothers with stable families and good spiritual foundations, and this has fueled their interest. Finally after many lessons, much study, and even more discussions an eldership has been appointed by Filipino evangelists who were sent out under the direction of Filipino elders. What a glorious thing!

It is my understanding the church at Macabebe is planning to send out their own evangelists (which they may have already done by now). It also is my understanding we are not very far away from having other elderships appointed among the churches on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. Again, what a glorious thing to see Christ’s plan for His church followed and the fruit seen! What a privilege it has been to help assist these dear brethren as they work to following the Lord’s plan for His churches. This is what it has all been about.

Yes, perhaps the Filipino brethren are still some years away from becoming more independent of outside influences and less dependant upon the continued financial help of American churches. But they are well on their way, and continuing to follow the Lord’s pattern is the way to do it.

May the Lord continue to bless our Filipino brethren as they strive to better understand and implement the Lord’s will for mature churches of Christ. And may He continue to help us as American brethren seek ways to better serve them. May Christ grant us all courage and conviction to continue to depend upon His Word and will. The Lord be praised, for something significant has indeed happened.