St James' Church

School is over for the day. It needed a 30-minute bus ride and a 15 minute walk to get to the church. In the heat of noontime, and carrying that heavy school bag, I was all hot and sweaty by the time I arrived. We met under a shady tree. There my youth pastor, Philip, took us through a follow-up Bible Study material. It comprises some questions and the answers come from Bible verses, in the Authorised King James Version, of course. Some Scripture verses have to be memorised. I can still remember how I have to commit Hebrews 10:24, 25 to memory. The basics of my new found Christian faith were explained to me. I was taught how to pray aloud. I asked questions and found helpful answers. I looked forward to every session. I was eager to grow as a new Christian. 

Pas Philip became a friend and guide as I grew steadily and enthusiastically as a Sec 1 boy. The ‘brothers’ I shared the Bible Study with also became my friends. I also began to read Christian books which were also a source of growth for me. I attended the weekly youth meetings and enjoyed the exuberant worship (it was loud), inspiring preaching and the company of new found Christian friends.

I was growing as a disciple of Christ and blessed to have many avenues which encouraged me to do so.

Over the years, I have observed that most are not as blessed as I was. Some are left to grow on their own and receive very little personal and systematic attention to the many questions they have about Christian faith and living. They may have some Christian friends and a Cell to attend, but that is about it.

Intentional personal discipling is very much dependent on the commitment of individuals. It helps that the church gives emphasis to it for mutual encouragement, consistency of passion and provide standard materials to facilitate. A programme also helps the proccess to be more organised, structured or systematic. However, it will eventually work because we are committed to each other’s growth. And when more of us do it regularly enough, it becomes a part of our church life and culture. 

Our emphasis on discipleship or the discipling ministry during the next half of this year is to help each other to be involved in this. It is back to the basics. We don’t have many shady trees in SJC to repeat my early experience. But may there be many “Philips” who will care enough to make a difference.