The Peninsular Malaysia Mission (PEM) successfully conducted its Second Bible Study Training and Graduation from May 24 to 25, 2025, under the theme “Disciple-Making Evangelism – Fishers of Men.” Organized by the PEM Personal Ministries Department, the event was held at the PEM Headquarters in Kuchai Business Center, Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with the General Conference, Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM), and the PEM Sabbath School & Personal Ministries Department.
A total of sixty-five participants from across all PEM territories attended the event. These participants, consisting of lay leaders and church members, shared a common goal—to deepen their involvement in Bible study ministry and disciple-making evangelism.
Graduation was recognized under three categories:
- Category 1: Six participants who completed last year’s Bible Study Training and fulfilled their assignments by conducting Bible studies in their local churches.
- Category 2: Eighteen participants who were trained by their local church pastors and successfully conducted Bible studies for new interests.
- Category 3: Eleven participants who actively gave Bible studies to new students in their churches and were acknowledged for their commitment.
The purpose of the training was to equip lay members with practical skills to lead effective Bible studies and to inspire greater participation in disciple-making, following the GROW model. The sessions highlighted the importance of outreach as part of the global church’s Total Member Involvement (TMI) initiative.
A key highlight of the event was the presence of Pastor Daniel Ebenezer, Associate Director for Sabbath School and Personal Ministries at the General Conference. Pastor Ebenezer facilitated several hands-on training sessions and delivered the Sabbath sermon at Petaling Jaya Seventh-day Adventist English Church (PJEC), where he strongly emphasized the biblical call for every member to be a disciple-maker. He also introduced a comprehensive workbook offering step-by-step guidance through the GROW Cycle of Evangelism.
The workshops covered a range of practical topics and techniques for effective Bible sharing, thoughtfully tailored to the needs of local lay leaders.
The success of the training was made possible through the collaborative leadership of:
- Madam Rozelene Gulon, MAUM Sabbath School and Personal Ministries Director
- Pr. Robert J. Agustin, PEM Personal Ministries Director
- Pr. Ben Foo, PEM Sabbath School Director
Their efforts were further supported by the excellent coordination and service of Ms. Tan Hui Ying, which contributed significantly to the smooth and meaningful execution of the program.
As the training concluded, participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow in ministry. Many testified that the training enhanced their confidence, sharpened their skills, and inspired them to lead Bible studies more effectively in their communities. While the training was seen as comprehensive, participants also voiced a strong desire for more frequent and advanced training opportunities in the future. This event reaffirmed PEM’s commitment to empowering lay members for frontline Bible study ministry and to cultivating a culture of disciple-making throughout the region.
Reported by Pastor Robert J. Agustin, Peninsular Malaysia Mission, Personal Ministries Department
3 July 2025, Thursday.