Date: 11 October 2026
Speaker: Rev. Dr. Lee Soo Tian
Occasion: Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM) Sunday
Scripture Passage: Philippians 4:1–9 (NIV)
Introduction
Rev. Dr. Lee Soo Tian reminded the congregation that forming faithful ministers of God is not like manufacturing a product in a factory. Spiritual formation is a lifelong process in which God shapes His servants from the inside out through prayer, relationships, challenges, disappointments, and everyday ministry.
Using the example of a medical graduate who continues learning through practical experience, Rev. Dr. Lee highlighted that graduating from seminary does not mean a minister is fully formed. Pastors and Christian workers continue to grow through the experiences, struggles, and grace of God encountered in ministry.
Although the sermon focused particularly on pastors and theological students, its message applies to every Christian who desires to serve God faithfully.
1. Stand Firm in the Lord and Pursue Unity
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:1–3
“Stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends.” — Philippians 4:1 (NIV)
Paul encouraged the Philippian believers to stand firm in the Lord despite external pressures and internal disagreements. He specifically appealed to Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.
Rev. Dr. Lee emphasized that church disagreements should not be dismissed as ordinary politics or personality clashes. Division weakens the witness of the Church, which is called to demonstrate the love and unity of Christ.
He also highlighted the importance of ecumenical cooperation through institutions such as Trinity Theological College (TTC), College Theological Malaysia (KTM), and Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM). Their history reflects the commitment of different Christian traditions to work together in theological education and ministry.
Although Christians may differ in worship styles, traditions, and theological perspectives, they can still be co-workers in the Gospel.
Supporting Scriptures:
Ephesians 4:4–6 — One body, one Spirit, one Lord, one faith, and one baptism.
John 17:20–23 — Jesus prayed that His followers would be one so that the world might believe in Him.
Philippians 4:2–3 — Paul urged Euodia and Syntyche toward unity and recognized their service in the Gospel.
Application: Instead of allowing disagreements to create hostility, Christians should practise humility, forgiveness, reconciliation, and mutual respect. We must learn to place the unity and mission of God's Kingdom above personal preferences and denominational pride.
2. Rejoice Always Because the Lord Is Near
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:4–5
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4 (NIV)
Rev. Dr. Lee acknowledged that rejoicing in every circumstance is not always easy. Christians experience disappointment when their plans fail, their efforts seem fruitless, or ministry does not produce the expected results.
Paul's instruction to rejoice was not an invitation to deny pain or rely on positive thinking. Rather, Christian joy is rooted in the assurance that the Lord is near.
Even when circumstances remain difficult, God's presence can bring comfort, courage, and hope. Psalm 145:18 reminds us that the Lord is near to those who call on Him in truth.
Supporting Scriptures:
Psalm 145:18 — The Lord is near to all who call on Him in truth.
Philippians 4:4–5 — Rejoice in the Lord and let gentleness be evident to all.
James 1:2–4 — Trials can develop perseverance and maturity.
Application: When disappointment or discouragement comes, we can acknowledge our struggles honestly while remembering God's faithfulness. Our joy does not depend entirely on favourable circumstances but on the presence of the Lord who sustains us.
3. Replace Anxiety with Prayer and Thanksgiving
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:6–7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6 (NIV)
Rev. Dr. Lee reminded the congregation that prayer is essential to a faithful Christian life. It is easy to become so occupied with church activities, meetings, responsibilities, and ministry tasks that we neglect our personal relationship with God.
Even those who serve God actively can become spiritually exhausted if they spend all their time working for Him without making time to be with Him.
Paul directs believers to bring every concern to God through prayer, petition, and thanksgiving. Prayer does not guarantee that every problem will disappear immediately, but it enables us to entrust our burdens to God and receive His sustaining grace.
Supporting Scriptures:
Philippians 4:6–7 — Prayer and thanksgiving lead us to experience God's peace.
Psalm 145:18 — God draws near to those who call upon Him.
Mark 3:13–15 — Jesus appointed the Twelve first to be with Him and then to be sent out.
1 Peter 5:7 — Cast all your anxiety on God because He cares for you.
Application: We should establish a regular rhythm of prayer, Scripture reading, silence, and solitude. Rather than filling every moment with activity, we need to create intentional space to listen to God and receive His guidance.
4. Be a Reservoir, Not a Canal
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (NIV)
Rev. Dr. Lee used the illustration of a reservoir and a canal to explain the importance of spiritual depth.
A canal allows water to flow through it, but it can run dry when its supply is cut off. A reservoir stores water and maintains a supply that can nourish others when needed.
Likewise, Christians who continually give their time, energy, and attention to others without nurturing their own spiritual lives risk becoming depleted. Ministry cannot be sustained by human strength and busyness alone.
Drawing on the spiritual insights of Evelyn Underhill and St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Rev. Dr. Lee highlighted the need for ministers to maintain their own spiritual health so that they can continue serving others faithfully.
Jesus' calling of the Twelve also demonstrates this principle: they were called first to be with Him before being sent out to preach and minister (Mark 3:13–15).
Supporting Scriptures:
Mark 3:13–15 — Jesus called the disciples to be with Him and to be sent out.
John 15:4–5 — Abiding in Christ is essential for bearing fruit.
Psalm 46:10 — Be still and know that God is God.
Philippians 4:6–7 — Prayer brings believers into the peace of God.
Application: We must not measure spiritual maturity only by how much work we accomplish. We should cultivate a deep relationship with God through daily prayer, quiet reflection, worship, and obedience. A spiritually nourished Christian is better equipped to encourage, serve, and care for others over the long term.
5. Renew the Mind and Practise God's Word
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:8–9
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” — Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
Paul concludes this passage by directing believers to focus their minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. He then calls them to put into practice what they have learned and received.
Rev. Dr. Lee's message points beyond academic knowledge or ministry competence. True spiritual formation involves a transformed mind, a faithful character, and a life that reflects Christ.
The purpose of Christian ministry is not merely to preach eloquently, organize activities, or manage church responsibilities. It is to live in such a way that people encounter the reality, love, and grace of God through us.
Supporting Scriptures:
Philippians 4:8–9 — Think about what is good and practise what is right.
Romans 12:2 — Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
James 1:22 — Be doers of the Word, not hearers only.
Matthew 5:16 — Let your light shine before others so that they may glorify the Father.
Application: We should examine what occupies our thoughts, how we speak to others, and whether our daily conduct reflects the teachings of Christ. Our lives should provide a consistent witness to the living God whom we proclaim.
Conclusion
Rev. Dr. Lee Soo Tian's message reminds us that faithful Christian ministry is formed through a lifelong process of spiritual growth. God shapes His servants through challenges, relationships, disappointments, prayer, and practical obedience.
Philippians 4:1–9 presents several essential practices for this journey: standing firm in the Lord, pursuing unity, rejoicing because God is near, bringing our anxieties to Him in prayer, cultivating spiritual depth, and putting His Word into practice.
The Church is called not to imitate a divided and anxious world, but to demonstrate the reconciling love of Christ. This begins when we allow God to transform our own hearts and relationships.
Whether we are pastors, ministry leaders, or members of a local congregation, we must remember that we cannot faithfully serve God for the long term without first learning to walk closely with Him.
Take-Home Message
Be united in Christ, rejoice in God's presence, deepen your life of prayer, and practise His Word. Be a reservoir rather than a canal—continually drawing spiritual strength from God so that you can faithfully serve and bless others.
Reflect and Discuss
1. Discuss the difference between a Kingdom mentality and a Church mentality. What are their practical implications?
A Church mentality can become overly focused on institutional interests, denominational boundaries, internal politics, or preserving familiar traditions. A Kingdom mentality places God's purposes first and seeks the unity, witness, and mission of the wider body of Christ.
How can our church work more collaboratively with Christians from other denominations?
What practical steps can we take to put God's Kingdom above personal preferences?
2. What does it mean to “be of the same mind in the Lord”? How can we practise it?
Being of the same mind in the Lord does not necessarily mean agreeing on every issue. It means allowing Christ's love, humility, forgiveness, and mission to guide our relationships.
How should we respond when disagreements arise within the church?
What can we do to pursue reconciliation rather than allowing conflict to deepen?
3. How can you regard a Christian brother or sister with a different opinion as a co-worker in Christ?
Philippians 4:3 reminds us that believers who served alongside Paul were recognized as co-workers in the Gospel despite the disagreement addressed in this passage.
How can we distinguish essential matters of faith from differences in practice, preference, or tradition?
How can we show respect and work together while remaining faithful to our convictions?
4. How can you rejoice and pray amid problems? How does prayer bring peace?
Christian joy is grounded in the nearness of God, not in the absence of difficulties. Prayer allows us to bring our worries to Him with thanksgiving and to trust Him even when circumstances do not change immediately.
What worries or disappointments do you need to bring to God?
What practical habits could help you develop a more consistent prayer life?
5. What does it mean to “be a reservoir, not a canal”?
A canal represents a life that continually gives out but may become depleted when it is no longer replenished. A reservoir represents a life that is continually nourished by God's presence and therefore has spiritual strength to share with others.
What practices help you remain spiritually nourished?
Are you so busy serving others that you sometimes neglect time with God?
What changes can you make to develop a sustainable rhythm of prayer, rest, Scripture reading, and service?
Personal Reflection: Am I merely busy doing things for God, or am I making time to be with God? What is one practical step I can take this week to deepen my relationship with Him?
Opening Prayer:
Gracious and Loving Heavenly Father,
We come before Thee with grateful hearts, thanking Thee for bringing us together as one family in Christ for this Disciples Group meeting. Thank Thee for Thy unfailing love, protection, and faithfulness in our lives. We are grateful for the freedom to gather, to study Thy Holy Word, to share our reflections, and to grow together in faith.
Lord, as we study Jeremiah chapters 47 to 52, open our hearts and minds to understand Thy Word more deeply. Through the prophecies concerning the nations and the fall of Jerusalem, remind us that Thou art sovereign over all nations and generations. Help us to recognise the consequences of disobedience, the seriousness of turning away from Thee, and the importance of remaining faithful to Thy commands. Even in times of judgment, suffering, and uncertainty, teach us to trust in Thy righteousness, wisdom, and ultimate authority.
Father, we also thank Thee for the message shared by Rev. Dr. Lee Soo Tian, who reminded us of the importance of forming faithful ministers of God through unity, prayer, and spiritual depth. Help us to stand firm in the Lord, to rejoice because Thou art near, and to bring our worries before Thee with prayer and thanksgiving. Teach us to be peacemakers when disagreements arise, to respect one another in Christian love, and to work together for the advancement of Thy Kingdom.
Lord, help us to become reservoirs of spiritual nourishment rather than mere channels of activity. May we spend time in Thy presence, draw strength from Thy Word, and allow Thy Holy Spirit to transform our hearts. May our faith not remain only in our words, but be demonstrated through our actions, attitudes, relationships, and service to others.
Bless every member present, those joining us online, and those who are unable to be with us today. Grant us attentive hearts, humble spirits, and a willingness to learn from one another. Guide our discussions so that we may encourage one another, strengthen our faith, and apply Thy teachings in our daily lives.
May everything we say, learn, and share bring glory and honour to Thy Holy Name.
In the precious and mighty Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, we pray.
Amen.
Closing Prayer:
Gracious and Loving Heavenly Father,
We thank Thee for blessing our Disciples Group meeting and for speaking to us through Thy Holy Word and the sermon by Rev. Dr. Lee Soo Tian. Thank Thee for the opportunity to study the book of Jeremiah and to reflect on the call to form faithful servants of God through unity, prayer, and spiritual depth.
Lord, as we reflect on the closing chapters of Jeremiah, remind us that Thou art the sovereign Lord over all nations. Help us to learn from the failures of those who turned away from Thee, and give us hearts that are humble, obedient, and faithful. When we face difficulties, uncertainty, or correction, help us not to lose hope but to trust in Thy wisdom and remain steadfast in our walk with Thee.
Father, we pray that the message we have received today will take root in our hearts. Teach us to stand firm in the Lord and to maintain unity in the body of Christ. Where there are misunderstandings, grant us patience and humility. Where there are differences of opinion, help us to respond with love, wisdom, and a Kingdom-minded spirit rather than allowing pride or division to separate us.
Help us to rejoice always because Thou art near. When anxiety and burdens trouble us, remind us to bring everything before Thee in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. May Thy peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Lord, teach us to be reservoirs, not merely canals. Help us to make time for prayer, meditation on Thy Word, silence, and fellowship with Thee. Fill us continually with Thy wisdom, grace, and Holy Spirit, so that our service will flow from a deep and living relationship with Thee rather than from our own strength alone. May our thoughts dwell on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and worthy of praise, and may we put Thy Word into practice every day.
We commit every member of our Disciples Group, our families, our church, our pastors, our leaders, and all who serve Thee into Thy loving hands. Strengthen those who are weary, comfort those who are troubled, provide for those in need, and protect those who are facing challenges. Help us to encourage one another, pray for one another, and remain faithful in serving Thee.
As we depart from this meeting, may we carry Thy Word in our hearts and demonstrate the love of Christ in our homes, workplaces, church, and community. Let our lives be a living testimony of Thy goodness, so that others may see Christ through us.
We thank Thee for Thy grace, guidance, and provision throughout our gathering. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all, now and always.
In the precious Name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, we pray.
Amen.
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