Training biblically-sound leaders is even more vital!

Through the years at SGA, we have often said that biblical and theological training is our highest priority. With all of the ongoing turmoil not only in the former Soviet countries as well as in Israel, it is easy for that top priority to fade from view. To be sure, we have been deeply occupied with helping churches respond amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Then in October of last year came the horrific attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists. We are thankful for the opportunity to help Russian-speaking congregations there in reaching out to their fellow Israelis in the love of Christ. We have seen much fruit borne out of these ministries for the glory of Christ. 

But none of that has diminished SGA’s commitment in providing urgently needed Bible training across the former Soviet Union. If anything, our commitment to the seminaries and Bible institutes that you help support has gone up. The churches we serve have not wavered in their commitment to training future generations of church leaders in sound doctrine no matter what faces them.

The SGA-supported Irpen Biblical Seminary in Ukraine is a wonderful example. The school took a direct hit from a missile in the early days of the war, with extensive damage to their building. Not only did the seminary continue with classes, but they also reached out to their neighbors offering shelter, food, and other aid—all the while working on rebuilding their badly damaged building. What a great testimony to the power of Christ’s love and provision, opening doors for the Gospel that no one can shut! 

I can’t overstate how important Bible training is for the future of the church should the Lord tarry in His coming. New churches are being planted, more men, women, and children are coming to faith in Christ. More and more trained pastors are needed to shepherd and disciple these new congregations. Receiving sound theological training also helps inoculate the churches from being led astray by false doctrine. People who are firmly grounded in biblical truth have a solid shield to hold up when the enemy attacks, also armed with the sword of the Spirit—the Word of God. I can never thank you enough for standing with us the way you do in your prayers and faithful support. Much is being accomplished, and you are all part of it!

For our Savior,

Michael Johnson
President