“Arise and Build” (Nehemiah 2:18) is the vision for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM), a calling received through Rt. Rev. Steven Lawrence, Bishop of ELCM. This vision outlines a 10-year strategy (2022–2032) focused on the holistic growth of the church, including the strengthening of its identity as a Lutheran church. This identity is […]

“Arise and Build” (Nehemiah 2:18) is the vision for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM), a calling received through Rt. Rev. Steven Lawrence, Bishop of ELCM. This vision outlines a 10-year strategy (2022–2032) focused on the holistic growth of the church, including the strengthening of its identity as a Lutheran church. This identity is significant, as the ELCM has upheld and practised Lutheran doctrines since its establishment.

To deepen this understanding, the vision incorporates two key strategic priorities: discipleship and capacity building. These initiatives aim to equip members to understand Lutheran doctrines and to foster a strong, confident Lutheran identity.

A vital component of this vision is the Lutheran School of Biblical Studies (LSBS), a theological training centre reestablished and relaunched on 4 October 2024 to support these priorities. From the 1980s through the early 2000s, this centre (formerly known as the Luther School of Biblical Studies in the Central and Southern Districts, and as the Lay Training Institute in the Northern District) trained lay leaders and church members in preaching and the distinctives of Lutheran theology. These early programs, while impactful, were not formally accredited and were recognised only within the church.

With its reestablishment, LSBS entered into a memorandum of understanding with Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM), a nationally recognised theological institution. Through this partnership, LSBS now offers accredited programs such as the Certificate in Christian Ministry and the Diploma in Christian Ministry, allowing students to earn qualifications that are recognised beyond the church context.

Courses include modules such as Lutheranism I: Basic Christian Doctrines, New Testament Introduction, Leadership and Church Management, and Critical Reading and Exegetical Method, among others. These are designed to deepen theological understanding and encourage members to embrace their Lutheran identity more fully. Graduates may also choose to pursue full-time theological studies at STM to continue their formation.

This initiative is especially impactful for the younger generation, helping them explore Lutheran teachings in a meaningful way. For example, Peter, a young student, shared that in Lutheranism I: Basic Christian Doctrines, he learned about the significance of Baptism, Holy Communion, and the Apostles’ Creed guided by Martin Luther’s Small Catechism. He expressed that the module helped him understand the Lutheran church more clearly. Similarly, Mrs. Ruth Mala testified that the Critical Reading and Exegetical Method module helped her encounter the Word of God in a new and deeper way.

Students consistently provide positive feedback after each module, describing how these courses have enriched their faith and understanding of Scripture. The core objective of LSBS is to equip members with sound theology and to nurture a strong Lutheran identity. Though recently reestablished, LSBS is advancing with clear purpose and momentum.

In conclusion, as Martin Luther once wrote:

“We are not yet what we shall be, but we are growing toward it; the process is not yet finished, but it is going on. This is not the end, but it is the road. All does not yet gleam in glory, but all is being purified.”

Through LSBS, the ELCM has embarked on this journey of helping its members grow in the Word of God and in their identity as faithful Lutherans.

Many of our partner churches are working in new territory for the kingdom of God; therefore, spiritual attack is their everyday reality. As a member of a congregation, school, or family, or a couple or individual, you are invited to commit to praying for our partners in mission. For regular prayer point updates, go to www.lca.org.au/international-mission/act-now/pray

Read more stories about our partner churches in Malaysia at https://www.lcamission.org.au/category/stories/international-partners/malaysia-peninsula/