In Barcelona, Spain, a monument was built to commemorate the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus. The statue portrays him looking intently towards the land in the far distance. With one hand, he points towards the direction of the new continent; with the other hand, he holds what appears to be a map. His eyes are gazing with determination. This is the portrayal of a man with a sense of purpose!

Paul is a man with a sense of purpose. He demonstrates that clearly in Philippians 3 : 12-14. His direction is “to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (v. 14); his map is “to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (v. 12); and his determination comes from the sense that he is not there yet (v. 12, 13). These are the three ingredients for a purposeful life: a clear direction, a helpful roadmap, and a resolute determination.

As we press on in 2008, we also need a clear direction from God for us to pursue, a helpful roadmap from God to show the path and a resolute determination not to give up until we have reached the destination! People with these ingredients usually stand out among the crowd. They tend to finish well and finish strong.

This year we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the School of Theology (English) and the 25th anniversary of the founding of the School of Church Music. We want to thank God for the expansion and contribution of these two schools. Many alumni have been trained through the diligent labors of our lecturers in these two schools. These alumni serve effectively and faithfully in different parts of the world. I also want to remind you that you have played a great part in the training of these students through your donations and prayers to support the theological education at Singapore Bible College. Thank you so much for your partnership in ministry.

God has brought 38 new students to SBC in the new semester. Currently, the total number of full-time and part-time students stands at 574. We are thankful for the increase in enrollment. We are committed to do our best to train faithful servants of Jesus Christ for the edification of the church and the urgent evangelization of the unreached. Please continue to support us to carry out our mission.

Have a blessed New Year!

Dr Albert Ting, Principal
Singapore Bible College