CBSM Chairman’s Message
Adrian Low
Diakonia 2026 Volume 1
Greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We thank the Lord for His preserving grace and His continued faithfulness to the assemblies and the work carried on by His people.
On behalf of the Christian Brethren Secretariat Malaysia (CBSM), it is hope that this issue of Diakonia will be a blessing to you, your household, and your assembly.
The word diakonia is a reminder that the life we live should be one of service. It is worth noting that much of the Lord’s work is unseen. It is seen in the faithful labour of the local assembly – caring for one another, working in the field of souls, quiet prayer, cheerfully giving into the offering bag, serving in the kitchen, or helping in the backroom. Much of it unannounced and uncelebrated. Yet while these acts of service may not draw attention, they are fully seen by the Lord.
This issue of Diakonia invites us to reflect on the church beyond its walls. While assembly work and gatherings are vital, God’s work is intended to be extended far beyond the places we meet. In the parable of the great supper, our Lord said in Luke 14:23 (KJV)
“And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.”
God’sheart is indeed outward-looking. The gospel was to be proclaimed from Jerusalem, to Judea, to Samaria and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). This was also expressed by Paul and Barnabas in Acts 13:47 (KJV)
“For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the
Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth.”
Alongside this clear mission to those without, we must continue to spur one another to carry on in the work within the local assembly. From urban assemblies to those located in less populated areas, each has its own composition and challenges. We must not forget the smaller, faithful assemblies that labour quietly and often face unique difficulties. Encouragement, fellowship, prayer and practical support from the wider family of assemblies is truly needed.
It is CBSM’s hope that believers across the country will continue cultivating a deeper love for assembly life, continuing to “stir up one another to love and good works” (Heb 10:24) and “lift up the hands which hang down” (Heb 12:12). How wonderful it would be (amazing, really), if we looked outward and helped strengthen those places where the needs are greatest.
CBSM exists to serve the assemblies by fostering fellowship, communication and cooperation in the Lord’s work. As you read the articles and reports, we trust that it will serve to inform, remind and encourage you of our shared calling. Perhaps say a little prayer too.
May our Lord help us to be faithful in serving Him, both within the assemblies and
beyond our walls.
Adrian Low Chairman, CBSM adrianlcw@gmail.com