At the Rivne Bible College, the year 2026 began with another training module, during which 22 students focused on learning the Word of God for nine days under the guidance of Masato Funakoshi, a Japanese missionary in Ukraine, pastor of the church in Odessa. The brother meticulously and diligently taught the course “Overview of the New Testament”, sincerely willing to help each listener see the greatness of the Gospel.

The harsh weather conditions — lots of snow and – 20 degrees Celsius — could not hinder the serious intention of the brothers and sisters to grow spiritually in the process of learning.

The training was structured in such a way as to show students an overall picture of the New Testament revelation: from the coming of Christ to the formation of the early Church, as well as the future hope of all believers. The teacher paid considerable attention to the historical context, the correlation of the books among themselves, and the practical significance of theological truths for the modern Christian.

Students learned to see:

  • the development of God’s plan of salvation;
  • the birth of the Church and its mission in the world;
  • the responsibility of believers in evangelism and discipleship;
  • The impact of the Gospel on everyday life.

Brother Masato did not simply convey information to the students; he constantly encouraged them to think, ask questions, study the text, and see how biblical principles should be reflected in their personal lives and ministry. This approach helped not only to expand knowledge but also to form a biblical worldview.

In addition to listening to lectures, students had group assignments, during which they together sought answers in the Holy Scriptures, learned to listen to each other, and worked as a team. This form of work not only contributes to better assimilation of the material but also builds an atmosphere of mutual respect and support.

Particularly valuable for the students were personal conversations with the teacher, during which the students had the opportunity to ask questions about both difficult-to-interpret Bible texts and practical aspects of their ministry. Such conversations often continued outside the classroom and were an important part of their spiritual encouragement.

They also had the opportunity to spend their free time in lively fellowship. Joint dinners, evening conversations, and prayers for each other helped to better know and understand the needs of those studying nearby. During these days, the students noticeably grew closer to each other.

Many of the students noted that this course helped them to see familiar passages of Scripture in a fresh way, to understand more deeply the triumph of Christ and the meaning of the Gospel for daily life. The Epistles of the Apostles, the Book of Acts, and the teachings of the Lord Himself were revealed to the listeners as a single harmonious story of God’s grace.

For some students, the days of study became a time to reevaluate their own ministry, for others, to become more grounded in their decisions to follow the Lord. But everyone, without exception, has been encouraged to continue growing in their knowledge of the Scriptures.

We are sincerely grateful to God for the opportunity to have this session, for the health and strength that He gave every day, for a safe trip for the students, and for the work of the teacher. Special thanks to everyone who participated in the organization of everyday and educational processes, creating conditions in which it was possible to fully focus on learning.

We pray that the knowledge gained will bear abundant fruit in the churches, families, and personal lives of each participant. May the truths of the New Testament continue to lead us to a deeper love for Christ and faithful ministry to Him.

 

Oleksandr Mykhailiuk