During the month of April, brother Ron Halbrook and I preached in the Philippines. This was my third trip and brother Halbrook's 22nd. Let me share with you some of the highlights of that trip

Preacher-training program. "And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also." {2 Timothy 2:2} In 2004, Brother Rody Gumpad, who preaches in Tuguegarao, Cagayan and the local church where he labors, established an annual month-long preacher-training study. Each year, they hold two classes-one in English, and the other in the Filipino language. American preachers have been helping with the English classes since 2004. During the first two weeks of our trip, Ron and I taught classes for 24 men, ranging in age from 16-65. Classes met daily from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. After the evening meal, we had another two-hour session during which the students preached, led singing, and led prayer. Following this, we spent some time instructing them in the use of Bible Concordances and Bible Dictionaries. One of the greatest needs in the Philippines is the training of the Filipino preachers to go into the fields to preach the gospel. Most of these men have left other religions. Grounding and teaching are sorely needed. I firmly believe this work is vital in preparing the native Philippines to take the gospel to their fellow countrymen.

Preacher seminar. "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." {Matthew 28:19,20} Next, we went to Digos, Davao sel Sur, for a five-day preacher seminar. Brother Julie Nortate is the local preacher . Thirty-five preachers already in the field came for further instruction in teaching God's word. Classes were held daily from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. During evening sessions, we taught them how to use study aids, such a Bible concordances, dictionaries, Hebrew and Greek dictionaries, and Bible maps. The building was hot, but these students were eager to learn. Three who sat in and listened to the studies were baptized. One was a denominational preacher.

The last week, we went to Surigao City del Norte. Seventy, many being denominational preachers, attended. Some left, but many stayed for the two days of study. There was intense questioning over such things as instrumental music, baptism, and grace. Four souls, including two denominational preachers, were baptized into Christ. During the trip, we baptized 25-30. This is remarkable, considering most of our efforts centered around strengthening men to preach the gospel. The Philippine fields are white unto harvest. Lord willing, I plan to return in 2008.