The Kohima Lotha Baptist Church (KLBC) observed Pastor’s Appreciation Day on Sunday to recognise the dedication and high calling of their pastors. Rev. Zotuo Kiewhuo, Senior Pastor, Koinonia Baptist Church (KBC) and Principal, Kohima Bible College (KBC) was the speaker in the meaningful service.
The Media Ministry, KBC, informed that Rev Kiewhuo’s message centered around the theme, ‘Pastor: A High calling of God’ (1 Tim 3:1-7) where he emphasized the divine nature of pastoral ministry and the importance of not forgetting one’s vows to God.
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He highlighted the tendency for people to forget the goodness of God, drawing parallels with the story of Jacob in the Bible who was reminded of his vow at Bethel and to return there (Genesis 31:13 and 35:1). He stressed the need to remember one’s vows and stay committed to God, referencing the Christian pioneers in the Lotha region who upheld their faith.
Rev Kiewhuo emphasized that the role of pastors is a lifelong calling, not just a career or a salary-driven occupation. Quoting from 1 Timothy 3:1-7, he described the qualities expected of pastors, including being blameless, sober-minded, non-violent, and not greedy for money.
The Senior Pastor of Koinonia Baptist Church also recognized that pastors, like all individuals, have flaws and should be open to learning and not be swayed by false doctrines.
Further, he called for mutual prayer between pastors and congregations, highlighting the interdependence of the church. The church together must pray for their Pastors and leaders so that the ministry will run swiftly (1 Thess. 3: 1-2), they will receive revelation and utterance (Ephesians 6: 19). Striving together in persistent prayer (Rom 15: 30, Luke 18) so that all can be together in spirit through prayers (Col. 2: 5)
He encouraged the congregation to be prayerful, emphasizing that prideful people do not pray and advised praying for pastors, quoting Galatians 6:6 regarding honoring those who teach the word of God.
Rev Kiewhuo stressed unity within the church, emphasizing that it is the body of Christ biblically and should not be divided along tribal lines. He reiterated the importance of oneness in faith and unity (Acts 4: 32). Moreover, he stated that the gospel is not about separatism but oneness in one Father, one Faith and in unity.
Rev Kiewhuo also offered a special prayer for the pastors of Kohima Lotha Baptist Church and also for the congratulation.
The service was chaired by Renthungo Kikon, Pastor, invocation prayer was said by Y Sancheo Ovung, deacon, a special song was presented by KLBC Adult choir, a tribute was spoken by Mhayani Ngullie, offertory prayer by Zubeni Humtsoe, Director CNY and benediction was said by Dr K Benri Lotha, senior pastor. Khriezovolie Suokhrie, Chairman, Koinonia Baptist Church (KBC) men’s department shared his testimony.
