INTRODUCTION
We express our sincere gratitude to God for His benevolence towards us. The growth of the gospel work in Nigeria is noteworthy, with a widening sphere of influence. The Bear Valley Family here in Warri centers, especially its dedicated members, have been instrumental in disseminating the Word to remote areas. We extend our thanks to the Bear Valley Family in Denver, USA, for their unwavering support. We hold in prayer all those involved in this partnership and our support groups, hoping for continued strength as we advance our gospel mission.
ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES
DSC CENTER
In July, at the DSC center, studies commenced with enthusiasm. Godwin Ojocheogwu led a comprehensive discussion on the book of Romans, emphasizing that men are saved by grace of God, through Jesus Christ, not by the works of the law because no man can perfectly keep the law. The just shall live by faith. A total of twenty-one (21) students completed the associated examinations.
In August, the book of 1 Corinthians was discussed. Solomon Usim gave a background to the possible reasons for the many problems in the Corinthian church. The first four chapters dealt on issues related to hero worship. Chapters 4-6 expounded on the problems and proffered solutions on how the church should discipline her members. Marriage related problems in chapter seven; The phrase “Concerning the things you wrote to me” was elaborated on. Things Sacrifice to Idols in chapter eight; in chapter nine, Paul defended his apostleship and his burning desire to preach the gospel. Chapter ten and eleven dealt with the examples of the children of Israel in the wilderness and head covering respectively. Chapters twelve to fourteen dealt with Spiritual Gifts. Chapter 15 was basically on Resurrection while chapter 16 was closing formalities. Nineteen (19) students undertook the related examinations.
In September, Abiola Vincent Ojoade taught classes on I and II Thessalonians. At the end of the course, Students were able to understand Biblical teaching concerning the second coming of Christ, the Man of Sin and the various Christian Responsibilities stressed in the books. A total of nineteen (19) students sat for the associated examination.
PTI CENTER
The long-awaited course on hermeneutics was taught in July. Solomon Usim explained that the essence of hermeneutics is Correct Biblical Interpretation. He exposed the lessons and explained exegesis from eisegesis. Navigated through deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning and highlighted among others, the roots of negative interpretations. Thirteen (13) students successfully completed the course.
In August, Meredith Ovwromoh taught Prison Epistles. The Supremacy, Sufficiency, and Centrality of Christ as LORD! Christ, as Creator and God, is superior to any idea, philosophy, religion, or mysticism. He is over trends, traditions, and even the Jewish laws that pointed to Him. No one can gain salvation or fullness without Jesus Christ. A total of thirteen (13) students sat for the exams.
Additionally, in September, Solomon Usim taught the course 1 Corinthians. Solomon gave a background to the possible reasons for the many problems in the Corinthian church. The first four chapters dealt on hero worship. Chapters 4-6 expounded on the problems and how the church should discipline her members. The phrase “concerning the things you wrote to me” was elaborated on. Marriage related problems in chapter seven; Things Sacrificed to Idols in chapter eight; in chapter nine, Paul defended his apostleship and his burning desire to preach the gospel. chapter ten and eleven dealt with the examples of the children of Israel in the wilderness and head covering respectively. Chapters twelve to fourteen dealt with Spiritual Gifts. Chapter 15 was basically on resurrection while chapter 16 was closing formalities. Fourteen (14) students completed the associated exams.
CAMPAIGN PROGRAM
There was no gospel campaign majorly because of the Four Field Discipleship Multiplication Programs going on around the area.
NEW INSTRUCTOR
You will recall that sometime in 2021 and 2022, two of our instructors moved. Kumayon Kumasi (Evang) moved to Ogun State to continue his ministerial work there. Similarly, Osita Onuorah (Evang), the former director, moved to Abuja in 2022. Thus, there was a need to fill in the space. During the May visit of Keith Kasarjian, President-BVBID Extension Program, discussion on the replacement was made and agreed. The relocation of Osita Onuorah (Evang) led the Okoh Street church of Christ to secure the services of Iduh Creed Odike (Evang), a fresh graduate from School of Biblical Studies Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Odike thus became a suitable replacement. Therefore, in July a letter of recommendation was written to the appropriate authorities and approval was granted. The Bear Valley family here appreciates the tremendous support the Warri center and the Nigerian schools at large enjoys. We pray that our loving father blesses the work more abundantly.
CHALLENGES
The economic situation in Nigeria is worsening by the day. The dollar to naira exchange rate affects every commodity. This may be attributed to bad governance. The students travel from afar to attend and the increase affects the transportation cost. However, to God be the glory, some of them are keeping faith with the programme.
THIRD QUARTER'S EVENTS
· Number of Students- forty-seven (47), twenty (20) at PTI and Twenty-seven (27) at DSC
· Number of Campaigns Conducted by Students/Teachers in This Quarter: None.
· Number of Baptisms Resulting from Evangelical Efforts by Students/Teachers This quarter: Nine 17
· Number of New Congregations Established: None
· Number of Teachers at the School: Five (5)
· Number of Churches Restored: None
CONCLUSION
It has been another quarter of fruitful endeavor. Classes have been superb and both Staff and students are in high spirits. The year is fast coming to an end and we are grateful to God for being with us all the way. We are thankful for your prayers and immense support. We pray the school will continue to help preachers and teachers in the area to improve more and more in Christ name amen. We pray for more, safe passages for all the Bear Valley Family as they travel around the world for the sake of the gospel. We pray for those supporting the work, that the Almighty God will continue to bless their endeavors more and more in Christ’s name amen.