Stories of God’s Grace
Some of our Certificate in Ministry Students
The Certificate in Ministry program offers biblical-theological formation and ministry training, designed to be contextually relevant for the Arab world. At ABTS, we are honored to witness God at work in the lives of our students, revealed through their loving, humble, and faithful hearts. We are grateful for the opportunity to share the stories of some of our Certificate in Ministry students:
Ali came to know Christ through a profound personal encounter that awakened in him both a sense of responsibility and a passion to share God’s love with others. Ali serves in Lebanon and uses the Discovery Bible Study approach in his ministry. He also serves in discipleship, Bible study meetings, and mentoring among the marginalized. To him, ministry is not just something he does, but a core part of his identity and calling. It is a space where he grows spiritually, learns to depend on God, and experiences His grace even amid difficulties.
Reflecting on his journey, Ali stated:
My studies were not merely an academic pursuit, but a spiritual journey that shaped the way I think, pray, and relate to others. Through my time at ABTS, God deepened my understanding of the Bible, corrected misunderstandings, and helped shape both my character and my ministry. I learned the importance of humility in service, grew in patience, and learned to rely on God’s grace rather than my own abilities. My studies have been especially valuable for my ministry, enabling me to serve others with greater awareness, connect the Bible to its proper context, and teach with love while respecting the diverse backgrounds and circumstances of the people I serve.
Racha, who serves in Lebanon, had long been searching for God. She came to Christ through the caring presence and guidance of a missionary woman. When Racha began her studies at ABTS, she came to recognize the blessing that followed her journey of faith: she was able to understand exactly how this woman approached her as she learned how to share the Gospel with wisdom, sensitivity, and effectiveness. Today, Racha serves at the Resurrection Church, where she shepherds many families and is actively involved in home groups.
Reflecting on her experience, Racha shared:
Studying at ABTS was the best decision I ever made. I truly don’t know what my life would have been like without it. ABTS has deeply transformed me. I learned to listen without judging, to choose my words wisely, and I gained confidence in preaching along with a deeper understanding of the Bible. I no longer accept every interpretation I hear without questioning, reflecting, and thinking critically about it. This journey also shaped me into someone who cannot spend a day without reading the Bible. Moreover, the tutors filled my heart with joy through their constant support. They remember the details of my life and are always present to love and encourage me. At ABTS, I truly felt cared for. Ministry is a responsibility and a calling, and I am grateful that the seminary has played a vital role in shaping me for this path.
Racha in Ministry
Alaa did not experience his call to ministry as a single dramatic moment of revelation. Instead, it unfolded as a journey, a gradual discovery marked by a growing sense of responsibility toward others. This calling was continually affirmed through the deep sense of peace he experienced while serving.
Today, Alaa serves in Syria as the youth leader at the Free Evangelical Grace Church and also assists with pastoral care. He sees his ministry among young people as a shared journey, walking alongside them through life’s challenges and helping them overcome difficulties with joy, as they grow in Christ by God’s grace.
Reflecting on his experience at ABTS, Alaa expressed:
Studying at ABTS gave me the opportunity to go deeper into the Bible. God worked on my heart and mind together. Education is no longer just about gaining knowledge; it has become an essential part of my life. My studies helped me develop a theological perspective on everyday life, allowing me to see God’s hand even in the smallest details. Also, ABTS had a clear and direct impact on my ministry, especially through the practical nature of the courses and the interactive environment, which encouraged the sharing of ideas with fellow students and broadened my understanding of many aspects of ministry. I also learned to distinguish between what is essential and what is secondary in my faith.
Alaa in ministry
Jamal, who comes from a non-Christian background, had long sought to understand his faith and the mighty works of the Lord. He searched for answers, yet none were able to satisfy his deep spiritual thirst. He remained eager to grow in knowledge and prayerfully sought God’s direction. In time, his pastor encouraged him to study at ABTS, and after much prayer, God opened the door for him to do so. This marked the beginning of a rich journey of personal and spiritual growth.
Jamal serves in Morocco as a teacher and preacher in his church, and he believes in the importance of communicating the message clearly, in ways that are accessible and understandable to everyone. In fact, ministry holds a central place in Jamal’s heart; he does not view it as merely a set of tasks, but as an integral part of his identity that gives his life meaning and purpose. In this way, serving others is how Jamal expresses his love and gratitude to Christ.
Jamal testified:
At ABTS, I experienced a deep sense of belonging and found a safe environment where I could live out my faith freely. I began to understand my faith more deeply and became better equipped to answer questions about Christianity. I also grew in confidence, and my relationship with Jesus deepened as well. I began to experience His presence more fully and to see His will more clearly. My education became a solid foundation for my ministry, as I started using what I learned in my studies to teach and preach.
Atika, who serves in Morocco, comes from a non-Christian background. She came to Christ through her husband, who first brought her to church, and she was baptized one year after giving her life to Christ. Atika is deeply committed to her studies, believing that the more she learns about God, the closer she grows to Him and the more she develops as a person. She values dedicating time, effort, and energy to her studies, trusting that such investment will bear good fruit. As for her ministry, she assists in preparing conferences.
Atika noted:
I believe that my primary calling, above all else, is to know Christ more deeply. I am grateful for my studies, as they help me fulfill this call. The more I learn, the more I experience spiritual growth and gain confidence. I find great satisfaction in pursuing my studies, and it is empowering to know that I am able to take on this challenge. By God’s grace, my educational journey is also healing the scars of the past. Moreover, my studies have had a positive impact on my ministry, enriching it and opening my life to new relationships with people from different cultures.
The students’ journeys reveal the beauty of Christ’s love and the gentle, unexpected ways He leads. We pray that their paths continue to unfold with joyful surprises, that God will expand their ministries by His grace, and that He will sustain them through every challenge in their studies. We pray for our tutors, that they may guide them faithfully, and that God would bless and guide all who serve in this program, so that it accomplishes His purposes and expands His Kingdom.