There were many challenges over these 34 years of ministry since the day BSM was established officially; some big and some small. This year 2020, we saw two major challenges, namely, the Covid-19 pandemic and the remarks by a Member of Parliament on the Bible as a distorted version.

The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly disrupted many aspects of the BSM. The MCO, RMCO and CMCO have caused the BSM ministry to slow down and delay much. Translation works, including consultancy and coordination, were affected – the BM whole Bible Formal translation is one of them. Sales and donations have come down greatly; importation and distribution have also become as matter of concern. When churches are affected, BSM will normally not be spared too. But thanks be to God because the various versions of Bibles are available online. Do pray for the on-going translation works.

When our Bible was challenged as a distorted version, strong responses from many quarters of churches have arisen. The so-called copy of the ‘original version’ quoted by the MP has in fact never been seen or accessed to. It was only an allegation by assumption or fabrication and without any historical foundation. However, the present versions of the Bible (in various languages) we have is based on solid and firm foundations with enormous and clear textual evidence. There are thousands of ancient manuscripts available that anyone can access for research, proofs, and recordsfor its accuracy. BSM is proud of preserving a version of the Bible which is accurate and true in the light of its textual evidence and authenticity. Do pray that many eyes will be opened to the truth of God while reading the Bible anywhere and anytime.

One of the greatest tests is that ‘the Word of God is truth, if you know the truth, the truth will set you free.’ (John 17:17) One of the aims of the BSM is to make bibles affordable and available to as many people as possible. We are tasked not only to make the bibles affordable and available but specially to make sure the bible is authentic and true which can withstand every textual criticism.

We, the BSM, wish all of you God’s richest love and abundant blessings this Christmas, especially during this time of Covid-19 pandemic and challenges.

Right Reverend Datuk Ng Moon Hing
President