SBC graduates encouraged to embrace ‘Servanthood’

Secretary, Nagaland Mission Movement (NMM), Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), Rev. Lipok Pongen, lamented the moral and spiritual challenges confronting Nagaland despite being a majority Christian state. He was speaking at the 36th Graduation Ceremony of Servanthood Bible College (SBC) held at its Chümoukedima campus on Wednesday, where he also offered the dedicatory prayer for the graduating students.
Opening his message with the Biblical declaration, “This is the day that the Lord has made”, Rev. Pongen reflected on the journey of Christianity in Nagaland since 1872. He noted that the state today has over 3,000 churches, more than 60 theological colleges, and over 20,000 full-time Christian workers, making Nagaland one of the strongest Baptist regions globally. He further highlighted that NBCC remains the largest Baptist convention in the world.
Despite these achievements, Rev. Pongen expressed concern that Nagaland continues to be ranked among the most corrupt states in the country.
He urged believers to introspect on accountability and lamented the lack of unity among churches and denominations. He even remarked that at times security was required to conduct meetings within the church, which he described as a troubling sign.
Calling upon the graduates to embrace a higher purpose, Rev. Pongen emphasized that their graduation was not merely for employment but for service to God. He urged them to remain rooted in Christ and committed to His mission rather than personal ambitions.
Stressing the importance of integrity and godly character, he cautioned that ministry without Christ-like character was “merely an activity.” Holiness, he said, is built by consistently making the right choices, and he encouraged graduates to remain steadfast in the face of trials and temptations.
The speaker further warned against taking one’s calling lightly, noting that the devil is at work and highlighting the need for spiritual preparedness through the “full armour of God.” He expressed concern that some Christian leaders sought self-glorification rather than glorifying God, and urged believers to cultivate a genuine desire to serve rather than manipulate or dominate others. He called for the building of Christ-centred churches rather than consumer-driven congregations.
Reassuring the graduates, Rev. Pongen affirmed that God would guide them and never forsake them, even as they face difficult challenges ahead. He concluded by urging all present to glorify God in every aspect of life and ministry, and to always plan with God at the centre.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Dr. Hetoho Achumi, invocation by Rev. A Temsu Longkumer, pastor of Police Church Chümoukedima, and the welcome note by SBC principal, Moa Jamir. A speech on behalf of the graduating students was presented by Lovika, while Academic Dean, Sentila Pongen, carried out the presentation of awards. Benediction was pronounced by Rev. Wonglamla, pastor of YBF, Chümoukedima A Village.
Altogether, 69 students graduated—36 with Bachelor of Theology and 33 with Master of Divinity. The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of special awards recognising excellence in academics, ministry, service and character. These included the NI Jamir Award, bagged by Temjenmenba Pongen; “Academic Award”, won by Linukjungba (B.Th) and Lovika (M.Div); “Lt. Tsuknungsangba Award”, received by Toshikaba and Nan-Daewee; “Dignity of Labour Award”, conferred on Henshing, Elijah, Tiawabang, Temjenmenba and Imlitongdang; “Servanthood Award”, bagged by Elijah; “Music Award”, presented to Pongam, Temsujungla, Imsennichetla, Paolem and Apham; “Homiletics Award”, won by Odingangshi (B.Th) and Temjenmenba (M.Div); “Contributory Award”, bagged by Limatenzuk, Trongsu and Dolemlepla; “Good Samaritan Award”, won by Imliyangla and Tsongliu; “Charitable Award”, conferred on Dolemlempla; “Practical Ministry Award”, presented to Trongsu (B.Th) and Kisheka (M.Div); and “Serviceability Award”, bagged by Daue.