Cosmas’ Courage
A committed clergyman reexamines his faith.
It’s not that his life has been without hardship. In southwestern Kenya, where Cosmas grew up, his family and most of their neighbors have to work hard on their farms for only a modest yield. But Cosmas is one of those people who are always smiling. Despite many trials, he carries a hopeful spirit wherever he goes.
We met Cosmas while visiting in his community, and from the first, we felt that God had set up the meeting. Mr. Cosmas Korir was assistant pastor at the Faith Church at the time. He welcomed us into his office with warmth and good humor, and willingly engaged in spiritual discussion. Although he was a devoted pastor, it seemed that Mr. Korir had some unresolved, and probably unconfessed, doubts about his church’s teachings. “I would love to study the Bible with you,” he told us. “I’m curious to find out what you believe.”
We visited Cosmas week by week, studying Biblical topics one by one. As our studies progressed, we discussed the significance of the Sabbath and studied deeply into the communion service. “This is so interesting,” he told us. “I have studied these subjects before, but I have never fully understood them. I ask you difficult questions, and you give easy answers!” He flashed his broad, winning smile.
After weeks of study, prayer and reflection, Cosmas told us his decision: “I want to embrace the teachings of the Sabbath and holy communion. I can see now that they are not rituals, but deeply spiritual acts of faith—gifts from God to help us renew our relationship with Him.” We could see the courage in his face as he spoke. His decision would cost him his leadership role in the Faith Church—but of course he knew that.
Cosmas went on. “I have been concerned about how my congregation, my friends and my colleagues will respond when I share my new understanding of Scripture. Yet as I have prayed and wrestled with the Holy Spirit, I have found strength. As a follower of Christ, I am called to live in accordance with God’s Word—and I am willing.”
After three months of study with dedicated gospel workers, Cosmas Korir took the final step and joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church. His baptism celebrated not only his faith, but his commitment to live according to God’s Word. Family members and friends who had been following Cosmas’s journey attended, and many had serious, tearful eyes when Cosmas shared his testimony of transformation and his willingness to let go of his pastorship and embrace new truths. Cosmas’s baptism has inspired others to reexamine their own faith, and we pray that some of his friends will follow him in joining God’s remnant church!
Today, Cosmas is a devoted, active member of the newly formed Kiplelji Seventh-day Adventist Church. He continues to share his testimony with others, encouraging them to seek truth in the Scriptures and to walk faithfully with God. His life stands as a beacon of hope, illustrating the profound change that occurs when people allow the Holy Spirit to lead them into all truth.
Cosmas’s story also challenges us to remain diligent in our ministry, knowing that God can use our efforts to touch hearts and transform lives. His willingness to reexamine his beliefs reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of truth! Cosmas’s courage and willingness to follow God’s calling has deepened our own commitment to sharing the gospel with all classes.
Location
Kenya
Author
Daniel Bett oversees six Kenyan Bible workers and pastors the Kingsway Seventh-day Adventist School.
How You Can Help
Pray for Cosmas to stand firm in his newfound faith and to be a powerful witness to his former brethren.
Pray for all the Bible workers to reach more souls for Christ!
Give to save souls in Kenya. Needs include support for Bible workers and building supplies for new churches. Send your gifts marked “Kenya Workers” or “Kenya Churches” to:
Mission Projects International
PO Box 237
Kirksville, MO 63501
To give online, visit:
www.missionspro.org/donate
Thank you! Your gifts support six Bible workers in Kenya—and your prayers help them reach souls for Christ. Thank you for being part of this work!