I’ve always believed that every person carries a story worth telling.
For years I wanted to write mine, but life has a way of convincing us there will always be more time. Eventually I realised that stories aren’t simply preserved by memory, they’re preserved by telling them. So here I am, finally writing my first blog.
As I’ve reflected on the journey behind me, one truth has become increasingly clear; God was far more involved in my story than I realised at the time. Looking back, I can see His fingerprints on moments I once considered ordinary. Conversations, churches, prophetic words, disappointments, and unexpected turns all became part of a puzzle in a way that only He could see in its entirety.
This article is an attempt to look at the pieces of the puzzle. Before sharing the dramatic chapter of how I came to truly know Christ, I want to honour the quieter work of God, the years in which He was patiently preparing me long before I understood what He was doing. My name is Aben Mathew; a Christian, a husband, a dad, and a British Malayali who grew up in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, before moving to the UK in 2005.
Life, as I see it, is a story. A narrative that starts the moment we take our first breath and unfolds with each passing day. But as I’ve journeyed through mine, I’ve come to realise that my story has two authors. There’s the one I try to write, with all my plans, decisions, and dreams. And then there’s the true Author—God—whose pen has been gently but purposefully scripting a far greater narrative. It’s one I often didn’t understand in the moment but can now see a bit clearer than yesterday.
This blog is a reflection on that journey. It’s the first of two parts where I’ll explore what it means to live a life authored by myself. In the next post, I’ll share about the moment everything changed. The moment I handed the pen of my life over to Jesus, the One who knows my story best. But before we get there, let me take you back to the beginning and share how His hand has been guiding my life, even when I didn’t fully realise it.
Growing up in Saudi, I remember watching an old film called Mathilukal (Walls) by Adoor Gopalakrishnan when I was young. The film, based on the autobiographical novel by Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, features Mammootty as Basheer, a prisoner who falls in love with a female inmate, Narayani, whom he never sees. One statement from the movie has stuck with me over the years. Basheer remarks that everyone can write one book in their life—their life story. This idea has remained with me, gripping me to reflect on my own life story. Life is indeed a story—a story that began when we were born and continues to unfold even in this present moment! This recalls the philosophical idea “I think, therefore I am” by René Descartes. Once we gain consciousness of this, we are forced to reflect and ask, “Who is writing the story?” Am I writing the story of my life, or am I playing a role in a bigger storyline? These are big questions with probably bigger answers!
As for me, being born into a nominal Christian household meant that God was part of our lives. There was never a question of whether God existed. It was more the question of the identity of the God who existed! For that, I’m thankful to my parents! 🙏 We were staying on the top floor of a three-storey building in Dammam. Our neighbours on the middle floor were a family of five and ‘born-again’ Christians. They held Friday Bible classes in their home, as Friday was the weekend akin to Sunday in the UK. They were kind and bold enough to extend an invitation to the children who lived above them to come and partake of their Brethren fellowship. It was here that the seeds of the Gospel were planted into the soil of mine and my sister’s life.
After a few years, my father felt that the Protestant faith was not where he wanted his children to grow up and instead introduced us to the Orthodox prayer gatherings in Dammam. This was also an incredible time in my life. Looking back, I’m reminded of the zeal of the Orthodox fellowships. My mother, on the other hand, always desired a charismatic expression of prayer and would also take us to ecumenical charismatic prayer meetings on Friday nights. These prayer meetings were wild with prophetic and good teachings of the word! They shaped my understanding of hearing God’s voice, especially through the ministry of a significant prophet, Raju Philip. Over the years, attending these meetings became a foundation of our spiritual life. One evening, my mother received a prophetic word that God had prepared a nursing role for her in one of the national hospitals in the UK. This word was one of hope and direction, suggesting she would work in the NHS.
Fast forward to 2004, and my mother, stepping out in faith, began the application process to work as a nurse in the UK. It was a journey that required complete reliance on God’s guidance. As a family, we witnessed firsthand the faithfulness of God, who reveals His plans through prophecy and answers prayers aligned with His will. My mother started working at a nursing home in Southampton, and within a year, she moved to Sheffield to work at another nursing home. By 2006, she began her tenure at the Northern General Hospital in Sheffield, where she continues to serve faithfully, set to retire in two years, God willing. I’m pausing the narrative here to reflect on two things.
- Reflection on my Faith Journey
- Reflection on the faithfulness of the God who promises.
Reflecting on my Faith Journey
Reflecting on my journey, I see how each season of my life brought experiences that shaped my understanding of faith in unique ways. The Brethren Assembly introduced me to the Bible in a deeply personal way, bringing a sense of individual relationship with God. Later, the Orthodox gatherings taught me a deep appreciation for tradition, liturgy, and the communal aspect of faith. The charismatic prayer meetings back in Saudi Arabia opened my heart to the dynamic and transformative power of the Holy Spirit. From the year 2009 till date, I’ve been attending and serving in Pentecostal churches. This diverse background has led me to a richer understanding of Christianity. Each tradition offered something unique: the intellectual rigour and scriptural foundation of the Brethren, the historical continuity and sacramental richness of Orthodoxy, and the vibrant, Spirit-led worship of the Charismatic-Pentecostal movement.
Embracing the Wesleyan Quadrilateral
To make sense of this, I found the Wesleyan Quadrilateral—a framework introduced by John Wesley—extremely helpful. It emphasises four sources of theological reflection: Scripture, tradition, reason, and experience.
- Scripture: The primary source of my faith journey. From the Bible classes with the Brethren to the liturgical readings in the Orthodox Church, Scripture has always been central to my understanding of God.
- Tradition: The Orthodox Church’s deep traditions, the creeds, and the confessions have provided a historical and communal context for my faith, grounding me in the wisdom that is found in Church history.
- Reason: Engaging with different theological perspectives, whether through Reformed soteriology or Pentecostal pneumatology, has challenged me to think critically and thoughtfully about my beliefs.
- Experience: My personal encounters with God, have made my faith vibrant and dynamic, ensuring that it is not merely intellectual but also deeply felt.
An Appreciation for Orthodox Theology: One of the most profound aspects of the Orthodox tradition that has influenced my faith is its robust and nuanced understanding of the Trinity. The Orthodox Church emphasises the mystery and community within the Godhead—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; existing in perfect unity and love. Additionally, the Orthodox Church’s role in the canonisation of the Bible is a testament to its historical and theological significance. The meticulous process by which the early church fathers discerned and compiled the canonical Scriptures is a legacy that stresses the importance of tradition and collective wisdom in the Christian faith.
Embracing Reformed Soteriology: Another significant influence on my faith has been Reformed Soteriology, which has profoundly shaped my understanding of salvation. The Reformed tradition, with its emphasis on the sovereignty of God and the doctrines of grace, has provided a healthy framework for understanding how we are saved by grace through faith. The Five Solas of the Reformation—Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, Christ alone, and to the glory of God alone—serve as foundational principles that anchor my beliefs. I should add that Reformed soteriology as I understand it now was something I dived more deeply into during the COVID years.
The Vitality of Pentecostal Pneumatology: Pentecostal pneumatology has also significantly enriched my faith journey. The Pentecostal emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s active and dynamic presence in the believer’s life and in the church has brought a vibrant and experiential dimension to my spirituality. The gifts of the Spirit, such as prophecy, healing, and speaking in tongues, have shown me the immediacy of God’s presence and power.
Lessons from History: Throughout history, Christian denominations have often clashed over differing interpretations of the faith. However, living in the 21st century, we have the benefit of hindsight. The historical perspective allows us to appreciate the diverse emphasis of various denominations and learn from their strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these historical conflicts encourages us to find a balanced approach, that integrates our diverse influences without compromising our convictions. We must refrain from being a chameleon, changing to fit in, but to embrace a faith that is authentically ours which is ultimately informed by a wide range of traditions and experiences. This journey of mine as a Christian over the years has brought me to a deeper understanding about the universal body of Christ. The reality is that theological diversity within Christianity leads to a more complete understanding of God, His people and the ways in which God has been relating and revealing himself through history.
Reflecting on the Power of God’s Word and the Faithfulness of the God Who Promises
Reflecting on my story, I also can see the profound truth in the power of God’s Word and the unwavering faithfulness of God who promises. The phrase “the Word of God” carries several meanings in the Bible, each revealing different aspects of God’s communication with humanity.
- In the beginning was the Word: One significant meaning of “the Word of God” refers to Jesus Christ himself. In the book of Revelation, John sees the risen Lord and declares, “The name by which he is called is The Word of God” (Revelation 19:13). Similarly, John’s gospel begins with the words, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Here, “the Word” is clearly identified as the Son of God, who became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14), emphasising that Jesus, as the Word of God, communicates the very character and will of God to us, both through his life and his teachings.
- God’s Decrees: These are the powerful words by which God brings things into existence. For example, God said, “Let there be light,” and light appeared (Genesis 1:3). These decrees are not merely commands but are acts of creation and sustenance, as seen in Hebrews 1:3, which tells us that Christ is continually “upholding the universe by his word of power.”
- God’s Words of Personal Address: At times, God communicates directly with individuals through spoken words. Examples include God’s instructions to Adam in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:16-17) and the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai (Exodus 20:1-3). These words are spoken in human language but carry the full authority of God. Disbelieving or disobeying them equates to rejecting God himself.
- God’s Words Through Human Lips: God also speaks through prophets, who convey His messages. Although these are human words spoken by ordinary people, they are fully authoritative as God’s words when it is mentioned in the scriptures. For instance, God told Moses that He would raise up a prophet and put His words in that prophet’s mouth (Deuteronomy 18:18-20). The authority of these words remains undiminished, and to ignore them is to disregard God.
- Conversely the gift of prophecy described in the New Testament, remains active in the church today, serving as a means for God to communicate His will and purposes through individuals. However, it is crucial to understand that the gift of prophecy does not hold the same level of authority as Scripture. The Bible is the complete and infallible Word of God, serving as the ultimate standard against which all teachings and prophecies must be measured. Since prophecies are delivered through fallible human beings, they are subject to human error and interpretation. Therefore, believers are instructed to test prophecies, as Paul advises in 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21: “Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good.” Testing prophecy involves discerning whether the message aligns with Scripture, reflects God’s character, and bears good fruit. It is a communal process that requires wisdom, humility, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. When a prophecy is found to be true and in harmony with God’s Word, it can be embraced as a timely and personal word from the Lord. Conversely, if a prophecy does not pass the test, it should not be accepted.
- God’s Words in Written Form (the Bible): Finally, God’s words are preserved in written form, such as the Ten Commandments, which were inscribed by the finger of God (Exodus 31:18). The Bible, as a collection of these written words, is not only a historical record but the living Word of God that is accessible, reliable, and authoritative.
The Living and Active Word
The Bible also teaches that God’s Word is not just ink on paper but a living force when breathed upon by the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who brings life to the words on the page, transforming them from mere scripture to a revelation directly from God.
Consider Peter’s experience in Luke 5:1-11. Although he is initially sceptical, he obeyed Jesus’ command to cast his net despite his doubts, which resulted in a miraculous catch of fish. This act of obedience to a specific word from Jesus was a turning point in his faith journey. Similarly, in my mother’s life, the prophetic word she received about her future in the UK was not just encouraging; it was directive. It required faith to step into the unknown, trusting that the God who spoke the word would also fulfil it.
The essence of true faith lies in this relationship with the living Word, Jesus Christ. As Hebrews 1:1-3 tells us, Jesus upholds all things by the word of the Father’s power. This means that every promise and prophecy is sustained by God’s authority and faithfulness. When we receive a word from God, like Noah building the ark or Abraham journeying to a new land, it’s not a random selection of verses but a specific revelation that carries divine purpose and provision.
Romans 10:17 reminds us that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God—specifically a rhema word, a direct, personal revelation from God. This was evident in Paul and Barnabas’ ministry when the Lord highlighted Isaiah 49:6 to them, transforming it from a general scripture about the Messiah to a specific commission for their mission to the Gentiles.
In this journey of life of walking with God, it’s crucial to seek and know the Living Word, allowing Him to speak directly into our situations. This requires time in His presence, listening and discerning His voice. It’s a dynamic relationship where faith is not just belief, but a response to the revealed word of God. However, circumstances often challenge our faith in God’s promises. It’s essential to remember that God’s faithfulness is not contingent upon our circumstances. His promises stand firm despite the trials we face. Here are a few ways to consider God faithful to His promises, regardless of our circumstances:
- Recall Past Faithfulness: Just as my mother’s journey to the UK began with a prophetic word, remembering past instances where God has been faithful helps strengthen our trust. When we see how He has worked before, we can trust He will do so again.
- Focus on His Nature: God’s nature is unchanging. He is inherently faithful. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” His promises are a reflection of His character, and He is incapable of being unfaithful.
- Maintain an Eternal Perspective: Our current circumstances are temporary, but God’s promises are eternal. Romans 8:18 reminds us, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” Keeping an eternal perspective helps us trust in God’s ultimate plan.
- Seek His Presence: In moments of doubt, seek the presence of God. Through prayer, worship, and reading His Word, we can receive reassurance and peace. The Holy Spirit, our Comforter, often brings to mind the promises of God, renewing our faith.
- Surround Yourself with Faithful Community: Being part of a community that believes in and reminds each other of God’s promises is crucial. Sharing testimonies, like my mother’s story, can uplift and encourage others to trust in God’s faithfulness.
Looking back, my mother’s journey of faith was anchored in the prophetic word she received. It was a journey marked by steps of obedience, often in the face of uncertainty. Yet, each step was guided by the assurance that God, who promised, is faithful. This journey has not only impacted her life but has also been a testament to God’s faithfulness to our family and those around us. Let us therefore, value the revelations God gives us, whether past or present, understanding that they are incorruptible seeds of His promise. As we walk with Him, may we continually seek fresh words of guidance, standing not just on the written Word but on the living, active revelation of God in our lives. This is the power of God’s Word and the faithfulness of the God who promises—He speaks, and it is done; He commands, and it stands firm.
This blog is just the beginning. In the next part, I will recount the most life-changing chapter of my story—when I experienced the profound shift from being the sole author of my life to allowing the nail-pierced hands of Jesus to take the pen. This encounter, which came after two years of following Islam, was when I truly felt my life’s authorship pass from my hands into His. Until then, let us reflect on our own stories, recognizing the hand of the Divine Author at work, and trust that His narrative is one of grace, redemption and purpose.
Grace and Peace,
Aben
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