Perhaps unseen amid the city’s hustle stands GPIB Bahtera Iman. This church is a beacon of faith in Ciputat Tangerang Selatan. GPIB Bahtera Iman has a vision to realize peace for all creation. Its mission involves placing Jesus Christ as head of the church. The church aims to bring God’s peace and be a blessing. It strives to build a missionary congregation growing in faith. This congregation should be an example contributing to Indonesia’s progress.
GPIB stands for Gereja Protestan di Indonesia bagian Barat. This translates to Protestant Church in Western Indonesia. The church’s theology follows John Calvin’s teachings. He was a French reformer who led the church in Geneva. GPIB was established on October 31 1948. Back then it was called De Protestantse Kerk in Westelijk Indonesie.
The first Synod Assembly included leaders like Ds J.A. de Klerk and Ds B.A. Supit. At its start GPIB had seven regions with 53 congregations. These Klasis covered areas from West Java to Sulawesi. GPIB is part of several religious organizations. These include the World Communion of Reformed Churches and the World Council of Churches.
GPIB’s long-term theme from 2006 to 2026 is about Jesus Christ. He is seen as the source of peace. Early leadership in GPIB had a Dutch influence. The initial Synod Assembly had five primary leaders and three Indonesians.
Over time GPIB expanded beyond its original geographic focus. It now exists in Bali Lombok and South and Southeast Sulawesi. This expansion occurred because members moved and wanted to stay connected to GPIB. They established new congregations with synod approval.
Looking at GPIB’s history we can divide its growth into periods. From 1948 to 1966 the focus was on consolidating the church. During this time the church ministered to both Dutch and Indonesian people. From 1966 to 1986 GPIB started its journey toward becoming a missionary congregation. The late Rev D.R. Maitimoe envisioned GPIB as a missionary church.
From 1986 to 2006 GPIB focused on becoming a missionary congregation. It aimed to address the needs of society and the nation. Since 2006 GPIB has been working to build a church that embodies and shares Jesus Christ’s peace.
GPIB has a motto. It says people will come from east west north and south. They will sit and eat in God’s Kingdom. Today GPIB has 24 Musyawarah Pelayanan or service regions. These include areas such as North Sumatra Aceh and West Java. GPIB uses a Presbiterial Synodal system of governance. This system emphasizes policy set by elders through deliberation. It also promotes dynamic relationships between assemblies.
GPIB recognizes four church officials. These are pastors elders deacons and evangelists. Pastors must complete theological education. Elders and deacons are chosen by the congregation. These officials focus on church development and teaching purity.
The GPIB worship service acknowledges Christ as the head of the church. The liturgy includes elements of faith affirmation. It also recognizes Jesus Christ as the foundation. GPIB’s understanding of salvation emphasizes God’s work through Jesus Christ. This salvation is available to all.
GPIB strives to embody its mission. It presents the signs of God’s Kingdom. It also hopes that its people can sit and eat together. They should enjoy fellowship in God’s kingdom. This is reflected through programs in fellowship service and testimony. GPIB’s policies are based on the Bible and various creeds. These guide the church in its mission.
GPIB faces challenges. It must stay aware of external challenges such as misuse of technology and terrorism. Internal challenges include focusing too much on internal matters. GPIB must also address leadership and individualistic tendencies. GPIB aims to develop its resources. It wants to empower its members to fulfill Jesus Christ’s mission. GPIB acknowledges Jesus Christ as head of the church. As we conclude our visit may the spirit of unity guide us all.