Rev. Philemon, a faithful servant who fearlessly shared the Gospel in Nigeria.The ServeNow family is grieving the loss of a faithful servant of Christ and a dear partner in ministry. Rev. Philemon, who served as a coordinator in Nigeria, recently gave his life as a Christian martyr in Nigeria for his faith in Jesus Christ. Known for his courage, humility, and deep love for the Gospel. Rev. Philemon faithfully served communities in difficult and dangerous regions—bringing hope, encouragement, and the message of Christ to many through programs like The Basic Series.
While his passing is deeply painful, it also reminds us that the work of the Gospel often unfolds amid great spiritual opposition. Scripture reminds us that our struggle is not merely against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces at work in the world.
Our President, Ben Foley, had the privilege of traveling with Rev. Philemon and witnessing his dedication to ministry firsthand. In the tribute below, he shares a personal reflection honoring Rev. Philemon’s life, faith, and lasting legacy.
Letter from the President: Honoring Rev. Philemon, Christian Martyr in Nigeria
Dear Friends and Family,
I am writing this tribute to recognize and honor a wonderful man of God and a dear brother in Christ, Rev. Philemon. It was with extremely heavy hearts that we learned he had become a martyr for his faith in Jesus Christ. Yet even in our grief, we hold firmly to the hope of his eternal reward as one who faithfully witnessed to so many during his life on earth. As Scripture reminds us, we grieve—but not as those who have no hope.
I had the personal privilege of traveling with Rev. Bulus. He served not only as a key coordinator for ServeNow but also as an interpreter for me during one of my visits. He was a bold yet joyful man, willing to go into dangerous areas to share the Gospel, serve those in need, and encourage persecuted believers—even at the cost of his own life.
I will never forget that memorable trip and the time we spent together, witnessing the fruit of his labor in the lives of those redeemed by Jesus Christ.
I wish to extend my deepest condolences to his family and colleagues. It is difficult and painful to lose someone so suddenly and in such a tragic way. We pray that God will bring comfort to your hearts and lives in the days ahead, and that His mercy and grace will sustain you as you wrestle with this reality.
Please be assured that we are praying for you and honoring his life and legacy. Rev. Philemon is now one of the many in a long line of faithful martyrs throughout the ages whose names are known in heaven.
I think about Stephen, the first martyr who gave his life for his witness to Jesus. As he was being stoned, Scripture tells us that he saw the heavens open and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. What makes this especially touching is that elsewhere Scripture tells us that after completing His work on earth, Jesus sat down at the right hand of the Father. Yet at Stephen’s martyrdom, Jesus stood—honoring Stephen and welcoming him into eternal rest.
I trust the same is true for Rev. Philemon—that he has heard the words:
“Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Remembering Rev. Philemon: A Faithful Christian Martyr in Nigeria
Rev. Philemon’s life reminds us that the Gospel continues to advance—even in the most difficult places—and often through the courageous faith of those willing to serve at great personal cost. While we mourn his loss, we also give thanks for his faithful witness and the many lives he impacted through his ministry. Programs like The Basic Series, Training for Pastors, and Bicycles and Books for Pastors show how ServeNow equips the church to boldly share the Gospel in challenging regions.
Please join us in praying for his family, the believers he served in Nigeria, and for the continued strength and courage of those sharing the hope of Christ in challenging regions around the world.
His story also reminds us that the challenges believers face are part of a deeper spiritual reality. As Scripture tells us, “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Even in the face of persecution and loss, we know that Christ has already won the ultimate victory.
May Rev. Philemon’s life inspire us to stand firm in our faith, to pray earnestly for the persecuted church, and to continue sharing the hope of Jesus with a world that desperately needs Him.
