Brandon: Welcome to a unique and special episode of Let’s Get Real. I’m Brandon, and you might notice our background has changed. We’re not in our usual studio—we’re at Skyline SIB in Sabah for an episode unlike any other. Before we dive in, I encourage you to watch this in its entirety, free from distractions, because it’s truly special.
Today, we’re here at the request of our guest, Pastor Dr. Philip Lyn—medical doctor, founder, and senior pastor of Skyline SIB. He’s also an author, husband, father, son, brother, and mentor. Pastor Philip, welcome back to the show. It’s a privilege to have you.
Pastor Philip: Thank you, Brandon. It’s a joy to be here. I requested this time because I’ve recently been diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma—cancer at the back of the nose. It’s spread to parts of my bones, making it a potentially serious and life-threatening situation. While I’m still able-bodied, sharp-minded, and in the early stages of chemotherapy, I wanted to share my thoughts on this journey.
Having preached biblical truths with conviction for years, I want to explore whether these truths hold up when applied existentially. I hope my reflections can help others facing crises now or in the future, or those supporting loved ones through them.
Brandon: Your decision to do this so soon after your diagnosis is remarkable. When you shared the news with my wife, Phoebe, and me, I was shocked—not just by the diagnosis, but by your immediate thought to contribute to God’s kingdom. Most people might retreat in despair, but you’re focused on giving back. That speaks volumes about your character and the hope you carry. You look and sound great, and I’m encouraged just sitting here with you.
But let’s rewind. When you first received the news, what was that moment like? As a medical doctor, you understood the implications, but how did it feel?
Pastor Philip: In the weeks before, I was treated for an infection in my neck, which seemed to be resolving. I was in a good place. But a blood test from Singapore, where I sought a second opinion, suggested cancer. I was asked to return for a PET scan and biopsy, which confirmed the diagnosis. Hearing the news was shocking—a cold, clammy feeling washed over me. It felt surreal, like it couldn’t be happening. As a doctor, I knew the data pointed to a high likelihood of cancer even before the final confirmation.
My first response was practical. I called my wife, Nancy, to share the news and arrange a flight to Singapore the next day. I informed my church elders and core pastors about the possibility. As the reality sank in, I began to feel the weight of how this would affect my family, church, and friends. That responsibility—to be the bearer of devastating news—weighed heavier than my own mortality.
Brandon: You mentioned it’s stage four, with secondaries, requiring extensive chemo, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy. Was “Why, God?” one of your first questions? You’ve served Him faithfully for decades, preaching His truths. Did you wrestle with that?
Pastor Philip: Honestly, “why” never surged to the forefront. I’ve taught our church that chasing “why” often leads to unsatisfying answers, self-pity, or paralysis. It lingers in the background but hasn’t overwhelmed me. I never felt anger toward God or a sense of entitlement, as if my service was a bargain for protection. I serve out of gratitude for His grace, not a transaction. That perspective has kept those questions at bay.
Brandon: Did you ever consider this a test, like Job’s trials, where God or Satan might be challenging your faith after years of preaching?
Pastor Philip: Not in a major way, but let me address it philosophically. Job didn’t know the reason for his suffering—none of us may know the “big why.” Just because we don’t see the reason doesn’t mean there isn’t one. We often project reasons based on our theology—satanic attack, personal sin, generational curses, stress, or chance. All are possible, but we can’t know which applies. Like the blind men describing an elephant, we each grasp part of the truth but lack the full picture. Only God sees it all.
So, I surrender to Him, trusting He has a purpose. Most importantly, I know this isn’t because God doesn’t love or care for me. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection prove His love and victory over sin and death. That anchors me. Chasing endless “whys” beyond what God reveals leads to fruitless rabbit holes.
Brandon: Since “why” won’t satisfy us, what should our posture be when facing a terminal illness like this?
Pastor Philip: I’ve taught this from Scripture, drawing from Jesus calming the storm. When the disciples panicked, Jesus asked, “Why do you fear? Where is your faith?” He expected a different response—not just waking Him to fix it. I see two postures of faith. First, resilience: knowing Jesus is in the boat with us, we won’t sink, even if the storm rages. We’ll reach the other side because He’s good. Second, authority: having seen Jesus’ miracles, the disciples could have stood and rebuked the storm themselves, persisting until it stilled.
I adopt both—surrendering to God’s control, trusting He’s with me, and taking authority against the enemy’s attacks. I pray, and I ask others to intercede, forming a prayer shield around me. These truths I’ve preached I now apply existentially, and by God’s grace, I believe they’ll hold.
Brandon: You’ve often been on the receiving end of others’ crises as a pastor. Now, sharing this news yourself, how would you like people to respond to comfort or support you?
Pastor Philip: I feel sad—not just for myself, but because I’m delivering painful news to those I love: my family, church, and friends. It breaks me to see their hurt, and I feel helpless because I can’t soften the blow. It’s not something I can brush off with clichés like “God is here.” All I can do is surrender it to God and encourage where I can.
When you and Phoebe heard the news, I asked you to create a faith ecosystem—standing on God’s Word, praying, and rebuking the enemy. That shifts the focus from despair to hope. I’d love for others to respond similarly: pray with faith, encourage me, and stand with me without letting sadness overwhelm them.
Brandon: Is there fear about what’s ahead—rigorous therapy, changes to your energy, or the unknown?
Pastor Philip: Medically, I know what may come. Spiritually, I pray for strength in body, mind, and spirit. There’s some anxiety about the unknown, but not paralyzing fear or despair. Those feelings pass quickly. I wake some mornings feeling it’s surreal, but I don’t linger there. I focus on practical steps—rest, precautions, and trusting God with the endless possibilities.
Brandon: What practical things have you done to apply these truths?
Pastor Philip: After addressing “why” and posture, the next question is, “God, what do I do next?” In John 9, Jesus told the blind man to wash in the Pool of Siloam without promising healing. The man obeyed, navigating challenges to get there, and received his sight. Obedience is key.
First, I told my family, comforting them with faith, praying, and sharing moments together. Second, I informed my church, recording a video to share the news transparently so they could pray with me. Third, I sought the best medical treatment, making critical decisions. Fourth, I considered implications for my work, church leadership, and family, planning for a potentially limited time while believing for more. Finally, I’ve sought prayer and intercession, asking others to stand with me. I’d love for anyone listening to join in praying for my full restoration.
Brandon: How did your family—biological, church, and kingdom—react, and did their importance zoom to the forefront?
Pastor Philip: I’m grateful that over the last decade, I’ve grown closer to my family—my wife, children, and siblings. This diagnosis intensified that intentionality. We hug more, say “I love you” more, and prioritize quality time. My church and kingdom family have also rallied around me, and I consulted my children before doing this podcast to ensure they felt included.
To everyone, I’d say: cherish your God-given family. They shape your character and spiritual growth. Even if it’s challenging, invest in them—it matters deeply, especially in crises.
Brandon: This is tough, but what if you don’t get healed? What if things worsen?
Pastor Philip: That’s the elephant in the room, and I’ve preached on this. I draw from Daniel’s three friends facing the fiery furnace. They said, “Our God is able to deliver us, but if not, we won’t bow to your idol.” That’s “but if not” faith. If I’m not healed, I won’t bow to the lie that Satan has won, the kingdom is weakened, or God is impotent. Those are false idols—accusations against God’s goodness. I’m safe in His hands, and Jesus is in the boat with me. I’ll reach the other side, no matter what.
Brandon: What legacy do you want to leave? How would you like to be remembered?
Pastor Philip: I don’t want my name perpetuated—that’s personality-driven and fades. True legacy outlasts us: lives changed, the gospel advanced, society transformed. Buildings like Skyline’s aren’t legacy; people are. I want Jesus glorified and the kingdom strengthened through my small contribution. On my 70th birthday, my daughter asked this, and I told her it’s not about our family name but a legacy that outlasts it. I dream of revival in Malaysia’s workplaces, touching countless lives for God’s glory.
Brandon: How can people pray for you and stand with you?
Pastor Philip: My chemotherapy journey has just begun, and I look to God for healing, with doctors aiding the process. This will stretch over months, and I may weaken, but my spirit remains strong. I ask you to create a contagious faith ecosystem. Pray with authority, rebuke cancer and death, and believe for miracles. When others share fear or despair, reverse it—declare God’s power and hope, and pray together. Your faith will rise, and you’ll inspire others to pray for me. I value that deeply, alongside my full surrender to God.
Brandon: Let’s close with prayer. Lord, we thank You for Pastor Philip’s life and servant heart. We take authority in Jesus’ name, rebuking cancer and death, and pray for miraculous healing. Grant him supernatural strength for chemotherapy, peace that surpasses understanding, and comfort in loneliness. Be by his side, Lord, and let him feel the love of his family, church, and prayer warriors worldwide. Perform a miracle, Lord, for full healing. Thank You for this opportunity to share his heart. We proclaim healing and give You all glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Philip: Thank you, Brandon. When we met in 2019, I’m touched you saw me as a role model. My final word: God is good, in control, and you’re highly favored, greatly blessed, and deeply loved.
Brandon: Thank you, Pastor Philip. If this episode blessed you, share it with friends, family, and your community. Join us on Discord, follow us on social media, and stay tuned for more. It’s been a privilege. Until next time, this is Brandon and Pastor Philip on Let’s Get Real. Bye!
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