Monday, July 9, 2012

Paving the way to present the gospel

Imagine what it would feel like to read and write your own language for the first time as an adult. Recently a group of 20 Biem men and women who live in the jungles of Papua New Guinea completed their literacy class. As a result the language that they have spoken all their lives takes on whole new dimensions and possibilities.

Missionary Brandon Buser writes, “One of their greatest satisfactions is when they get a chance to read their books outside of class time in front of their families. The chance to ‘show off their stuff’ is extremely relished.” Brandon adds that this kind of “showing off” is also an effective enlisting tool for future class participants. It seems that no one wants to be left out.

Literacy is one of the first steps in the process of planting a church among unreached people groups. Now preparations for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ can proceed.

With several years of studying culture and language behind them, the missionaries are now able to understand how to move beyond simple concrete subjects and delve into more abstract topics.
Brandon writes, “Those times are fascinating as we get their takes on life, death and what happens when they die (to which the overwhelming answer is ‘I’ve no clue’). It’s great to be able to tell them that there is Someone Who knows these answers. Most of these conversations end with a lot of eager folks saying that they can’t wait for the Bible course to start.”

The task of planting a church in these remote corners of the world is huge and is extremely challenging. The instruction that NTM missionaries receive at our Missionary Training Center helps them to become effective church planters.

Please send me an email if you would like to learn more about how you can help to reach the unreached people groups of the world.

Because of Calvary,

Bob Nyberg  

* * *

The Proper Attitude of Man under Grace 
by William R. Newell

To believe, and to consent to be loved while unworthy, is the great secret.
To refuse to make “resolutions” and “vows”; for that, is to trust in the flesh.
To expect to be blessed, though realizing more and more lack of worth.
To testify of God’s goodness, at all times.
To be certain of God’s future favor; yet to be ever more tender in conscience toward Him.
To rely on God’s chastening hand as a mark of His kindness.
A man under grace, if like Paul, has no burden regarding himself; but many about others.



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