In South Asia, the national pastors feel strongly that God has called them to go and they know very well that there will be problems ahead. For many of these pastors there is resistance by the community leaders. In fact, there has been a recent commitment by those who oppose Christian activities to disrupt and discourage and even eliminate anything that is not supportive of the government’s pro-Hindu stance. But they go, no matter what!
What these pastors are up against is an intentional effort to stop the gospel. This is nothing new for them. Many attempts have been made over the centuries to stop the work of God, and yet He remains more powerful than anything man does (1 John 4:4). The gospel can’t be stopped! This truth provides our pastors with great encouragement. Our Director met with some of these pastors and they shared that they will continue their work, no matter what! They see the efforts of wicked men as a reason to trust God in times of adversity and not to worry or quit.
The attitude we find in the hearts of thee rural South Asian pastors is something the writer of the book of Hebrews told his readers. In chapter 12, verse 3 the Scriptures reads: “consider Him who endured from sinners, such hostility against Himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” Jesus endured suffering and rejection from those who opposed Him, but His example encourages all of us to continue to faithfully serve the God who has called us.
Those pastors and leaders have been trained through Hope and Help International’s Timothy Leadership Institutes (TLI). The TLI is a program that teaches Bible doctrines, ministry skills, and Bible study techniques to rural pastors. Those who have graduated from the TLI have a desire to see their own disciples trained!
After 10 years of conducting Timothy Leadership Institute events, more than 300 men have been trained and equipped to make disciples and plant churches. Now they will see the fruit of their labors for Christ!
Two new TLI classes began in different locations in South Asia in 2017. Many of our new students were encouraged to participate by pastors or leaders who already graduated! We are blessed by the testimonies of God at work within the hearts of these pastors who are mentoring members of their congregations toward spiritual maturity! After all isn’t multiplication what it is all about?!
These men are not investing in their own little kingdoms; they are investing in God’s Kingdom! Will you invest in God’s Kingdom by investing in these pastors who are sharing the gospel, no matter what, and making disciples who will make disciples? The gospel can’t be stopped!
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