January 1, 2009
Focus Today: January 1, 2009
Posted in Focus Today, He Answers, Stories at 12:01 am by tnteditor
Powerful Results from Persistent Prayer
In the six years we have been in Bangkok, it is something we have never seen before—hoards of people streaming forward to accept salvation through Christ alone. Four years ago it was something about which we, as IMB workers, could only dream when teams of prayerwalkers from Virginia and New Mexico trod the area around Prakanong Church, a 40-year-old congregation in the heart of the city.
For the last three months, this church of about 100 active members, has prepared for this one night of outreach at Christmas. Church members attended prayer meetings three times a week. On Friday evenings, the services often ran past midnight. Each Sunday afternoon prayerwalkers spread throughout the area around the church. Whenever they had the opportunity, they gave out printed invitations to the event and built relationships as they shared their hospitality and love.
Members were asked to fast and pray for their family, friends, and neighbors who were not yet believers. Some members chose to fast every noontime and put aside what they would have spent on lunch for the expenses of the Christmas event. Members also bought gifts for the expected guests and prayed over these gifts. Members of the church often remarked at how the spirit of unity for this outreach was touching all the ministries of the church.
Some church members came to the event with four to six non-Christian friends or family members. By the time the church grounds were crammed with people, it seemed that there were more guests than members. Dozens of people went into the prayer tent asking for healing.
After the sumptuous meal of Thai food, a film showing the story of creation to the resurrection was shown. After the film, the pastor gave a short gospel message summarizing the meaning of the film for our lives today.
In Thai culture, pastors seldom give an open invitation. They feel that there is too much chance for a “loss of face” if no one comes forward. But on this evening, the pastor knew that a number of people had already prayed with him to receive salvation. So he invited those people to come forward. At that point, it seemed he was moved by the Spirit to open the invitation up to anyone who wanted to receive Jesus. People throughout the sanctuary immediately got up and surged forward. When about 25 people stood quietly at the front, the pastor asked the church leaders to come and pray with those who had responded. Church members stood hand-in-hand with the new believers as they repeated the prayer of salvation after the pastor.
The day after the event, many new believers came to the regular Sunday morning worship. We believe that many new discipleship groups will be formed and all new believers will be mentored before receiving baptism.
As we struggle with working in a culture that is less than one percent Christian, this experience will sustain us for a long time to come. The dominant religion teaches people that happiness only comes through one’s good deeds. The Thai people have smiling faces but empty, hopeless lives. We praise God that this church was persistent in prayer and faithful in belief that God would honor their work in His name.
