The mission stories we cannot tell

In a community where evangelism is forbidden, two Elim missionaries are quietly opening doors through prayer, relationships, practical service and the power of God, writes Jack Skett

Some of Elim Missions’ most remarkable stories can never be told publicly.

Missionaries are serving in nations and communities where speaking openly about Jesus is dangerous. A careless social media post could compromise their work or even put their lives at risk.

Protecting them is vital, but necessary. Secrecy brings another challenge: how can these missionaries share news of their ministry and raise the financial support they need?

One couple facing this dilemma can be known as Reuben and Tamara. These are not their real names, and the precise location of their work cannot be revealed.

What can be said is that they are serving in Asia, in a community where evangelising local people is forbidden and many are reluctant to discuss matters of faith. So how do they share the gospel in such a difficult setting?

“Firstly, we believe there is a great need for prayer and intercession. There are strongholds that need removing (2 Corinthians 10:4). Breakthrough will not come with short, simple prayers of petition. God has called us to raise up prayer warriors who will prophetically declare his Word over the nation. We believe, as we intercede, God will draw people of peace who in time will lead others from their own community to himself.

“Then secondly, the challenge is to communicate with the local people. There are different ways we seek to do this. We are learning the local language, building up relationships with the locals, and representing Christ by bringing biblical values and godly principles in the places of work within the community. We also go for ‘divine encounter’ walks and drives where God has remarkably opened doors for us.

“Then, furthermore, recognising the restrictions, and that the gospel does not come in words only, but in demonstration of power (1 Corinthians 2:4), we seek to bring the Kingdom through signs and wonders (healings, miracles, words of knowledge, dream interpretation and so on), before explaining that it is the Lord who is working through us to bless and save them.”

This article first appeared in Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.