by Jon Konnerup
It used to be said, “Missions is from the West to the rest.” However, because of churches and missionaries of the BBFI, we can now say missions is from everyone to everywhere. Since the beginning of 2014, I have visited many churches started by our missionaries as well as national pastors. The nationals expressed gratitude for receiving the gospel and are excited to carry out the Great Commission.
While in Chile, a pastor shared the commitment he and other pastors have to reach their country for Jesus Christ through church planting. However, this pastor stated, “Now we must also focus outside our country through missions.” Plans are being made to assist this church with its first mission conference. In addition, other pastors will be invited to observe the process and learn more about world missions.
Since 1948, BBFI missionaries have been involved in the Philippines. During my recent trip there, I was with missionaries John and Pam Quinlan who continue to teach Faith Promise Mission Giving in the church founded by Howard and Eleanor Quinlan. The Quinlan’s ministry includes a children’s academy and a Bible college. While there, I participated in the church’s 50th mission conference.
The following week, I was a part of the 60th anniversary of Bethany Baptist Church started by missionaries Joe and Marguerite Vella. The mission efforts of this church, under the leadership of Pastor Nable, are a great example to many. Their annual mission conference coincides with their anniversary service and many pastors are invited to attend with the hope that the vision they catch for missions will be taken back to their churches.
March found me visiting missionaries Vernon and Mary Smith in Tanzania. Although the Smiths had already taught Faith Promise Mission Giving to the churches, they asked me to explain the big picture of worldwide missions and the role they play in evangelistic efforts. Their people were excited to hear how God is working and many accepted the challenge to become involved in giving by faith. At the conclusion of the Sunday morning service, three people were saved and the church committed to double its Faith Promise giving this year.
The following week, while visiting churches and missionaries around Nairobi, Kenya, a pastor shared how he had just taught Faith Promise Mission Giving to the 80 people in his church. He related how the people were excited to give by faith with the majority promising to start giving to world missions. In the Kenyan countryside with Ole Konnerup, I observed the organization of a new church, taking the number of churches in Kenya over the 1,000 mark! The church building was too small, so we met under a large tree. Several visiting national pastors expressed desire to lead their churches in world missions.
It is exciting to know we have partners around the world who have the same desire as we do — to see people come to Jesus from every nation and people group. Praise the Lord!