Not far away were other churches that had been the subject of serious violence and intimidation by small groups of the majority religion. Sometimes these protests were based on the fact that the church did not have a licence to meet. This is a serious issue since it is very difficult in some places for Christians to gain permissions from local authorities even though the law protects freedom of worship. The matter is complicated because some feel that the opposition is not purely religious and is often driven by political or other motives.
A couple of lay leaders in another church have started a library in a kampung near where they live. They supply books with the agreement of the head of the village and also offer cooking classes and other helps to the community which is mainly comprised of poor people.
Another woman has been taking food and other goods to a squatter slum in a very poor part of Jakarta for a number of years. This Easter she was able to tell the story of Jesus to some of the children who asked if they could pray in the name of Jesus. The mothers were very happy for this to happen. It may seem a simple thing but is potentially very dangerous.
At a different level All Saints church has been running seminars for local project leaders to encourage them in a variety of practical areas of their ministries.
The gospel is growing in Indonesia in a variety of ways and through many people. At work through it all is the Spirit of God who continues to do his work through Jesus’ disciples.
Dale