Building People. Spreading Hope.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Why the Church in Asia is Exploding


For a believer in Asia, church means the world to them. Majority of the new converts are disowned by their family and often they come to live with the pastor until they’re reestablished. Often pastor’s home is where the abused women or their children run to. A church is a place of refuge and the pastor is the symbol of trust and security because he’s often been to prison for his faith in Christ.

While Christianity is in decline in Europe and North America, masses of people in Asia are turning to Christ. Twenty thousand people are accepting Christ in India every day. In China, twenty five thousand people are following Christ every day. What is the secret of this explosive church growth? Today I want to discuss seven characteristics that are making the church in Asia explode with new converts.

First, the emphasis is on the message not the building. They would like one but majority of the church in Asia do not own a church building. Most of the believers meet in homes, parks, riverside or even in caves. Having church in public places makes it visible to non-believers and they too are drawn to Christ. Not having hefty church mortgage frees up resources to care for the people in the local community.

Second, worship is the main part of the service. It is the loudest part of the service when everyone vocalizes their gratitude. Coming out of the idol worshipping culture, it is easy for them to direct their love, devotion and commitment to a God who has saved them from utter destruction. When they go to church, they are energized to worship God and ready to express their devotion to their Savior, Healer and Deliverer.

Third reason why the Asian church is exploding is emphasis on prayer. Most people have come to the Lord because someone prayed over their sickness and they’re healed. They understand that prayer works. They don’t have access to medical doctors, lawyer, insurance or a financial professional. Christians pray everywhere about everything!

Fourth, signs, wonders and miracles are the life blood of the church in Asia. Over eighty percent of the new believers come to church because they’ve experienced a miracle themselves or someone they know. Interestingly, Christians don’t make a big deal about the miraculous. It is a great tool but it is not sensationalized. Miracles are an everyday part of their lives.

Another characteristic of the Asian church their witness. Believer often do not know a lot of theology but they are bold about telling others what Christ did for them. Often sharing their faith with non-believers causes them to be kicked out of their own homes and school, beaten, persecuted and even imprisoned.

The sixth reason for Asia’s church growth is persecution. Just like in the Book of Acts believers scatter because of persecution. Wherever they go, they take their faith with them and start a new work. Christians are encouraged to turn the other chick instead of seeking political justice. Just like Saul, this causes their persecutors to be convicted. Often the persecutor becomes the promoter of the Gospel.

Last but the not least, the church in Asia is a giving church. There is not much teaching or emphasis on giving but they give much more than ten percent to the work of the Gospel. Often it is in the form of produce, livestock or real estate. They are hospitable, fellowship together over meals and other social events.

Please pray for the revival to continue in Asia. Our brother and sisters need you and your prayers. Will you pray for the church in Asia today? I know you will.

“I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18 KJV).

Click Here to Join a Mission Trip to Asia: www.buildinternational.org

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