This will be one of those experiences that defy a worthy explanation! Since arriving in Kenya in 2011 we have seen God work in amazing ways, and we have seen how powerful His Word can be. We also have experienced first hand spiritual warfare and demonic battles. But what we are going to share is beyond complete understanding (humanly speaking).
A good friend, and fellow Kenyan missionary (Fred) is part of an organization (ICM) that teaches Inductive Bible Study to pastors and church leadership throughout Kenya. At the invitation of this particular church; Fred went to meet with the leadership of this village church.
What he discovered caused him to evaluate just how beneficial (or not) Inductive Bible Study might be for this group. You see, he had been invited to a Kenyan church organization that believes very strongly in dreams and visions. In fact, when they meet weekly on Saturday from 6am to 9am (more on that later), they sing, dance, pray, and ask people to share their dreams and/or visions. In the last 5 minutes someone is picked to read a Scripture and then say whatever they want about anyone......in less than 5 minutes they are finished!
This particular "denomination" has been in existence since 1927 and this is the way they have always done "church." The leadership is made up of uneducated men & women who feel strongly about their church and what they do. The Arch Bishop is the head of the churches (not sure how many churches but they said there are about 4,000 people throughout Kenya), Secretary General is second in command, Bishops come next, and the various levels of pastors, elders and church leadership. All recognized by their appearance; hats, crosses, gowns, etc.
The question that our missionary friend had was "What do they want me to do?" They have had no interest in Scripture, and they definitely do not teach from the Bible...... They don't even know how to teach God's Word! Lord, how can I use this situation to bring You the glory?
Long story short.... Fred was asked to teach them how to study the Bible. They set a date for him to return and teach level one of IBS. When he had finished those 3 days of solid teaching he was approached by the Arch Bishop who said, "We have heard many things from the Bible that we did not know. We want you to come back and teach the next level to us."
That is exactly what he did! In fact, on the last day of level two training Eagles Nest Ministry attends and teaches part of the day. ENM comes in behind IBS to take the church on the next phase of their Spiritual journey of understanding the Bible. Gary attended with the missionary and had an amazing finish to the training. ENM will now return several times to help them build a Biblically based Christian church.
It's exciting to see how God draws people who want to know Him but stumble not knowing how that is done. So here we have a number of people wanting to know God and are asking for help in understanding who He is. So solely through the Word they are discovering who He is. Seems the Lord is placing us in the birthing of a church. How awesome is that!
Gary spent 4 hours teaching the last day on "The whole counsel of God, Stewardship, and a Q & A time. It was obvious to see that they are hungry for the Word and want to change! This is the most powerful example of the Holy Spirit working that we have seen yet! Gary made a point bringing them all to a point of understanding salvation through Romans and extended an invitation to receive Christ if they had not. No one came forward but we will let God work on those hearts not reached yet.
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| Just one of the guys! |
We told you words would not properly explain what God is doing, and what He is asking us to be part of. They know change is needed.....
after 86 years of the same wrong direction. All of the Bishops throughout Kenya will be coming together on May 12th to discuss what God is doing amongst them as the Holy Spirit convicts them of the wrong teachings and understanding of the Christian church. It is going to be a very difficult road, but there is no turning back now!
Let us stop there and ask you to pray. Pray for this church organization as they are being directed by the Holy Spirit to become a Church that teaches the Word of God. Please pray for ENM as we enter into uncharted spiritual waters and walk fully against the enemy. We know there will be warfare like never before. But it is so very exciting to see the Holy Spirit touching hearts and drawing this church to Himself. Gary had his first "incident" driving home that night. He was passing another vehicle who decided to move towards him while traveling about 70.....their side mirrors collided!
Pray also for our missionary friend, Fred, as he already has several more churches wanting training. We are committed to coming alongside to lead them into deeper spiritual learning and practical application of Scripture in their ministries. Fred needs support! You can find him at Intensive Care ministries under staff. Something to pray about!
Here a few pictures of their "graduation" from IBS training.........
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| Two Bishops with their crosses |
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| Three women leaders in their robes |
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| Graduates from level two IBS |
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| Two leaders, Arch Bishop, Bishop |
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Gary brought Ben (from US) to experience the day!
Albert on Left, is leading the change. Pray for him. |
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| All attendee and graduates |
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That's the road?
We actually did drive down that path with five in our little Subaru!
Did we hear someone say "Land Cruiser?" |
