‘Tell everyone everywhere’
Noel started off a bit shy.
It was his job to ask his fellow Uriay believers review questions, to get them thinking about what they’ve learned so far. It was important to start lessons about Acts by reminding everyone that these lessons build on what they’ve already learned in the evangelistic Bible lessons, that cover Creation to Christ’s ascension, and the follow-up lessons that go back over many of those same topics, looked at from the perspective of believers.
“First God lived in a house made of animal skins, after that in a house made of bricks,” Noel said. “But what about today? What is the place where God lives on this earth today?”
By the time he was done with his part, the shyness was gone, and Noel was encouraged by how well it went – and why. He knew he didn’t have the strength or courage to do this, so he relied on God.
Missionaries among the Uriay people then taught the lesson. But Noel’s part was vital. As the Uriays hear about the growth and development of the early church, it’s important that they experience it by seeing their own people teach and lead.
The Uriays are also improving their ability to feed themselves from the Word of God.
“Before the actual teaching of the lessons, we are getting together early in the morning with the literates and reading a chapter of the book of Acts to improve reading skills,” wrote missionaries Elias and Jose Struik.
And from what Uriays are saying, it appears the efforts are paying off.
“I thought that God’s Good Spirit came to live in [us] from the time we were born,” Tyob said. “No, that is not true. He comes in … the moment we [believe].”
“Jesus’ words all bear fruit. None of his words fell on the ground,” Fabel said. “Men and women, not only for Peter, James and the other apostles, but what was the strong talk Jesus gave all of His children?”
“Tell them everything. Tell everybody everywhere the things I have taught you, said Jesus,” Imi replied.
“We are one with Jesus. He died for us, He was buried for our sins, we have received life because He raised from the death,” said Kobi when it was his turn to lead the review.
Pray that the Uriay believers learn the lessons of Acts and apply them, and grow together as a church. Pray especially for Kobi and Noel and others whom God appears to be raising up as teachers and leaders.