Controversial lessons ahead
Teaching among the Mwinikas in Mozambique has transitioned from teaching foundational Old Testament truths to the New Testament.
The first few lessons presented Old Testament prophecies about the coming Messiah. A chart was shown to the people so they could clearly see the fulfillment of each prophesy.
“We are now moving into territory that is less agreeable to many religious sects here,” wrote Phil Henderson.
The people could readily agree with the Old Testament stories as there was nothing hugely controversial in them. But as the New Testament is introduced, the Messiah, Jesus, will present a stumbling block for those who have lived their lives believing something else.
The Mwinikas identified with the final lessons in the Old Testament – about Samuel, Saul, David and other judges and prophets – and the history of the Israelites turning to and from God.
“That’s us, the Mwinika people,” one leader said.
This was followed by an interesting discussion defining repentance and the fact that each person must choose for himself to believe God’s Word.
A woman sitting with missionary Elin Henderson leaned over and quietly said, “Like the snakes, right?”
At first, Elin didn’t make the connection, but then realized the woman was referring to the story about Moses and the bronze serpent, and that each person had to choose to look at the snake and be healed.
Please pray that the Mwinikas will continue to attend the teaching and pay close attention to the Gospel that conflicts with their religious views.