Taking a stand in baptism
Preparing to be baptized recently, Inanbimali believers in Papua New Guinea gathered to share what baptism means to them -- and what it does not mean.
Missionary Tim Shontere's tribal "grandma," the oldest lady in the village, is a fiery little woman who has received regular persecution for her beliefs but is standing strong.
"It's a sign only," she said about baptism. "I got God's Spirit when I crossed over. I don't need to be baptized to be crossed over. I crossed over. That's why I am getting baptized. You can't fool me! I know God's strong talk!"
Courtney Shontere's tribal brother spoke up, "If I were to die before I get baptized I would still be in Heaven with God. Think of the thief on the cross, was he baptized? No way! If I die tonight, you'll see me in Heaven. But tomorrow you'll see me get baptized. Only belief in Jesus saves a person, not taking a bath."
As the meeting finished, Lucas, one of the leaders, exhorted the group, "Let them throw stones at us tomorrow. If you are standing there and someone starts to speak against you, take it. Hear me! Take it! It is not our in new character to respond with evil character for the bad things they do. Take it! I tell you we will take it. Just like in Acts when Paul and Silas took real stones, we will do the same and know God's eyes are happy with us. We will take it. Be strong. Don't back down. Take it!"
In all, 19 Yembiyembi believers were baptized. Pray for them as they shine together in a very dark place, standing against persecution and ridicule.