Only .4% Christian in total population of Thailand of 66 million which means at there over 63 million Thais in Bangkok who are not in relationship with Jesus. The Gospel was proclaimed here for 180 years but has had little fruit among the people.
While the people here are incredibly nice and welcoming, the huge need and oppression in this place is visible. Idols dominate the landscape. The sex market and drug scene is apparent. Even our Taxi driver today gave us the brochure of girls he could drop us off too. I guess a car full of guys on apparent holiday hints at this in this culture.
Amidst this though, I am blown away by the power of God at work among simple Christian ministries. I met one Christian local who had led
75 families to Christ in 9 months with 700 people saved/ affected. She is a stay at home mum. One church of 100 people here have begun a church planting movement. Over this past year they have baptized 1000 people and begun in 12 of the 77 provinces here. 75 churches. Probably 3-4 house churches in these. Its a simple model and the stories of these local people blow my mind. Last night we saw another ministry reaching out to girls who work and service the bar scene here. The ministry, Rahab, reaches out with the gospel to these girls and train them to reenter society through micro loans. In all is the power of the gospel is obvious.
The day has been long and full. But today I am reminded of Jesus' stories of the gospel beginning with a small mustard seed which grew and had an abundance of fruit. This is what I've experienced today. The song of Chris Tomlin rings in my ears ... " you are the lord of this nation and God of this people .... Greater things are still to be done in this city."
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