Although churches are struggling as a whole we continue to see God’s word make a difference. In the last few weeks of preaching we have had over 60+ people respond to the gospel message and make professions of faith. We rejoice in the believers that also came for counseling and prayer during that time and hope to see all of these people take a serious approach to following the will and ways of Jesus Christ. One of the obstacles we see is the poor leadership of the church and lack of Chewa Bibles available to the members. We are currently praying for God’s direction in starting a small “bush” pastor’s training school that would greatly increase the Biblical knowledge for the leaders and hopefully give them more tools to lead their people. We are also looking for ways to purchase more Bibles in the Chewa language although illiteracy continues to be a hindrance for many living in rural areas.
I did some teaching on the subject of Biblical Hermeneutics to a group of pastors in town. We spent 4 days going through the different principles of Biblical interpretation and discussing how different doctrines fit together without contradiction. Although many of these men are educated and much more advanced than the leadership in the rural areas there was still a major lack of knowledge concerning basic Bible truths. One of our upcoming challenges is trying to teach and equip these pastors so they may be effective ministers of Jesus Christ. We are really just praying on how to go about this monumental task…!
Again we went on a survey trip through Chadiza district. This district is said to be the most under-developed district in the Eastern Province. We stopped to pass out tracts and talk to some of the people. It did not take long to see many of the people unashamedly involved in the practices of witchcraft and the world of Nyau. I agree with the government that this area needs development such as clean drinking water, more schools, better roads and the such. However, when we look through our physical eyes instead of our spiritual eyes we can be deceived into thinking physical development is all these people really need. Our goal is much more than physical but more in-line with what Scripture says, “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith….”
Prayer Requests:
1. To see many more saved and discipled to be mature followers of Christ
2. That we would learn ChiChewa and be more effective in communication
3. That the upcoming presidential elections in Zambia would be peaceful
4. That our work permit would be processed and approved quickly
5. That our Bible study specifically for expatriates would yield fruit
Thank you for your continued prayers and support for our ministry. If you would like weekly updates, please visit our blog at kevinpestke.blogspot.com.
In Christ-
Kevin, Savannah & Analiese Pestke
Zambia/Africa |
