Dear Pastors and praying friends,
As we write to you, our hearts are still full from our survey trip just a few weeks ago. The sights and sounds of Indonesians streaming through crowded cities, without the slightest knowledge of Christ, does not soon escape your thoughts. Jakarta has 28 million people in its metropolitan area, and on one of our first days there, we watched as thousands poured into the largest mosque in Indonesia. The call to prayer would not just sound from here but from scores of mosques across the city. Somehow, people who scarcely had elbow room, would line up in rows and bow like waves in unison. I could only help but think of what Paul said of the Jews in Romans 10. “For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” Indonesia has a desperate need for the truth of the Gospel to be preached among its people!
We had the opportunity to do just that! It was one of the greatest privileges of my life thus far. I was able to stand and preach in four different churches across three cities in Indonesia. I have to say, we have the best life of all! One special moment for us came in a church with barely a dozen Christians. They met in a member’s home and stepping into the place brought great humility and gravity to my conscience. They were poor, but rich in Christ. They welcomed us, sang with joy, listened intently, and prayed with us. They even fed us afterward. As we ate, they gave their testimonies of coming to faith in Christ. One older man had been a “Christian” on his government I.D. card his entire life but only a few years ago heard the Gospel.
Through all the cities and shops we went to, there was something that was plainly seen. The great opportunity that lies there. People with needs that aren’t met in Islam. Young men that were forgotten and hungry for a mentor. We would covet your prayers that the Lord would help us to return soon.
To Indonesia with Truth,
Jesse and Faith Turpin