In this week’s #GreatCommission Recap, we talk about persecution in Nigeria and increased hostilities, reasons why students should consider going on the upcoming spring break trip to Central Asia, and practical ways we can love our Jewish neighbors.
An Eye on the Nations
Just recently, a pastor in Nigeria was killed by the terrorist group Boko Haram. Last month, ISWAP, a splinter group from Boko Haram, killed 11 Christians. These are only two examples of consistent abductions, attacks and executions happening across Sub-Saharan Africa. Opens Doors reports the following:
“In Nigeria, Central African Republic (CAR), South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burkina Faso, 2,476 Christians were martyred for their faith—1,350 reported in Nigeria alone. In Nigeria, Christians are targeted by Fulani militants, Boko Haram, ISWAP and a range of armed criminal groups that attack Christian communities and churches, kill, kidnap and rape with little-to-no consequences.”
Nigeria ranks 12 on the Open Doors World Watch List, primarily for Islamic Oppression. Would you take a moment and pray for Nigeria, along with the countless other countries that are persecuted for their faith? Pray that the Nigerian Church would stand strong and endure. Pray that the Spirit would comfort them and bring both peace and protection. May we not forgot to also pray for their persecutors — that the gospel of grace would be made known to them and they would turn from their evil ways to a life in Christ.
To learn more about what’s going on in Nigeria, check out the following articles:
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Kidnapped Nigerian church leader executed only 18 days after abduction
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Nigerian pastor who praised God in ransom video beheaded after refusing to deny Christ
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ISIL-linked group claims ‘execution of 11 Christians’ in Nigeria
This week’s articles:
2 Reasons To Go On the Central Asia Cultural Study Tour
What does time on the Central Asia Cultural Study Tour look like? Hear Dylan Anderson’s testimony and sign up to go!
“During the week that you are on the ground, you will travel constantly across a Central Asian country that is rich in biblical history. On the day we boarded a bus with nine of us seminary students, our professor, three missionaries, and about a dozen refugees, I had no idea how much the next week would impact the way I read Scripture.”
Anti-Semitism, the Church’s Mission, and Our Jewish Neighbors
Stephen Stallard offers four suggestions as to how we can stand against anti-semitism in our efforts to be obedient to the Great Commission.
“We need to view our Jewish neighbors as, well, neighbors. They are not a monolithic group to be feared or studied. They are people to be known. Given the religious difference, and historical complications, sharing Jesus with Jews can be hard. We might start our gospel witness by standing in solidarity with them as simply humans.”
Southeastern 5K 2020
Did you know that proceeds from the Annual Southeastern 5K go toward supporting global theological education? Well, now you know! The Global Theological Initiative seeks to use the resources at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary to do just this. As you consider ways you’d like to make a difference this upcoming year, will you consider running in our race so others can be equipped to say #iamgoing?
The race is February 29th, 2020 right here in the beautiful town of Wake Forest. Learn more and register here.
Prices:
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Adults $40
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SEBTS Students: $40
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Child (ages 6-16): $35
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5 & Under: FREE
