
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world,” John 16:33 (NLT).
Not too long ago, three top officials from a large Chinese province accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior through attending a Bible study led by International Students, Inc.! These leaders—the head of education, the head of public administration and the head Communist Party executive of a province of 3 million people—came to know the Lord.
The education chief was so on-fire for the Lord that he pledged the following:
“I may not be able to put the Gospel into our curricula right away, but I will start promoting Christian themes in our schools the minute I return!”
As you may know, Chinese Christians are up against a wall of darkness and intolerance when it comes to returning to their homeland as believers. It is a huge blessing when one not only returns as a believer, but returns home ready to spread the Gospel, whatever the cost.
Friend, we hear stories like this often here in the corporate headquarters. Many returnees—from other countries in the 10/40 window—are taking the initiative to share the Good News even in places that are hostile to Christians. Quite a few are even reproducing the M:28 Discovery Bible Study! Please, would you take some time to pray for our returnee students who are finding ways to share their faith, even when it could put them in harm’s way?
I am reminded of when Jesus tells His disciples that their sorrow will turn to joy. Jesus continues later in the chapter with telling them: “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world,”
John 16:33 (NLT).
I pray this is an encouragement to returnees facing dangerous situations, that they have “peace in Him.” I also pray this for you—I know that no matter where you live, there are countless tribulations. I pray for all of us to “take heart,” because Jesus Christ has overcome the world. No matter what kind of darkness attempts to overcome the light, know that the darkness cannot overcome the light. I encourage you to live out your faith and have peace in His perfect love for you.
For More Information
Watch this video to learn more about how ISI is changing the lives of international students by reaching its future leaders.
Learn more about the M:28 Global Discipleship Initiative.
Take a look at this ISI video to learn more about our Churches Reaching Nations campaign.