I’m delighted that Vivek Jones will be with us Sunday to share from God’s Word! He’s a pastor from India who’s currently in the States for grad studies at Westminster Seminary. Vivek is married to Anne and they have three children, Kathy (8), John Mark (7), and Amy (5).
Over and over the Apostle Paul tells churches he’s praying for them: giving thanks, calling on God for power, etc. I thank my God in all my remembrance of you… (Philippians 1:3). I mention you without ceasing in my prayers (Romans 1:9-10). I pray that according to the riches of [God’s] glory he may grant you to be strengthened … through his Spirit (Ephesians 3:16).
Let’s follow his lead and call on the Father on behalf of our brothers and sisters in the church in India. Here are a few prayer needs: Operation World says training of Christian leaders is an urgent need that’s essential in the long term. India has one trained pastor for every six congregations. New, creative ways for multiplying leaders must be developed. Residential institutions can’t fully meet the need, and 90% of pastors lack access to adequate theological training.
In a 2015 Gospel Coalition article, Vivek and two other pastors gave four key points for prayer: 1) Clarity and unity among church leaders in the declaration and the implications of the gospel. 2) Tangible mutual contributions among church leaders for gaining collective wisdom on the work of Christ’s kingdom in India. 3) For the Lord to raise innumerable young men and women who will love God and his local church. 4) For a large-scale move of the Spirit for many healthy, faithful, biblical churches to be planted in India.
When asked about the top challenges facing the Indian church, Vivek said: “The corruption of the gospel. Many church leaders are influenced by the heretical teaching influential TV stations are broadcasting. Even amid united efforts to pray for the lost, the understanding of the gospel (and its implications) varies. Unfortunately, it’s something many have passively agreed to disagree on. Additionally, the political environment isn’t conducive to the work, as any genuine ministry gets tainted as promoting ‘forced conversions.’ This has crippled much of the open work in the cities. And the Indian media doesn’t represent the plight accurately or sympathetically.” Let us pray!
