Ok this book I had to read for a missions class for seminary. But, I can't stand to not tell you all about it. This one along with the previous book are must reads, and they are short. Please pick it up and enjoy.--Dirk
And the Word Came with Power
By: Joanne Shetler with Patricia Purvis
Why should Christians read and study about Missionaries? Missionary stories should encourage and inspire Christians to continue to go and support missions around the globe while teaching of the work of our God. This book tells the story of Joanne Shetler and her ministry to the Balangao people in the northern Philippines. Settling with headhunters and becoming part of their village with the purpose of translating the Scriptures was no easy task, but it was accomplished. Reading this book’s story is captivating. Over a 20 year period Joanne Shetler learned the language, proclaimed the gospel of Christ, translated the New Testament, established a church, and watched the Word come with power to change the hearts of head hunters.
While this book is encouraging to read there are some parts that challenge the thoughts of contemporary western Christians. The Balangao people worshipped evil spirits and slaughtered animals as sacrifices to satisfy the spirit’s requirement. The stories of the mediums being possessed and their salvation through the work of the Holy Spirit is not normal for westerners to see, but it shines light on the true state of man’s unregenerate soul and the power of regeneration by the Holy Spirit. These stories paint a vivid picture of how humans truly are an enemy of God without His saving grace. The progress of this small group of believers is humbling. As the scriptures were translated and they read them for the first time the elders of the village immediately changed their action to line up with the instruction from the Bible. The end of the story is most encouraging. The Balangao church started taking the gospel to neighboring villages, making missionary journeys of their own.
And the Word Came with Power is a short read at 176 pages and should not be missed. Pick up your copy today:http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0938978314/sr=8-2/qid=1148000430/ref=pd_bbs_2/102-6728147-3384905?%5Fencoding=UTF8
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