August 2008 - Nepal

Stephen Yuille wrote, "In August, I had the privilege of traveling to Kathmandu, Nepal, in conjunction with Carey Outreach Ministries. For two weeks, I taught Systematic Theology I & II to 22 students - many of whom are pastors. The courses were held at Immanuel Baptist Church (pictured below). It was a challenge to teach through a translator. (Only four or five of the students spoke English.) But the translator seemed to have a good grasp of the material, and the courses were well received.
2008 August Nepal 1.jpg

                                   Immanuel Baptist Church, Kathmandu

Ministering in a Hindu Country was a Privilege
"It was a tremendous privilege to minister to Christ's church in what is traditionally a Hindu country. There are shrines to various gods throughout the land. On one afternoon, I visited the ancient city of Bhaktapur - located 15 km east of Kathmandu. It was established in the 12th century. It has eight geometrical corners, representing the eight mother goddesses (Asta Matrika) - the "protectors" of the city. It's discouraging to see the spiritual bondage of those who have "exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures" (Rom. 1:23)."


Man's Extremity is God's Opportunity!
Yet, God is calling out a people for His name in Nepal. I was encouraged by the reports I heard of how the church is progressing in the midst of difficult circumstances. I was reminded of what Paul says in Phil. 1:12, "Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel." What circumstances is he talking about? He's referring of course to his imprisonment. God used Paul's suffering in a Roman prison cell for the progress (or advancement) of the gospel - namely, the salvation of unbelievers and the edification of believers (Phil. 1:13-14). What a wonderful reminder that "man's extremity is God's opportunity!"

2008 August Nepal 2.jpg

                                              Taking a break from studies

The same may be said of the church in Nepal.
God is advancing His kingdom in the midst of very adverse circumstances.

2008 August Nepal 3.jpgHere is a picture of most of the students who took the Systematics Courses. 
May God use them to advance His Kingdom.  Please pray!


Sincerely,
Janet Billson, Communications
Carey Outreach Ministries