New Generation of Christian Youth Following Christ in Indonesia

Low education, poverty, and persecution have proven to be difficult issues to address in the lives of Sundanese who come to faith in Christ. Added to this is the high rate of divorce and remarriage among the Sundanese. The result is that many adults who come to faith have not grown spiritually to the point where they can have a high impact on their communities. However their children have great potential.

For years, our partner Sundanese Christian Fellowship (SCF) has had limited opportunities to minister to Muslim children in spite of their openness to the Gospel because of the society’s sensitivity to such activities. Christians who have reached out to Muslim children have been jailed for disturbing the peace. But now, a new opportunity has opened up. Because SCF has built a strong core of adults who are now following Jesus, they are able to gather their children together and minister to them.

In June, SCF invited 58 youth to a five-day camp. For many, this was their first time to be away from home for such a long time. Over the five days, a sense of trust and family was created. This resulted in many of the youth opening up about their life’s struggles. And most importantly, for many it was the first time they truly understood the Gospel and put their faith in Christ. Twenty-six of the youth indicated a decision to believe in Christ and several came forward to commit their lives to serving Christ in full-time ministry. The prospect of reaching the 35 million Sundanese Muslims is even greater as more young people commit themselves to building His Kingdom.

Particularly moving was an evening session in which the youth reflected upon their lives before God. They confessed their sins and were overcome by the love of God. Tears flowed down as they forgave those that have hurt them and gave themselves to the Lord. The mentors prayed for the youth one by one.

On the final night, nearly all the youth were in tears again. One of the mentors challenged them to hold fast to their faith after they returned home from the camp. Their tears were evidence of their commitment to face the challenges as Christians in a Muslim society.

"It is our hope that the coming generation will know Christ during their formative years," said Sastro, SCF's leader. "We pray they will give themselves fully to the work of the Gospel among their own people."

News From the Field