Transformed Pulpits Lead to Transformed Communities

Shared with kind permission of Leadership Resources. 

What does a Movement of the Word actually look like . . . on the ground? Here’s the short answer: the Word faithfully taught and preached transforms pulpits, which then transform churches, which then transform communities.

But, is this depth of transformation actually happening?

YES! . . . Consider what’s happening in Vietnam and the story of our in-country leader, Chinh*. Chinh’s life and ministry have been transformed by LRI’s tools for digging into God’s Word. And it’s not just Chinh. This transformation has impacted many Vietnamese pastors, causing many to repent of misusing and distorting God’s Word.

Chinh’s passion is to equip churches to shower the love of Christ on their communities by meeting social, physical, and spiritual needs . . . acts of love which “adorn” the gospel (Titus 2:10). These churches build schools, care for widows, dig toilets, and help farmers gather their crops when they are sick – they serve both Christians and non-Christians. When asked why, their reply is simple, “Because we love you! And because God loves you so much.” This outpouring of love has created a spiritual hunger among unbelievers to know this God of love. And as a result, many have come to know Christ.

Even Vietnam’s communist government has taken notice and jumped into action – but not in the way you might expect.

You see, trying to police crime-ridden communities has been a nightmare for Vietnam’s communist government. At their wit’s end, they now encourage the Christians they once persecuted to “evangelize other villages so they can be like the Christians”!

In other words, transformed believers make their job easier!

Isn’t that the way it should be? After all, it is through the Church that the manifold wisdom of God is made known to rulers and authorities in the heavenly places (Ephesians 3:10). What a mighty God we serve!

*Chinh’s real name has been withheld for security reasons.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Since joining Leadership Resources International in 1989, Craig Parro directed its international ministry, and as of January 2010, he now serves as President. A graduate of TEDS (M.A., Mission), Craig is a stimulating teacher and has equipped and encouraged pastors and churches throughout the U.S., Latin America and Asia. Craig also serves on the Board of Directors of TOPIC (Trainers of Pastors International Coalition), an association of pastoral training organizations focused on accelerating pastoral training worldwide. Craig has authored articles appearing in several magazines. His first book, Unlikely Warriors, was published in 1992. He is also co-author of Finishing Well in Life and Ministry.