In some cases, training church leaders has to be creative. Access is limited, but potential is great. This is why, since the mid-1980s, One Challenge has partnered with FEBC in Hong Kong, a radio ministry (febchk.org), to help minister to people in East Asia.
Due to the interest and success of special training sessions, FEBC in Hong Kong hosts additional training programs to accommodate more leaders.
Continuing Education
They invite Christian leaders who have completed the study courses offered over the radio program to come to Hong Kong for a special 10-day intensive study program, something like a “continuing education” study. They initially had planned for two of these a year for two years, so four sessions altogether for the same group. “It was so successful and beneficial that they have now added two more sessions each year to accommodate more leaders,” Keith says. “We can rejoice together in what God is doing in our day!”
The attendees are Christian leaders who, for various reasons, have not had the privilege or opportunity of attending a formal Bible school or seminary for their training. “Think of your church having a pastor who has not been to Bible school or seminary, has had no formal training in how to lead a church or prepare a sermon, but has completed only a basic course by listening to a radio program and answering questions and writing essays in a workbook,” Keith says. “That’s the picture of the average pastor in this East Asian nation.”
Personal Testimony
One church leader says: “At LTS, the various courses have pointed me to a wholly new direction in learning God’s Word. From the OT to the NT, their teaching is always so resourceful. They quickly let our minds focus on each subject. In the past three years of learning, my most valuable gain is in knowing Him more; my spiritual growth has often pulled me from weaknesses. I now can be strong in the Lord and can overcome my old self with his power.”
“I remember two years ago, I didn’t know how to prepare my sermon for an evangelistic meeting. The LTS program, Exposition and Preaching, has given me a lot of practical suggestions and reminders. Now I try to put the things I learn into practice. For instance, I often use expository preaching in church. I believe this can arouse interest in the congregation in studying the Bible and also keep myself true to the Word of God. I really hope I can affect many others, that they too can join the LTS courses.”
The Radio Ministry Work Continues
Literally thousands have received training and are putting into practice what they’ve learned because of this radio ministry and training. But there are thousands more that still need training and study, so OC continues, by God’s grace, to provide these programs for Christian leaders in East Asia.
Partnering & Bridge Building
One Challenge is an international mission sending agency empowering local church ministry in more than 100 countries around the world. We serve, equip, and connect the body of Christ to advance God’s kingdom among all people. We engage in strategic partnerships out of a conviction that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
