There is no debate about whether or not the Philippines is a religious country; the question is, which religion exactly?
A quick search online will tell you the answer is ‘Christianity’. In fact, the Philippines is claimed to be the only Christian nation in Asia. The vast majority profess to be Roman Catholic, and much of the rest belong to one of hundreds of home-grown cults and sects, even one which claims the divinity of their national hero, José Rizal who, though martyred during the Spanish-American war 127 years ago, is yet believed to someday return to deliver his followers from poverty and oppression.
Many such religions have synthesised aspects of Biblical theology with an excess of new doctrines, rituals and traditions. It is in the midst of this spiritually confused context, penetrated with false teaching and pervaded with artificial religion, that we are seeking to live as lights for the truth of the gospel of Jesus … and we need your prayers.
'We need your prayers'
While persecution is rare, there have been strong feelings of being part of the minority, as we have actively sought over the course of the past year to plant a Bible-believing, Christ-exalting, gospel-preaching church in the municipality of Santa Maria, just north of the capital city.
Nonetheless, the Lord is evidently working in and through the weekly ministry of Grace Plant Santa Maria, gradually growing our group, including eight believers – some of whom, by God’s mercy and grace, have escaped false religion and discovered the truth. A great answer to our prayers for more workers for the plentiful harvest that surrounds us. Lord willing, it will not be long before we are able to covenant together as founding members.
Alongside weekly ministries in prison, street Bible studies in squatter areas, and Sunday services at our home, we have recently started a fortnightly theology class on the Doctrines of Grace. Providentially, a number of local self-confessed health and wealth gospel preachers heard about the group, joined us, and are now meeting regularly with Reuben to talk theology one-to-one. Pray for wisdom as we seek to be a good influence for the truth.
