Paul Lintott, pastor of Hall Green Baptist Chapel, West Yorkshire, has been in Myanmar to teach young pastors under the auspices of mission organisation Asialink’s ‘Shepherd Project’. He writes:
Before stepping into the classrooms and churches of Myanmar, I could not help but reflect on the legacy of Adoniram Judson.
As one of the first American missionaries, Judson arrived in Burma (now Myanmar) in 1813, enduring hardships that tested his faith and perseverance. He spent years mastering the Burmese language, translating the Bible, and laying the foundation for what would become a vibrant Christian community. His dedication to the gospel continues to bear fruit today, as believers in Myanmar remain deeply rooted in the word of God.
When I first set foot in Myanmar, I sensed that I was entering a land filled with history, culture, and a profound spiritual longing. I was sent to teach in a Bible School where I had the privilege of giving lectures on Bible handling and preaching. This was more than an opportunity to instruct – it was a chance to witness first-hand the eagerness and devotion of students hungry for God’s word.
One of the most striking aspects of my time in Myanmar was the students’ unwavering desire to learn. Many came from backgrounds with limited access to theological education, yet their commitment to studying Scripture was remarkable. Their questions were deep, their discussions lively, and their faith evident in the way they engaged with learning. Teaching them reaffirmed the power of God’s word to transcend language, culture, and circumstance.
On the last day of the course, the students had the chance to prepare and deliver their own sermons. It was a joy to see them apply what they had learned throughout the week, carefully handling the Scriptures and preaching with conviction. Their messages were excellent – clear, faithful to the text, and delivered with passion. Seeing their growth and enthusiasm was a reminder of the importance of training and equipping believers for the work of the gospel.
One particularly memorable experience was gathering with a group of pastors in Yangon. I had the privilege of teaching through 1 Peter 1, sharing insights on enduring faith and the hope found in Christ. These men, committed to preaching the word and shepherding God’s people, do so under significant pressure. Many face challenges such as economic hardship, societal opposition, and the burden of caring for struggling congregations. Yet their dedication to the gospel was unwavering, a testimony to God’s sustaining grace in difficult circumstances.
During my visit, I also had the opportunity to visit a hostel where they care for the children of pastors and their wives who are working in dangerous situations in the north. These children, separated from their families for the sake of the gospel, are nurtured in a safe environment where they can receive an education and grow in their faith. The dedication of those running the hostel was deeply moving, as they not only provided for the children’s physical needs but also ensured they were spiritually nourished and encouraged.
Reflecting on my time in Myanmar, I couldn’t help but compare it to the Western church. In places where resources are abundant, spiritual complacency often follows. The fervency of Myanmar’s believers challenged me to ask: Do we treasure the Bible as they do? Do we approach worship with the same passion and reverence? Do we rely on Christ as fully as they must in their daily lives?
