Often times we hear missionaries or church leaders speaking of certain nations as open and closed to the gospel. If a nation is open it is legally willing to receive Christian missionaries. If a nation is closed it is illegal for a Christian missionary to enter with the purpose of evangelizing and church planting. In Joshua 6 - we see the children of Israel facing a "closed" city. In fact, this city is large, fortified, and a formidable military opponent. Yet we see the Lord has commanded the city of Jericho to be destroyed and it will be done in a supernatural manner. The use of a great military force by Israel is unnecessary and in fact, the method employed by Israel is contrary to sound military advice.
With this said, Jesus has commanded us to go forth into all the world and preach the gospel. Is there such a thing as a "closed" nation when God has commanded us to go everywhere - even to the utter most parts of the earth? As a missionary to Africa - I know of areas that are hard to reach and closed to traditional methods of outreach. It is these areas I believe we can expect the supernatural power of God as seen at Jericho to again be prevalent. Three times in the book of Joshua the LORD speaks and says, "I have given".
It may take some imagination and courage - but I believe the Lord "has given" us a command to reach all people, nations, tongues, and tribes. In that giving of the command - our Lord has equipped us supernaturally to open that which is closed!
3 comments:
Thank you. An important and accurate reminder that what belongs to God is not closed off to God. Had God waited for there to be a government ready to accept His work on earth, He would still be waiting. The power of the gospel is a force that overthrows governments and opens the door from the inside, it doesnt wait outside for just the right time. God needs do nothing by stealth - ask brother Andrew. Might we stop reasoning in our simplicity and start doing in obedient faith.
"These things saith He that is holy...that openeth, and no man shutteth..." Rev 3:7
i have heard of English teachers getting into closed nations with the real intentions of spreading the Gospel, this maybe something other missions minded people may want to consider. at the very least it can be looked at as another tool to use in the fight. my prayers go with you to Africa!
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