Indigenization

February 11, 2009 – 3:23 pm

In January, I once again had the privilege of traveling to East Africa to visit the work there. Although it was a very quick trip, it was full of blessings from the Lord! The main purpose of my trip was to participate in some important events connected to the ministry of Grace Baptist Mission of Tanzania. After several years of preparation and training, the graduation for the first class from the Bible Institute would take place on Thursday, 1/15/09. Two days later, there was an ordination council for one of the graduates, Samson, who also would be installed on the next day as the new pastor of the Grace Baptist Church of Shadi.

Indigenization is too often simply a missions buzzword, but when it is happening in front of your eyes, it is a thrilling display of God’s grace. It is difficult to explain what I experienced as part of the ordaining process. A little over a year earlier, December of 2007, I had traveled to Tanzania to participate in the ordination of two other men, Elias and Paulo. These men are godly, faithful Tanzanian pastors, and they were present and active in the ordination council for Samson. Once the examination had been completed, those of us who sat on the council convened to discuss how Samson did. The council was made up of missionaries (Dan Eads), representatives from the States (Dr. Sam Dawson and me), and, most importantly, these two Tanzanian pastors (Elias and Paulo).

I was obviously limited in my understanding due to the language barrier, but what I know is that these two Tanzanian brothers took their responsibility very seriously. They were full participants in the process and demonstrated their commitment to accept responsibility for the multiplication of ministry. They know it is not supposed to depend on American missionaries and teachers, so they are rising to the task. Here was a Tanzanian congregation (Grace Baptist of Shadi) asking for the help of other Tanzanian congregations (via their pastors) in the task of ordaining and installing their own pastor, Samson. The unity and resolve of these believers was thrilling to witness and a cause of great rejoicing before the throne of our Great God.