2000+
Did you realize that there are over 2000 language groups who have never heard of Jesus Christ? That should be a sobering fact to us who live 2000 years after Christ proclaimed to His followers, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel unto all creation..." Most of these unreached groups are relatively small, have no written language, live in very remote areas, and practice either animism or a folk religion (a mixture of animism with another religion). These religions keep them living in fear of offending the spirits and of ultimately, death. How different from the freedom we have in Christ and the hope of eternal life!
My wife and I became interested in cross cultural work during our time at Bible school. It was there that we attended conferences and met some people involved in such work. We then realized that these folks were just normal people who gave their lives to God to be used in a cross cultural setting. After finishing school, our interest continued to grow, so we went on a short term trip to West Africa. There we caught a glimpse of what God is doing through His universal body. The highlight of our trip was listening to the stories of some of the believers there. Many of them had given up much when they accepted Christ, but they had no regrets, only joy! These stories could not have occurred if the Body had not sent workers out of their own culture and into another. An example of this is found in Philippians 2:5-11. Knowing what Christ has done for us, my wife and I want to share this news with those who have never heard!
Do they really need to hear?
As if Christ's great commission were not enough motivation to go, here is more. Romans 3:9-12 describes our condition before God reached out to us. If it were not for the work of people long ago spreading this message, we would still be living in spiritual bondage without any hope of finding God. Romans 3:23 confirms that every person needs a Savior. Romans 10:13-17 gives us something to live for! Salvation is available to everyone, but not everyone has heard. "How can they call on Him if they have not believed, and how can they believe in Him if they have not heard!" What if we were in those shoes? It's only because of those who have gone out before us that we've heard! Romans 10:20 shows the love of God in seeking after us. God is working out His plan to bring salvation to all peoples, and we can be a part of His plan!
