GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Baduy, Kanekes of Indonesia

Kamis, 25 Desember 2014

Baduy, Kanekes of Indonesia

The Badui people are a remnant of archaic Sundanese society, speaking an old dialect of Sundanese. The Badui purposely isolated themselves in a mountainous region when Java became predominantly Muslim in religion. They have maintained a rigid, caste-like system of social stratification. The government has attempted to educate these people and bring an improved lifestyle. But the majority has refused this help and consequently remains illiterate and primitive. People fear them for their ability to predict the future and to cast spells on their enemies.

Ministry Obstacles
Since the Gospel has come to Java, the Badui have staunchly resisted it, just as they originally opposed Islam. At one time, an Indonesian Christian spoke with some Badui about Jesus Christ, but his efforts were strongly opposed by the tribe's leaders.

Outreach Ideas
Workers should be prepared with some good, culturally-oriented, Gospel visuals since the people cannot read. The peoples' black magic and fetishes mean one should be prepared for power-encounter situations.

Pray for the followers of Christ
There are likely no followers of Jesus Christ among the Badui at this time, but pray for those who will soon be set free from such things as black magic and occultism. Pray these things will quickly lose their hold on the new believers in Christ.

Pray for the entire people group
Pray the Badui people will be open to the larger world, seeking ways to improve their standard of living, obtain improved health care, and better prepare their children for the 21st century.

Scripture Focus
"How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?" Romans 10:14-15