GLOBAL PRAYER NETWORK: Bengkulu in Indonesia

Jumat, 22 Januari 2016

Bengkulu in Indonesia

The Bengkulu are descended from the union of multiple ethnic groups who have migrated to the area, and live mainly in the city of Bengkulu. Every extended family has a respected and esteemed leader who is called ninik mamak. All the ninik mamak from the extended families form a council to lead the Bengkulu community. Their arts are very similar to those found in other Malay groups. For instance, the Bengkulu Malay sing and perform the randai dance, the umbrella dance, the candle dance, the plate dance, and the handkerchief dance. The majority of the Bengkulu are Muslim. However, they still hold certain traditional ceremonies and rituals according to their older animistic beliefs. These animistic ceremonies are focused on seeking protection from spirits.

Ministry Obstacles
The Gospel of grace, undeserved favor from God, is difficult to believe and accept by those who have been taught a religion of personal effort in order to obtain favor from God.

Outreach Ideas
Perhaps Christians in other Indonesian tribes will gain an interest in the Bengkulu people, and will take steps to tell them of eternal life to be found in the person of Jesus Christ. Pray these Christians will persevere in this, and not give up.

Pray for the followers of Christ
It is doubtful if any of the Bengkulu people know and follow Jesus Christ at this time. Pray the Lord will begin stirring hearts so they will be interested in the good news of Christ when it comes to them.

Pray for the entire people group
They need better technology and increased investment to better manage their fishing and boat making. Malaria is still a great problem as well. They need better knowledge of how to build and maintain their homes so that they can endure the harsh coastal storms.

Scripture Focus
'Again he says, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people." And again, "Praise the Lord all you Gentiles, And let all the peoples praise Him." Romans 15:10-11