Bentong in Indonesia

Bentong in Indonesia Bentong have been nomads and are considered an "isolated" society by the government. They live in a hilly area 400-500 meters above sea level. There are no major roads in this area, only narrow footpaths that connect to the outside world. By and large, the Bentong live as farmers and fishermen. The Bentong marriage system calls for marriages among people of the same group. A young man must remember that he has a duty to give preference to a woman within his own group. The Bentong are followers of Islam. Marriage and burial ceremonies are done in accordance with Islamic laws. Nevertheless, elements of traditional beliefs are still maintained; namely belief in ancestral spirits, sacred objects, and sacred locations. This system of worship must be done to avoid being cursed. Ministry Obstacles The Bentong will find it difficult to accept ideas and a worldview that is quite different from all they have ever known. Outreach Ideas Perhaps some mature followers of Jesus in other tribes will be given the desire to help Bentong believers grow spiritually, and will be able to disciple them. Pray for workers to help the Bentong. Pray for the followers of Christ There are a number of Bentong who identify themselves as Christians. Pray they will live holy lives that will honor the Lord, and that they will fellowship together often for mutual encouragement and edification. Pray for the entire people group The Bentong need help in management of commercial farming so they can achieve better yields. They also need better education, since neither Bentong adults nor children have had many educational opportunities. They need adequate healthcare as well as healthcare education. They regard cleanliness as a hindrance to their daily activities. As a result, many Bentong are sick with malaria, dysentery, diseases of the skin and eyes, and other illnesses. Scripture Focus "Do you not say, 'There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest?' Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest." John 4:35		People Name: Bentong Country: Indonesia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 31,000 World Population: 31,000 Language: Bentong Primary Religion: Islam Bible: Questionable Need Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: No Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2