Our senses began to soak it all in…the taxi was taking us through villages, past rice fields and over rivers. We were among throngs of motorcycles, carts, bicycles and people of all ages…it wasn’t until we were told to put on our masks that the reality of life for the Christians in Vietnam began to sink in. As our group arrived at the house church, the worship had begun and the sound was spilling out of the windows. The language barrier seemed to vanish as we sang praises to the Lord in Vietnamese and English. O, come let us sing unto the Lord, let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
MTM team with the home brethren team, (L-R) Merle, David, Jeremi, Nehemi, Thanh, Tuan, Jonathan, & Kent
Around thirty believers attended the conference, some having traveled 700 km from the mountains. Their sincerity of heart was evident as we studied the Word and interacted; sharing our challenges and praising God for the victories He has accomplished. God is a spirit and they that worship Him must worship him in spirit and in truth. John 4:24 I pray that their examples of servant leadership, love for one another, and a passion for lost souls will impact us forever. The stories of their imprisonment and oppression, already has.
The attendees of the conference…one big family in Christ.
As word came that the police were near, the faith and commitment of a persecuted church became tangible. Prayers began and watchmen were stationed, but without hesitation the word of God was preached and songs of praise rang out. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. Psalm 18:3. For three days God gave us the opportunity to worship with a vibrant church in communist Vietnam. Three days is not very long, but it is plenty of time for the Holy Spirit to bind us together with cords that cannot be broken.
All glory and praise to the Lamb that was slain, Who has borne all our sins and has cleansed every stain! Hallelujah,Thine the glory! Hallelujah Amen! Hallelujah, Thine the glory! Revive us again.
Kent and Janine Fullmer
Editor’s note:
The above article was written by MTM Guest teacher, Brother Kent Fullmer and his wife Janine from Dayton, Ohio. Kent and Janine sacrificed both the time and resources that God has given them for MTM and the church in Vietnam. Their willingness, teaching, and many other contributions to this conference was a powerful example of servant leadership. Thank you Brother Kent and Sister Janine
TESTIMONIES OF CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
1. It is an amazing conference that I have ever attended. I am encouraged and set on fire for Jesus. I am also touched by the loving kindness and the passion of the teachers. I am so blessed to attend this conference and will apply what I have learned in this conference. (Bro. David)
2. This conference has prepared me a firm foundation for mission. I am so excited to be here. Through this conference I find myself have more passion, more love for Jesus and His kingdom. (Bro. JEREMIAH TINH)
3. This is an awesome conference. Thanks God for the powerful message that we have heard. This timely message. I believe these are also foundation truths. (Pastor NEHEMI TO)
4. I will never forget this great conference. I learned so many things and persuaded by what I heard through speakers. (Pastor ANHAI)
Editor’s note:
The above testimonies were forwarded to MTM by Brother David our native coordinator in Vietnam. Brother David willingly laid down his freedom and earthly comforts in order to serve God, us, and the local community of believers. Thank you brother David for you availability, joyfulness and enthusiasm demonstrated in your hospitality to the MTM team. To God be the Glory great things He has done and is yet doing in your life and others through you.
Merle D. Flory, MTM assistant director