Connect Junior – Theology and why it matters
A lot of church leaders in Africa haven’t had the opportunity to learn how to teach the Bible. In this magazine we’ll find out why it is so important and what AIM is doing to help.
AIM Location: West Africa
When AIM’s ministry began in East Africa the Lord was already at work in West Africa so until recently AIM was not engaged in ministry there. However, in the last few years, a concern has grown for the Muslim countries of West Africa, given that we are committed as an organisation to see Christ-centred churches among all African peoples.
Recently AIM has done significant research into the area. Comparing the progress of the gospel between Anglophone countries and Francophone countries, it is clear that there is a far greater need in the latter, given the smaller investment of personnel and resources. So we will seek to place AIM members in Francophone countries.
Islam dominates and is strengthening, putting greater pressure on the small and challenged church. The four countries where we plan to begin ministry range from 86% to 98% Muslim and have huge areas without any gospel witness and many unreached people groups.
These countries are still officially open to giving missionary visas and we can work with the local church – and those churches in Africa from outside which would have a kingdom interest there– as well as with agencies already present there. We are keeping the countries names hidden for now, to allow ministry to develop, and to ensure that missionary visas are not put at risk by too much Christian publicity.
Related
Connect September 2024
The need for theological education is great. But with limits on time, finances and opportunities, how can this be addressed?…
A vision for the other sheep prayer resource
While we celebrate what the Lord has done through AIM (and many others!) the work remains unfinished in North and West Africa.
Pablo
Pablo* hopes to serve in West Africa, where he will continue to use English teaching as a door-opener for developing relationships.
They need people like you to go
Mike Smailes is a local church pastor, passionate about the Lord’s Great Commission. Here, Mike shares some of the questions he has had about traditional mission work.
FindYourFit