THEY DID NOT MIND TO DIE

I had an interesting conversation with a missionary who did an extensive study on history of white missionaries who came to Africa. He told me how some of them died in less than a month due to diseases. That time in history, Africa was labeled "White man's grave".

What shocked me in the story was how those missionaries never stopped coming because they wanted to evangelize Africa. When they saw the rate at which those that went ahead of them died, those who came after brought their coffins along with them because they heard there were no coffins in Africa.

Looking into their hearts, they were consumed with the passion to see souls saved not minding whether they'll die or live. Today, some preachers will label them as fools but that was how men who practiced this faith before us lived. They died in their heart for the sake of the gospel even before dying physically.

They were men who did not serve God on their own terms but on his terms. They did not negotiate their obedience with him even to the point of death. They were not ashamed of the gospel because it is worth living for and also worth dying for.

Romans 1:16 says, For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile.

Is your own gospel worth dying for?

I am not advocating that you plunge yourself into the hands death foolishly. The essence of this teaching is to stir in us a heart that is wholly dedicated unto God and his kingdom regardless of challenges even if it means death.

Our generation did not see persecution or hindrances to being a Christian like our early fathers yet we are full of excuses. Some won't go to church under certain circumstances. Some may say, "If i'm not driving my personal vehicle, I won't go to church".

What about those who do not have a vehicle? Should the absence of convenience stop us from fellowshipping with the brethren?

I once held a programme somewhere in Upper West Ghana where I was told some trekked distances over 20-30 kilometres. Some started their journey in broad day light and got to the venue at night on foot.

What can you sacrifice for the kingdom?