Indonesia restrictions put chilling effect on house church evangelism.

By November 9, 2006

Indonesia (MNN)–Words of Hope’s Lee DeYoung says there is a growing sense amongst Indonesia’s believers of increasing pressure against those who are following Christ.

He notes this is the result of a ban restricting private religious gatherings in homes. “A permit has to be obtained which requires the signature of 75 families in that area in order to make it legal to gather together for a prayer meeting. As a result, a number of fairly large house churches have been obliged to close.”

Seemingly innocent, the restriction wording causes a significant ‘chill’ in evangelistic work among on Indonesia’s house churches.

DeYoung explains, “They couldn’t muster that many signatures of people willing to go on the record, put their name on the line for something like this. Although the law is framed in such a way that it doesn’t appear to discriminate, it actually seems targeted at making it very difficult for house churches to worship.”

WOH’s function is to proclaim Christ through broadcasting in the languages of the world’s peoples. They’re seeking partners in ministry by winning the uncommitted to faith in Christ and by encouraging Christians in the life of discipleship..

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