Missionary and Believers Interrogated
July 8, 2008
Amil and the believers are being forced to clean the building and grounds of a government office as punishment for the "crime" of choosing to follow Christ. |
"You are not allowed to preach about Jesus Christ, and you cannot meet together for any kind of church service," a local government official in Bhutan told Gospel for Asia missionary Amil Romir.
Bhutanese officials interrogated Amil and 30 other Christians, after Amil was charged with forcibly converting people through the allurement of film. Despite the new believers' testimonies of independently choosing to follow Christ, the authorities opposed Amil's ministry.
On June 24, officials interrupted a worship service and issued Amil and the believers a warrant, summoning them to a hearing. The authorities had noticed the tremendous fruit Amil's ministry produced and wanted to put a stop to more people choosing to put their faith in Jesus.
On June 30, Amil and the other Christians reported to the authorities' administrative office. Each believer was questioned individually about how they became a Christian.
"We received Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior by our own decision and conviction," one believer boldly told officials. The other believers echoed this testimony.
Amil also openly and honestly told the authorities about his ministry. And he answered each question they raised.
When they could not find reason to legally arrest the Christians, the head official tried to force them to sign a statement saying they would not tell others about Jesus anymore.
When they refused, the official sternly told Amil not to preach the Gospel or have Christian meetings again. He also would not let the Christians leave unless they promised to come back to the office every 15 days to clean the building and grounds. Although it was not lawful for him to make this demand, Amil and the believers had no choice but to comply. But they look forward to being a continual example of Christ's love and humility to the officials through these acts of service.
Amil requests prayer that the government authorities will come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. He also asks for prayer that the believers will continue to stand firm in their faith despite this opposition.
Learn more about Bhutan, the country where Amil and the believers are facing opposition.
