March 26, 2010

Source: HCJB Global (written by Ed Giesbrecht)

Birthed by a desire to reach Thailand for Christ, members of the Thai Conference on Evangelism are striving to network Thai denominations to plant churches nationwide. Unity in Christ, evangelism and discipleship are the passions of this group.

The group's ambitious goal to plant 7,000 churches-one in each village of the country-is being realized. Despite many challenges, the team is halfway to meeting that goal. Seeing community radio as integral to discipleship, the group also formed the Thailand Christian Radio Network (TCRN).

Now set on creating a network of more than 100 community radio stations, TCRN anticipates partnerships with 50 existing stations and adding more that will be owned and operated by local churches. HCJB Global Voice is committed to helping the local believers, at their invitation, by providing technical assistance, equipment and training.

Acknowledging that less than 2 percent of Thai people consider themselves evangelicals, these leaders determined to place responsibility for evangelism on the shoulders of Thais, with less dependence than before upon the West. Group members also observed that people were coming to Christ in the cities, but when these new converts returned to their villages, they had little support in their faith and didn't grow spiritually.

Jeff Ingram, HCJB Global's director for the Asia Pacific Region, views the Thai church's move toward unity as a great example for believers worldwide. "What they have already accomplished and the dreams they have for the future are a testament to what God can do when His people care more about doing His will than receiving credit for accomplishments," he said.