In the quiet villages of Central Java, a remarkable movement is taking place. Farmers, labourers, and small traders, many of them coming from Muslim backgrounds, are gathering twice a month to deepen their understanding of God’s Word. Despite their economic hardships and limited education,
191 believers across 15 discipleship groups in six different areas have committed themselves to one thing: following Christ wholeheartedly and sharing His love with others.
At the heart of this movement is a discipleship training program supported by our local partner, who provides 12 carefully designed discipleship books. These materials are not just textbooks; they are lifelines, equipping believers with knowledge of Scripture and a deeper relationship with God. What began with a few groups has steadily grown, and this year two new groups were formed.
The growth is not by accident but by testimony; these believers cannot keep silent about the joy and salvation they have found in Christ.
Sarah*, our local partner who walks closely with the disciples, has seen this transformation firsthand. With admiration, she said, “The members are increasingly bold in preaching the gospel and willing to learn even though their education level is low.” Her words highlight the courage of these believers, who face real challenges yet refuse to step back from their calling.
Determined disciples
“Every pressure that occurs makes us stronger”
Sahid
Among them is Sahid*, a quiet but determined disciple. He often reflects on how the discipleship class has shaped him. With gratitude, he shared, “What I have learned here is very useful for my faith. Every pressure that occurs makes us stronger in facing anyone who pressures us.” For Sahid and many others, the opposition they encounter is not a reason to give up but a refining fire that strengthens their witness.
The road, however, is not without obstacles. Many participants are elderly and cannot read or write, so they rely solely on listening. Some hesitate to respond for fear of making mistakes, and others feel too embarrassed to ask questions because of their low educational background. Yet, they keep coming. They keep listening. They keep learning. Their perseverance speaks louder than words.
Discipleship is not about intellectual mastery but about faithful hearts willing to be transformed by God’s truth.
Unshaken conviction in Christ
“Our faith must remain strong. Never leave our faith in Jesus for anything.”
Kamal
Kamal*, another disciple, knows what it means to stand firm under pressure. Neighbours often urge him to return to his former faith, but his conviction remains unshaken. With determination, he declares, “Even though neighbours often invite us to return to our old beliefs, our faith must remain strong. Never leave our faith in Jesus for anything. Thanks to the discipleship training, my faith has been strengthened.” His testimony embodies the courage of a community that chooses Christ, no matter how much it costs them.
The ripple effect is undeniable.
These disciples may be simple farmers and trade workers with little wealth or social status, but their faith is producing fruit that reaches far beyond their homes. Their witness is drawing others to join, and their hunger for God’s Word continues to expand the church’s mission in places once thought unreachable.
This is the story of a growing movement: a story of resilience, faith, and hope.
Through discipleship training, believers are finding strength to endure persecution, boldness to share the gospel, and joy in walking together as one body. As Sarah said with conviction, “They are willing to learn, they are willing to go, and they are willing to stand strong in their faith.” And that willingness is transforming communities, one group at a time.
*Name changed for security purposes
